Local Life - St Helens - January 2019

LocalLife St Helens Edition

January 2019

Sporting Saint Pages 21 - 24

Change your Life Pages 36 - 37

Lytham Walk Pages 53 - 55

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Local Life

Changing Lifestyles Each month I sit down and read the first proof of this magazine before pulling together this column.

Whilst I enjoy it, I try not to witter on about my personal life because the world has enough selfpublicists without me joining the crowd. I’m going to make an exception this month though, and if it inspires just one reader towards better health in 2019, then it will have been worth it.

Early in 2018, after a random retinal scan at the opticians showed up anomalies, I visited the doctor and received a diagnosis of diabetes – type 2 after tests showed that my blood sugar levels were running at 87. It was an almighty shock, because I’ve never had a problem with my health.

Sure I was overweight and my lifestyle is mainly sedentary, but, probably like most people in that position, I never thought it would happen to me.

After the shock wore off, I decided that I would try and reverse the diagnosis. So I ordered a meal plan and recipe book from www.carbsandcals.com and (with a lot of help from my darling wife) lived off 800 calories a day for six weeks. It’s a radical diet and I lost around 2¾ stone. My next blood sugar test showed up at 41, the doctor agreed that I could bin the diabetes medication and, five months on, I feel so much better. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.

If you have been diagnosed with a lifestyle illness like diabetes type 2, do seriously consider changing your lifestyle to reduce or reverse the effects. You must take medical advice first, but taking drastic steps like this to change your lifestyle, can potentially add years to your life.

Happy New Year, and good health to you all!

Chris Pearce, Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Regulars

In this issue Sporting Saint

40 Puzzle page 53 Jack’s Tracks

58 Events2Go 59 Test Drive

6 Local News 50 Travel 56 Food

59 Motoring 62 Gardening 66 Home Services

Sections 21 Change your life with U3A Next issue - January 2019

Advertising deadline - Monday, 21 January Published - Friday, 1 February

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LocalLife

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Sales: Chris sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: Jess sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Christina accounts@locallife247.co.uk

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News & Features

Scouting Success Billinge Beavers, Cubs and Scouts have received a cash boost to help fund their future endeavours.

The uniformed organisations received over £8000 from the CoOp Local Community Fund in November 2018, presented as an oversized cheque by the Billinge Team Manager Stuart Jackson.

Abbey Silcock, Scout Leader, said: ‘This is a fantastic amount of money to receive from the CoOp Local Community Fund. Our Group is 40 years old in 2019 and this money will help us to keep providing

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Do Your Bit for Dementia The Alzheimer’s Society has launched a new smartphone app to aid dementia research.

Led by the University of Oxford, the GameChanger app offers fun, free brain training games for anyone aged 18+ without dementia. It aims to find out more about how the brain works and to help spot early signs of dementia with the view of developing new treatments.

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EveryBODY Welcome GoActive hold social, active, inclusive sessions for adults with additional needs every Thursday between 9:30am and 2:30pm.

Get involved in arts and crafts, swimming, team games and gym sessions, or kick back and watch a movie. There’s plenty of fun to be had!

The sessions take place at Queens Park Health and Fitness on Boundary Road - for further details, call Victoria Smith on 01744 677236.

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CloneFest 2019

away with a set of coasters, a small wall hanging and a wall panel.

St. Helens’ biggest tribute band festival is back for 2019.

It costs £135 for the all-day course, including morning refreshments and a light lunch at Bag & Bean coffee-shop. All materials are included.

Featuring bands like Kings of Lyon, The Fillers, The Marley Experience and Not The Rolling Stones, CloneFest brings an incredible music sensation to Sherdley Park on Saturday, July 20th – but given that tickets for last year’s show sold out fast, it might be a good idea to get your hands on them early.

Tickets for the one-day fest start at £25 for an earlybird, to £55 for VIP, and are available from Ticketline, Eventim or the Citadel on Waterloo Street.

For more information, head to www.clonefest.co.uk.

Glassterclass 2019 sees an introductory glass fusing course based at the Love It Gallery on Winstanley Road in Billinge.

The course teaches basic skills like glass cutting, as well as the best techniques on firing your glass, best materials to use and fusing skills. Participants come

Classes run on Saturday, February 16, Saturday, March 2 and Saturday, April 27. To book your place, pop in to Love It Gallery or call 01695 622322.

Parents & Tots An arts and crafts group for mums or dads and their children runs every Wednesday in St. Helens.

Based in The Sandwich Station on Westfield Street, the group offers colouring activities, card making, stickers and more for children and their parents. The sessions, which run from 9:30am-11:30am, cost £2 per child including materials and a snack, and all ages are welcome.

For more information, call 01744 302332 or head to The Sandwich Station St. Helens on Facebook.

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Rainford Beer Fest Rainford Parish Council is gearing up for its fourth annual beer festival.

Taking place at Rainford Village Hall, the festival runs across three days in February – from Friday the 8th until Sunday the 10th. Enjoy local ale from local brewers with live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

Friday’s session runs from 6pm-10pm, Saturday’s from 12pm-10pm and Sunday’s from 12pm-4pm, so there’s plenty of time to sample the ales on offer.

For more information, email clerk@ rainfordparishcouncil.com or call 01744 884709.

Artists Together A new artists’ hub has launched in St. Helens.

The new initiative was set up to bring artists of various disciplines together to discuss their work and get inspired. Its aim is to guide conversations about art in a supportive space, encouraging new

ways to network and share ideas.

Painters, sculptors, writers, actors, dancers and filmmakers – along with any other medium you can think of! – are invited to take part in the cultural hub, which is supported by Heart of Glass.

For further information, email jessbowstead@ sthelens.gov.uk.

Beginners’ Line Dance Are you looking to keep fit or just find a new hobby this New Year? A new Billinge line dancing course could be just the ticket.

Starting on Wednesday, January 16 and running every week, the beginners’ line dancing course takes place between 10:15am-11:45am. You don’t need to bring a partner – just yourself, some suitable footwear, and a smile!

Admission costs £3.50 per session. Sessions are run by fully qualified instructors and take place at Birchley St. Mary’s Club on Trent Road in Billinge.

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Save Momo’s St. Helens coffee shop and community establishment Momo’s is at risk of permanent closure.

Momo’s, based on Cotham Street, had to shut down indefinitely after flood damage to its basement meant insurance companies could no longer cover the building.

With repairs not currently possible, the people of St. Helens are banding together in a campaign to save the coffee shop, which offered numerous community groups, craft sessions and autismfriendly sessions.

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Claire Rigby, single mum and owner of Momo’s, said in a social media post in November: ‘I’ve just lost everything I have four weeks before Christmas.

My job, my business, and every penny sunk into Momo’s or tied up in the business.’

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Since then, a ‘Save Momo’s’ JustGiving page has been set up to fundraise for new premises for the shop.

‘I honestly had no idea how much Momo’s had touched so many hearts,’ Claire continued. ‘Momo’s doesn’t just belong to me - it belongs to the people of St. Helens. We are just one huge family.’

To help the JustGiving page reach its £3000 goal to help with legal fees and the relocation of Momo’s, visit https://www.gofundme.com/saveMomos

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Network with Saints If you have a business to promote in the St. Helens area, you can get the best possible start to 2019 at a monthly networking event at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Thursday 10th January from 8.30am – and get a free breakfast into the bargain!

followed an invited guest presenter and then there will be an opportunity to network and improve your contact list with around 90 businesses in the room.

During the season, the event is used to congratulate the winning Player of the Month on

The St. Helens RFC Player of the Month and Networking Event, is sponsored by Stapleton Derby Estate Agents and is held in the Stapleton Derby Premier Lounge at the Totally Wicked Stadium every month of the year.

The guest of honour at the January 10th event is Saints Coach, Justin Holbrook who’ll hopefully be passing on a few tips on how to motivate a winning team. Justin will be his achievement before presenting him with his trophy. Book now to secure your place at January’s event at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/st-helensrfc-networking-event-sponsored-by-stapletonderby-tickets-30887263637 Attendance is free and you are welcome to attend as often as you wish

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The new initiative was set up to bring artists of various disciplines together to discuss their work and get inspired. Its aim is to guide conversations about art in a supportive space, encouraging new ways to network and share ideas.

Painters, sculptors, writers, actors, dancers and filmmakers – along with any other medium you can think of! – are invited to take part in the cultural hub, which is supported by Heart of Glass.

For further information, email jessbowstead@ sthelens.gov.uk

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Liverpool Beer Fest

baffle enemy ships and make the ferries difficult to target.

Liverpool Beer Festival heads to the Crypt of the Metropolitan Cathedral in February.

‘Everybody Razzle Dazzle’ is currently the only operating dazzle ship in the UK, and was commissioned by the Liverpool Biennial 14-18 NOW art commemoration.

From Thursday, February 21 to Saturday, February 23, enjoy real ales, craft beers and ciders in a great location, with live entertainment from the Brasswurst Bavarian Band on Friday and Saturday evenings. Guests receive a commemorative glass as part of the admission charge, and can exchange cash for beer tokens to use at the event. CAMRA members receive £3 of free tokens.

Tickets range from £3-£10 and can be booked on Eventbrite.

The Razzle Dazzle

River explorer cruises are available until Saturday, January 19th, before the ferry goes into dry docking to be re-painted to its original livery. For further information, visit www.merseyferries.co.uk.

Coffee Mornings The Oddfellows Friendly Society hosts regular coffee mornings in St. Helens.

It’s your last chance to sail on one of Liverpool’s iconic Dazzle Ferries this month.

Oddfellows have 126 branches nationwide. The St. Helens & Warrington District branch meets in the Hotties Café at the World of Glass in the third week of the month for a chat and a laugh.

The ferry was created as part of Liverpool’s WW1 commemorations to remember those used in the First World War with bright patterned paintwork to

Refreshments are at your own expense – for further information and dates, call Lynn Steward on 01744 453650 or email lynn.steward@oddfellows.co.uk

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Creative Careers

One Man’s Trash...

Carmel College are hosting a public creative careers event this January.

A new upcycling centre has launched in St. Helens.

Featuring world leading celebrity make-up artist and Lancome Global Creative Director Lisa Eldridge and CEO of My Beauty Brand Robin Derrick, the event is packed with inspirational information for creatives.

If you’re looking for your dream creative job in media, film, fashion, art or more, the event allows you to network with professionals and ask any burning questions about your chosen industry.

Packed with guest speakers and professionals, the day is perfect to get ahead of the competition while learning more about your dream career.

There will also be workshops throughout the day to give you a taste of creative carers.

The event takes place on Saturday, January 26 from 11am-2pm at Carmel College on Prescot Road (WA10 3AG). For more information, head to www. carmel.ac.uk

Thought up by Changing Communities, the shop takes discarded furniture and helps local residents gain practical skills.

Unwanted chairs, tables, wardrobes and more are repaired and restored by volunteers, with waste wood going towards crafting new items such as planters or benches. The furniture is then resold, with funds helping fund the project.

ReStore also provides opportunities for people with moderate mental illnesses and those in longterm unemployment. Volunteers with DIY skills, retail experience or plain old people skills are very welcome to come and help out with repairing, restoring or selling the finished products.

It is based on Peckers Hill Road in Sutton Junction – for more information, visit The ReStore Project on Facebook or pop in-store!

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Toddler Church

Billinge Reunion

Church sessions for pre-school children take place at St. Aidan’s Church in Billinge.

A fun Billinge event aims to raise funds for the Mental Health Foundation.

Taking place on the second Tuesday of the month from 9am until 10:30am, children can play with toys, do crafts, enjoy Bible stories and sing songs, with light refreshments available.

Featuring a disco and a raffle, Billinge Reunion invites residents to come together at St. Mary’s Catholic Club off Trent Road (WN5 7QT) to celebrate all things Billinge.

All parents, carers and grandparents are welcome to attend the free of charge sessions. For further information, call 01744 892360.

The event takes place on Saturday, February 16 from 7:30pm. Tickets are £5 – to book, call 07494 394529 or 07491 535980 or alternatively email pamelahagg@hotmail.co.uk

Willowbrook Volunteers Willowbrook Hospice are looking for volunteers to help out in their charity shops.

If you want to meet new people and boost your CV while helping raise money for the hospice, which provides end-of-life care to local residents, become a volunteer today!

Get in touch with the Volunteer Team on 0151 4308 732 or by emailing help@willowbrookhospice.org.uk

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Wedding Show Extravaganza at Holland Hall

Sunday, 27th January, 2019, 12 noon to 4pm Holland Hall offers a private setting in beautiful gardens & outside patio terrace – just 15 minutes from St Helens View Holland Hall Wedding Suites dressed and set for a Wedding Ceremony & Wedding Reception

Professional catwalk show at 2pm by The Bridal Loft Glass of fizz on arrival & samples of our delicious canapes Inspiration, help and advice from our recommended suppliers & the Holland Hall Dream Team!

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Make the Most of the Sales We all love a bargain, and by the time the Sales roll around that leftover Christmas money is burning a hole.

Remember - it’s important to shop smart to take proper advantage of the discounts.

Do your research. Many retailers market their sales beforehand and some even let you fill your shopping cart before they officially open. This means you can plan to make sure that your purchases are relevant to your needs. Goodbye post-sales regrets!

Shop your wardrobe first. Take stock of what you already own. It’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy of snapping up a great deal only to find that you already own three almost identical items.

Don’t forget postage costs. If you’re shopping

online, extra costs like shipping aren’t usually included in discounts. Factor this in and keep checking your cart before you hit the ‘Pay’ button.

Force yourself to try things on. If it’s worth queueing for the changing room, and you still love it when it’s on, it’s probably a good find! If you can’t be bothered, put it back.

Set a budget. If you don’t start with a limit you’re almost guaranteed to blow your budget. Because new clothes! Remember - it’s a limit, not a target!

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Sporting

Saint

Jess Phillips sits down with Saints legend Jonny Lomax ahead of his upcoming testimonial year to talk rugby, injuries and what the future holds.

‘It’s been crazy. I’m on placement at the moment and I’ve actually seen live surgeries being performed – it’s definitely been interesting,’ Lomax tells me. ‘Usually I’m training most days and going to university on Mondays and Thursdays, so I tend to spend my days off and evenings with my family.’

Family has indeed always been an integral part of Jonny’s life. ‘They’re actually how I got into playing rugby. I always played football when I was younger because that was what everybody played on the streets, but my dad did rugby league at Orrell St.

Photo © Bernard Platt

To be awarded a testimonial year is a rare honour, awarded to the likes of James Roby and Sean Long.

Testimonials reward players for their service to the club with a friendly match and a year-long calendar of events in the local community.

After competing in 189 games for the club, scoring a total of 88 tries and 103 goals across his Saints career, Jonny Lomax is looking forward to a more relaxed 2019 for his – in between studying for his physiotherapy degree, that is.

James when he was younger. His dad – my grandad – used to coach there, so it was really a generational thing.

‘Being a shy kid, I was a bit nervous but I was always pretty quick on the playground so I ended up being quite good at rugby too.’

I ask Jonny, who has been cheerfully telling me about various dislocations of fingers and shoulders from rugby injuries, whether he ever wishes he’d stuck at soccer.

‘I did still play football at the beginning of high

Photo © Bernard Platt

22

school, but then rugby took priority. I did sometimes miss it, especially when I think quite a few of my injuries probably wouldn’t have happened if I’d carried on with it, but it definitely wouldn’t have been the journey it has.’

‘We did do a charity football match with a few exprofessionals, and I like to think I’ve still got it,’ he continues. ‘Ex-United player Denis Irwin crossed it in and I managed to jump and volley it into the top corner and scored! That skill might’ve diminished a bit now though.’

There’s no doubt rugby was his calling, and Lomax continued to play at Orrell St. James Rugby Club from being just five years old, right up to under16s when he was scouted for Saints. It’s clear to see that the club is still dear to his heart. ‘We were always scrambling around for a pitch but we all stuck together, which was quite rare,’ he tells me.

His young rugby career at the club is also the reason for his signature headgear.

During secondary school, Lomax suffered from an extradural haemorrhage when parts of his skull

pierced an artery and left him bleeding for five days.

He now wears Tru Rehab’s logo on his headguard to raise awareness of brain injury and to remind himself how lucky he was to recover and go on to play professionally – and discusses that when he visits the kids at Orrell.

‘They have a great set-up in Bankes Avenue now, and I still go and do training sessions with them there.’

I have to wonder – did his affinity for Orrell ever tempt Lomax towards Wigan Warriors?

‘Growing up in Chapel End in Billinge, I was always a St. Helens lad. I’ve lived in Billinge all my life – we moved from Brown Heath Avenue in Chapel End to Beacon Road in Higher End, and now my wife and I both live in Chapel End again,’ he explains. ‘And it was mostly dependent on service area. There was a bit of confusion because I played for Orrell St. James, so I was actually invited to try out for Saints and Wigan, but it was always my dream to play for Saints. As soon as they made me an offer I snapped it up.’

23 Laughing, he adds, ‘Paul Wellens always says I’m fighting the battle from the front lines.’

Lomax signed for Saints when he was just sixteen, and had just finished secondary school at Rainford High. ‘Even after that, when I made my debut aged eighteen, I still saw the other players as men and myself as a boy. You’re kind of in awe of everything, running with players like Sean Long and Keiron Cunningham – just walking into the changing room with your bag on your back, it was crazy looking around and nodding at everyone.

‘I was a bit worried about bossing people around, which my position demanded, but eventually I realised that this was my chance, and I had to take it. My dad always reminded me that I wasn’t chosen for Saints because I was a nice lad – it was completely on merit, and I had to show my potential if I was going to get anywhere.’

Now Lomax takes his experiences as a younger player and uses it to inspire the rookies. ‘I do try and help them along – sometimes it’s best to put an arm around their shoulders, sometimes they need a telling off. But I think about when I was in their shoes and try to pass that on to the younger lads.’

And despite his sporting successes from such a young age, his mum ensured he completed his GCSEs. ‘She always drilled it into me that because I was on scholarship, you never know when it’ll end or what’ll happen. I did my GCSEs even though I didn’t really want to – like most lads, I always enjoyed missing lessons for rugby, and the summer holidays before I started college I trained with the first team, which was incredible. But mum did make sure I got my A-levels, which I managed even with 30% attendance,’ he admits with a chuckle.

‘I’m glad I kept at it in the end, because it’s allowed me to do my physiotherapy degree in my off-season.

A lot of people who play sports professionally end up in their mid-30s only knowing one way of life,

which is quite scary. I wanted to do something a bit different.’

After a gruelling series of injuries which left him fearing for his Super League future, Lomax is understandably grateful to have a back-up plan in place. ‘I don’t think anyone realises what it was truly like’, Lomax says. There’s certainly a shift in the air when he casts his mind back to that period. ‘I did one ACL’ – that’s an injury of the anterior cruciate ligament – ‘and went through physiotherapy and my leg was still giving way when I was walking round, so I had to undergo an operation to get it reconstructed.’

Doctors warned Lomax that if the gap was too wide where the new ligament was placed, they could

24 end up taking bone from his hip and revisiting the surgery in another three months.

‘They managed it, though. I was ill for fourteen days after it, and when they took the staples out they told me it was infected, so I was in hospital for another four weeks on a PICC line. It was a really, really difficult time, and that doesn’t always get disclosed.’

Despite it all, Lomax’s lowest period culminated in one of his highest. ‘I think the highlight of my entire career – even better than playing for England - was scoring on my return after almost two years out. I scored as soon as I touched the ball essentially, which was a bit of a fairy-tale! All of my family were there, everyone who supported me through that difficult time, and I went to see my sister afterwards and just burst out crying.’

‘There were times I just wanted to quit. I told my parents I never wanted to play rugby again, but I felt good before the game and knew I had to do it,’ Lomax admits. ‘The physiotherapy came out of that fear that I’d never play again. Some of the lads have

taken up trades like plumbing or engineering, but physiotherapy has a special place in my heart and I’m really enjoying doing it – even if I did get a bit of stick from teammates at first.’

But Lomax’s rugby career is still at the forefront of his mind for now, and with his testimonial year ahead, the future looks bright once again. ‘I want the whole thing to be very family-orientated, because that’s who I am,’ Jonny says. ‘The main reason people come to see our games is because their kids love it, so I’m hoping to do plenty of open days and familyfriendly events along with fan forums.’

At the moment everyone is gearing towards Lomax’s testimonial match, which takes place at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Saturday, January 19 against Hull F.C. with a 2pm kick-off. It certainly feels like a well-deserved high in Jonny’s turbulent career.

Keep up to date with his testimonial at Jonny Lomax – 2019 Testimonial on Facebook or jonny_lomax_ testimonial on Instagram for further updates and a calendar of events.

25

New Year - New Kitchen or Bedroom?

Let’s start here...

What our customers say; Had the kitchen in my old house fitted

by JC kitchens and really missed it when I moved 6 years ago. So of course I used JC again for my new kitchen, I wouldn’t use anyone else.

Fantastic customer service and JoAnne is so lovely with brilliant ideas and superb knowledge.

Helen Geogeoghegan Absolutely made up with our kitchen, it’s perfect. The quality is amazing we are in love. Joanne is fabulous and nothing is too much trouble. Thank you we have finally got our dream kitchen.

Sarah Preston This is our second kitchen from JC Kitchens, the first one is still going strong after 14years but we recently moved house. Good advice and great service from start to finish. Highly recommend to anyone looking for the perfect kitchen.

Linda Jaundrill

Call in today and browse our showrooms or pick up some brochures Expert advice from a friendly family business, established in 1990

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Tel: 01744 24406 Opening Times Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 16:30 Saturday: 10:00 - 15:00 Sunday: by appointment

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26

New Year, New Start?

Clickworks, on Hardshaw Street in St. Helens, offers a range of FREE digital training courses to help people return to employment, perfect for those looking to kickstart their life in 2019.

Part of St. Helens Chamber, the company was developed to improve the digital capabilities of local people and businesses for an increasingly digital future.

The Chamber is at the forefront of delivering skills to help people succeed – and this knowledge is fundamental.

Clickworks opened its doors in October 2018 – since then, 200 people have attended a range of courses and learnt various digital skills. From using the Internet to search and apply for work to expanding their existing knowledge of digital marketing techniques, Clickworks ensures that its visitors have the best opportunities to learn digitally.

Clickworks gives people a chance to study in a supported environment, at a time and pace that suits their level of ability. It has a range of facilities

and equipment, including the latest computers and tablets, virtual reality and 3D printing.

Joanne Abraham, Director of Training Services at St Helens Chamber, explains: “Almost every business now uses digital skills, including in their recruitment processes where they now expect people to apply for vacancies online.

“Clickworks has been established to help people and businesses in St Helens to improve their IT and digital skills, making sure people can access jobs and succeed in their careers, and businesses are well placed to compete locally, nationally and internationally.”

If you would like to find out more information about Clickworks, or enquire about any of the free digital courses, please get in touch on: 01744 698800 or visit www.clickworks.info

27

28

Secret Scarves A St. Helens charity has been distributing scarves around the town centre to help homeless people stay warm this winter.

Teardrops Supporting the Homeless got involved with the appeal, organised by the London-based Barons Court Project. They received more than 50 scarves from knitters around the country, which volunteers went out to tie around streelamps and barriers across St. Helens.

The Secret Scarves project celebrated what would have been Nelson Mandela’s 100th birthday as an extension of the 67 Blankets appeal.

Teardrops Hub manager Nick Dyer said: ‘We attached a message to each one with love from Teardrops - anyone who could make use of a scarf was welcome to take one.’

The scarves were distributed in key areas of the town centre, including Church Street where many homeless people take shelter from the elements.

Others were placed near the Christmas tree in Church Square, and by the Town Hall.

Teardrops host regular night cafes for homeless people to enjoy a hot meal and warm clothes, as well as offering advice and crisis intervention.

For more information about Teardrops, or to find out about volunteering opportunities, visit their website at www.teardrops.org.uk or call 01744 733233.

29

30

Change your

by Jess Phillips

One of the best ways to stay positive is to surround yourself with friends, and meeting new people through the U3A is the perfect way to make new ones. You’ll try new things together, go on trips out together, and make strides towards improving your physical and psychological wellbeing in 2019.

The UK’s incarnation of the University of the Third Age was founded 35 years ago, inspired by a

similar movement in France. The organisation has a strong focus on people in retirement or part-time employment who are no longer raising a family – people who now have time to devote themselves to learning for its own sake. Its core principles are to promote lifelong learning through self-help interest groups, which cover a wide range of subjects and take full advantage of the varied skillset of their members.

‘Learning Not Lonely’ research carried out by the U3A found that 3.7 million people aged over 65 live alone, and 41% of older people feel out of touch with modern life. Furthermore, 1 in 5 older people suffer from depression, which is often caused by isolation in the community - that’s where the U3A comes in.

There are around 1,000 U3A groups nationwide,

St. Helens U3A members at Moss Bank Gala

Manchester Christmas Market

The New Year is a time of resolutions. Whether you’re a stickler for sticking to them or often let standards slide after January, there’s no better time to effect change than the start of another year. And there’s no better way to make that change than by joining a U3A.

Life

31 and over 400,000 members – so whatever your interests, you’re sure to find someone you get along with. No qualifications are needed to join, and there are definitely no exams (although quizzers will be pleased to note, plenty of opportunities to test your knowledge).

Established in 2010, St. Helens U3A boasts over fifty different activity groups, from tap dancing to Latin, and around 800 members. It aims to provide a friendly, welcoming environment to older people in the community, and prides itself on a very evident community spirit.

‘The U3A is unique,’ says Chairperson Andrea Knowles. ‘It has no teachers or tutors, it neither needs nor gives any qualifications. We find that our members will brave the cold and wet weather because they know that attending groups is worth the effort, especially meeting up with friends and being involved in activities. U3A’s core aim is learning in later life, but a substantial side benefit is that it happens in company with other people, who quickly become friends.’

‘One of my favourite things about being involved with a U3A is that it stretches me mentally with reading and music groups, and physically through walking groups, while giving me an active social life. It is a lifeline when circumstances change in later life, and definitely helps to combat loneliness and isolation,’ she tells me.

Michael, one of the group leaders at St. Helens U3A, says: ‘I used to be a Youth Worker, and one of the rewards of the job was hearing a young person say, “I didn’t know I could do that!” I’m just as delighted now when I hear people my own age or older say the same thing.’

An environment that encourages learning and selfactualisation through shared skills, the U3A certainly provides members with a burgeoning community

St. Helens U3A Tennis in itself. However, it also offers opportunities to get involved with local people and organisations.

‘We have links with other agencies in St. Helens,’ Andrea continues. ‘Each month at our Drop-In we invite one organisation to have a table where they can tell members about their services. These have included help with hearing and sight loss, as well as retirement village living and a visit from Merseytravel.’

The St. Helens U3A meets for a coffee morning on the fourth Wednesday of every month in the World of Glass café from 10am-12:30pm.

General meetings also take place on the second Wednesday of the month at 10:30am in the World of Glass’s Reflections Suite, which features guest speakers on a wide range of topics.

Annual membership to St. Helens U3A costs £15, with a small charge of £2 for group meetings to cover room hire and materials. Joining couldn’t be simpler – just pop along to one of the meetings and fill in a membership form. Alternatively, you can contact the U3A via their website - if you’re interested in a particular group, contact details can usually be found in the ‘Groups’ section.

If you’re sick of trying and failing to stick to the same tired New Year’s resolutions, give the U3A a go this January. You never know - it might just change your life.

32

Awesome Aquatics Water Polo isn’t the sport for everyone. It requires a great deal of resilience, strength and stamina.

Two people who know all about what it takes be successful are Brett Takemoto and Katie Bowater.

The pair started training for the sport from a young age at the same club and have found themselves in the same Tutor Group at Carmel College, where they are now studying for their A Levels: Katie in Business, Economics and Geography; Brett in French, Spanish and Maths.

“Water polo is not an easy sport. Not only do you have to be a keen swimmer, you have to be mentally and physically strong too.” said Brett. “If

you’d like to try something different, then it’s the perfect game, but it takes years of dedication to get to where we both are.” Both Brett and Katie train at least five times per week so there’s a lot of pressure, especially for Katie who is also Captain of the England team for her age category.

Both regularly compete for their own teams, based in Manchester and Liverpool and have also travelled internationally to compete.

In December, they will go on to the annual ESSA Schools Tournament, which determines the selection process for Team GB, so the pressure could not be higher! Good luck to them both!

Could you be one of tomorrow’s outstanding teachers?

Join us at our open evenings at; St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, Hardybutts, WIGAN, WN1 3RZ

Individuals who have the potential to be outstanding teachers

Tuesday 15th January 2019, 4-6:00pm

Individuals who are passionate about working with young children.

Tuesday 12th February 2019, 4-6:00pm

Accredited Study days will be at Liverpool Hope University leading to a PGCE and QTS in primary teaching.

For more information and updates visit

www.wcpsd.uk

Provider code 2A4 - Course code 2XT7

33

34

Do you want to make a difference to children’s lives?

Why not consider training to become a Primary School Teacher!

We are looking for people who have (or will have) a 2:1 degree, have a passion for teaching and want to inspire children to fulfil their potential.

Excellent employment rates with 100% of our trainees gaining employment (over 50% of these being employed within our partnership schools).

We are offering an amazing opportunity to train within schools in St Helens. We have highly experienced, qualified mentors & trainers who guide & teach graduates to become outstanding classroom practitioners.

You will gain a PGCE as well as QTS & have opportunity to gain Master’s Credits.

For further details please contact: Ellen Riley Grange Valley Primary School Heyes Avenue, Haydock St Helens, WA11 0XQ Telephone: 01744 678300 Email: ellen.riley@sthelens.org.uk

Training provider code: 2KF Training programme code: 39R7

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35

Take A Walk Plenty of regular walking groups take place in Victoria Park.

It meets at the Mansion House and is suitable for all abilities – call 0300 300 0103 for details.

If you fancy trying Nordic walking, sessions run every Wednesday morning between 10am-11am and every Thursday from 11am-12pm in association with Age UK Mid Mersey.

Meeting at Gate Lodge, a GoActive walking fitness session invites wannabe walkers to take part in a lowimpact workout to burn calories and inspire mental and physical wellbeing. It takes place every Wednesday between 1:30pm-2:15pm. Call 01744 675403 for further information.

Nordic walking is a form of exercise that involves your whole body, improving wellbeing and getting you outdoors! Refreshments are available in the Bistro afterwards, and all equipment is provided. For more information, call Janine on 07780 866879 or pop along to a session, which meets at the Mansion House.

A more relaxed stroll in the park takes place every Thursday at 12:30pm for approximately 30 minutes.

Finally, if you fancy upping the ante a bit, regular 5K parkruns take place at Victoria Park every Saturday at 9am. Simply register with parkrun at www. parkrun.org.uk/sthelens/ to take part, and grab your best running shoes!

36

Do you need a Social

Detox?

January is the perfect time for a detox after the indulgence of Christmas, but it can also be the best time to cut toxic people out of your life for good.

Here’s how: Be determined - The person might be part of your social circle, or your immediate superior, or they might recognise that you are distancing yourself and try to claw back the friendship. You need to be clear in your own mind and create a mental separation, even if you can’t create a physical one right now.

Set boundaries – Don’t respond to texts, block their number if you can. If it’s a work colleague, only respond to work-related matters and keep the relationship strictly professional. Social media is trickier. I would suggest you unfollow rather than unfriend, and don’t interact with them. The algorithms of most social media sites tend to flag up people you interact with regularly, so by not commenting or responding to them they will gradually disappear from your online world.

Accept you can’t save them - Toxic people show up when they need something: attention, money; a shoulder to cry on. Be determined and maintain your boundaries. If they are in real straits direct them to resources that specialise in the help they currently require. Solving their problem is not your responsibility.

Family matters - Toxic family members are particularly difficult to deal with as a clean break is often impossible, but you can still establish clear boundaries, even if they are in your head. Limit interactions, perhaps only phone a toxic parent once a month for 20 minutes, or restrict visits to three times per year, whatever works for you.

By Louise Addison

37

Treecycle for Willowbrook No-one likes the hassle of getting rid of the Christmas tree. Once you’ve plucked all the decorations off it there’s still the Herculean task of getting it to the tip – and did you know that a 2 metre tall tree that ends up in landfill has a carbon footprint of 16kg? It’s also estimated that every single Christmas tree that gets dumped costs the local authority £2.32 in fees – while this might not sound like a lot, with around 7 million real trees bought each year, it definitely adds up.

Willowbrook Hospice can take the hassle out of tree disposal with their treecycling scheme. For a minimum donation of £5 to the hospice, volunteers will shift your tree for you and take it to be recycled – all while raising money for a great cause.

Last year the scheme collected almost 100 trees and raised £1715 for the hospice, which provides vital end-of-life care and support to its patients.

Volunteers will collect from the following postcodes: L14, L28, L34, L35, L36, WA9, WA10, WA11, WA12 and WN5. Just register by calling 01744 453798 or emailing events@ willowbrookhospice.org.uk, and leave your tree outside your house on the day.

Collection takes place from Monday, January 7 until Friday, January 11.

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38

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Home & Family The latest Crime Survey for England and Wales makes depressing and frightening reading for homeowners. This annual survey, taken from police reporting, shows that both burglaries (+ 2% to 432,267 homes) and vehicle thefts (+ 7% to 457,970 vehicles) are on the up.

What’s even more disturbing is that this crime wave is happening at a time when, according to respected website www.fullfact.org, police numbers have fallen by the equivalent of 20,000 full time officers between 2010 and 2018 and are now at the lowest level since the early 1980’s.

What the statistics don’t show though is the

horrifying impact that crimes like this have on homeowners and their families. The impact of burglary doesn’t just involve the financial cost of replacing stolen goods and repairing damage, it can also have a significant impact on your emotional health too, as well as your sense of feeling safe in your own home.

But what is the first step in ensuring that you fit a future-proof system that will keep your home and your family safe from increasingly tech-savvy thieves?

39 The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) is recognised as the UK’s leading certification body for the security sector, and their gold standard certification of NACOSS GOLD has been awarded to

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40

Puzzle Corner

SUDOKU

WORD SEARCH - European Cities Find the hidden words in the word search grid

NUMBER BLOCK LONDON EDINBURGH DUBLIN VENICE CARDIFF

BARCELONA ROME PARIS PRAGUE LEEDS

MILAN MUNICH LISBON ATHENS HAMBURG

WORD MIX UP - European Cities Unscramble the letters to make a word

3 1

22

2

21 3 19 2 7 21 6 20

13 24 24 20 19 The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right.

NEATRPW

The numbers in each column add up to the totals along the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the

STREAMCHEN NYLO SAWWAR

totals to the right.

WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: We wish you a Merry Christmas...

MADMASTER NAIVEN PHONECEGNA NEBRIL

Trace a path through all the letters to find the word or phrase that fits the clue.

D A P P

N H A Y

A E Y N

R A W E

All the puzzle solutions are on page 72 of this magazine

41

42

Health & Fitness

Try

Vegan

January is all about trying new things – why not make veganism one of them? Veganuary encourages people to ditch animal produce for a whole month and see how it benefits you and the world around you.

The transition into veganism can be difficult, especially if you’re concerned about what is and isn’t allowed. Ditching meat and dairy is one thing, but you also need to watch out for other products you probably use without thinking, such as cosmetics, which often contain animal fats.

Look out for cruelty-free brands and labels when shopping for skincare.

However, the benefits of veganism can outweigh its challenges. Not only will you have a positive impact on the environment – veganism helps prevent the excess pollution that comes from meat production – but a vegan diet is a great way to lose weight and feel healthier in yourself, as you’ll be eating plenty more fruit and veggies. Plus, it’s estimated that each vegan saves around 200 animals per year: a pretty impressive statistic.

Tofu, lentils and chickpeas are a great source of protein, but you can also check out Quorn’s vegan range (which ditches the egg) if you think you’ll crave the taste of meat. Bean burgers and vegan sausages taste great and provide you with essential proteins to keep your energy levels up, but if you are feeling a bit less energised, vegan protein supplements are also available on the market.

When you’re considering going vegan, creativity is key. Don’t bore yourself with the same meals over and over – experiment with vegan ingredients in the kitchen, and be brave! Recipe sites and blogs with a vegan twist can be a lifesaver during the transitional phase, and might inspire you to try something completely new. If this seems a bit

too much to tackle head on, research vegan cafes and restaurants in your local area for when you’re feeling uninspired.

Cravings aren’t the only thing you’ll need to combat when switching to a vegan diet. Plantbased minerals aren’t as easy for the body to absorb as those from animal products, especially iron, which has poor bioavailability and can lead to iron deficiency anaemia. This can be combatted by consuming more Vitamin C – your GP might recommend taking vitamin supplements to increase your iron intake.

Whatever Veganuary brings, it’s important not to be too hard on yourself. Going cold turkey – pun intended – can be challenging, and you might slip up from time to time. Plus, if you decide veganism isn’t for you, that’s fine too! Everyone has individual needs, and even just following a vegan diet for a few days a week can have plenty of benefits for you and the environment.

For more information on Veganuary, visit https:// veganuary.com/.

By Jess Phillips

43

Cold Busters Sick of being stuffed up? If the tissues are running low and it still feels like you have cotton wool shoved up your nostrils, it might be time to try a new approach.

Steam it out. If you have a steam vaporiser on hand, add some drops of decongestant oil to clear your sinuses and breathe it in for a few minutes a day. If not, taking a hot shower can be just as beneficial, as the moisture helps to clear your nasal passages.

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids and try some healthy soups (chicken broth is a classic) to stay nourished when you’re feeling under the weather.

If you’re suffering from a sore throat, try drinking something hot to ease the pain. Coffee drinkers - try

switching to decaf or tea until you’re feeling better.

Some people also recommend gargling salt water as a remedy for a sore throat - this reportedly reduces swelling and loosens mucus, helping get rid of bacteria. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of water and gargle - just be warned that it probably won’t taste pleasant!

Probiotics are your friend when you’re poorly. Eat a yoghurt for breakfast to stave off another cold for the winter, as research suggests they boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Most importantly, remember to get plenty of rest, and see your GP if the cold doesn’t clear up in a couple of weeks.

44

Stay Dry This

January Every year, millions of people nationwide give up alcohol for an entire month.

Dry January might not sound like much of a challenge to some people – but, considering the average person in the UK spends around £50,000 on alcohol in their lifetime, it can be harder than first meets the eye. That’s without mentioning the some 600,000 who are dependent on alcohol to get through the day.

There are plenty of reasons staying sober this New Year can benefit you – you’ll avoid nasty hangovers, spend less, and feel healthier in yourself. Plus, if one of your New Year’s Resolutions is to lose weight, Dry January can help you bust that beer gut. If you’re up for the challenge, here are some top tips for staying sober this month – and beyond.

Don’t bottle it up. Alcohol is a great way for temporarily forgetting your problems, but forgetting them isn’t solving them. Instead of putting your stresses on hold, confront them head on. Chat to someone you trust and share your feelings with them – a support system can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re majorly cutting back.

Take your mind off it. What better time to bust out that shiny NYR gym membership than Dry January? Hit the treadmill instead of the bottle to get those endorphins going and take your mind off any cravings.

Download the app. The free Dry January app is available on the App Store and the Google Play Store, and offers useful tools like a calorie calculator, unit tracker and a tool to show how much money you’ve saved to encourage you to keep at it. You’ll also get regular email support to keep you going all through the month.

Treat yourself. The good news about all of this is that with all that money you’re saving on booze, there’s plenty left for a little treat or two. Dine out with friends or head to the January sales to reward yourself for a month of hard graft. Go on – you deserve it.

Dry January is a great opportunity to feel better in yourself – but it can also benefit others. Get sponsored for your efforts and fundraise for a cause close to your heart this New Year; for more details, visit www.alcoholconcern.org.uk/dry-january.

By Jess Phillips

45

Wouldn’t family life be better without back pain and sciatica?

Dr Mike Paull & Avissa (Doctor of Chiropractic)

Chiropractors specialise in the care of your nervous system and spine so that you and your body are better able to heal.

Call 01942 498 480 for further details or visit us at www.ChiroHospital.com or on Facebook: wiganfamilychiro WIGAN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC HOSPITAL, 27 BRIDGEMAN TERRACE, WIGAN, WN1 1TD

46

Youthful Yoga The benefits of practising yoga are countless. Bad posture from sitting at a desk all day? Try yoga. Want to be more flexible? Yoga’s the answer. Feel the ache in your arms carting shopping bags around? Regular yoga can increase your strength! The practice is also said to protect your spinal cord and increase blood flow around your body, preventing poor circulation.

Whether you’re thinking of starting attending yoga classes or just having a go of a sequence at home, here are some great poses to begin with.

For Mountain Pose, stand with your feet together and pressed into the ground, arms by your sides.

As you breathe deeply, raise your arms above your head with palms facing each other, and stretch your fingertips up. You might want to repeat this pose before going into the rest of the workout to get yourself warmed up.

The Warrior Pose is probably the most famous – stand with your legs apart and your right foot turned out 90 degrees, your left foot facing slightly inwards. Relax your arms, then extend them out to the side, palms down. The right knee should bend

90 degrees over the ankle, while the other stretches – hold this for around a minute.

Downward Dog starts on all fours, with your hands under your shoulders and knees under hips. Walk your hands a few inches and bring your hips up so your body forms a triangle with the floor, feet apart and knees slightly bent. Hold this position for three deep breaths.

Most yoga sequences end with Corpse Pose. Not as alarming as it sounds but often hailed as the most challenging pose, lie on the floor with your arms at your sides, palms turned towards the ceiling, and slowly let your body relax. Close your eyes, concentrate on breathing deeply, and consciously release any tension you’re holding in your frame.

After 5-10 minutes, stretch your body and bring your knees to your chest, rolling over into a foetal position before you sit up.

There are plenty of local yoga classes on offer, and YouTube is a great resource for visual direction at home. Go on – give yoga a chance in 2019.

By Jess Phillips

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Look up! And get

more space at home for just

£297

+ VAT

We’d all like more room at home. But not everyone can afford to move or extend. So what if there was a way to get extra space for just a few hundred pounds, ready to use in less than a day? In truth, that space is already there.

It’s just not being used to its full potential.

For most, the loft is a dark and dingy place visited on rare occasions; a precarious scramble across dusty beams with torch in hand, grabbing what’s needed then clambering back past boxes filled with long-forgotten belongings. But that dark and dingy place is worth thousands. In fact, it takes up a third of the floorspace in an average home.

Storage space that can be quickly and easily accessed can be really valuable to homeowners who now need the spare bedroom for a new arrival, or who find getting the Christmas tree down each year just a little bit harder. So shouldn’t we be making the most of that space over our heads ?

And that’s where More Than Loft Ladders (MTLL) comes in. Founded in Bolton eleven years ago, MTLL specialises in generating space by making our lofts easily accessible. The latest MTLL franchise to open covers the St Helens area and is run by skilled local, Mark Pennington , who says the company’s no-frills approach is what most people are looking for.

“We’re not selling £15,000 loft conversions,” says Mark. “This is a low-cost and simple solution that’s affordable to most, and certainly more cost effective than locking your possessions away in a remote warehouse. For just £297+VAT you can get a ladder that slides easily up and down, as well as a proper light and some boarding to make the space safe and secure. We can also fit a draft-proof loft hatch if required from only £55.”

The price customers are quoted is the price they will pay, with no additional call out charges. Mark provides a free guarantee on all parts and labour and the quality of the work is monitored independently by the Guild of Master Craftsmen. Already a trusted name in the North West, over 2500 homeowners have enjoyed the benefits we offer, with more having the work carried out every day.

There are a range of packages available to suit all pockets – so whether you just want a ladder installing or you want ladder, boarding and light, call More

49 My wife is also very impressed with how clean and tidy you all left the place too. I will have absolutely no hesitation in recommending your services to anyone!!!

Darren & Jenny - Stockton Heath

Than Loft Ladders now for a free survey and quotation with no obligation.

Call 0800 03 59 880 or visit the website at www.morethanloftladders.co.uk What our Customers Say; I just wanted to say a massive thanks to you and the guys from More Than Loft Ladders for the wonderful job you have made of our loft today. What had been a dirty and unusable space for the last 10 years, is now light, safe and absolutely HUGE!!

Paul and Simon have this week extended my loft opening, boarded my loft and installed a loft ladder. Just a run of the mill occurrence for some but I live in a tiny terraced cottage, over 160 years old with a really shallow loft you can only stand up in one place and with an opening that has to come into my bedroom because there is no landing area. I didn’t think it could be done, but they have and I now have a home for the suitcases, Christmas tree and decorations and any number of other items I don’t really need.

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50

Travel

Peruvian

Wonders

By Jess Phillips

Steeped in history, Latin America is the ideal destination for experiencing something different this New Year, whether you want to witness one of the Seven Wonders of the World or immerse yourself in the region’s spectacular topography. Set on the western side of South America and sharing a border with Brazil, Ecuador, Chile and Bolivia, Peru is a microcosm of what the wider continent has to offer – and often underestimated as a tourist hotspot.

Whether you’re discovering the remains of the Inca Empire, experiencing the Amazon first-hand, or doing some city sightseeing in Lima or Arequipa, you’ll be planning your next trip back before the holiday’s over.

Peru’s capital city, Lima, is known for its beautiful churches, monasteries and mansions, but it’s also a great spot for taking in the best museums and scenery in the country. From the bustling metropolitan hub of the city centre to vibrant cliffside beaches making way for unblemished ocean, Lima is an ideal place to begin your Peruvian adventure. The world heritage site actually predates

the Inca Empire, and immediately presents you with that quaint sense of Latin American charm.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Museo Larco, which exhibits ancient treasures and a renowned erotic pottery collection – one of Peru’s most famous attractions. Just a short drive or bus ride away, the Miraflores Boardwalk spans six miles along the clifftops of Lima, with gorgeous views of the Pacific Coast. Although quite a hike, the boardwalk is spotted with a series of parks to take a breather in, including Parque del Amor, an iconic lovers’ meeting place with an artistic homage to its romantic roots in the centre.

If you’re keen on heading outside of the City of Kings to experience Peru’s agricultural regions, consider exploring the ancient city of Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Cusco was at the heart of the Inca Empire, and today boasts a diverse itinerary of both historical sites and modern adventures. The ancient ruins there are magnificent in their own right, but also act as the perfect warm-up to the acclaimed Inca citadel itself – Machu Picchu.

51 Set high in the mountains and dating back to the mid fifteenth-century, Machu Picchu was originally home to around 750 people during its reign as a royal estate.

The complex ruins highlight surprising feats of engineering, including man-made farming terraces which helped ensure soil fertility and good drainage while protecting the mountain from erosion. The Inca civilisation were forced to abandon Machu Picchu only a century after it was built during the Spanish Conquest, and most outsiders remained ignorant of its existence until 1911.

There are so many iconic landmarks around Machu Picchu that you’ll probably struggle to fit them all in – taking a tour around the area might be your

Discover South America A Presentation Evening Come and discover what you can expect from a South American holiday

Wednesday 23rd January 2019 - 6pm Free wine & nibbles RSVP by Monday 21st January 2019 - just call Marken Travel

Independent Travel Specialist

200 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PE

Telephone: 01744 893291

www.markentravel.co.uk

52

best bet to cram in all the highlights. Horseback riding excursions get up close and personal with the mysterious Temple of the Moon and the winding river at Devil’s Balcony – see if you can spot a native llama or two on the way!

travellers alike. Crunchy corn and sweet potatoes go really well on the side, or try it with avocado sauce for an even cooler flavour. For the braver among us, roasted guinea pig or cuy is a Peruvian delicacy – and apparently tastes similar to duck!

Nestled deep in the mountains, south of Machu Picchu, rests Colca Canyon – a spot that’s definitely worth the trek from the more populated parts of Peru. Thankfully regular tours operate out to Colca, which boasts unparalleled opportunities to witness condors taking flight from the rocky ridges of Mirador Cruz del Cóndor. Don’t forget to pack your camera, because these birds of prey – with a wingspan reaching up to ten feet – are a sight to behold.

Whether you’re hankering for second-to-none sightseeing or want to take a moment for introspection this New Year, Peru is the perfect location for both. You can discover more about Peru and other South American countries at a Presentation Evening by Latin Routes tour operator, which is being hosted at Marken Travel in Billinge – see the advertisement on the previous page for details.

It wouldn’t do Peru justice to neglect its gastronomical delights – and there are many. Peruvian food is largely traditional, with a focus on pit-roasted meats and vegetables, which tend to incorporate the nation’s love of spice. Nowhere is that more apparent than in ceviche, Peru’s national dish – cold-cooked sea bass marinated in lime juice, hot chillies, salt and onion make this an instant favourite amongst locals and

Cost of Living - Peru 3 course meal: £7 Beer (0.5l): £1.50 Coffee: £1.80 Bottle wine: £6.50 Water (1.5l): £72p

Leisure

Lytham

by Jess Phillips

Lytham is a picturesque seaside town steeped in history, from its iconic windmill to the beautifully ornate train station (FY8 4TQ). It is here we begin our 3.15 mile wheelchair accessible walk - and why not save the environment (and the petrol!) and travel via public transport?

When you leave the station, turn left and up the steps to the main road. If you’re in a wheelchair or mobility scooter, there’s an option to follow the road around instead, and head left over the railway bridge at the top. The first stop on our walk is Lytham Hall – hidden away behind the town centre, this historical gem can be found by heading through the gates and entering the park, following the drive around to the Hall.

The Grade-I listed country manor dates back to the eighteenth century, and was called home by the Clifton family. In its long and lustrous career as a family property, the Hall also served as a military hospital during the First World War before falling into neglect in the early twentieth century. It has since undergone huge restoration efforts, and offers regular guided tours – see the Lytham Hall website for more information.

53

54 The Hall also boasts a cosy tea-room and plant shop, with public toilets off to the right. This was a great spot for a delicious bite to eat after the train journey – after refuelling, head out behind the hall past the disabled parking area and down the track to the left.

To the left of the path you’ll find Lytham Mound, which would have acted as a great lookout to see the ocean before the trees grew higher than its sightline – have a climb if you’re feeling brave!

The road here eventually emerges on Forest Drive – cross over, go left and immediately right to the cut-through into Maplewood Close. Cross the road again and turn right, then immediately left into Ringwood Close. Follow this through until you come to the first left – this brings you to the path over the railway and onto Church Drive. Left again, and follow the drive out onto Church Road this time, then a final left where you’ll eventually pass St. Cuthbert’s and the Victory Hall.

You’ll be able to see Lowther Park from this spot, with its ornate arches welcoming you onto the main path.

This is a great spot to take a breather in no matter the weather – with a children’s play area, a café and a beautiful fountain, you’ll be glad you did. Don’t miss the huge cobble clock set into the vibrant flowerbed on the left either – the timepiece was gifted to the people of Lytham to celebrate the park’s centenary.

Now head from the north-west corner of the park to the south-east, emerging on the main road. There’s a zebra crossing which takes you straight out onto the promenade – heading left delivers you to Lytham’s famous windmill.

Originating in 1805, the windmill has had a turbulent past. In 1919 it was ravaged by fire, which left the interior gutted and derelict for two years, when it was handed over to the council. It underwent restoration work in 1989 and is now open to the public as a free entry museum, with local milling and lifeboat history available to view. It certainly cuts an amazing sight with its sails blazing in the winter sunlight. Visiting hours are seasonal – for details of opening times, see the Lytham Windmill website.

The promenade also used to be home to Lytham’s very own pier, which existed in the town from 1865

55 until it was badly damaged by a storm in 1903.

A fire in 1928 only worsened the damage to the pier’s pavilion, which never reopened, and the pier itself finally closed just before the Second World

Length of walk: 3.15 miles Difficulty: Easy.

Accessibility: Wheelchair/mobility scooter friendly.

War, eventually being demolished in 1960. Now the closest pier is down the road some in Lytham St. Anne’s – best experienced in the summer months, when the nearby paddling pool opens.

Continue along Clifton Street into Market Place before crossing and heading down to Hastings Place.

After taking in the views of the estuary and the windmill, head to the main road and cross, up to Station Road. Taking another left brings you out onto Clifton Street, which is the ideal spot for a bit of retail therapy on Lytham’s thriving high street.

Follow the road round until you come to the railway station at the far end of the road. Now home to the Station Bar & Grill, the refurbished station is the perfect place for a late lunch or early tea before you catch the train home.

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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.

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East Beac

56

Food & Drink

Kale & Sun-Dried Tomato Penne This superfood pasta with a Mediterranean twist is guaranteed to taste super too. Serves 1

Ingredients

Method

60g penne pasta

Preparation time: 20 minutes

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Cook the pasta according to the instructions.

1/2 a bunch of kale, finely chopped

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

Add garlic, kale, spinach and salt – cook gently for a couple of minutes, then add sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes.

Handful of baby spinach 1 clove garlic, crushed 30g sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained & chopped 1/2-1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes Salt and ground pepper to taste

Drain pasta and add to veggie mixture in skillet – stir well. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil and some Parmesan shavings and serve.

45 57

Tray-baked Chicken with Root Vegetables Serves 4 ~ Preparation time: 20 mins + Cooking time: 1 hour

Ingredients

Method

1 small celeriac, peeled and cut into 2½ cm/1in chunks

Preheat the oven to 200C / gas 6 / fan 180C. Put the chunks of celeriac, swede, sweet potato, parsnips and garlic in a large roasting tin. Sprinkle liberally with the olive oil and cumin, and season well with salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables together so they are lightly coated in oil. Put in the oven towards the top and roast for 30 minutes.

1 small swede, peeled and cut into 2½ cm/1in chunks 2 large sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 2½ cm/1in chunks 2 medium parsnips, scrubbed and quartered lengthways 2 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced 2 tbsp olive oil olive oil ½ tsp cumin seeds a few sprigs of sage 8 chicken thighs or drumsticks (skin on)

Meanwhile, lightly oil then season the chicken skins, and lay a couple of sage leaves over each thigh or drumstick.

Remove the roasting pan from the oven and turn the vegetables over. Lay the chicken pieces on top. Roast for 30- 35 minutes more, until the vegetables are tender, and the chicken skin is nice and crispy. Serve with creamy mash and lightly cooked Savoy cabbage.

58 Leisure

Upload your event for FREE at www.locallife247.co.uk/events Voice of the People

Wedding Fayre

Thurs, January 17 – Sat, January 19, 7:30pm

Sunday, January 27, 12pm-3pm

Rainhill Musical Theatre presents Voice of the People – a collection of musical theatre from 19382018 including Oklahoma, Chorus Line and The Greatest Showman. Tickets range from £6.50-£8.50, available from www.ticketsource.co.uk.

Plan your perfect day with local vendors showcasing their businesses – free entry, a goodie bag for the first 50 brides, and complimentary welcome drink.

Rainford Village Hall, Church Road, Rainford, WA11 8HB

Rainhill Village Hall, Dane Court, Rainhill, L35 4LU

Spice Girls Experience Thursday, January 24, 7:30pm-10pm Spice up your life with Girl Power: The Spice Girls Experience – bringing you the best of the nineties with plenty of empowering hits! Tickets £24, bookable online or at the box office.

St. Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1LQ. Tel: 01744 756 000

Martin Barre Friday, January 25, 7:30pm-11pm Jethro Tull’s guitarist presents classic tracks from the Tull catalogue, with a full band of top musicians.

Support from Apostles of Chaos. Tickets £18, bookable on the Citadel website or at the box office.

The Citadel, Waterloo Street, St Helens, WA10 1PX. Tel: 01744 735 436

Burns Night Supper Saturday, January 26, 7:30pm-midnight The Boys Brigade and Girls Association entertain everyone with their take on Burns night. Enjoy a 3 course supper including traditional haggis.

Rainford Village Hall, Church Road, WA11 8HB

Polio Talk Thursday, January 31, 7pm The Rotary Club of St Helens presents a talk on polio eradication and whether it’s still worth it. Speakers include past Rotary president Gordon McInally and polio survivor Brian Jones. Tickets £20.

Blue Mango Indian Restaurant, 7 Dane Court, Rainhill, L35 4LU

Glass Painting Thurs, February 7 & Thurs, February 14, 10:30am Create your own stained glass effect on a framed picture. Tickets cost £6 for Oddfellows members or £7 for guests, and can be booked by emailing julie. webster@oddfellows.co.uk.

The World of Glass, Chalon Way East, St Helens, WA10 1BX

The Little Mix Experience Friday, February 8, 6pm-9pm Four hugely talented girls pay tribute to Little Mix’ with hits including DNA, Black Magic, Love Me Like You and many more. Tickets £14.50.

Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1LQ. Tel: 01744 756 000

Motoring

Mercedes Mk-4

A Class

by Tim Barnes-Clay

The A-Class has become sexier with each incarnation – and 2018’s Mk4 is a car oozing desirability.

It’s a classy hatch with one diesel option – the A180d.

Then there are the A200 and A250 petrols. All are offered with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto. But, from 2019, manuals and more powerful engines will join the party.

The A250 I’m reviewing here gets your juices flowing tastefully. It’s got a bit of ‘oomph’ to it – as you’d expect from a car with a 224PS 2.0-litre lump under the lid.

Inside, you feel like a King, with a digital set-up that you’d expect to find in a chauffeur driven luxury limo. The brand’s clever ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice control responds well to pretty much anything you ask of it. Additionally,

although the Audi A3 trumps the A-Class on rear seat space, comfort is better than that offered by the rival.

The seating and dash materials are marginally better, too – and that takes some doing. Indeed, I’d go as far to say that this Mercedes-Benz has set the bar one notch higher in the compact class.

59

60

On the move, the sporty sound the new A-Class makes is gratifying, and it’s always eager to please – especially in ‘Sport’ mode. But the hatchback delivers a calmer experience in ‘Comfort’ setting, soothing the parts that some other compact cars fail to reach.

The auto ‘box can sound a bit strained when you give the Merc the beans, but most of the time it’s a smooth operator. What’s more, the shift paddles

Fast Facts • 0-62 mph: 6.2 secs • Combined mpg: 45.6 • Engine layout: 1991cc four cylinder petrol turbo • Max. power (PS): 224 • CO2: 141 g/km • Price: £30,240

61 on the steering wheel - if you want to use them - are highly responsive.

As handling and ride go, this small Mercedes is perfect for everyday motoring needs. I drove it on motorways and rural roads and felt satisfied all day.

Even the potholes on the Cotswolds’ test route didn’t rain on the parade. The A-Class handled them with aplomb.

The car holds its own at 70mph, and there’s quite a bit of fun to be had when you point it at twisty tarmac.

The front-wheel-drive Merc hunkers down, relaxes and then pings you out of the bends accurately and pleasingly. All this makes it an easy hatchback to like.

So, if sexy looks, a charming cabin, great handling and a premium-badged hatch float your boat, then the new A-Class comes highly recommended.

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62

Gardening

Better No matter how good your current soil is, a raised bed will give you a miraculous improvement in soil quality, simply because you’ve increased the drainage which is critical to many popular garden plants. In addition, in colder climates, better drainage prevents the soil from staying cold for too long, so this will give you a faster start in the springtime. So not only will your plants thank you, but your body will too. Whether you are young or old, being able to tend to your plants without the back-breaking bending that often comes with it is a joy.

Amusingly, our raised bed creation happened rather suddenly as a result of an accident.

beds We came home one summers day to find Mother sprawled in a herb bed, with her wheelchair on its side next to her. She had somehow turned into the side of the bed from the path and toppled over and had to wait for an hour or so until we got home to find her. Being true to her earthy roots, however, she spent the time happily weeding and tending to the herbs that she could reach, albeit whilst laying on her side in a rather dry pile of soil.

So after our shock at finding her inverted in a herb bed, we got to making our raised planters. We used pressure-treated wood which should last up to about 20 years and is reasonably inexpensive to

63 purchase. It’s worth doing your research on this as there are small chemical implications which you may wish to avoid.

Don’t forget you can build these straight onto concrete too - just make sure they are about 2 foot tall to allow for root growth. And consider the width of your planter too and how many sides you’ll be accessing it from - you don’t want to make it so wide that you can’t actually reach one end.

How you assemble the beds of course depends on your materials but as a rule of thumb, make sure you seat even the lowest beds at least 1-2 inches into the soil. This will secure the walls of your bed and prevent them from shifting. The taller you go, the more anchoring you will need.

Have a go at including a small raised bed to start with and see how you get on. I’m sure you’ll soon be convinced they are the way to go and you’ll quickly want to convert everything to knee-height or more!

AC U F TU N

DIR ER

E TH MA

If your normal garden soil is poor, it’s worth spending time to make sure that your planter is high enough so that any plant roots don’t get as far as the original ground, otherwise make your first job turning compost into the area before you build the bed and fill it with soil.

R

T FROM

Once you’re done creating your bed (and of course the material used may dictate the height that you can safely go), fill it up with a blend of compost and top quality soil. The more compost the better to be honest - you can start making your own super easily by filtering any peelings, egg shells, tea bags and the like out of your normal waste and piling it up in a container outside.

Sheds Log Cabins Workshops Wendy Houses Summer Houses Garden Offices

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Alternatives are landscape blocks which come in the shape of bricks or cut stones, boulders or natural stone which look very attractive although they are expensive and difficult to haul due to their weight.

You can purchase ready-made kits too, but if you have a bit of DIY skill you may be better creating your own from a cost point of view.

Free 100% pressure treated Free erection Free delivery Up to 48 months low cost finance available

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Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that

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T 7TP , Billing you 400 6PM Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk Road 4 619 ford ESaturday 10AMKeep me until : 0781 Check S hone : 84 Rain Health - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM yS FREE Car on , Fridayay & Sunda now Book your A5209

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For more details call Joanne on 01744 649091

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W.Hurst & Son Ltd

Specialists in boiler installations, repair & maintenance All work fully warranted

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www.whurstandson.co.uk

• • • •

All types of electrical work 35+ years experience No job too small Friendly and reliable

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07809 427 508

Call the team on

Email ops@hotmail.co.uk

01744 892437

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Est.1975

All aspects of domestic work undertaken Lights, Sockets, Fuseboards etc Electric Oven & Shower Repairs P.A.T. Testing & Inspection

Small jobs a speciality

Call Alan Leigh on

01744 883883 or 07884 496434

www.hjselectricalservices.co.uk

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7 Albany Avenue, Eccleston Park, L34 2QN

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l Geails N 5

Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold DoorsSaving

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cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working

LED Lighting

with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding

...and general Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...

Energy Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Savings Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced

es Lash Tan y Spra ils eds Sunb & Gel Na ic Acryl

Dennis Goulding A49

Mossy Lea Road

LocalLife

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no

B5250

01744 649 722

Wind Turbines

1

a

rm

no

money is the clear benefit!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

0 lly £2

Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that

A5209

s

Natalie

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A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff

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Facias, soffits, cladding, dry verge and gutters - call us now for all your roofline requirements!

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Property Services

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We provide an honest, accurate assessment of your damp problems using state of the art diagnostic equipment.

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M H Roofing

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Design & Print Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service.

l Geails N £15

Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold DoorsSaving

For more information call

Heat Pumps

cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding

LED Lighting

...and general Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...

Energy Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Savings Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced

es Lash Tan y Spra ils eds Sunb & Gel Na ic Acryl

Book your FREE home survey VICING SER Telephone: 01257 000 and we’ll VAN provide 427 toowith you a cycles CAR & detailed motorreport showing the Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RS

Dennis Goulding A49

Mossy Lea Road

LocalLife

Wind Turbines

w

no

B5250

01744 649 722

£20

Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that

ally

rm

no

money is the clear benefit!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)

Slash your electricity and water heating bill Protect your household from future energy price rises

ReduceE your household’s ...andreturns available impact on the environment from your www.dglwindows.co.uk own solar panels X (10% typical return) Call H us now A k ChecVisit our showroom at T Car84 Health U or Unit 4a, rton dio Cricket Street Business Park Brethe Y n and S @ Stu Miry Lane, Crosto of off 7PG Wigan. e WN5 R for all residents WN6 Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk need me!

T 7TP , Billing you 400 6PM Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk Road 4 619 ford ESaturday 10AMKeep me until : 0781 Check S hone : 84 Rain Health - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM yS FREE Car on , Fridayay & Sunda now Book your A5209

s

Natalie

Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon

J27

Shevington

Standish

FREE

Call

esday Thursd ay, Wedn Closed

ay, Tuesd

Mond

TwinLakesMotorE

ngineers

0843 224 9555 07595 420237

01772

REPAIR

603923

DING & WEL

74

Come and visit Showroom in

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®

OPEN 7 DAYS Monday-Friday 8-5 Weekends 10-4 Victoria Industrial Estate Victoria Street Leigh WN7 5SE

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01942 871 777 warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk

75

the Largest the North West

BEFORE

AFTER

Conservatory Roof Conversion System Transform your conservatory into a comfortable living space

Charcoal

Moss Green

Antique Red

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SISTER COMPANY OF FOXWELLS BUILDERS Established 16 years

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Manufacturers and installers since 2004

Contact us on 01744 891717 for a no obligation quote

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Visit our showroom/factory at; Crows Nest, Ashton Road, Billinge, WN5 7XX (near Windy Arbour crossroads)

www.orrellwindows.co.uk