Local Life - Chorley - November 2015

Chorley Edition

November 2015

Sid’s spaykin’ up for

Lanky

Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Garden Diary... www.locallife247.co.uk

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*The Free Multi-activity Pass can include activities such as the gym, the swimming pool or a workout class. One pass per person, adults only.

Pass is valid for single use only. Pass valid until 18th November 2015. Subject to availability. **Price relates to a 12 month minimum term direct debit. Other memberships also available, see online for details. Terms and conditions apply, all parts of this offer subject to change.

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Men of

Traditional

odern world values in a m

W Chorley Building Society is proud to support local clubs and charities on your behalf.

Our range of Affinity Savings Accounts not only allow you to grow your savings, the charity or good cause you choose to support from our list of Affinity Partners will also benefit from an annual donation from the Society..

The Society’s donation will be calculated on the daily balances held in the Affinity Accounts and paid annually to our Affinity Partners so the more you invest up to the maximum allowable the better.

Our range of Affinity Accounts are limited issues and may be withdrawn without notice at any time.

Our Affinity Partners

Chorley FC

letters

ords have always fascinated me - where they come from, how they are used and also why meanings change over the years. A lot of this has to do with societal influences, which is the subject of this month’s big interview with Lanky aficionado Sid Calderbank (see pages 50-52). One element of my conversation with Sid which did surprise me was his firm belief that language not only does change over time, but indeed must change to reflect the changes in society. I admit to giving a wry smile every time I hear someone bemoaning the lack of ‘proper talk’, usually aimed at teenagers who, since time immemorial, have developed and jealously guarded their own coded tongue. At the grand old age of 36 even I struggle to understand my daughter and her friends who, despite being all under 11, have their own language. For instance, I recently discovered that ‘bae’ - pronounced ‘bay’ - means best friend (literally before everyone else) while BFF means best friend forever. I guarantee that in years to come, such words will be the subject of endless study and debate. After all, they relect the preponderence for text-speak which has actually been around for many years (AWOL, QED and RVSP being good examples). So instead of tut-tutting about the lack of proper talk, I look forward to being linguistically bamboozled for many years to come.

TTFN peeps...

Call us on 01257 235003 or visit www.chorleybs.co.uk

Chorley and District Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Registered on the Financial Services Register under number 206023.

Registered Office: Key House, Foxhole Road, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 1NZ. Your telephone conversations with the Society may be recorded. This is to help the Society to improve customer service and to offer additional security. Calls and electronic communications may also be monitored for staff training.

V2/04/2015

David Sudworth - Editor Next issue - December 2015

Advertising deadline - Thursday 12 November Published - Thursday 26 November Local Life Media

@locallifemedia

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In this issue Masterchef’s John

Shopping in

Heskin

Torode

29

54

Healthy gut

Jack’s Tracks

healthy mind

Hoscar Moss

46

64 Test Drive

Sid’s spaykin

Lanky

Skoda Superb

50

68

Regulars 22 Planning Matters 40 Puzzle Corner 42 Class from the past

Telephone: 01257 498 329 57 Eating Out Guide 58 What’s On

Sections

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

Sales: Lisa Jackson, Nicola Gray sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: David Sudworth chorleynews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter Bretherton

design@locallife247.co.uk

Distribution: Sally Boon

sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

Accounts: Sam Garrahan accounts@locallife247.co.uk

6 Local News 58 Events & Leisure 42 Children & Education 68 Motoring 46 Heath & Fitness 70 Gardening 54 Food & Drink

Publisher: Chris Pearce

71 Home Services

Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB

Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis.

The edition is delivered to 12,500 homes and businesses in Astley Village, Buckshaw Village, Clayton-le-Woods, Euxton, Whittle-le-Woods, Wheelton, Heapey, Brinscall and Withnell.

The next edition is delivered to 13,515 homes and businesses in Chorley, Coppull, Eccleston, Croston, Charnock Richard, and Heath Charnock.

You can also pick up a free copy at Morrisons or Tesco in Chorley.

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6

Drone call

grounded

A free-for-all on drone use in Chorley’s public parks has been rejected.

The suggestion was made in a recent consultation regarding the updating of local bylaws. Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), have become increasingly popular in recent years as they allow users to take spectacular photos of their local area.

This has led to local people to call for a general presumption in favour of using of them on councilowned land, such as parks. But Chorley Council has knocked back the request, explaining: “There is a call from the House of Lords to make it compulsory to register all commercial and civilian drones amid growing concern over the use of drones by private individuals with limited knowledge of aviation rules.

Use of drones to record images of other people

without their consent could be considered as a breach of the Data Protection Act. Anyone using a drone for commercial use needs permission from the Civil Aviation Authority. Drones will only be allowed on council-owned land with prior consent.”

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Tributes to author Tributes have been paid to a retired headteacherturned-author from Brinscall who died recently.

David Clayton, 77, wrote Lost Farms of Brinscall Moors, which led to an appearance on BBC’s Countryfile programme. His book examined as to why there are so many ruined farmhouses on the nearby moor. A fascinating story emerged, and he led people on walks around the ruins of the abandoned farms as well as giving many talks.

Farm exhibition Chorley Heritage Centre, based at Upper Gallery, Astley Hall Farmhouse, is holding an exhibition about the farm. It is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon-3.30pm until January. There is no charge for entry, but donations are welcome. Visit www. chorleyheritagecentre.co.uk for further details.

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Knitting for charity The Chorley and South Ribble Knit and Natter Group is looking for donations of wool. The group meets on the third Tuesday of each month at Albany School from 12.30pm-3pm. And on the last Saturday of each month, it meets at The Priory Club on Broadfield Drive from 1pm-4pm. For more information on donating wool, or joining the group, call 01257 230986 (after 6pm) or email kategreen320@tiscali.co.uk or call 07968 903113/ email kmooore_run@yahoo.co.uk

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Mum’s

petition

A Whittle-Le-Woods mum has launched a petition on what would have been her son’s 18th birthday.

Dylan Ramsay drowned in 2011 at a quarry near his home. He was 13 at the time.

His mum, Beckie, who leads the Doing It For Dylan campaign, has now launched an online petition calling for drowning preventation to be taught in school as part of the national curriculum.

More than 1,300 people have already signed it. If it reaches 10,000 signatures before March 16, the Government will be forced to respond. If it reaches 100,000 signatures, it would be considered for a debate in Parliament.

Beckie said: “This petition is set up in memory of all those whose life have been lost in open water.

Dylan was a good swimmer; very fit athletic yet open water still took his life. I believe had my son known the dangers he like so many others would still be with us.”

To sign the petition, which will be online until March 16 next year, visit https://petition.parliament.uk/ petitions/108490h

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Have a ball for Rosemere

PO move plan

Tickets are still available for a Rosemere Cancer Centre fundraiser organised by a local belly dancing teacher who battled breast cancer.

A decision on whether to relocate post office services in Whittle-Le-Woods is imminent. The consultation process into moving the service from 23 Shaw Brow to the Jubilee Service Station, 65 Preston Road, has recently ended. Whittle-LeWoods Parish Council has objected to the proposal, but the final say rests with Post Office chiefs.

Sue Powell-Green, who is the leader of the Rakkassah Belly Dancing Group, has undergone treatment and hopefully now on the mend. A fundraiser she organised last year drew in over £3,130 and she’s hoping the Shimmer and Sparkle Charity Ball at Haigh Hall, in Wigan, on Saturday, November 21, will be equally as successful.

Tickets for the ball, which starts at 7pm and ends at 1am, are £25 each with group bookings of 6 receiving 1 free ticket. Email greenyansue@tiscali. co.uk or call 07866 485456.

Worden Park views Residents have until November 15 to give their views on plans for 500 new homes as part of an extension to Worden Park. View the proposals in full at Leyland Library, the Civic Centre in West Paddock during office hours, or at www.southribble.gov.uk

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PCSO

change

Some Chorley PCSOs are to be taken off their traditional beat to work on ‘early intervention and prevention’.

The area currently has 49 officers patrolling the streets at a cost of around £880,000 a year. However, police chiefs are now wanting to deploy a total of eight PCSOs away from visible patrols to work with problem individuals and families.

At a recent Chorley Council meeting, Sgt Neil Sladen said that four PCSOs had already been assigned to the Early Action Team, with a further four due for redeplopyment in January. These are likely to work in primary schools, restorative justice interventions and working in partnership with Barnardo’s on organised crime gangs.

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Minutes from the meeting say: “It was emphasised that all PCSOs were still undertaking late shifts and weekend working; they continued to be highly visible, engaging with and reassuring the community and gathering intelligence. The work for the Early Action team should be viewed positively as a different way of problem solving to prevent issues from worsening.

Early action is not a totally new approach, it is essentially problem solving, getting to the root cause of the issue at the earliest opportunity and involves a multi-agency approach with a family or individual, intervening early to prevent problems occurring rather than picking up the up the pieces.

“Councillors were assured that police personnel were allocated in response to risk and need.”

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Distributors wanted Local Life requires distributors aged 13 and above for this edition of our magazine. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every eight weeks. The areas we currently require distributors is as follows:

Where there’s a will...

Chorley people can make a will while helping St Catherine’s Hospice at the same time. Wills Week runs from November 9-14 and local solictors Birchall Blackburn, Forbes and Marsden Rawsthorn have pledged to waive their fees in return for a donation to the hospice. People who want a will written are being urged to contact 01772 629171 or visit www. stcatherines.co.uk ahead of November 9 to make arrangements.

Clayton-Le-Woods – Preston Road, Watkin Road, County Close, Forsythia Drive & Wood Beech Gardens.

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Clayton judo

Smart move

Do you want to keep fit while learning an Olympic sport which helps develop your awareness and confidence? Clayton Green Judo Club is now looking for new members over the age of five. The club, which meets at Clayton Green Sport Centre on Saturdays, has two classes; 10.30am-11.45am (for ages five to seven) and from 11.45am-1.30pm (improvers to seniors). It is run by British Masters Champion Bob Bigio, who is a 5th Dan. For further information, contact Clayton Green Sports Centre on 0300 020 0136 or alternatively, call in on a Saturday morning and ask for Bob.

A growing business has moved into new premises in Buckshaw. Utiligroup’s new headquarters are based on Euxton Lane. In preparation for the move, the Chorley-based provider of software solutions and services to the energy and utilities industry has invested £400,000 in the fit-out of the site.

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Speeding concerns A speed crackdown is planned for Wheelton. Moves are afoot to place a Speed Indicator Device (SPID) trailer on Blackburn Road. It comes following complaints about noise generated by other traffic calming measures on the road.

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18

£35k

boost

Chorley FC fans won’t be singing in the rain much longer thanks to a mystery donor.

Work will now begin on replacing the Duke Street end stand roof after a generous fan, who wants to remain anonymous, stepped forward with £35,000.

The original roof was condemned toward the end of last season and removed during the summer.

A grassroots Raise the Roof funding campaign started, which prompted pledges of cash from around the world. But with this large injection of cash, the club can get cracking on a new roof.

A club spokesman said: “The new roof has been designed as a like-for-like replacement of the previous structure as this negates the need for

planning permission, speeding up the process massively.

“The steelwork has been ordered and we will begin to take delivery within the week. All being well construction will begin in mid-November with completion expected to take around six to eight weeks. Included in this work will be the provision of a new raised disabled viewing platform. This area will be positioned on the social club side of the stand with a ramp providing easy access. This will be one of the best disabled viewing areas in nonleague football, providing an unobstructed view of all the action under the cover of the new roof – a vast improvement of the current area.

“The club would like to officially thank the benefactor.”

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Bridging the gap An extra £5,000 has been earmarked to replace an Euxton footbridge. The crossing at Old Shaw Green has already had £40,000 spent on it, but more was needed to be put towards it by Lancashire County Council. A report, which has now been passed, states: “An additional £5,000 is required to be able to complete the scheme as the private land the bridge is on is very susceptible to saturation by rain/river water. This means that the works have to be done in dry weather which disrupts the construction programme adding to the costs.”

Taking root Entries are open already for next year’s Chorley Flower Show. The event is back by popular demand on Saturday, July 30, and Sunday, July 31. All application forms are downloadable at www. chorley.gov.uk

Library turns 30 Clayton Green Library is celebrating its 30th birthday with some special events. On Monday, November 2, there’s an illustrated talk from 2.30pm where locals are invited to take along their photos and share any memories of the library. And on Saturday, November 7, there’s a drop in between 9.30am and 12.30pm where you can browse the display created by the library’s Community Heritage Team. All welcome.

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170 new

homes?

Up to 170 new homes and allotments could be built on farmland in Euxton.

Manchester-based developers BDP has submitted a technical request, called a Screening Opinion, for land at Pear Tree Lane.

In a letter to Chorley Council, Sarah Peel, BDP associate town planner, revealed that as well as homes, new allotments could be created at the 6.7 hectare site.

“The proposals are for the development of 170 dwellings in a semi-urban location on the edge of

the development of Euxton, albeit on previously undeveloped greenfield land.

“While the site is greenfield it is not anticipated that residential development of the scale proposed in this location would result in a significant urbanising effect in a previously non-urban area.

“The site is not within a historically sensitive location.”

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Meet the blooming marvellous gardeners!

Gardeners who helped Chorley bloom have been thanked for their efforts. Gardens across the borough were entered into the annual Best Kept Garden competition run by Chorley Council in conjunction with the Chorley in Bloom group, Birkacre Garden Centre, Chorley Community Housing (CCH) and Chorley and District Gardening Society. And the winners were presented with their

certificates and vouchers at a special ceremony at Birkacre Garden Centre, by Iris Smith, chairman of Chorley in Bloom and David Brown, chairman of Chorley and District Gardening Society.

Dave Brown, chairman of Chorley & District Gardening Society said: “This competition is going from strength to strength and the awards are very well deserved.�

Planning Matters Clayton-Le-Woods

Whittle-Le-Woods

105 Higher Meadow Proposed single storey rear conservatory measuring 4.25m in depth, 3.3m in width, 2.5m high to the eaves and 3.7m maximum height to the ridge. (ref: 15/00994/PDE) A decision is due by November 16.

12 Spring Crescent: Erection of front and rear dormer windows and alterations to existing dwelling (ref: 15/00997/FUL). A decision is due by November 30.

Euxton 21 Mile Stone Meadow: Erection of two storey rear extension. (ref: 15/01004/FUL). The consultation deadline is November 3.

Buckshaw Village 1 Poole Avenue: Erection of a single storey rear extension. (ref: 15/01005/FUL). The consultation deadline is November 3.

Withnell 1 Brandwood Fold Cottages, Chorley Road: Erection of single storey front extension (ref: 15/00993/FUL). A decision is due by December 1 For more information on these plans, visit www. chorley.gov.uk

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Fine dodgers

crackdown

Chorley motorists who evade paying parking fines by driving away while a warden is booking their vehicle are facing a clampdown.

Highways chiefs at Lancashire County Council have now tightened up the rules, so that a ticket will be issued by post if the driver flees.

A report to highways boss Cllr John Fillis explained: “Where a Civil Enforcement Officer (CEO) has been

unable to issue a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) to the vehicle, the county council is able to issue postal PCNs. The service has always taken a cautious approach on this matter and only issues postal PCNs where the PCN has already been printed but the CEO was unable to serve the notice.

“Postal PCNs will (now) be issued, provided that the CEO has started the issuing process. It is planned to introduce the revised operating arrangements from November 2, following the school autumn half term.”

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Town

date

Coronation Street’s Callum Logan is switching on Chorley’s Christmas lights this year.

Actor Sean Ward, 27, will do the honours on the Market Street stage on Saturday , November 14.

Organised by Chorley Council, the Christmas lights switch on festivities will start at 3.30pm. There will be a Christmas market along Fazakerley Street and Rock FM will get the party started on stage with performers including X Factor’s Misha B. Additionally, there will be performances from up and coming acts including, singer Chris Atkinson and girl band, Distracted.

The actual switch-on is scheduled for around 6pm.

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Discover Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre

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N

estled in over 300 acres of breathtaking Lancashire countryside, Heskin Hall estate is just 5 minutes from junction 27 of the M6.

Because of this, it’s accessible from most Lancashire towns and cities including Chorley, Preston, Bolton, Southport, Liverpool and Manchester, and lays adjacent to the popular villages of Eccleston, Croston and Mawdesley. With free parking and free entry, this could be your perfect destination for a fabulous day out, offering a rural retail shopping experience that you will never forget!

Jewels May is a gorgeous independent jewellers shop nestled amongst 50 small rural retail business in Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre. This little treasure trove of sparkle boasts an amazing collection of antique, vintage and modern precious luxury jewellery items. The owner has a passion for old cut diamonds and precious stones in amazing unique settings, and the shop also specialises in pre-owned luxury watches.

Treat yourself to an affordable extravagance!

Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, PR7 5PA T: 01257 450 448 E: info@jewelsmay.com www.jewelsmay.com

Drive through the picturesque village of Heskin, turn off the B5250 and through imposing, decorative stone gate posts to the Heskin Hall estate. Travel down the winding private drive flanked by lush, green pastures that provide enrichment for herds of cows, water buffalo, sheep and horses as well as the abundant wildlife, before emerging at your rural retail retreat that is Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre.

Over 60 individual retail businesses offer customers the opportunity to peruse 3 linked barns bursting with gifts, clothing, jewellery, bags and accessories, children’s wear, furniture, soft furnishings, art, memorabilia, lifestyle, food shops, local produce, crafts, hair and beauty, holistic therapies and much, much more.

Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre offers a totally unique day out where high quality products and excellent customer service go hand in hand.

The owners and retailers pride themselves on providing an all inclusive and memorable shopping

31

experience where you can browse in comfort and relax in style.

You are given a warm, hospitable welcome in The Two Birds Tearoom as you brunch, lunch or indulge in the spectacular afternoon teas. Choose from a range of deli sandwiches, paninis, toasties, homemade soups, daily specials - all made from the finest, locally-sourced produce, with hot and cold beverages wines and beers. Indulge in seasonal specials and winter warmers with festive mulled wine, special coffees and loaded hot chocolate with cream and marshmallows enjoyed on a sofa by the cosy wood burner.

Next stop is the butcher’s shop where you are offered a daily supply of locally farmed meat with some hand reared on their very own estate for true freshness, offering the best joints and fillets, handmade range of traditional and deli sausages and burgers including the virtually fat free but full of wholesome flavour Buffalo Burger, a signature special and customer favourite and with Christmas just around the corner you have an opportunity to

Wedding Dresses Bridesmaid Dresses Bridal Accessories Prom and Evening Wear Mother of the Bride/Groom Outfits and Accessories

Informal Menswear Formal hire of wedding attire and evening wear

Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10am-5pm Sundays 11-4pm (by appointment) Closed Mondays.

Open late Tuesdays (by appointment) Brides Gallery, Heskin Barn, Heskin Hall Estate, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, PR7 5PA

Telephone: 01257 451434

info@brides-gallery.co.uk

www.brides-gallery.co.uk

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order your locally farmed hand-raised turkey.

The delectable Black Olive Deli boasts an excellent range of cheese, cold meats, Mediterranean accompaniments, delicious cakes, pies, biscuits, pates, sauces, snacks, speciality wines, sweets, icecream parlour, giftware and over 20 Great Taste Awards on chutneys, jams and other products.

Christmas specials include bespoke, indulgent hampers, lavishness chocolates, homemade deep

filled mince pies, luxury Christmas puddings, mulled wine spiced sachet packs, hot toddy kits and festive tableware, to name but a few.

Treat your someone special to that something special at their high-class, bespoke jewellers. The owners of Jewels May have over 30 years’ experience of the luxury jewellery market, trading and retailing

Stressless Stressless Holistic & Beauty Treatment Room

“Body Massage is a loving touch of the heart expressed through the hand” Book a 4 week course of the No Hands Massage for

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Proud stockists of the fast growing superior finish chalk paint, Everlong, handcrafted cosmetics My English Summer and popular brand East of India.

Upcycle Shabby/vintage chic Floral Homewares, gifts, accessories, painted furniture,

Waxing - Shelac Nails - Pedicure - Dermalogica Facials - Teeth Whitening - Spray Tans

Gift Vouchers available Tel 01257 450812 or 07712 832286 Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre www.stresslessinlancs.co.uk

1st floor, Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley PR7 5PA oh-so-lovely@hotmail.co.uk

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high quality diamond, precious stone and cultured pearl jewellery set in platinum, gold and silver, offering a wide range of fine jewellery from modern favourites to rare vintage and very unique pieces that transcend time, specialising in Victorian splendour and art deco decadence. They also have a great range of pre-owned luxury watches including Rolex, Cartier, Omega, Breitling and many more.

Hepplestone Fine Art, located at Heskin Farmers’ Market & Craft Centre, is a family-run business with a wealth of experience in the contemporary and fine art field, boasting an enviable collection of original paintings, Lalique glass, limited edition prints and sculptures from local, national and

Ladies top brand fashions at affordable prices Lovestruck In Love With Fashion AX Paris Made in Italy Hell Bunny Voodoo Vixen Pin Up Clothing Sizes from UK 6 to UK 32

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Opening times

Tues- Sat 10 am to 5.00 pm Sun 10.30 am to 4.30 pm Open bank holidays Heskin Farmers' Market & Craft Centre Wood Lane, Heskin, PR7 5PA

100% British, Guaranteed!

ORDER NOW to avoid disappointment

From 3 to 13 years - Casual to Classy

Brands inClude:

Christmas Specials Farm Fresh Turkeys, Carvery Rib Beef, Pork & Ham Jionts, Whole Duck or Goose, Local Chicken.

Heskin Hall Estate, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, PR7 5PA

Tel: 01257 451 817 www.heskinqualitybutchers.co.uk

Visit us today at the Farmers markket & CraFt Centre tel: 01257 792452 moB: 0789 9901116

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occasion you’ll find something that says just the right thing at just the right time.

There’s a fabulous choice of clothing and fashion from a range of boutiques including Mulberry Moon where you can purchase your party frock, wrap up in their fabulous knitwear or choose from their popular Italian styles. With Mulberry Moon your makeover continues through your home with their gorgeous giftware, furniture and soft furnishings.

international artists. The owners and experienced staff at Hepplestone Fine Art are on hand to offer advice to customers with a unique personal service, including home art consultation.

Cameo Cottage Crafts is a rather delightful little card and gift-wrapping shop that offer a range of off-the-shelf and handmade celebration cards and wedding stationary. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, birth, goodbye or whatever the

For freshly cooked meats, top quality pies, freshly prepared meals you will be spoilt for choice.

Treats for all ages in our Traditional sweet shop & an array of Hampers and Gifts for all occasions, Outside catering available.

Great taste awards on Chutneys, Jams and a selection of other products Visit us today at The Farmers Market & Craft Centre Or Tel: 01257 450522 (please leave a message) email: chris.davies60@outlook.com

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Liberty Square offers classic fashion for the more mature lady, from cosmopolitan casuals to seasonal styles with a range of great accessories to complement your new outfit.

Other clothing and fashion retailers include Freckle boutique with their great range of dress-up styles, on-trend couture and country casuals with a great choice of plus sizes up to size 32 and all at affordable prices.

from trendy tots to funky teens. Check out their fabulous display of great kids’ Christmas jumpers, a must have for the festive season!

Heskin Farmers’ Market & Craft Centre is also home to the regional bridal boutique, Brides Gallery. They offer a full bridal experience from selection to bridal dressing service from their stunning collection of the latest bridal gowns by top designers including Maggie Sottero, Ronald Joyce, Kenneth Winston,

Rebels is the new kids clothing shop with great fashion for boys and girls from 3 to 13 years. They offer a great range of quirky and unusual styles alongside affordable basics, underwear, tights and socks, hoodies and jeans,

Luxury hand-crafted GREETING CARDS

We source and use only the finest of materials to design & create that special card individually made to your requirements.

Are you the

Home Decor & clotHing Boutique

creative type?

Then why not join our regular monthly workshops.

k as stoc Christm daily g arrivin For more details call

01257 220 475 or 07835 667 404 Or visit us at

Cameo Cottage Crafts Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, PR7 5PA

mulBerry moon Decor mulBerry moon

Heskin Hall estate, Wood lane, Heskin, nr chorley, lancashire, Pr7 5PA

www.mulberry-moon.com Tel: 01257 451489 or 07773 211931

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Amanda Wyatt and Mark Lesley, with wedding dress, bridesmaid, men’s formal hire and bride and groom accessories.

Oh So Lovely is a quaint little gift and shabby chic emporium with hand-painted country style

During your visit, treat yourself to a well deserved pamper at the Stressless Studio where they offer a range of beauty and holistic therapy treatments for your body, mind and soul including facials, manicures, pedicures, a variety of massage treatments and cosmetic enhancements.

Make Heskin Farmers’ Market & Craft Centre your destination for your next great day out. www.heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk Open: Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm / Sun, 10.30-4.30pm

furniture and country cottage style soft furnishings and antique style gifts. They also offer a range of Everlong paints that you can use to give your wooden furniture a new lease of life!

Unique Gifts From £150...

Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, PR7 5PA Open: 7 days – ample free parking.

01257 451 121 www.hepplestonefineart.com

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M a d e in C h o rl e y

Quality British Carpets Genuine Factory Prices With 100’s of styles & colours to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice.

With only 8 weeks till Christmas - visit your local factory shop today to guarantee your new carpet is fitted in time for the festive season.

Adlington

Jorgus

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Visit your local factory shop and we guarantee – you won’t go anywhere else!

Open 7 days a week | Fitting service | Free estimates Commercial and domestic | Roll ends also available Jorgus Carpets, Grimeford Mill, Grimeford Lane, Adlington, PR6 9HL

01257 482 636 | www.jorgus.co.uk

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PENSION FREEDOMS

MOST ‘WOULD BE’ RETIREES DO NOT AND HAVE NEVER FULLY UNDERSTOOD THEIR OPTIONS AT THE POINT OF RETIREMENT. Guidance versus Advice What is the difference between guidance and advice and who provides what? You may well be asking these questions following the changes in April 2015 to how you receive your Pension.

There is a crucial difference between the two.

Guidance Guidance is supplied by the Citizens Advice, The Pensions Regulator and Pension Wise.

It is NOT regulated advice, but is helpful assistance to you. It is FREE.

Advice Advice is fully regulated, far more detailed, and specific to you, and your particular situation and needs. It is provided by a Financial Adviser, and you will pay a fee for it.

The benefit of an adviser is there is someone who will look out for your money, keep on top of your investments and help you organise and use your money in a taxefficient way.

Individuals typically only retire once, consequently there is no margin for error.

The question therefore is – can people afford ‘not’ to pay for advice?

True Bearing Chartered Financial Planners provides retirement advice workshops for many major employers to allow them to address their employees concerns when approaching retirement. We work with Universities, Local Authorities, NHS bodies, Police, Education Authorities and many in the Private Sector.

You can contact us direct on the number or website below.

Brought to you by Chartered Financial Planner, True Bearing Ltd. Highly qualified independent financial advisors offering a professional yet personal financial planning service, built on trust, experience and transparency.

Telephone: 01257 260011 Email: enquiries@truebearing.co.uk | Website: www.truebearing.co.uk True Bearing Chartered Financial Planners is a trading name of True Bearing Ltd. True Bearing is an Independent Financial Advisory Firm, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

39

FOR INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVICE Our Services and Charges: An initial meeting is at our expense.

To proceed further, advice charges will apply and would be fully discussed with you. Go to our website www.truebearing.co.uk for our terms of business.

Areas of Advice: Pension Freedoms Care Fees Planning Equity Release Investments

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To discuss your needs with no obligations, please call True Bearing Ltd today on 01257 260011

40

Puzzle

corner

Guess where?

Wordsearch Sudoku

Crackle, bang, whizz!

Answers are on page 63 of this magazine

Acorn Fireworks Cobwebs GuyFawkes Crisp Bonfire

Winter Rocket Scarves Golden Sparkler Sweaters

Jacketpotato Pumpkin

41

Real Wooden Flooring Top Quality Carpets Laminate Flooring The finest flooring installed by fitters with decades of experience.

We specialise in bespoke herringbone block floors.

Showroom open: Monday –Saturday 10am-5pm 63-65 High Street (next to Chadwick’s) Standish WN6 0HD

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Class from the

past

This month’s photo is of Wheelton Council School which it is believed was taken in the early 1950s.

Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact David Sudworth today by emailing chorleynews@locallife247.co.uk

Standards maintained Trinity School in Buckshaw has maintained its ‘good’ rating. Ofsted inspectors, who visited the Unity Place facility recently, say that while the school is an overall Grade 2, it also had some Grade 1 outstanding aspects, in quality of teaching, achievement of pupils and early years provision.

The Ofsted report into the latest visit said: “The school is much larger than the average-sized primary school. As a result of ongoing local housing development there has been a very high proportion of pupils joining the school part way through their education. The headteacher is relentless in her pursuit to ensure that all pupils achieve their very best. She has successfully led improvements in teaching and achievement, and reduced the number of exclusions for poor behaviour.”

Do YOU want to teach ?

Then come along to one of our Open Evenings...

6th October - St Bede’s Catholic High School, Ormskirk 7th October - St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, Wigan 4th November - St Mary’s Catholic High School, Astley, Leigh 11th November - St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, Wigan All open evenings will be 5:30pm - 7:30pm We are looking for graduates who have the potential to become outstanding primary or secondary school teachers of the future.

Our School Direct teacher training program, accredited

by Liverpool Hope University, leads to a Postgraduate Certificate in Education with Qualified Teacher Status and 60 credits toward a Liverpool Hope Masters in Education.

For further details about primary teacher training visit www.wcpsd.org.uk. For further details about secondary teacher training visit www.catholicsd.org.uk Applications for September 2016 open at the end of October 2015 and can be made via www.UCAS.com (Search for provider codes 24A and 27Q)

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St Pius X Catholic Preparatory School & Oak House Nursery An outstanding all-round education for children aged from two to eleven years

• Individual interests and needs met in flexible nursery sessions • Tailored learning in small classes and academic sets • Opportunity to excel for every child • 100% pass rate for our pupils in Bolton School’s 2015 entrance exam 200 Garstang Road, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 8RD

Tel: 01772 719937 / 713630 enquiries@st-piusx.lancs.sch.uk www.stpiusx.co.uk

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Alongside lifestyle choices and what we eat, our state of mind can also have an impact on our digestive system; this process works both ways, with what we eat affecting our state of mind.

Health & Fitness

Healthy gut

With a healthy gut potentially helping us to reduce symptoms of stress, never has the phrase ‘listen to your gut’ been more apt. Indeed, this brain-gut connection is more than just a figure of speech.

healthy mind

“Scientists are now revealing that there is a strong link between what happens in the gut and the brain.

The bacteria that reside in the gut appear to play an important role and are able to communicate with the central nervous system,” says neuropsychology expert, Helene M. Savignac.

By Marjun Ziarati

A DELICATE BALANCE

T

Inside the gut ‘bad bacteria’ and ‘good bacteria’ compete for space and nutrients, and a healthy gut requires a balance of prebiotic and probiotic foods. “One of the best ways to maintain a healthy gut is to look after your ‘good bacteria’. A natural

here’s no doubt about it, our gastrointestinal tract is sensitive to emotions. Whether it’s butterflies when in love, nausea when nervous or the gut-wrenching feeling that comes with grief, our stomachs seem to sense our feeling.

With Watch Homecare Services you can be assured of a professional, caring and friendly service at all times.

NOW RECRUITING FOR STAFF Our carers are trained to understand and recognise your individual needs, choice, independence, privacy, dignity, language and culture. We offer a full range of practical and personal help, tailored to your individual requirements.

• Personal care • Help with medication requirements • Preparation of food • Assistance with feeding • Escort to appointment • Flexible Carer’s Break

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• Continuity of carers • Assistance with shopping and social activities • Cleaning and housework • Laundry and ironing • Sit in and over night care • We work to specified times

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PLEASE CALL US AND WE WILL ARRANGE TO VISIT YOU TO DISCUSS YOUR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS call on a rota system, great rates of pay. A full driving licence and access to a car is essential for this role. We offer competitive rates of pay, flexible shifts - weekdays, evenings and weekends, free uniforms, paid milage allowance and company mobile phone, If you are interested in working for us please call the office.

2 West Bank, Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 1JF www.watchhomecare.co.uk

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way of doing this is by selectively feeding your ‘good’ gut bacteria with a special kind of food called prebiotics,” confirms Savignac.

Prebiotics feed the good bacteria and encourage growth. Try eating asparagus, leeks and garlic.

Probiotics are lacto-fermented foods containing live ‘good bacteria’, present in foods such as cabbage and yoghurt with active cultures. You can also buy pill supplements for both prebiotics and probiotics.

IMMUNE HEALTH Up to 70% of our immune system is based in the gut. So, what we consume has a significant impact on our all-round health. Studies have shown that as we age, our gut contains less ‘good bacteria’ and prebiotic supplements such as ‘Bimuno’ can help improve immune health in older people.

48

STRIKE A POSE

WORKOUT

There are some yoga poses that are believed to ease digestive problems and the pain associated with trapped wind and abdominal cramps.

Exercise helps us deplete stress hormones at the same time as releasing mood-boosting chemicals which help us cope with stress better. These endorphins that are released are often called ‘happy hormones’ and can make us feel less stressed and indeed happier - and our guts will thank us for that.

‘Apanasana’, otherwise known as the knees-to-chest position, is a gentle yoga position that can help ease gut problems. According to Casey Coviello from the Yoga Journal, many positions including spinal twists and child’s pose, teamed with deep breathing, can help soothe pain associated with digestion.

MEDITATE According to a study at Dalian University of Technology in China, five x20 minute sessions of meditation led participants to a reduction in the amount of cortisol (stress hormone) released.

The more relaxed we feel, the less likely we are to experience stress-related digestive problems.

MUCH HOOLE WOODLAND BURIAL GROUND (Patron: Pam Rhodes, from BBC ‘Songs Of Praise’)

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Plots can be pre-purchased and funeral plans are available upon request – Prop. G C Whalley & Daughter Long established funeral directors & family firm. please ring for details.

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TELEpHONE: 01772 612848/612900 Goose Green Farm, Moss House Lane, Much Hoole, preston pR4 4TD www.muchhoolewoodlandburialground.co.uk

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Care in your OWN Home ASK AMANDA! Amanda Barlow is the Registered Care Manager for Right at Home – she answers your questions.

How do you recruit care staff?

ANSWER. The great thing about being a carer is that a wide range of people can do it. It can suit people who want 70 hours work a week, people who want to work days, evenings, overnights or weekends. It can fit around other jobs, retirement, university or family.

Right at Home are a good employer. We encourage our staff to complete training and qualifications, and our regulator the Care Quality Commission (CQC) insists on certain training being in place. Having said this, care is a great opportunity because you do not need formal qualifications or previous experience. The most important attributes are to have a “caring nature”, enjoy

helping people, being reliable and being able to relate to older people is a must.

At Right at Home we apply what we call the “mum” test. If someone comes for a job we ask ourselves if we would feel comfortable with them looking after our own relatives. If the answer is “YES” we are more likely to give them a trial. Personal appearance does matter, our customers expect certain standards and our staff must meet these. We will provide mandatory training, seek references, complete criminal records check and then allow the person to “shadow” existing staff.

People come to us for a job from all walks of life. We have professional carers with a track record. We have trainee doctors, business owners, a micro-biology student and a female firefighter. One of the strangest was a customer’s daughter who got on so well with us she came to work here!

For employment you must be over 18 and have a car.

If you are interested in a job in home care, or you someone requires support please give me a call on 01257 696 050.

Quality Care & Companionship in the comfort of your own home Support & Companionship Outside Your Home Days & nights out, appointments, holidays etc 7pm ‘til 7am Emergency Respite & Care during the night Hospital to Home Quality Care following time in hospital Cancer Care in your own home Right at Home in partnership with St Catherine’s Hospice

Right at Home carers are reliable, friendly and well trained - many are Dementia & Parkinson’s specialists.

Call Amanda or Nicky on 01257 696 050

01257 696 050

or visit rightathomeUK.co.uk

Chorley based

Registered with the Care Quality Commission. Each Right at Home office is independently owned and operated.

50

Sid’s spaykin’ up for

Lanky

Ahead of Lancashire Day on November 27, David Sudworth meets the Euxton grandad who is doing his bit to keep our dialect thriving

S

id Calderbank is a ‘mon’ on a mission - to get people celebrating Lancashire dialect. Chorley born and bred, the former Leyland Motors lathe turner tours the country reciting local stories, songs and poems for over 10 years now.

With his self-deprecating humour, checked shirt and tweed jacket, he certainly looks every inch a proud Lancastrian.

“I can eat black pudding and tripe with the best of ‘em,” smiles Sid. “But I do like a Yorkshire pudding as well. I’m not a Lancashire nationalist - each part of the country is special and should be celebrated.”

I’m sat with Sid at his local, the Bay Horse pub, on Wigan Road, Euxton, just a stone’s throw away from his house. Over a pot of tea (nothing stronger as he has a performance later on), he tells me about his upbringing, and how he became one of the foremost modern-day experts on Lanky tongue.

Born on Bonfire Night 1952 at Chorley Hospital to parents Ronnie and Rose, the young Sid grew up in Colliery Street: “If you say I’m from Up T’Duke, older folk will know where it is. Colliery Street is now somewhere underneath Asda.”

Educated at Duke Street School and Chorley Grammar, in 1968 he got an apprenticeship at Leyland Motors, where he remained until taking voluntary redundancy at Christmas 1980. After that, he worked for mail companies in Preston before starting his own business, Latchwise Ltd, in West Cliff and latterly Bold Street, Preston.

“It started out just me and one other

51

person and by the end we had 60 staff, 250,000 sq ft premises and round-the-clock shifts. It was great but it made me ill - I had a heart attack in my 40s so in 1997 I sold it,” says Sid. However, Sid’s life-long love of folk music meant he could turn his attentions to performing: “Folk music was a big thing in the 1970s in local pubs. Many would have their own resident groups and they’d get people up from the audience.

“I had a very successful 20 year stint as a barn dance caller with Lancashire’s famous Old Pequilar Band.

In fact, I occasionally get dragged, kicking and screaming, from retirement to call dances, often as a duo with my daughter Liz. “I’ve always been interested in Lancashire dialect and there are so many old folk songs and poems which were written in dialect. But because people I was around with then couldn’t do the accent, they asked me to do it instead. These were pieces which had been sitting in libraries since Victorian times and we were bringing them back to life.”

“People were concerned about talking ‘proper’” Sid cites works by Lancastrians such as Edwin Waugh and Samuel Laycock as good starting points for those wanting an introduction into the world of dialect poetry. But for locals, Sid says Robert Rowe’s Cracks From a Cobbler’s Seat book, written about Euxton, is a must-read.

“Very little is known about Robert Rowe, there is nothing really out there other than the book, which is very popular. There seems to have been a lot of books written in dialect from around 1850 right up to World War I, and then it just stops. I think the reason they started was to do with the fact that Lancashire, at that time, was changing. It was the cradle of the industrial revolution so you had people from all across the UK - Scots, Irish, West, Cornish - coming here to work. It was like a gold rush, so there was probably a feeling that ‘we need

to record this otherwise it will be lost forever’.

“Then, after the war, people starting getting radios so they were hearing the Received Pronunciation voices on the BBC, and people were concerned about talking proper. They were even stories of teachers washing children’s mouths out with soap and water. But the books can be difficult to read to the point where they are almost another language. And because there are so many varieties of Lancashire accent, the words are different depending on where the author came from within Lancashire. For instance, East Lancashire is different from Wigan, which is influenced slightly by Welsh because of the amount of miners who moved there, as they got better wages digging coal in Wigan than slate back home. Scouse as well is a Lancashire accent but it has been heavily influenced by Irish.

“Liverpool is very much part of Lancashire, in fact some people forget just how important it was because, in its heyday as a port, it was Lancashire’s window to the rest of the world.”

WItht that, I ask Sid whether the stereotypical view of Lancastrians - all flat caps and strong tea - is in fact historically accurate: “It’s a good question, and the answer is it’s probably a myth. I think it goes back to the days of the Andy Capp type character where nobody can decide whether he’s gormless or not. There’s a history of that, with the likes of George Formby, Frank Randle, Les Dawson and Mike Harding. Today, it’s carried on by people like Johnny Vegas and Peter Kay. “However, I will say that the stereotypical strong Lancashire tea is probably true. I’m convinced

52

that tea, along with beer, actually saved a lot of lives during the cholera epidemics of the 18th and 19th Century. If you think about it, people lived in really awful conditions and, by rights, we shouldn’t have survived. But both tea and beer go through fermentation processes which kills off the bacteria.”

Sid’s diary is pretty full these days touring public and private events across the UK, and running the

“An intangible heritage” Lancashire Dialect Reading Circle at Euxton Library.

However, such is Sid’s love of all dialects, in 2009 he founded National Dialect Day: “Dialect is an ‘intangible heritage’. You can’t put it in a glass case in a museum, and even in books if you can’t speak the dialect it’s hard to read. The most common thing people say to me is ‘you speak just like my grandad did’ and to me that is fantastic. My audience tends to be educated, middle aged, well off and white so when I get the chance to break away from that I do it. Sometimes I go into primary schools and remember one I went to where the teacher told me

before I started that in her class there were children who, between them, spoke 15 different languages.

But they children loved it because we said that everyone was from Lancashire, so they were all on the same level. I love breaking out of the mould, and I’ll continue for as long as possible.

Sid’s Lancashire Dialect Reading Circles takes place every Monday from 10.30am-11.30am at Euxton Library, St Mary’s Gate. It is free and open to all. For more details, visit www.sidcalderbank.co.uk

Extract: Cracks From A Cobbler’s Seat In the village of Euxton, Old Adam Strong’s Shoemaker’s Shop was the principal place for retailing gossip. Paying a visit after a long absence, I called upon Old Adam, who greeted me with: “Eh! Is that yo? Heaw gooa yo on?” “Oh first rate,” I replied. “How are you?”

“Neer better, bud once yunger, uz owd Billy Padget th’ berber, olus ses.” “What, is old Billy living yet?” “Aye, bod he wer welly freeten’d to deeoth thothery week sen. Eh my, it wor a do, silly owd begger!”

“How’s that, Adam?

What’s been to do with old Billy?”

“Why, yo known th’owd craytor lives be hissell i’th’ nook just up Dawber Looan, and wod

should th’ owd cracky do one neet bud come running deawn th’looan in his shirt shaating ‘morder, police’, us herd uz ever he cud. Ev’ry body put ther ‘eods eawrt o’th’ windas, thinking uz sumbry wur gettin’ kilt, um theer owd Billy popt up, un sed uz his heawse wur full o’ robbers, shootin’ o his hens, uz he kept i’th back place. He’d only two though, un one on um wur blind.

Sooa a lot of us geet drest, un wi o went together tort his heawse, some wi pooakers, un some wi’ big pows, un owd Billy crept behint like a draant rat, for he’d nowt on bud his shirt, un it hed bod a varra short tail, un he sed he’d jumpt eawt o’th’ back room winda un leet ‘th’ rain tub for he thowt uz they wur baan to blow his heyd off.”

To find out what happened next, find Cracks From A Cobbler’s Seat by Robert Rowe in the reference section of Chorley Library.

53

54

Food & Drink

All Torodes

lead to

home

By Keeley Bolger

“W

hat are you like in the kitchen?” asks MasterChef’s John Torode at the beginning of our cookery masterclass. “I’m OK,” I grunt, a mental carousel of burnt biscuits, teeth-extracting pork joints and soggy bottoms whirling to mind. “Did anyone tell you that you had to be brilliant at cooking?” despairs the 50-yearold, with a world-weary sigh.

“People forget that their friends love them. They come around to your house for dinner not because they want you to show off to them. They come round your house for dinner because they love you.”

My nearest and dearest might be more inclined to come round for dinner if there was less chance of the usual tortured pasta dishes I foist upon them.

And evidently, I’m not the only one to feel coy about my cooking skills (or lack of ) because Torode’s new cookery tome My Kind Of Food explores just that.

A deeply ‘personal’ collection of recipes (complete with pictures and cards made by his four children proudly placed alongside the acknowledgements), the emphasis is on getting us back in the kitchen and having some fun there. And if that means using shopbought condiments, so be it.

“You don’t make your own vinegar,” he reasons. “You don’t make your own honey.”

Correct, John. So after starting off with banana bread (“Everybody in Australia has banana bread”), we move swiftly on to Pesto and Tomato Tarts and Pesto and Pods, made with peas.

“Good food should be accessible to everybody and that’s what I’ve done with the book,” he says. “I’m not after Michelin stars, I’m not after praise in that way, what I really like is when people taste my food and say, ‘That’s delicious’. And if that word comes out all the time, that’s fantastic. I’m really, really happy.”

If you fancy trying some of Torode’s delicious dishes, here are three from My Kind Of Food...

My Kind Of Food by John Torode is published in hardback by Headline, priced £25.

55

Roast

chicken Method Heat the oven to 200C/gas 6. Season the inside of the chicken with salt and pepper, then spoon the creme fraiche into the cavity. Plug the end of the chicken with the lemon half. Rub the chicken with some of the oil, season well and then place in a roasting tin, breast up.

With creme fraiche, new potatoes and watercress

Serves 6 Ingredients 1 large chicken, about 1.5kg 200g creme fraiche 1/2 lemon 4tsp vegetable oil 500g new potatoes 100g watercress Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1tsp mustard (optional)

Roll the potatoes in the remaining oil and then scatter around the chicken. Place the chicken in the oven and roast for one hour 10 minutes without opening the oven door. Leave it.

Pick the largest stems off the watercress and put the lot into a large bowl filled with cold water. Push the watercress under the water and place the bowl in the fridge. The clean watercress will float to the top while all the dirt will sink to the bottom.

Take the chicken out of the oven. Pour the creme fraiche out of the chicken over the potatoes in the tin, then turn the chicken upside down onto a board and leave it to sit for 10 minutes so that all the juices flow back into the breast. It will be done.

Meanwhile, place the tin over a medium heat and bring to the boil, stirring the potatoes around the tin so all the lovely sticky bits come off the sides and make the sauce. Take it off the heat.

Lift the watercress out of the bowl and shake off the excess water. Put the chicken and potatoes onto a large platter, scatter over the watercress and pour yourself a congratulatory vat of wine.

Add a spoonful of mustard for a bit of spice in the creme fraiche.

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Tomato & pesto

tarts

Method Heat the oven to 220C/gas 7. Line a baking sheet with baking paper.

On a lightly floured worktop, roll the puff pastry out until it is about 2cm thick. You will need to cut four circular discs from the pastry, so find a small plate or saucer that’s about 16cm in diameter to use as a template. Place the plate over the pastry and run a sharp knife around the edge to cut out the first disc.

Repeat until you have four.

Now you need to lightly score a margin about 1.52cm in from the edge of the pastry discs, so find a smaller plate or bowl that you can use as a template.

Place the smaller plate in the centre of each pastry disc and lightly run a sharp knife around the edge, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Makes 4 tarts Ingredients 500g block puff pastry (all-butter, if possible) Plain flour, for dusting 1 egg, beaten 2tbsp pesto (home-made or just use a jar) 8 plum tomatoes, sliced Salt and freshly ground black pepper To serve: 100g watercress 10ml peppery olive oil Heat the oven to 220C/gas 7. Line a baking sheet with baking paper.

Lift the disks onto a baking sheet and brush with the beaten egg. With a fork, prick the inner circle but not the outer edge - this will stop the pastry from rising in the middle, but will allow the outer edge of the tart to rise up.

Take a good amount of the pesto and spread it over the inner circle of each tart. Place the tops and bottoms of the tomatoes in the centre of the tarts, then start to lay the slices on top of the pesto so they overlap and create a swirl effect - it should look a bit like a Catherine wheel. Season with salt and pepper.

Place the tarts in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until well risen and coloured. Mix the watercress with the olive oil and serve with the tarts.

57

Eating out

guide The Corner House Fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere - perfect for any special occasion or a casual get together. Our traditional menu sources local produce. See our website for special offers.

01257 451400 9, Wood Lane, Wrightington Bar, Wigan, WN6 9SE cornerhousewrightington.co.uk

Shaw Hill

The Kitchen Theatre

A unique relaxed restaurant and bar with great food, events and dining.

Using high quality locally sourced produce to create the ultimate dining experience whatever the occasion. Menus start from £12.95 Whittle Le Woods, Chorley, PR6 - 7PP 01257 269221 shaw-hill.co.uk

Fine dining in the heart of Chorley.

You’re guaranteed fresh local ingredients, expert culinary wizardry from Head Chef Bruno and Co. a relaxed atmosphere and an evening you won’t forget.

01257 269070 Peter Street, Chorley, PR7 2RP thekitchentheatre.co.uk

Advertise

here £48 + VAT

Call 01257 498329

Mezzo Family run Italian restaurant open for lunch & dinner 7 days a week, 2 course lunch menu available.

Roof terrace & outside dining in the summer months.

01772 877772 Preston New Road, Samlesbury, PR5 0UP mezzorestaurant.co.uk

58

Events & Leisure

What’s

on

Happy Halloween Saturday, October 31 Liverpool’s Ghouls, witches and zombies are invited to brave Buckshaw Village Community , Unity Place, from 4pm-7pm. Attractions include the Creepy Zoo, a fancy fress competition, pumpkin carving competition (take yours already carved) and a kids’ disco. Free entry.

Winter Sparkle Spectacular Sunday, November 1 Celebrate the festive season with a visit to Derian House at Astley Park, Chorley, from 10am-4pm.

Attractions include a giant snow globe, Austrian market stalls, Punch & Judy, an ice rink and horse drawn carriage rides through the park.

Bonfire Celebrations Thursday, November 5 Euxton: Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service Charity Bonfire and Firework Display at the Training Centre, Westway, from 5.30pm to 8.30pm.

Friday, November 6 Astley Park: Taking place on the park’s playing fields from 6.30pm with the bonfire being lit at 7pm and the fireworks display launching at 7.30pm. Free

Saturday, November 7

Promote your event

here!

Reach an estimated 75,000 readers in Chorley Ad prices start from £30 + VAT Call 01257 498 329 for details

Mawdesley: Firework display on Millennium Green, Hurst Green. Tickets £6/£4 on the night. Gates open 6pm, bonfire lit 6.45pm, fireworks 7.15pm.

Duxbury Park: Red Bank Scout Group’ s free Annual Bonfire & Fireworks Display Gates Open 6pm - Fire Lit 6.30pm. Fireworks 7pm (conditions dependant)

Sunday, November 8 Buckshaw: Held at The Hub, Unity Place. Punch & Judy Show from 4pm, fiework display from 6pm6.30pm. Adults £6, including hot food and drink, children £4 (includes hot dog or a small portion of food and drink). Under twos go free. Tickets available at Cappucino’s.

59

Anniversary Talk Monday, November 2 Illustrated talk celebrating 30 years of Clayton Green Library from 2.30pm. Take your own memories and photos of the library along. Free event but to reserve a place, call 0300 123 6703.

Andy McNab Monday, November 2 T​he best selling author will be at Chorley Little Theatre from 7.30pm to 9pm to talk about his incredible life. The former SAS soldier is brought to Chorley by Ebb & Flo bookshop, there will be a question and answer session and he’ll be signing copies of his latest book Detonator. This event will be suitable for adults and children aged 13-plus.

Tickets, priced £20 including a copy of Detonator (RRP £18.99), or £10 unreserved seat only, are available from Ebb & Flo bookshop, Malcolm’s Musicland or online via www.chorleylittletheatre. com

Manchester Christmas Markets Saturday, November 14-Monday, December 21 Spread across the city centre, the Christmas Markets are all located within roughly a quarter of a mile of each other and accessible to all. Albert Square is open 10am to 9pm daily. Other sites: 10am to 7.30pm (8pm in December). Bars open until 9pm on all sites. Visit www.manchester.gov.uk

Set in beautiful park land grounds Shaw Hill Offers - Traditional Afternoon Tea, Vardons restaurant offering lunches, evening meals and Sunday lunches, Leisure Club & Spa, Wedding and Celebration Packages. www.SHAW-HILL.co.uk

WHITTLE LE WOODS, CHORLEY PR6 7PP

01257 269221

INFO@SHAW-HILL.co.uk

60

An afternoon with Vera Waters Wednesday , November 4 Join Vera at Leyland Library from 2pm for a talk encouraging people to look at life differently, by thinking outside the box and appreciating the humour in everyday situations. Tickets £2 from Leyland Library or call 0300 123 6703.

Clayton Green 30th Anniversary Saturday, November 7 Drop in at Clayton Green Library to celebrate the facility’s 30 years. Browse the display created by the Community Heritage Team, enjoy a chat with staff over a cuppa and add your memory to the library’s Memory Book.

Remembrance Service Sunday, November 8 Held at the war memorial on Preston Road, WhittleLe-Woods. The procession starts at Whittle-LeWoods School yard at 2.30pm (assembling from 2.15pm) to proceed to the war memorial for a service. All welcome.

The Fugitives Wednesday, November 11 Award winning Canadian modern folk group, who played at the Glastonbury Festival in 2014, are performing at Adlington Library from 7pm..

Tickets £6 available directly from Adlington Library, telephone 03001336703 or email adlington. library@lancashire.gov.uk

Chorley Christmas Lights Switch On Saturday, November 14 Coronation Street actor, Sean Ward, who recently played Callum Logan in one of the country’s top soap operas, will be heading to Chorley this year to switch on the town’s Christmas lights.

Sean will do the honours on the Market Street stage. The festivities will start at 3.30pm.

Duran Duran Friday, November 27 British music legends Duran Duran start the UK leg of their Paper Gods tour at Manchester Arena.

It’s now 33 years since their classic hit Rio hit the radio. To date they’ve sold more than 100 million records worldwide, and the British quartet are still making music and going strong. Their new album, titled Paper Gods, had their highest chart debut in 22 years. Enjoy their classic hits such as Hungry Like The Wolf, Girls on Film and The Wild Boys as well as their more recent material Tickets from £39.37 via www.eventim.co.uk

Chorley and Leyland NCT Nearly New Sale ​Saturday, November 14 On Parklands High School, Southport Road, Chorley, from noon to 1.30pm. There will be an entry fee of £1 and there will be early entry for NCT members from 11.30am. You can pay for your goods by cash or by credit/debit cards as there will be chip and pin machines.

Charity Night ​Saturday, November 14 Held at the Hare & Hounds, Abbey Village, from 8pm in aid of local boy Theo Powers who has neuroblastoma. There will be a sponsored wax, music, food, raffle and games. Call Rebecca Jordan on 07807 415250.

61

Nordic Walking FANCY DRESS

Fancy dress for all occasions!

Petite to Plus Sizes Ladies - Gents - Accessories 36 Market Street Chorley PR7 2SE www.boogienitesfancydress.co.uk

Christmas Craft & Artisan Fair

A great all-round exercise that is sociable, fun and easy to learn.

Classes in Leyland, Chorley and surrounding areas - £5 per session.

Poles provided so booking essential.

Fully qualified Instructor.

Call Loren on: 07808 157 718 www.lancashiresouthnordicwalking.co

Macbeth Speaks

Sunday, November 15

Saturday, November 21

Held at Buckshaw Village Community Centre, Unity Place, from 2.30pm-4pm. £1 entry - under 16s go free.,

Dean Taylor Professional Theatre Productions in conjunction with Eccleston Parish Council brings this one-man comedy play to St. Mary The Virgin Church, Eccleston. Starts at 7.30pm - tickets priced at £8-£10 can be purchased by calling Kathleen on 01772 466256. Debit and credit card payments accepted or by cash on the door. Doors open at 7pm. Free parking and there is disabled access.

Gardening for Wildlife Thursday, November 19 Chorley and District Natural History Society is delighted to welcome back Ken Green who is a founder member of the Society. The meeting is held at St Mary’s Parish Centre, Devonshire Road, Chorley and starts at 7.30pm. Non-members are welcome to attend. Vist www.chorleynats.org.uk

Eccleston Brass Band Concert Friday, November 20 Held at Croston Trinity Methodist Church, Westhead Road, Croston, at 7.45pm. Refreshments in the interval. Admission price £6.

Barn Dance Saturday, November 21 Held at Chorley United Reformed Church hall on Hollinshead Street in aid of church funds from 7pm. Tickets are £10 each or a family ticket costs £22, with a hot pot and apple pie supper. Take your own alcohol - soft drinks available. Call Shelley on 01257261433.

Houghton Weavers 40th Anniversary Tour Saturday, November 21 See this famous group at Mawdesley Village Hall. Tickets are £14.50 including a hot pot supper. Call 01704 822568 to reserve your tickets.

Paddy McGuinness Saturday, December 5 One of the country’s best-loved and most popular comedians Paddy McGuinness has announced a brand new UK tour for 2015 & 2016. The star of Phoenix Nights and ITV’s Take Me Out will return to his performing roots, with his first stand-up comedy tour since 2011. Held at Preston Guild Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets from £35 via www. prestonguildhall.com

62

Christmas Storytime Monday, November 30 Held at Euxton Library, St Mary’s Gate, from 2pm2.30pm. All welcome.

Gift Wrapping Thursday, December 3 Elaine Cuzner is giving a talk and demo on gift wrapping from 10.30am-11.30am at Euxton Library, St Mary’s Gate.

Christmas Coffee Morning Saturda,y December 12, Mawdesley Methodist Church from 10am to noon in the schoolroom. Refreshments, singing with the children from St Peter’s school, tombola, crafts, decorations, raffle and carol singing.

Croston Village Christmas Fair

Dick Whittington Saturday, December 12 - Sunday, January 3 Live at the Liverpool Empire Theatre, starring Starring Sally Lindsay and Eric Potts (Coronation Street), Radio City’s Leanne Campbell, City Talk’s Pete Price as Alderman Fitzwarren and Kurtis Stacey (Emmerdale) in the title role of Dick Whittington.

Tickets from £10 upwards via www.atgtickets.com

Sunday, November 13 The popular, annual will be held from 1.00pm to 5.15pm. As well as a land train to Santa’s Grotto there will be brass bands, singers, Morris dancers, a ukulele band and much more.. The event will end with a torchlit procession from the village green and a short celebration in St Michael & All Angels Church. Visit www.crostonfestivities.co.uk or if you are happy to help on the day, please contact Brenda on 01772 601363.

Handel’s Messiah Sunday, November 29 Held at Spendmore Lane Methodist Church in Coppull. Part 1 is at 2.30pm with parts 2 and 3 at 6pm following a buffet tea put on by the church congregation. The conductor is Philip Davenport, musical director of the Guild Singers and a member at Spendmore Lane Methodist Church. There are invited soloists who come to sing the main parts.

There is no admission fee and everyone is welcome.

Christmas Fair Saturday, December 5 Held at Chorley United Reformed Church, Hollinshead Street, at 11.30am. All welcome.

Howarth Visit Sunday, December 6 Charnock Richard Rambling Club outing. Coach picks up at various places between Chorley, Charnock Richards and the Hob Inn at Bamber Bridge. Cost is £10. Call 01257 412184 or email crramblingclub@gmail.com

Annual Members’ Evening Tuesday, December 15 Chorley and District Natural History Society’s final meeting of the year. In spite of the title, nonmembers are welcome to attend! The evening will consist of short presentations, a quiz, and the photographic competition. Starts at 7.30pm at St Mary’s Parish Centre, Devonshire Road, Chorley. For more information, visit www.chorleynats.org.uk

63

Puzzle

solutions

The photo on page 40 is of Harpers Lane, Chorley

Useful numbers Astley Astley Park School St Michael’s High School Astley & Buckshaw Parish Council Abbey Village Abbey Village Primary School Buckshaw Village Buckshaw Village Surgery Trinity Church Primary School Astley & Buckshaw Parish Council Brinscall St John’s School Chorley Chorley Library Cunliffe Medical Centre Eaves Lane Surgery Regent House Surgery Albany Academy Parklands High School St Mary’s Primary School Duke Street Primary School Sacred Hearth Primary School St James’ Primary School Highfield Primary School Southlands High School

01257 262 227 01257 264 740 01257 234 004 01254 830489 01772 214 444 01772 624 416 01257 234 004 01254 830700 03001 236 703 01257 267 127 01257 272 904 01257 264 842 01257 244 020 01257 264 596 01257 262 811 01257 239 950 01257 262 659 01257 264 638 01257 262 783 01257 414 455

Clayton-le-Woods Clayton Green Library Lancaster Lane Primary School Clayton-le-Woods Primary School Manor Road Primary School Westwood Primary School Clayton-le-Woods Parish Council Wheelton St Chad’s Primary School Withnell Withnell Fold School St Joseph’s Whittle-le-Woods Whittle Surgery Whittle-le-Woods Primary School Whittle-le-Woods Parish Council General Medical Chorley & South Ribble Hospital NHS Direct General Councils Chorley Borough Council Lancashire County Council Police Lancashire Police

0300 123 6703 01772 433 641 01772 335 030 01772 335 699 01772 628 051 07908 267 264 01257 264 480 01254 830437 01254 832317 01257 262 383 01257 262 732 01257 474 961 01257 261 222 0845 623 334 01257 515 151 01772 221 600 01257 246 225

64

sponsored by

Hoscar

Moss

by David Sudworth

W

ith summer now a faded memory, local fields are starting to get very muddy in places. A bit of it muck on the boots is par for the course, but when you’re still sweeping it up two days later, it can be tiresome.

This walk takes in some of the best countryside West Lancashire has to offer while giving you some decent pathways on which to tread. And if you’re a cyclist, then it’s the perfect route as well because not only is it full accessible for those on two wheels, but there’s a self-service cycle hire point at the start of the route for a very reasonable £1 per hour (minimum initial purchase is six hours). More information at www. southyportcyclehire.info

We park up on Wheat Lane (L40 4BX), which is accessed off the main A5209 Briars Lane via Glovers Bridge which goes over the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.

Once parked up, we head north west-wards, past The Ship Inn (known locally as The Blood Tub), up towards the junction with Carr Lane.

On the left, across the canal, you can see the old Ainscough’s Mill at Burscough. Situated further up the canal at Burscough Wharf, the mill used to produce flour from imported grain which came on barges on these very waters. Constructed in 1885, the mill had been disused for some time but has now been redeveloped into new homes and apartments.

65

scenery safe in the knowledge that, for today at least, we don’t have to scale its heady heights.

At the end of Wood Lane, we turn right on to Wanes Blades Road but be prepared to turn left again down Deans Lane, which is visible from the moment you leave Wood Lane.

At the bridge, we take a right down Carr Lane and within a few minutes, it’s time to turn left into Bleak Lane. This is the first time you begin to notice that although these are adopted roads (maintained at public expense), they are really very quiet, which makes them both very walker and cyclist-friendly.

Homemade signage imploring passers-by to avail themselves of a dozen freshly-laid eggs for a small fee is commonplace, all adding to the country feel.

Around here, you get a true sense of just how important farming still is in West Lancashire. True, it’s not as dominant as it once was, but for many families, it’s more than just adding a pleasant backdrop on an already beautiful landscape, it’s their livelihood. Sweetcorn, potatoes, cabbage, carrotts; you name it, West Lancashire has it in abundance.

At the level crossing for the Southport-Manchester line, go straight across and carry on past Bleak Hall Farm until the road forces you to turn right into Wood Lane. Parbold Hill is omnipresent on the horizon, giving us the benefit of some lovely

The Blood Tub legend Explanations vary as to why The Ship Inn at Lathom is known locally as The Blood Tub. One theory that back in the midst of time, the pub was a melting pot of workers and competing canal boat crews, who would sometimes get into scuffles.

When it was over, and the men wanted to return to their drinking, the feisty landlady wouldn’t serve the bloodied contestants until they’d cleaned up using a water butt outside.

The other theory is that one of the earliest landladies made her own black puddings, and she sourced her ingredients - including pigs’ blood - from her farmer customers.

It’s said the largely barters, exchanging jugs of

blood, which were emptied into a barrel (known as the blood tub), for ale; which was then carried off in the same jugs The barrel of blood was known as the Blood Tub, again the name being adopted for the pub.

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66

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Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear whilst walking. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.

67

As the road curves right, we cross the River Tawd, which is a tributary of the River Douglas and flows south into the heart of Skelmersdale just past the Concourse Shopping Centre.

If you haven’t already guessed by now, water is an important feature of the area. So it’s unsurprising that United Utilities have a few depots in this area, including the Wigan Wastewater Treatment Works which can be seen on the left as you go down Deans Lane. Quite why it is called Wigan is a mystery to most people. Later on that mystery deepens when another depot is called Skelmersdale.

However, before we get to that, we have to negotiate the railway crossing for a second time and then make our way under the Leeds-Liverpool Canal via Newburgh Aqueduct No 14, to give it its official title. Once out, the road climbs quite steeply up to Back Lane, which eventually veers right on to Hollowford Lane.

We’re now on the final quarter of our journey as we make our way towards Spencers Bridge. The gentle pace of life is evident here as we come across Newburgh’s version of a traffic jam. The swing bridge is up to allow a barge to pass through.

Far from it being an irritating hold up, it’s simply another chance to drink in that country feel as the stresses and strains of every day life float away.

Once the jam has passed, we cross over the swing bridge and turn left directly on to the towpath and follow it as it heads back towards Glovers Bridge As you amble along, there are some lovely properties which front on to the waterway, as well as some temporary and private moorings.

Once back at Wheat Lane, I decide to check out

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the locks at the back of The Ship Inn, and what a fabulous sight they are. If you’re needing a bit of R&R after the walk, this is the place to do it.

This 5.4 mile walk takes roughly two hours and 20 minutes to complete at a steady pace, and for the more energetic there’s a chance to vary the route. I particularly liked the fact it’s a walk for all seasons, especially handy for winter when the ground is boggy. It’s also good to dip into three villages; Lathom, Hoscar and Newburgh, in just one go.

Whether you are a beginner, seasoned walker or somewhere in between, you’ll reap the benefits of this walk.

68

Test drive

Skoda

Superb

by Tim Barnes-Clay

T

he all-new Skoda Superb really is utterly brilliant. You thought I was going to say ‘superb’ didn’t you? Well, that’s been done a hundred times before – but, jokes apart, it truly is.

Underneath, the Skoda has similarities to Volkswagen’s Passat. Available as an estate or hatchback, with the former making up the majority of sales in Great Britain, the all-new Superb has always been a major steal.

Suffice it to say, the Czech motor manufacturer, under the parental guidance of VW, offers a lot of car for your cash.

The vehicle has rear seat legroom many executive limousines can’t keep pace with - and thrifty running costs too. When all is said and done, it’s a genuine work of genius by the Pilsen based automaker.

It is a massive machine. Indeed, it’s bigger than before, and anyone who encountered the preceding incarnations of the Superb will tell you just how large they were.

Stats-wise, the fresh Skoda has a 625-litre boot (30 litres more than the departing car) in the hatchback, which expands to 1,760 litres when the rear seats are folded flat.

It features a whole bunch of safety systems too, including nine airbags, automatic crash preparation technology, an automatic braking system, and even gadgetry to warn you if a vehicle is going to crash into the back of you.

Into the bargain, the 2015 Superb contains a rear-

view camera, three-zone air-conditioning, adaptive cruise control and even an automatic parking system. It can also be hooked-up to a smart-phone for the first time and selected apps can be activated from the infotainment system’s screen. This is one avant-garde Skoda.

You also get Skoda’s ‘Simply Clever’ features such as an ice scraper in the fuel flap and cargo netting in the boot and cabin. And talking about brand physiognomies, the umbrella in the rear door of the old Superb has been traded for a pair of them in this model - one in each front door.

British right hand drive Skoda Superbs will come with trim levels we’re already familiar with, and there’s going to be five engines - the most ubiquitous likely to be the 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel with a six-speed manual gearbox. This is the one I drove at Skoda’s international press launch in Tuscany.

69

Under full acceleration there’s barely any diesel clatter, and the car has oodles of ‘oomph’ on the motorway – just like Geoff Capes in his British strongman truck-pulling prime. The new Skoda Superb is just as talented at low speed, floating over lumps and bumps in town or along deserted Italian country lanes. Pace is perceptibly more composed than that of the outgoing car.

The 2015 Skoda Superb can lurch a little through twisting roads, but it’s a big car, so it’s not the sort of motor you expect to chuck around corners. That said; the steering is direct, with excellent weighting

and the car is always comfortable.

The Skoda badge shouldn’t put anyone off this car in this day and age, although die hard BMW aficionados won’t be interested. I’d say they’re going to miss out, because this handsome new Superb is a top company car choice and, for private buyers, it looks like it will hold on to its value well.

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70

My latest

project

Award Winner

by Angie Barker

I

Like any gardener I always have a project on the go. Whether it be designing a fresh planting scheme for a tired looking border, investing in a new planter for the front garden to bring some seasonal colour to what otherwise would be a dark corner, or even ... planning a whole new garden!

Yes, my persuasive powers finally won Hubby over and he agreed to have part of our concrete drive at the front of the house removed and have it turned into a new garden space. So I duly spoke to the contractors I recommend to clients (Mark Bridgeman from Orrell) and a date was set for work to commence. I designed a contemporary courtyard to contrast with the rest of the garden and as ever Mark and Gareth delivered along with the rest of the team, Adam and Sean, and I now have a wonderful new garden packed with plants – some overspill from existing plant stock and some new additions. Hubby remained tight lipped during our trips to the nursery, bless him.

garden - and Amelanchier lamarckii. This is a beautiful multi stem small tree with lots of interest throughout the year; spring flowers followed by summer berries and then fiery autumn foliage. I also have Choisya ternata ‘Aztec Pearl’, a small shrub whose flowers will fill the garden with perfume next summer. I have even managed to squeeze in an additional raised bed for veggies and space for my new greenhouse.

I have sourced some plants that I have always admired but not had the room for, such as Dierama pulcherrimum or Angels Fishing Rod – just the name makes it a plant you’d want to have in your

It will be lovely to show visitors to the garden next open day (the last Sunday in June each year) something new. What more could a girl ask for – except for Hubby of course – to pay for it all.

Angie is a qualified award-winning garden designer who will plan your garden to your needs from start to finish, supplying reputable contractors and the ideal plants.

Call Angie now for your free consultation!

Angie Barker Dip GD (Inst GD) BA (Hons) Garden Design For All Seasons Tel: 01942 522 405 Mob: 07857 008 383 www.angiebarker.co.uk

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