Local Life - St Helens & Ashton - Jan/Feb 2013

St Helens & Ashton Edition

Jan/Feb 2013

Jack’s Tracks visits Lathom

First & Last Photo by local photographer Mark Crossfield

with Paul Sculthorpe

Just Do It!

A-Z of local activities for 2013

www.locallife247.co.uk

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New Year, New You! Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road Orrell Wigan WN5 7XB Advertising/Editorial 01744 649722 nicolag@locallife247.co.uk Accounts/Distribution 01695 627999 sallyb@locallife247.co.uk The February issue of Local Life will be published on Friday 8th February. The copy deadline for this issue is Monday 28th January.

Local Life is published every month. Distribution areas will alternate each month between two separate edition areas; The St Helens and Prescot edition is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Rainhill, Eccleston, Prescot, Eccleston Park, Windle, Knowsley Village, Prescot Road and parts of Nutgrove and Sutton Heath Copies of this edition are also available to pick up free from Tesco Extra Stores in Peasley Cross and Prescot.

The St Helens and Ashton edition is delivered to over 12,500 private home and businesses in Rainford, Billinge, Newton-le-Willows, Garswood, Crank, Kings Moss and parts of Ashton and Moss Bank.

I hope you’ve all had a great Christmas break; we certainly did, there were lots of laughs, great food and fantastic company – even the dog got into the festive spirit by polishing off a full box of mince pies in one sitting!

So it’s 2013, the world didn’t end and we’ve got 12 months to look forward to. What are you going to do now to make sure you have your best year ever? If you want to get up and at ‘em them have a look at our ‘Just Do It’ feature on pages 42-45 which aims to inform and entice you into trying out some great local activities. We have everything from kite surfing and jewellery making to cheerleading and taekwondo!

This issue is also packed full of Local Life favourites, we have a First and Last interview with Rugby League legend Paul Sculthorpe on pages 20-21. Jack Tracks is back with a visit to Lathom and Burscough Priory on pages 48-51 and we have a great recipe for marmalade and chocolate shortbread on p12.

We have a big year ahead; this year Local Life turns five! We’ve gone through the sleepless nights, the teething problems and the terrible twos, and we’re ready to go out in the big wide world! Hopefully you too have exciting plans of your own for 2013; if so, let’s drink to a successful year for us all!

See you next time!

Copies of this edition are also available to pick up free from Tesco Stores in Haydock and Earlestown.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the information in this publication 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.

No part of this publication, including pictures, may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

When you receive the new edition of Local Life - remember to recycle the old one.

www.locallife247.co.uk

nicolag@locallife247.co.uk

In this issue 8 10 12 15 20 34 42 48 52 54 55 57 61 63

30% off selected stock at Elegance Designer Wear Drop a dress size with Cosmetic Body Clinic Dish of the Month – Marmalade & Chocolate Shortbread Adult Education Courses at St Helens College First & Last – Paul Sculthorpe Puzzle Page A-Z Feature Jacks Tracks Motoring Feature Motoring Services Gardening Services Home Services Puzzle Page Solutions Tell Us Once Useful Numbers

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25 YEARS IN THE FRAME

25 YEARS IN THE FRAME Over two and a half decades ago, PVCu windows and doors were a new phenomenon. The fledgling double glazing industry had fast earned itself a dubious reputation for hard sell, pressure salesman working on low basic wages and sky high commissions.

Despite its poor image, the concept of security, warmth and low maintenance was alluring and people soon saw the obvious advantage to a well fitted product which would undoubtedly add value to any property.

In the mid 1980's ST Group (formerly Sutton Timber) had a decision to make.

We had a joinery department manufacturing mass produced windows and doors from either softwood or hardwood. But the market was changing, PVCu products appealed to the modern home owner. We faced the choice of closing our joinery department, retraining staff and manufacturing PVCu windows and doors instead.

Our alternative was to continue with joinery, and either buy in PVCu frames from already established fabricators or setting up a manufacturing unit ourselves. We chose to remain with our current joinery production, which has continued to grow in strength by concentrating on specialist, bespoke items.

We therefore established a separate PVCu division at new premises. A new distinct company was registered as a separate trading activity and was named Qualplas.

Our customers have learned that Qualplas is a name to be trusted every time for quality, reliability, and extremely good value.

Satisfied customers regularly recommend us and are the lifeblood of our business.

Today, Qualplas is one of the largest and longest established PVCu fabricators in the region. With a huge range of products from Conservatories, Windows, Doors, Orangeries as well as a brand new range of Sliding and Bi-Folding doors.

So whenever you’re looking to improve your home, Trust the experts, choose Qualplas

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St Helens Santa Dash

Spring/summer occasion wear now arriving

Hundreds of Santa’s turned out in the town centre on December 1st to take part in the 3km Willowbrook Hospice Santa Dash. Everyone attended in full costume and I think you’ll agree they look very festive indeed! For more information about any of the Willowbrook events please have a look at the website at www.willowbrook.org.uk.

74 Claughton Street St Helens WA10 1SN

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Pumpkin Winners

The annual ‘Guess the Weight of the Pumpkin’ competition was held at Windy Arbour Farm recently and two local charities benefitted to the tune of £450 from the generosity of customers at the popular farm shop!

Customers paid £1 each to guess the weight of the giant pumpkin, which was specially grown for Windy Arbour by grower Jimmy Rimmer of Tarleton, and there were four winners!

The pumpkin weighed in at a whopping 18 stone 12lbs, and the three winning guesses came from Joan Roberts, Gillian Leigh and Poppy Halliwell. Each of the winners won £25 worth of food from Windy Arbour Farm Shop.

The charities that benefitted from the competition were the Wigan and Leigh Hospice and Joining Jack, who both took away a cheque for £225. Pictured with that pumpkin are Lee Forshaw from Lion’s Den Gym in Bryn, Geoff Rigby from Windy Arbour, ex-Saints legend Paul Sculthorpe and one of the competition winners Joan Roberts, and also Rachel Rigby presenting a cheque to Stuart Liptrot from Wigan & Leigh Hospice.

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Flower Power

Rangers Required

Rainford Flower Club would like to invite you to join them to enjoy all things flower related in the New Year.

The group meets every second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in the Village Hall (excluding January and August). If you love flowers then you can go along and pay on the door to watch talented demonstrators arrange beautiful flowers. The group does not arrange flowers themselves but you can pick up some great tips for yourself! At the end of every demonstration the flowers are raffled off so why not go down and give it a try. For more information about the group and the cost of the meetings please call Norma Cunliffe on 01744 883314 or e-mail rainford@flowersnorthwest.net.

Rainford Rangers under 14’s are looking to recruit enthusiastic young footballers who would like to join their successful team. The team are part of the Rainford Rangers JFC Charter Standard club and play in the Wigan Youth Football League on Sunday mornings. If you are interested in joining, please call Mark Jones on 07739 128141 or come along to training at Rainford High Sports Hall on Higher Lane on Thursday 6-7pm or at Brook Lodge Primary School in Rufford Road, Rainford on Saturday between 10.30-11.45am.

Get a mention If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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Wedding Fair The first wedding fair of the 2013 season kicks off this Sunday (6th January) at the Park Inn, St Helens from 12 noon. Organisers have a great day in store for you all with ideas and inspiration galore and over thirty amazing wedding suppliers on hand to plan your most perfect wedding day. There will also be designer catwalk shows, vintage cars, venue stylists, creative cakes, entertainers and beauticians on hand to give you inspiration. Entry is free and everyone will receive a wedding magazine and exclusive goody bag.

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Open Weekend Morpheus Glass, based at Hewitt Business Park off Winstanley Road in Orrell, is staging an Open Weekend on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th January, where members of the public can visit their studio, inspect their collection of glass fusion work and pick up some unbelievable bargains with up to 70% off retail prices!

You’ll be able to browse through some original pieces of glass art, perfect for a unique present for your family and friends. Gifts on offer will include handmade jewellery; earrings, bracelets and pendants, coaster sets, colourful hangings and other interesting pieces. If your budget is a bit more considerable, you can pick up glass splashbacks, sculptures and wall panels at a fraction of the price you’ll pay elsewhere! For more information about the Open Weekend or Morpheus Glass please check out the website at www.morpheusglass.co.uk.

If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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Marmalade & Chocolate Shortbread January is the season for blood oranges. This recipe was a favourite childhood tea time treat, made with our Gran’s special home-made marmalade. If you make your own marmalade then you’re good to go: if not buy the best quality marmalade you can.

Makes 24 Preparation time: twenty minutes plus 30 minutes chilling time.

Cooking time: 40-45 minutes

Ingredients • • •

• • • • •

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300g plain flour 50g finely ground rolled oats 250g unsalted butter (slightly softened and chopped into cubes) ½-1 tsp salt.

110g caster sugar Zest of an orange 115g good quality orange marmalade 100g good quality dark chocolate, roughly chopped

Method Grease an 18cm x 28cm rectangular baking tin (non-stick is best). Mix the flour, rolled oats and salt together. You can process them if you want a really fine mix or if you only have normal oats.

Beat the butter, sugar and orange zest together until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the flour until the shortbread mixture sticks together in small clumps.

Press a little more than half the mixture into the greased tin. Level and smooth the top. Spread this base with the marmalade and sprinkle the roughly chopped dark chocolate over the top. Crumble over the remaining shortbread mixture then refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 150C / Gas Mark 2. Bake shortbread for 40-45 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool in the pan and cut into 24 before it cools completely.

Notes Milk chocolate can be used instead of dark. The resulting shortbread will be sweeter.

Lime marmalade can be substituted with equally delicious results.

The shortbread will keep in an airtight container for up to three days.

Calling Community Groups

Camera Club

Local Life needs your help in compiling a directory of community and sports groups for a new hush hush (!) project that we’re launching in 2013. If you’re involved in any not-for-profit group from sports teams to knitting groups, from toddlers play to history societies, from quiz leagues to camera clubs, then we want just ten minutes of your time.

Do you have a camera? Are you interested in photography? Then St Helens Camera Club would like to invite you to come and snap away with them. The group meets every Monday evening at 7.30pm for an 8pm start between September and May – with the exception of Christmas and New Year. The group enjoys a varied syllabus and there are lots of opportunities to learn new skills.

In less than 100 words, email us details of your group to editorial@locallife247.co.uk. Don’t forget the basic necessities; what, where, when etc. You don’t have to give us more than the basics, but if you can, then please use this opportunity to let our readers know more about your club. If you have a logo, then please also email your logo as a separate attachment. Finally, don’t forget to include a contact number, contact email or website if possible.

For those groups who don’t have access to email, then please write to Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8 – Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB.

www.locallife247.co.uk

For more information please have a look online at www. sthelenscameraclub.org.uk or pop along to one of the meetings at the Bishop Road Police Club on Bishop Road, St Helens.

Community Café Are you a single parent, elderly, unemployed or perhaps just lonely? Well if you crave a bit of company then why not pop down to St Luke’s Community Centre on the corner of Bolton Road and Golbourne Road in Stubshaw Cross. Every Friday between 11.30am-1pm the centre hosts their community café – offering a meeting place to relax and have a free bite to eat and drink.

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Happy New Year from Brook Lodge Primary School!

All the staff and children at Rainford Brook Lodge Primary School would like to wish you a very Happy New Year! The school is looking forward to a year full of successes as they aim to build on their achievements over the last few years. This has included superb results in Key Stage 2 SATs with children consistently making excellent progress and attaining fantastic results.

As well as the focus on ensuring children get the basics of Reading, Writing and Maths skills right from an early age teachers are always working to develop their spiritual, moral, social and cultural learning. An example of this is the school’s international links which have included Spain, France and South Africa. They are also looking to link with a school in China in 2013 as the school is working towards full International Schools Award status.

In the past the school has held Open Days and Open Evenings to allow prospective and current parents the opportunity to see the wonderful work of the dedicated staff team and children, but why wait? You can come and see the team any time – every day is Open Day! So if you would like to look around school and see what goes on every day at Brook Lodge, just contact Mrs Boulton at the School Office and she will be delighted to organise a personal tour of the school and answer any questions you may have – just phone 01744 678816.

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Newton Community Group The newly formed Newton Community Group (pictured) had a lot of fun at their first local activity at the end of last year. Local residents, including children, teamed up to clean the war memorial and surrounding area in readiness for the Remembrance Sunday parade.

The group have lots of other community projects in mind, though at present have no funds and are going through the procedures of applying for grants and fund raising. If you would like to get involved with the group or have any ideas about raising funds please contact Linda Thornhill on 01925 227487 or e-mail LTho1956@aol.com

Weight Loss Ashton Children’s Centre at Ashton Library hosts a Parent Weight loss Support Group every Thursday between 9.30am-11am. If you need to lose weight why not go along and get help and advice on how to lose weight and more importantly keep it off! The cost is just £1.50 a week – for more information please contact Louisa on 01942 723965.

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Telephone: 01942 270 549 or 01942 273683

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At our January sale open studio weekend there will be a wide range of pieces on show and many items will have up to 70% off plus all orders placed on the weekend will receive 30% off the normal RRP. All our work is handmade by glass designer Stephanie Bowen at the studio and pieces can be made to order to suit any space including splashbacks. So come and join us on the 19th and 20th January 2013 open from 10 - 4 both days.

Unit 11, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB t/f 01695 624182 w www.morpheusglass.co.uk e info@morpheusglass.co.uk splashbacks | panels | coasters | jewellery | hangings | sculptures | bowls

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r e t n i W e Sal on! now

up to

50% off selected blinds

See our Perfect Fit displays at York Windows on Caroline St reet, Wigan!

Pop in today and see our huge selection of; • Perfect Fit clip-on blinds • Roman blinds • Wooden venetians • Rollers • Pleated blinds • Venetians • Verticals Sale ends 28th February 2012

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Great Mates

Family Fun

Great Mates is a St Helens based social group for active, non-smoking people who are 50+ and would like a more active social life. This group is not a singles group and their members include married couples, married and single people – who come together to spend time and take part in activities. The activities include social gatherings, meals, theatre, concerts, days out, coach trips and walks to name a few.

Calling all parents, grandparents and child minders, The YMCA on Hilton Street Ashton are holding weekly family fun sessions to keep the little ones entertained. You can go along each week to join in with the friendly play session and all children are welcome from babies up to pre-school. The children will have access to soft play equipment, ball pool, baby friendly play, arts and crafts and dressing up box.

To date members have been for days out in Blackpool which included the illuminations, Liverpool St Georges Hall, the New Liverpool Museum, Albert Dock, a meal at Bistro Pierre in the Cavern quarter and Rainhill Rotary Beer Festival. The group has a social night each week at The Running Horses Pub in the centre of St Helens and a monthly meeting is held at the Peter Street Centre on Boundary Road.

The first two sessions are free and then it’s just £2 per week every Thursday from 9.15am. For more information please contact Nicola or Lisa on 01942 274 684.

Anyone interested in joining the group can email Eileen at gr8tm8ts@hotmail.co.uk or text 07874 133052 before 7pm – get involved and make some great mates.

Steaming Ahead The St Helens Historical Society will be delving into the past and discovering more about Liverpool’s Ferries and Railways at their monthly meeting on Monday 21st January. The session starts at 7.30pm and runs until 8.30pm at the Friends Meeting House on Church Street in St Helens town centre. Admission is free – for more details about the session please contact Club Secretary Mary Presland on 01744 23141.

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19

First

By Nicola Gray

First memory you have One of my first memories and one that I always remember very clearly is Christmas Day. I was about six years old and I got the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars off Father Christmas! It’s all I wanted and remember just running round the house screaming!

First school you attended The first school I attended was Thorp Primary School in Royton, Oldham. I loved school and had a great time there – apart from the times I was sent to see the Head Mistress, Mrs Hoggard and getting walloped with a table tennis bat!

First job you had

Paul Sculthorpe was born to play Rugby League and is regarded as one of the true greats of the modern game! He was born and raised in Oldham and educated at Thorp Primary School and Counthill School.

Even before he had started his professional Rugby League career with Warrington Wolves as a 17 year-old – Paul was being touted as a future Great Britain Captain.

In 1998 Paul signed for St Helens at the age of 20 in a world record transfer for a forward. He was definitely value for money as he helped to win a total of four Grand Finals, three Challenge Cups and two World Club Challenges. He retired from professional rugby in 2008.

Paul now lives in Orrell with his wife and three children. He runs his own business Scully 13, offering Rugby League skill camps to local children and schools.

The aim of the camps is to develop Rugby League skills in children of all ages, bring new players to the sport and encouraging students to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

For more information have a look online at www.scully13.co.uk.

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My first job was signing full-time with Warrington RLFC. I had started an A-Level course in PE & Psychology but quit college after four months as the Super League season went full-time. My first fulltime contract saw me earning £20k per year plus match payments & bonuses. There were too many funny moments to mention driving from Oldham to Warrington with 4 teammates!!

First car you bought My first car was an Astra 1.6 I paid about £2k for it. A couple of months later I was given a sponsored car so I flogged the Astra! A couple of months later I bought a Vitara ‘Fat Boy’ Jeep in black with a white roof and blacked out windows - I thought I was the nuts! It was a good job I bought it too, as I crashed and wrote off my first three sponsored cars!

First house you bought This was a gorgeous detached bungalow I bought when I was 18 over in Oldham. I paid £96k for it in 1995 and my wife-to-be Lindsay actually moved in with me, she was only 17! The first thing we bought was a British Bulldog called Boss! Four years later our son Jake was born and we moved over to Wigan in 2003.

First pub or club you visited This would be Butterflies in Oldham. I went with some of the lads I played rugby with - I was about 15 at the

&

Last

time but always looked older! I can honestly say though I never touched alcohol as I was focussed on doing whatever I could to make it as a professional rugby player.

First record you bought The first CD I bought would have been one of the Now compilations - probably about NOW 10! I still buy them now, but for my kids obviously! I listen to all types of music but I do like upbeat dance music, especially when I’m in the gym!

First best friend My best mate was a lad called Mark Taylor who went all the way through playschool, nursery and primary school with me. We were always up to something, but I lost touch with him when we moved house when I was 11. I have seen him several times since but wouldn’t have a clue what he is up to now.

Last disagreement you had This was with a referee in Dubai! To be fair to him we were playing Rugby Union and I don’t know the rules!

As always though, as I’ve learnt throughout my career, the referee is ALWAYS right!

Last time you went shopping I bought a few presents for my wife and kids from Dubai. Perfume for Lindsay, some Beats by Dre headphones for the two eldest and a camel teddy for the little one! I do like shopping - Manchester and Liverpool are two of my favourite places to shop.

Last holiday you had I went to Cornwall for a week in July with family and in-laws! It was absolutely gorgeous; the beaches are spectacular if you get the weather. We hired a big house on Porth Beach, the kids had a ball, I will definitely be going back!

Last sporting event you attended I went to the Man Utd v Arsenal game at Old Trafford in November. I was in a corporate box with Wish Communications, whom I do some business with. I love to go to as many different sporting events as I can, I’ve been lucky enough to go to some of the biggest, including the British Grand Prix at Silverstone and the British Open Golf.

First kiss I think it was a girl called Kate! She obviously made a big impression!

Last restaurant you visited This was The Meat Co at the Madinat Jumeirah Hotel in Dubai. I was there with several rugby colleagues and their wives at the end of last year – we were playing in the Dubai 7’s for the Joining Jack Charity. Some of the players who joined us at the restaurant were former Wigan stars Denis Betts, Mick Cassidy and Steve Blakely.

Last DIY task attempted I love DIY! I bet there’s not a tool or piece of kit I’ve not got! The last job I did was actually round at a friend’s house, hanging a couple of pieces of memorabilia for him. I won’t embarrass him by naming him but it was former Wigan legend Steve Hampson! Sorry mate.

Last film you watched I think the last time I went to the cinema was the Christmas before last to watch Arthur Christmas! I am rubbish at the cinema, I always nod off! I blame it on my daughter Evie, she always sits on my knee and goes to sleep and that sets me off!

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21

Billinge Freecycle

Fond Memories

Some of you may be familiar with the growing ‘freeconomy’ movement where people get together to give away or swap unwanted items. This can be that stuff that’s been lying around in your spare room for years, unwanted Christmas gifts, or items that are no longer needed. Quite literally, anything donated can be given or taken for free; tools, computers, books, clothes, CDs, DVDs, small furniture, suitcases and so on.

Looking back at memories of a time gone by can bring back some great memories of childhood and growing up. If you would like to take a look back at old St Helens then Central Library is the place to be – the Library is hosting a series of history presentations. You can take a fun and informal look back at the town during these interactive sessions – enjoy presentations, old pictures and refreshments served afterwards.

The history sessions will be held on Tuesday 22nd January, Tuesday 26th February and Tuesday 19th March between 2pm-3.30pm. Entry is free but places need to be booked - to book your place or to find out more information please contact Central Library on 01744 676989.

Get a mention

editorial@locallife247.co.uk

DIR ER

T FROM

AC U F TU N

R

EC

Billinge & Orrell Transition Group are organising one of these events on January 26th 2013 from 10am-12 noon.

Everyone is welcome to come along, but the event is not open to traders, hoarders or car boot sellers. The provisional venue will be Bispham Methodist Church Hall on Crank Road, but, as Local Life went to press, this venue is still to be confirmed so please check community notice boards for any changes or call Mandy on 01695 632825. For further information and contact details see the group’s website: - www.billingeorrelltransition.org.uk.

If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to

E TH MA

The benefit of Freecycle is that these unwanted items can find a good home with people who have a genuine need for them. Landfill space is saved, people can acquire things that perhaps they couldn’t afford to buy, and it fosters goodwill & connections in the communities where the events take place. Tea, coffee and home-made cakes will also be on sale at the event.

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www.locallife247.co.uk

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24

Line Dancing What’s better than getting fit and not even realising you’re doing it? Well if you like Line Dancing or would like to learn you can dance your way to a fitter you this New Year. The Rainford Line Dancing group hosts a friendly social evening every Tuesday and Thursday between 7.45pm-10.45pm at the Rainford ex-Servicemen’s Club on Cross Pit Lane.

You will find a light-hearted approach to exercise to a variety of music including some country numbers, Latin, Waltz and even a bit of pop music. Line Dancing is easy to do and great fun for everyone – for more information please contact Graham or Jean on 01744 883907.

Harmony Support Group A new support group has formed in St Helens to help sufferers of eating disorders tackle their problems.

Harmony was set up to support anyone affected with anorexia, bulimia and compulsive overeating disorder but the group also extends help to carers, partners and parents too. Anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any other related illness and the effects can be alarming and frightening, leaving families feeling alone and confused.

If you are concerned about yourself or someone you care about, you can go along to Harmony’s warm and friendly group meetings at 14, Vincent Street in St Helens.

The group meets on the first Monday of every month at 6.30pm-8pm and on the first Wednesday of every month at 10.30am-12noon.

For further information please contact Louise Hill on 07961 234469 or Janet Hampson on 0151 4267032

Prom Day If you have a party princess who is leaving school this year, then no doubt you will have been informed that your duties as a parent requires parting with a sum equivalent to our national debt for her prom night. Anything less than that and you could well receive a call from Childline!

Fear not, you can take the stress out of all the planning by attending the rather exclusive Prom Day event being held from 10am-5pm on Saturday 19th January at Romancia, located on Main Street in Billinge. There, your very own prom queen can browse through the whole range of Paparazzi and Flaunt Prom dresses by must-have designer Mori Lee.

THE CURTAIN COMPANY

www.locallife247.co.uk

25

Do something amazing this year

– foster a child!

At this time of year as resolutions are made, people are traditionally committing to new personal goals, projects or reforming a habit and St.Helens Council are urging people to consider making a difference by fostering a local child.

Fostering is a way to make a real positive difference to a child’s life, providing children and young people with a stable and loving home and the support and encouragement they need to flourish and do well. It is a challenging job, but many carers find it incredibly worthwhile and rewarding and it is a paid and professional role with the opportunity to undergo training and learn new skills.

Children and young people come into foster care for many different reasons. It could be a temporary solution while a family crisis is sorted out or their parents are finding it difficult to cope and need a helping hand.

Some children may have experienced abuse, neglect or domestic violence. Whatever the reason, it’s through no fault of their own.

There are many different types of fostering, from looking after a child overnight, to a regular arrangement looking after a disabled child at the weekend through to more longer-term care.

26

The fostering team offers flexible support packages and Andy Dempsey, Director of Children and Young People’s Services explains how the team provide a personal, community-based service: “By approaching fostering with a ‘can do’ attitude, we’re aiming to show people that fostering is accessible to all, and can fit into normal, busy lives.

We want to let them know that we are able to provide support, including nursery places; help with transporting children to school and flexible meeting times for example, which can all help to make families realise their fostering ambitions.

We’re encouraging people in St.Helens to give something back to their community, and provide a caring, stable home for a local child in need. We really want to send out the message that fostering is a community-based service, and by fostering a child you are not only helping that child, but their family and their extended family; providing a valuable life experience for your family and creating a positive and lasting impact on the community as a whole.

We value our carers extremely highly, and therefore ensure that we reward them accordingly through support, generous allowances, social groups and much more.”

If you are interested in fostering and would like to find out more, please contact the team for an informal chat: Call: 01744 676789 Email: fostering@sthelens.gov.uk Web: www.sthelens.gov.uk/fostering

www.locallife247.co.uk

27

r u o y e r o t s Re m bathrorom r e o f s t to i glory!

At a fraction of the price of a new bathroom Before

After

Happy Birthday!

Keep it under your hat but a certain local publishing company celebrates their 5th birthday later this year. First produced from a front bedroom on Sandy Lane on the border of Orrell/Billinge, Local Life turns 5 years old in May! Since those days, we have moved just 900 yards away onto the Hewitt Business Park off Winstanley Road in Billinge, and we now produce three magazines which are delivered to over 67,000 homes over a two month period in Wigan, St Helens and West Lancs.

To celebrate our anniversary, we have now made the leap feet first into social media; so please do come along and say hello!

Search for ‘Local Life’ on Facebook or follow us @LocalLifeMedia on Twitter.

We’ll have exclusive competitions just for Facebook fans and Twitter followers, you’ll be the first to know when there’s a new Jack’s Tracks available, we’ll be telling you about forthcoming community events, keeping you up to date with the local news and letting you know what’s in the next magazine. We’ll also be keeping you up to date with special offers from our advertisers, so follow and friend us and you could save a few quid too!

Town Green Gardens • Grubby Grout Returned to Ice White • No More Scrubbing at Mouldy Silicone • Tiles Polished to Perfection • Screens Returned to Crystal Clear • Give Your Bathroom the “Wow” Factor with a Mini-Makeover • Experts in Baths or Shower Cubicle Restoration

£40 worth of M&S Vouchers When you book your mini-makeover before January 31st 2013

Here’s what one of our customers had to say…

Sandra Taylor, St Helens.

“Did the job extremely well, punctual and friendly.

Obviously take pride in their work”.

You won’t believe your eyes – 100% delight guaranteed!

If you’re looking for a welcoming and well-maintained garden then Town Green is the place to visit! The Gardens situated on Bolton Road in Ashton-in-Makerfield are community gardens and the committee are on the lookout for volunteers to help with maintenance.

Town Green Residents Association is a voluntary organisation and run the gardens for the local community – the project is completely self-funded and they need your help! No garden knowledge is necessary, but a sense of humour and willingness to get stuck in is a must the group is looking for people to spare as little as an hour a month or whatever you can give.

Most tools are supplied but feel free to bring your own - the group are always looking for new ideas and would welcome people who are generally interested in gardening to join the group as committee members.

Anyone joining the committee would also be expected to live nearby – if you would like more information please contact Ruth on 01942 718648 or Ann on 01942 730794.

Derek Broughton Music Tuition

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28

Small enough to care, big enough to inspire Reception 2013 lable in Nursery and Limited places avai

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“An inspirational an d dynamic school” Prospective Paren t 2012 “ Staff Morale is inc redibly high” Ofsted November 2012 “Pupils make good progress and achieve well, their att ainment in English and Maths is above average by the end of Year 6” Ofsted November 2012 “The school is inclus ive and embraces every chi ld fully” Ofsted “ All the teachers an d staff care for us and the curriculu m is excellent” Y6 pupil

St Aidan’s School London Fields, Billinge, WN5 7LS www.billingestaidans.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Telephone: 01744 678 042

29

Images Required!

Have you ever fancied showing off your photography skills to a wider audience? Local Life is looking for photographs to use on the front cover of our magazine in 2013. Images must be supplied as a high resolution (minimum size 154mm x 216mm @300dpi) jpg file (maximum quality), of a portrait aspect and must have a local theme.

Please allow room for the Local Life masthead at the top of the image, and ideally a focal point should be slightly off centre to allow room at one side for the text we use on the front cover.

Sadly, the budget for these pictures is non-existent but we will obviously credit your efforts if they are successful and we’ll also present you with a framed copy of the magazine! Images should be sent as a separate attachment to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

Crownway Community Centre Crownway Community Centre in Earlestown offers an array of activities for children and adults, so if you and the brood are stuck for something to do in the New Year bear this in mind. The centre offers everything from Zumba Gold, Slimming World, Fresh Start, Age Concern clubs, Pilates, Strictly Dance for Kids, Stay & Play for Tots, Tiny Tutus, Tiny Tap & Ballet to Adult Tap, Morris & Line Dancing and much more.

Starting on Wednesday January 16th the centre will be providing 7-weeks of FREE Street Dancing for 5-10 year olds funded by Children in Need, classes take place from 4.45pm-6.15pm. For more information about any of these activities, please call on 01925 222907 or email craig@crownwaycommunitycentre.co.uk

design & print Did you know that Local Life isn’t just about publishing great little magazines?

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you’d be right conventio have your nal cleaning bathroom won’t looking spic but we know won’t have a company that can and span, to help and an arm and spend you a leg. Total experts in Bathroom restoring Restoratio bathroom all over the n are s to their North West, former cost of a new and all at the fraction glory one! of the Owner Ian Read can be rescued believes that almost from the damage any bathroom mould and mildew caused by From his experienc that occurs naturally overunsightly e in property realised that managem time. ent he a consisten most bathroom problems t pattern; showed leaks, grout silicone, chipped failure, mouldy bath trays screens. Does and cloudy this sound shower familiar?

Ian and his team now Mr Summ down to a have bathroom fine art and restoratio “I wante ers of Newto its original can restore state whilst any bathroomn for their d to take this n-le-Willows amount of causing you outsta oppor disruption. the minimum to tunity told Local Life, nding perfect tiles Think to thank work”. and a bathroom ice-white grout, “The job that’s the the team to be proud was awkw service that failed of; can offer Total Bathroom ard to to you. this the rectify what and other Restoratio trades n to fully team dealt was a poor had tried Ian says “As with all initial restor and install well as restoring far superi e the the also help , despit or than tiled showe issues and your bathroom you bring e mana r enclos the origin to life with a few we can “Desp simple tricks. an outdated bathroom al install ure with ged ite being designer taps, a finish We can source ation” clean a messy . slim line shower and even help job the were grateftidy and trays and with Bathro and decoratin flooring ul for ready to use om what g. We are your expert was requir the next was left to offer a day. We full bathroom really proud to be ise in ed.” delive able we know makeover ring exactl you’ll love.” service that y Don’t just shut the door bathroom on your dull , breathe and outdated a Total Bathroom a new lease of life into makeover, call the team it with now.

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Freedom did our porch and conservatory and we now have balanced heat throughout the downstairs and I am saving £15.00 per week alone on Gas. The fitting team were brilliant and had it all done in 3 days. Our best room in the house is now our conservatory, which before Freedom came along, was unused - Mrs Gillbanks from Poolstock

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design & print

Flyers, Postcards Brochures and more!

Did you know that Local Life isn’t just about publishing great little magazines?

We also provide a design and print service; from 5000 single colour flyers to the design and production of a full colour glossy magazine; we can meet your needs.

Totally per fect bathroom s

There’s no a hot bath better feeling than has to be of bubbles, for me slipping into spotless before a bathroom really clean.

I can relax a bathroom After years of dedicatedand feel spots that can start to show service a few age grease is you think no amount ever going to remove! of elbow

Before

And you’d be right conventiona have your l cleaning bathroom won’t looking spic but we know won’t have a company that can and span, to help and an arm and spend you a leg. Total experts in Bathroom restoring bathrooms Restoration are all over the to their former North West, cost of a new and all at the fraction glory one! of the Owner Ian Read can be rescued believes that almost from the damage any bathroom mould and mildew caused by From his experiencethat occurs naturally overunsightly in property realised that managemen time. a consistent most bathroom problems t he pattern; leaks, showed silicone, chipped grout failure, bath trays screens. Does and cloudy mouldy this sound shower familiar?

Ian and his team now Mr Summe down to a have bathroom fine art and restoration “I wanted rs of Newton bathroom to its originalcan restore any for their to take this -le-Willows you the minimum state whilst outstan opportu told Local causing amount of ice-white ding work”. nity to Life, disruption. grout, perfect thank “The job Think be proud the team tiles and was awkwar of; a failed Restoration that’s the service that bathroom to to can offer Total Bathroom this the rectify what d and other to you. trades to fully team dealt was a poor had tried Ian says “As with all initial restore and well as restoring far superio the issues install, the also help despite r than tiled shower your bathroom and manage you bring the original enclosu to life with a few we can “Despite simple tricks. an outdated bathroom installa re with a d designer taps, We can source finish tion”. left clean being a messy slim line shower even help We were and tidy and job the Bathroo trays and with and decorating.flooring m exactly grateful for ready to We use the was what are your expertis to offer a was required next full bathroom really proud to be e in deliveriday. able we know makeover .” you’ll love.” service that ng Don’t just shut the door bathroom, on your dull breathe and outdated a Total Bathroom a new lease of life into makeover, call the team it with now.

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we make it our business to help yours 34

WINTER BLUES

by Ken Teppin (MCPH)

Whilst many of us do not relish the thought of winter, for an increasing number of individuals this season fills them with dread.

My second product is a supplement of Folic Acid and B12. These two vitamins have been identified as a deficient in sufferers of depression of all types. Significant improvements have been noted when they have started taking these supplements and either one will make a difference. Taking the two combined however seems to work to a far greater degree.

Although the days are gradually lengthening by now, spring still feels a long way off. In recent years the worst cases have been clinically diagnosed as SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). So this month I would like to offer some tips on how to overcome, or at least lessen the impact of the winter blues.

The first thing I would like to mention is what I call a ‘seasonal perspective’. Observing nature shows us that it is a time for slowing down and resting. However it is clear that we humans completely ignore this; because we have the electric light bulb (alias ‘Edison’s Curse) we continue a frenetic lifestyle 365 days a year.

We should take time to relax, wind down and reflect on the year gone by. Yet in general we will have been working harder, partying later and more frequently and pushing ourselves beyond our natural resources. I think that this is a huge contributor to SAD. So whenever you can rest, take a nap, go for a walk or have an early night.

I promise you will quickly notice the difference.

Products that I can suggest to support you physically are St. Johns Wort (Hypericum Perforatum). Already a household name due to many testimonials from people suffering with general depression, it is widely available and can be taken in capsules or drops. Always look for a good quality brand and take the whole course.

Quality Dentistry

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The final suggestion is Aloe Vera Drinking Gel or as it is called in our house ‘liquid sunshine’. Many people take Aloe Vera for a wide range of complaints. It relieves many of today’s aches, pains and stomach problems but also improves energy levels, immune balance and moods. So I now recommend it for Winter Blues as well.

Good Natural Health Ken Teppin (M.C.P.H.)

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35

Winter Workout Are you one of those people who think about getting fitter and healthier but never get round to it? Well don’t just think about it, do it! St Helens Council is offering you the chance to get fit for 2013 with their Winter Workout promotion. For just £20 you can get a 30-day membership, which can be used to access the facilities including unlimited swimming, use of fitness suites and Freestyle Fitness classes at Parr Swimming & Fitness Centre, Queens Park Health & Fitness, Sutton Leisure Centre & Selwyn Jones Sports Centre.

This limited membership offer means that there is no joining fee or contract; there has never been a better time to work up a sweat and get yourself fit! This offer is available until Monday 14th January, so make sure you don’t miss out! For more information please call 01744 671726 or visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/goactive

Charity Golf Day The Rotary Club of St Helens is holding their thirteenth Annual Charity Golf Day at The Royal Birkdale Golf Club on Thursday 18th April. The day begins with soup and a sandwich lunch followed by 18 holes of competitive golf on this famous Open Championship Course. Afterwards dinner and presentation of prizes will complete the day.

This is your opportunity to play an Open Championship Golf Course that has been played by golfing greats such as Tiger Woods. The cost of this package for a team of four is £900; this includes a full colour advert in the event brochure, with all proceeds going to nominated Rotary Charities. The event is limited to 26 teams and places are booking up quickly, so if you would like to attend please contact a Rotary member at sthelensrotary@icloud.com

36

If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

Ever wanted to Be Your Own Boss?

No matter what your idea may be, we can help to make it become a reality.

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Come along to our FREE workshop and discover how to “Be Your Own Boss”

Wed 16th January 6.00 pm - 8.00 pm St Helens Chamber

To book your place call: 0845 340 9980 For more information go online:

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St Helens Chamber, Salisbury Street, Off Chalon Way, St Helens, WA10 1FY a5 byob leaflet jan 2013.indd 1

www.locallife247.co.uk

07/12/2012 14:40:49

37

Dubrovnik

Which European country saw a 23% year on year growth in British tourists in 2012?

£395 per person

Which country is known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Islands’ with its gorgeous beaches, green forested valleys, turquoise Adriatic waters and beautiful Mediterranean cities?

5th May, 7 nights 2* B&B Hotel Adriatic

The Islands

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Pula

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Montenegro 12th May, 7 nights 3* B&B Vila Mirenza

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All prices correct on 11th December.

Flights from Manchester.

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Telephone: 01744 893291 www.markentravel.co.uk

38

That’s right; it’s

Croatia!

This fascinating country has one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world and a rich cultural heritage to match. Croatia is a destination which allures travellers to visit time and time again; it’s the perfect holiday setting for anyone that is looking for a bit of old world charm combined with a fantastic culture and A-list style!

This amazing little country is made up of 1,244 islands of which only 50 are inhabited and the secluded nature of Croatia means that there is an abundance of beautiful Mediterranean cities which have kept their old romantic flair. Over the years Romans, Venetians, Hungarians and Ottomans have all left their own

Yesterday’s Secret, Tomorrow’s Holiday! cultural influence, which allows Croatia to offer a vast tradition of culinary specialties, and adventurous excursions to its visitors.

5-star hotels and adventure sports facilities, it’s easy to see why Dubrovnik is the world’s tenth most visited port for cruise ships.

Whether you choose to stay on the coast or one of the islands, you are never more than a two-hour drive away from national parks, forests, waterfalls, mountains and rural traditions. There are boat trips from almost everywhere on the coast and a day out island hopping will allow you to enjoy the Adriatic at its finest, with its numerous small coves and ports.

Makarska is everything you need for a peaceful and carefree holiday in the sun-bathed shores of the Mediterranean. It’s located on a pretty horseshoe shaped bay by the Biokovo mountains, and is noted for its palm-fringed promenade, where fashionable cafés, bars and boutiques overlook the pretty harbour where many pleasure craft are moored.

Croatians enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle with just as much of the flair of the Italians just across the water. Customs such as the afternoon siesta in summer and the ‘corsa’ evening walk are all here, as

The centre of Makarska is an old town with narrow stone-paved streets, a main church square with markets and a Franciscan monastery. Most of the city’s hotels are located just off of the bay and have their own private beaches.

If that isn’t enough then a day trip to neighbouring Italy or Slovenia is easy and if you’re staying in the south of the region, a day trip to Montenegro, Croatia’s southern neighbour, is well worth doing.

Quite simply Croatia has something for everyone, but with a destination that is enjoying unprecedented growth, the time to go is now before the secret gets out!

Jet2holidays are an expert provider of holidays to Croatia and other sunshine destinations in Europe. The company will be holding a presentation evening at Marken Travel in Billinge on Thursday 24th January between 6:30pm and 7:30pm. Exclusive booking discounts will be available, so don’t miss it! are festivals of dance, music and tradition - using the open-air treasures as a stage.

A must for all Croatian tourists is the magnificent Dubrovnik. With its sublime location, overlooking the calm blue waters of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is one of the world’s most magnificent walled cities. Now a UNESCO world heritage site and Croatia’s most upmarket destination, it boasts a charming pedestrianonly old town, packed with aristocratic palazzi and Baroque churches, and contained by sturdy medieval fortifications. Add to this the beaches, pristine sea, informal eateries serving top-notch seafood, chic

www.locallife247.co.uk

39

Let me say it loud and proud – hoorah for credit cards! Most people think of credit cards as a way to borrow. Yet, used right, they’re also by far the best way to spend.

Some plastic gives 5% back on all your spending. That’s right, they PAY YOU, and we’re not talking pennies.

Here are the 10 need-to-knows.

Neuter the card’s interest-charging ability.

Just set up a direct debit to repay IN FULL each month.

That way you avoid any interest, so it’s all profit (also, never withdraw cash, as then you pay interest even when you fully repay). If you’re not going to do this, please stop reading now.

Use for Everything With the direct debit set up, the credit card’s effectively like a debit card that’s paid monthly from your bank account.

So provided you can always clear in full, use it for ALL normal spending.

Capital’s Cashback Capital One’s Aspire pays newbies 5% back for the first 99 days (up to a maximum of £100). So apply now to get the 5% and take advantage of the winter sales. After the 5% ends, the rate’s ‘up to 1.25%’ depending how much you spend. If you already have a Capital One card, check out the best buys at moneysavingexpert.com/cashbackcards.

Poor credit score?

Most cashback cards require a decent credit score, but if you don’t have one, you needn’t miss out. The Aqua Reward card offers 3% cashback, up to a maximum of £100 a year. As it’s primarily a card to rebuild your credit, even some with past CCJs or defaults can get it.

Heavy Traveller?

Get big money back on petrol and train fares. The Santander 123 credit card pays a permanent 3% on up to £300 a month on petrol, diesel and rail. You also get 2% on department store spending and and 1% on supermarkets.

Due to the £2 a month fee, this is a card that’s only best for heavy drivers/commuters who shop in supermarkets . Still, that’s a lot of people.

In a trusting relationship?

Imagine Janet applies for a 5% cashback card. She can make John the second cardholder, so he can take advantage too. After the three month higher rate ends, John can then do the reverse for a further three months at 5%. After that, both partners should use one card, as cashback rates are tie-ed.

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Cashback Cards

by Martin Lewis How’s the cashback paid?

It’s usually taken off the statement annually. Most cards do this on the anniversary of when you opened the account – though Capital One does it every January, and Santander does it monthly.

Credit Score Impact Every application you make for credit marks your file. One isn’t a problem, but many applications in a short period of time can be damaging. So if you’re imminently applying for a more important credit facility, such as a mortgage, it’s best to wait until after your mortgage application is cleared.

Free consumer protection By law, buy anything from £100 to £30,000 and pay, even in part, on any credit card and Section 75 laws mean the card firm’s jointly liable with the retailer for the whole amount. Therefore, if an item’s faulty, or the retailer goes bust, go to the card provider for refunds. This can be valuable extra protection.

Cashback on council tax, mortgages, energy bills & more!

With the Santander 123 bank account (not the credit card) you get 1% back on water, council tax, Santander mortgage payments, and 2% on gas and electricity. It’s 3% on mobile, broadband, phone and TV bills. Plus there’s tiered interest up to 3%. There’s a fee of £2 a month, but for many, this is a winner earning £100s a year. Full info at www.moneysavingexpert.com/bankaccounts

Get Martin’s FREE tips and money-off vouchers emailed directly to you each week by signing up to www.moneysavingexpert.com/tips

Martin Lewis Martin Lewis, Money Saving Expert, is an awardwinning campaigning TV & radio presenter, newspaper columnist and a best-selling author. An ultra-specialised journalist, focusing on cutting bills without cutting back, he runs and founded the UK’s biggest money site, www.moneysavingexpert.com with 13 million monthly users.

Each month, Martin will be writing a feature for Local Life - advising our readers how to save thousands of pounds every year! Don’t miss it!

Competition Winners!

We had another bumper response this year to our Lancashire Day competition. The prizes on offer were three meals for two at the Pied Bull in Newton-le-Willows, an award winning restaurant known for its excellent regional cuisine! The lucky winners were Lynn Green from Rainford, Jacqueline Richardson from Newton-leWillows and Valerie Hatton from Garswood. A big thank you to all those readers who entered the competition.

And the answers to the quiz were; Ah’m afeart (I’m afraid), Eaw’t diggl’in? (How are you doing?), Swant a brew? (Would you care for a cup of tea?), Gerritt ett’n (Would you eat it please), Binmonbin? (Has the Bin Man been?), Woss up wi thi? (What is wrong with you?).

www.locallife247.co.uk

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Just Do It! Life is not a dress rehearsal, as the saying goes, so let 2013 be the year when you leave your comfort zone way behind you and try something new. Local Life has compiled an entire A-Z of activities, most of which are right on your doorstep, so that you can spend a bit of time in January working out what you’d like to try. You could discover a hidden talent or a lifetime hobby, you could master an activity that will make you a bit of cash and you could make some new friends along the way. What have you got to lose? Just do it!

A

Ar t

at the ready! St Get your paint brushes and pens hy group – if you grap Calli and Art Helens has its own skills or would like want to brush up on your painting group meets every to master calligraphy this friendly y other Friday from ever and m -12p 10am Friday from in Central Library on ute Instit ble 1pm-3pm at the Gam n please call the matio infor Victoria Square. For more Library on 01744 6767954.

Badminton

B

Do you fancy getting back into Badm inton?

Or perhaps you’ve never played before and want to try it out – whether you’r e looking for coaching, or just some where to play with your mates then head to Broadway Badminton Centre in St Helens.

You can pay and play, join the over 50’s sessions or coaching for beginners . For more information please contact Linda Eccleston on 07760 394069 or e-ma il lindaecce@gmail.com

Cheerleading

C

get the idea but on a Give me a C, give me an H – you can be a whole lot of serious note Cheerleading classes ton Community Centre New at held are es class The fun! able, energetic and on Park Road South and are enjoy improve their and try to s want great for anyone who y Monday night from fitness. The adult classes are ever session and classes 5.45pm-6.30pm- the cost is £4 per mation please infor er furth for – time term run during 31.

2247 5 0192 on contact the Centre

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D

DJ Lessons

If your son or daughter would like to be the nex t Fat Boy Slim then why not introduce them to a few free DJ lessons? The DJ lesson s take place every Thu rsday at PERTH Community Centre on Dunedin Str eet in Thatto Heath between 5pm-6pm. Kids can lea rn how to mix, scratch, beat ma tch, fade and attempt tricks!

Classes are for a maxim um of five people and booking is essential – to book your place please con tact the Centre Manager on 017 44 621905.

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Egg Crafting

If you’ve never heard of egg crafting, you’re not alone. But it is a wonderful art and if you’re a crafty type you’ll love it! The Joan Wood Egg Crafters hold occasional workshops at the Salem Church Hall in Orrell; contact Wendy on 01942 216552 for more details.

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Freegle

Is recycling at its best! If you’ve got stuff you don’t need and you want to de-clutter in the New Year, don’t throw it away – join St Helens Freegle group and give it away! The group was set up to save useable stuff from going into the landfill. Lurking in sheds, attics and cupboards all over St Helens there are items that are too good to throw away and Freegle group can help! For more information or to join the group please go online at www.ilovefreegle.org and search for St Helens.

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Going Out

? If you want to Do you work hard during the week St Helens then 2013 in life l socia a of enjoy more meet every bers Mem t! ticke the Social Scene is just et Street in St month at The Glass House on Mark ce to make new Helens, giving everyone the chan est. There is a £3 inter of ities activ nise orga friends and rds events and towa go will ey mon monthly fee and all e contact Monica holidays. For more information pleas ens-social-scene.

Powell at www.meetup.com/st-hel

Holistic Healing

H

If you would like to start the year with less stress and a clearer outlook on things, why not join the beginner’s meditation class held at the Leaf Centre on Chester Lane? The healing bene fits of meditation can include a reduction in tension, lowe r blood pressure and can offer support when trying to kick addictions.

The classes are held every fortnight on Tuesday and Wednesday from 7pm-8pm. For more information about the class please contact the centre on 01744 627892.

I

Indoor Bowling

Road South hosts Newton Community Centre on Park een 1pmbetw sday Thur y ever s bowl of e a gam ds, get out of frien new some make can 3.30pm. You lively group this – over y ybod the house and bowl ever nners are welcome is very friendly and sociable. Begi y you can use and if you don’t own a set don’t worr 0 per session, £2.5 only are ions Sess one of theirs. n please contact payable weekly. For more informatio the centre on 01925 224731.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Jewellery Making

J

Have you ever wanted to make jewe llery for yourself or for a gift? Then go along to New ton Community Centre on Park Road South and learn how easy it is to make fabulous pieces of jewellery that everyone will think you have bought! The class takes place every Friday between 10am-12n oon and is suitable for both beginners and those with expe rience. Sessions costs £5 and are payable a week in advance. For more information please contact Anne Keen on 01925 224731.

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Kitesurfing

aspects This energetic water sport combines gliding and para ng, surfi wind ding, boar wake of ent types of gymnastics. There are many differ d, course racing, kitesurfing including freestyle, spee looking for jumping and wave riding. If you are t or kite equipment spor the t abou n matio infor ns, lesso ng School in get down to the Airforce Kitesurfi please contact Scotty Liverpool – for more information 6 849396. on 07973 216502 or Mel on 0788

L

Luncheon Club

Perhaps in 2013 you might want to become a bit more social and make a few new friends –then why not consider the Age Concern Lunc heon and Social Club? The group meets every Thur sday at the Crownway Community Centre in Earlestown, and offers older people the opportuni ty to enjoy a freshly cooked two-course lunch prepared by experienced and welcoming staff. The cost is £2.50 and booking is advised – for more information please contact the centre on 01925 222907.

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P

M

Powerboat Racing based

g Club is The Lancashire Powerboat racin Road. The club at Carr Mill Dam on Garswood Old racing and new for ns catio appli g takin ntly is curre een the ages betw is child your if so, skiing members more about of 9-16 and you would like to know e e-mail them at the clubs training packages pleas m ail.co t@gm rboa powe shire lanca

Music

established group Trinity Girls Brass Band is a wellyears has been fty fi for h whic , wood Gars in d base brass music. There t grea with unity comm providing the help to improve can that band is also a development progress to the members’ playing skills so they can meets every senior band. The development band een 6.15pmbetw Hall h Paris wood Gars Monday at to play a brass ing learn in ested 7.15pm. Anyone inter 718229 or e-mail instrument should contact 01942 tgbb@live.co.uk

Netball

N

If you know your Goal Attack from your Goal shooter then you’ll know how to play netb all, but did you know that there’s a thriving Netball Club in St Helens? The Capricorn Netball club has junior and senior teams that play within the local leagues.

If you’re interested in joining them, please contact Sue on 01744 612474 or e-mail suepritchard@sthelensca pricorn.co.uk

O

Orienteering

s a bit of a challenge, If you’re a keen walker who want at the world of then you might like to take a peek teering Club has Orien e eysid Mers The ng. teeri orien e with lot of local eysid Mers ss acro all members from is a friendly club This pied. occu activities to keep them the sport. For more that is looking for newcomers to Nilsen on 01704 information please contact Anna om aol.c 735@ ballw il 878923 or e-ma

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Quilting

Q

Quilting is enjoying a renewed popu larity and many groups are full to new members.

If you’re interested, try the St Helens Group who mee ts every Wednesday between 1pm-3pm in the Commun ity Room above Central Library. Sessions cost £1.5 0 and you are welcome to join.

Reading

R

self for an afternoon Reading is great way to lose your on the lookout for and Rainford Reading Group are on the first Monday new members. The group meets on Church Road of every month at Rainford Library a variety of general read bers Mem . between 2pm-3pm ndations for new mme reco ome novels and always welc mation please and interesting reads. For more infor 20. contact the Library on 01744 6778

Secret Cake Club

S

Calling all cake lovers in and around the St Helens area –The Clandestine Cake Club is a worldwide club but St Helens has its very own branch. Homebakers and professionals gather together in secret locations, mostly to enjoy their favourite cake s and have a good natter, plus they never go home emp ty handed. To become a member of the Clandesti ne Cake Club please go online at www.clandesti necakeclub.co.uk and search for the St Helens grou p or contact Helen Costello at helencostello@btinternet. com.

Tae-Kwondo

T

get fit, learn selfTae-Kwondo classes can help you onfidence. There self-c your ase incre and nce defe n from a female are no gimmicks, just quality tuitio s in a relaxed and basic the learn instructor, so you can es take place unintimidating atmosphere. The class re on Chester Cent Leaf The at night day Mon y ever cost is £3 per Lane from 7.30pm-8.30pm and the session for children. session for adults and £1.50 per ct The Leaf Centre For more information please conta theleafcentre.com info@ il e-ma or 92 6278 4 0174 on

UC Crew

The UC Crew have been working in the community since 2005 and have taught more than 1000 young people to break dance and D.J! Usual activities include practice sessions, workshops, performances, trips and club nights – the group meets every Friday at Queen’s Park Leisure Centre on Boundary Road from 5pm-6pm. For more information on workshops, shows and practice sessions please send an e-mail to hello@ uccrew.co.uk.

ViPR

U

V

Reconditioning Stands for Vitality, Performance and world by storm. the take to cise exer t lates the and is ht training – it weig free of form tive ViPR is an affec it can provide but tube er rubb may look like a humble is designed to be a whole body workout. The tube much any movement lifted, dragged, thrown and pretty place on Tuesday take es class The of. you can think 5.30pm-6.15pm from y Frida from 1.15pm-2pm and information please and cost £4 per session. For more Centre on Boundary re Leisu Park ns Quee the ct conta Road on 01744 671717.

www.locallife247.co.uk

W W ildlife

The aim of the St Helens Wildlife Recording Group is to show you that there are lots of if you keep your wonderful local places to visit and some great wildlife eyes and ears open, you can see t local wildlife or as well! For more information abou website at www. the at look a have e pleas p the grou or e-mail col2. .uk er.co yond .blue sthelenswildlife.pwp davies@blueyonder.co.uk

X-treme Spor ts

X

Yes, that’s a bit of a cheat, but there ’s nothing fake about Extreme element, who are the UK’s leading extreme sports specialist, offering over 800 Extreme Sports Courses and Outdoor Activ ity Days, across the UK. Fancy a tandem skydive, flying lessons, rock climbing, motocross or quad bikin g…visit the website www.exelement.co.uk

Youth Only Zones

Y

on Road in Selwyn Jones Sports Centre on Asht free zone on adult an ly strict Newton-le-Willows is aged between a Saturday. If you’re children are t every Saturday 13-17 they can get involved in spor fit and you’ll keep can they so – year the throughout free – for is n issio Adm . quiet get some peace and that are available more information about the sports 4 677970 or have a please contact the centre on 0174 ctive k/goa gov.u lens. .sthe www at look online

Z This class involves all the usual Zum ba dance moves with a bit of a twist –feel the burn by using small hand weights to add extra resistance to your workout.

Pop down to the Chain Lane Com munity Centre on Hinckley Road every Thursday night from 6.15pm-715pm – classes are just £3 but your first try is free.

For more information please conta ct Jane Mullarkey on 07966 479078 or e-mail janey web@hotmail.co.uk.

45

Returning a gift – know your rights

By Dean Dunham

If you are likely to change your mind about buying a gift, it pays to shop on the web. It’s vitally important to be aware of your rights when it comes to returning or exchanging presents.

But what are your legal rights if you need to return goods? The answer is that it depends on whether you bought the item in a shop or over the internet.

If you buy something that is faulty then you are automatically entitled to a full refund regardless of where you bought it. So if that gleaming new toy that you’ve brought for a child is flawed when they open the box, take it straight back.

It’s slightly different if you want a refund for something because you’ve changed your mind – and it depends on where and when you bought it.

High Street Unfortunately, when you buy from a physical shop you are not entitled to a refund just because you change your mind. Last year I bought a jumper for my wife. I gave it to her on her birthday, but when she opened it up she absolutely hated it. When we took it back to the shop and asked for a refund, the shop said no.

Annoyingly, they were fully entitled to refuse. Lots of people think you should get a refund for changing your mind, but this isn’t the case.

Most retailers will, however, allow you an exchange if you have proof of purchase.

A right to exchange is not a legal requirement, but often it’s part of the retailer’s own terms and conditions.

It’s therefore a good idea to always check the shop’s exchange policy before you buy.

Online When you buy goods and services online you have enhanced rights, which entitle you to a seven day cooling off period if you change your mind. I purchased a camera online last year. I’d ordered it on the Monday and by the Tuesday I’d seen an advert for a brand new Sony camera, and I thought: “Oh, actually I would rather get that one.”

46

When the first camera arrived I telephoned the website and I told them I’d changed my mind and asked for my money back. At first they refused, but what you need to know is that when you buy online your rights are different to if you walk into a shop, because of the cooling off period.

When you are shopping on the net, you have seven days to change your mind from when you receive the goods.

So if you have second thoughts when you get the item, you can get your money back and get something else in time for the special occasion instead.

If a member of the public does not know their rights, they are often refused a refund and that’s the end of the matter. So you should say the following: “Under the distance selling regulations, you have to give me seven days cooling off. I know my rights and I want my money back.”

If they still refuse to allow you to return the goods for a full refund, then make a note of date and keep a copy of any emails. You can then contact your local trading standards office.

You can find more info about your consumer rights on my website www.youandyourrights.co.uk or by joining me on twitter @deandunham.

Happy shopping!

Adventure in Pantoland

Rainhill Garrick

Newton Amateur Dramatic & Operatic Society (NADOS) proudly presents their latest performance ‘Adventure in Pantoland’. You will be treated to six pantomimes all in one show on Friday 18th, Saturday 19th, Friday 25th and Saturday 26th January. The show starts at 7.15pm at Byrchall High School on Warrington Road, Ashton, with an added matinee on each Saturday at 2pm. Tickets cost £7 for adults, £5 for concessions and children and for block bookings 1 ticket in 10 is free – these can be purchased from Marie Lloyd on 01942 724842 or by e-mailing nados@live.co.uk

The Rainhill Garrick Society will be performing their production ‘Revenge’ on February 14th, 15th & 16th.

This classy thriller will have you on the edge of your seat so don’t forget to mark the date in your diary or better yet book your seat now by calling 01744 813429. The production will take place at the Rainhill Village Hall in Weaver avenue – please see the advertisement below for more details.

NADOS is always on the lookout for new members, not only for their acting, singing or dancing abilities - there are many more skills and support people required during the preparations and run of a show. If you have an interest in costumes and make-up right through to the technical side of theatre such as sound, lights and stage management give the group a call.

You can find the group most Thursday nights rehearsing at The Conservative Club on Earle Street in Earlestown, so pop in and join in the fun.

Rainford Heritage Rainford Heritage Group is asking for old Rainfordians to share their memories of what the village used to be like years ago, at school, at work and at play. The group is looking to record as much information as possible before it is lost. With the help of Rainford High the group will be undertaking an audio programme to record people in their own homes telling their own stories, so that they are preserved for future generations. If you would like to help with this project please contact Ray Waring on 01744 885547 or e-mail rayw91141@yahoo.co.uk

The Society are always on the lookout for new members who would be actively involved in all aspects of theatre – on stage, back stage and front of house, there is always something for everyone to do. They are a friendly society and also have social gatherings throughout the year which also provides the opportunity for friendships to be made. If you fancy having a go, then pop along to a rehearsal night, held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7.30pm at Rainhill Village Hall. Visit the website for more information at www.rainhillgarrick.co.uk or keep up to date with new by following them on Twitter @rainhillgarrick.

Haydock Women’s Club If you’re not busy on a Tuesday night and you’d like to get out and make some new friends then why not pop along to Haydock Women’s Group at Haydock Cricket Club on Piele Road between 8pm-10pm. The ladies have a great line-up of events planned for 2013 including Burns Night on January 22nd, Dragon Boat Racing on February 5th and a Belgium Chocolate Demonstration on March 5th.

The ladies also organise mini holidays so get with the girls and enjoy yourself! This is a friendly group, welcoming ladies of all ages - entrance is just £1.50 and includes tea and biscuits. For more information please contact Chris on 01942 393925 or Janice on 01942 842487.

Rainhill Garrick Society presents...

Revenge A Classy Thriller

This production will have you on the edge of your seat Showing on 14th/15th/16th February Ticket prices adults £5 Concessions £4.50 7:30pm start ( doors open 7.00 )

For tickets call

01744 813 429 or pay at the door.

Rainhill Village Hall, Dane Court, off Weaver Avenue, Rainhill, L35 3LU

www.rainhillgarrick.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

47

Burscough Priory & Lathom

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On a cold wintry Sunday morning in early December, we loaded the dogs up in the boot of the car and set off to Burscough to try this 5½ mile walk. It’s a well known local walk which takes in two places of worship that are connected to the historic Lathom Estate; Burscough Priory, which is in ruins and Lathom Park Chapel, which is still active and in a well kept condition.

The walk’s a bit muddy in parts, particularly going through Mill Dam Woods at the back end of the walk, so do wear waterproof walking boots. Please also take great care at the unmanned railway crossing near Burscough Priory.

Park up on Lordsgate Lane near to the Bull and Dog pub, and head back to the A59 (Liverpool Road South). Cross this busy road, and turn right. Take an immediate left turn down Abbey Lane. Pass the landfill site on the left and then bear right when you reach a fork in the path. The concrete road eventually becomes a dirt path which leads to the Wigan - Southport Railway line. Cross over the unmanned railway crossing, taking care to look and listen as you cross.

Once you have safely crossed, take a look to your left and, in the distance, you will see the ruins of Burscough Priory. Go through the gate at the end of the path. Once upon a time, you could turn left at this point and walk past the ruins, but there is a diversion in place at the moment and the path is barred. Instead walk straight on through the peaceful Abbey Farm Caravan Park. Carry on past the barrier signifying the front entrance to the Park and carry straight on until you reach Dark Lane.

Turn left for 175 yards along Dark Lane. Once you have crossed Abbey Bridge, cross over the road immediately and take a right turn as indicated by the public symbol.

Following the footpath, which runs parallel to Abbey Brook for 425 yards. Once you reach the corner of the field by a telegraph pole, you’ll meet a track running across your path. Turn right and go over a little bridge over a brook.

Within seconds you’ll reach a driveway to a house (Shaker Lady Hey House). Exit the driveway and turn left onto Sandy Lane. After 250 yards you’ll reach the T junction at the end of the road (ignore the public footpath symbol a few yards before the junction). Turn left down Cranes Lane.

Follow Cranes Lane for its entirety, which is just over a mile, passing Ormskirk Golf Club on the right. It’s quiet and peaceful here, with only the odd shout of ‘Fore!’ disturbing the silence. We took in the fabulous views of the snowy tops of Longridge Fell and beyond. When you get to the end of Cranes Lane, cross over the road (Hall Lane) and into Lathom Park.

After 300 yards you’ll reach Lathom Park Chapel on your left. In the distance on the right at this point, you’ll spot the West Wing - the only remaining part of Lathom House.

Turn up the entrance to the Chapel and you’ll immediately

Burscough Priory Burscough Priory is situated just 1/4 mile from the main A59 and around 150 yards from the Wigan to Southport railway line. It was founded in 1190

by Robert Fitz-Henry, the Lord of Lathom. For 350 years, the priory flourished and was a vital part of everyday life. In 1286, the monks at Burscough Priory were awarded a Royal Charter by Edward I that permitted them to hold a twice weekly market in nearby Ormskirk, a market that still attracts locals and visitors to this day.

This all came to an end in the mid 1500’s. The Dissolution of the Monasteries act came into force in 1536. This was the set of administrative and legal processes instigated by Henry VIII which disbanded monasteries, priories, convents and friaries, appropriated their income and disposed of their assets. At the time of its dissolution, the Priory maintained a prior and five canons of the Augustine order.

The Priory was the burial place of the Lathoms and their successors, the Stanleys of Lathom, Earls of Derby, but after the dissolution of Burscough Priory many of the bodies were moved from the vault at Burscough to the vault in the Derby Chapel at Ormskirk Church, which itself was built by Edward, the third Earl of Derby. The bells of the Priory were moved to the Church too, where a tower had to be built to support them, which is the reason why the church has a tower and steeple, one of only three churches in England to do so.

www.locallife247.co.uk

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A59

Burscough

A5209 Ring o’ Bells

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Remains of Burscough Priory

Lathom

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Lathom Chapel

Cranes Lane

spot Cromwell’s Stone on the right. Walk past the chapel and the adjoining Almshouses. As the road bears left, go straight on and follow the well defined pathway that takes you between two fields.

Go through the metal kissing gates and carry on down the path. Once you reach the pair of black metal bollards at the end of the path bear left. You now exit Lathom Park and reach Hall Lane once again. Take a right turn, cross over the road and follow Hall Lane for 325 yards.

Just before you get to the sharp right hand bend, look ahead and you’ll see (though partially obscured behind the chevron road sign) what is thought to be the smallest cottage in Lancashire. This former post office also used to be the childhood home of the wife of the Local Life Publisher! Just before Watkinsons Farm you will reach a public footpath sign on your left; so take a left at this point. After 30 yards down the farm track, you’ll see a red sign on the left which directs you to the path which takes you right through the field.

Cross over the wooden bridge over the brook and take an immediate right turn. A few yards later you’ll meet a track; turn left and follow the track in the same direction for ½ mile up the right hand perimeter of the field. On your way, you’ll pass through some wooden posts - just follow the well defined path in the direction of the telegraph poles.

When you reach the dirt track known as Lady Alice’s Drive, bear right for 100 yards and then turn right again.

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A5209

Lathom Chapel Follow the track for 600 yards until you reach Blythe Lane. Cross the road and walk up the track to Warmrow Farm. Once you reach the top of the track, look out for a garden gate on the left where the brick wall is. Go through the gate and carry on down the path, which takes you downhill into Mill Dam Woods.

Cross the bridge over the stream, then turn left and walk through the woods on the pathway which runs parallel to the stream. Once you reach the corner of the woods, follow the path as it makes a right turn uphill. After a short climb, you will soon reach a wooden stile on your left, hop across and head straight across the middle of the field towards Mill Dam Farm. To the right of the farm, there’s another stile, so cross this and turn right. Head uphill over the railway bridge and straight on up Mill Dam Lane until you meet the junction with Liverpool Road South. Turn left, cross the road and you’ll eventually arrive back at the Bull and Dog pub.

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.

www.locallife247.co.uk

The Chapel of St John the Divine was founded by the Earl of Derby in 1500, and it stands within the Lathom Park estate. This handsome chapel is set in well-tended gardens, and has several adjoining Almshouses. The chapel was restored in 1810, at a cost of £1200 and today holds regular Anglican services. Various plaques in the chapel commemorate the residents of Lathom House, whose remaining west wing lies within 200 yards of the chapel.

Whilst the quiet Lancashire parish of Lathom is now a rural backwayer, it was once an administrative and power centre. The Manor of Lathom once formed the most important of 17 manors in the North West and the Lathom family owned lands throughout southern Lancashire, extending as far afield as Manchester. The lordship passed through marriage from the de Lathom family to the Stanley family who used the Wars of the Roses to enrich themselves and enhance the importance of Lathom.

In 1643, the Royalist James Stanley, 7th Earl of Derby, was despatched to the Isle of Man to defend the island, leaving his wife, Charlotte de la Tremoüille, behind at Lathom House. The Roundheads demanded that she surrender the house, but she defended Lathom House with 300 men against 2,000 Parliamentarians in the Seige of Lathom which lasted from February to May 1644. Royalist reinforcements arrived and this allowed Charlotte to flee Lathom House to the Isle of Man. Lathom House again came under siege from July 1644 and it finally fell in December 1645, when it was mostly destroyed. Knowsley Hall later succeeded Lathom House as the main residence of the Stanley family.

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RAPID RESPONDER? There won’t be too many who remember the launch of the 1935 original Skoda Rapid.

The badge will be more familiar to those who recall it on the rump of the rear-engined Rapid Coupe from the mid-80’s. Those in the know loved the way it drove and motoring writers affectionately dubbed it the poor man’s Porsche 911. Yes, it was a bit rough and ready but it was great fun and just stuffed to bursting point with character.

Fast forward to 2012 and we have a new generation Rapid. You’d probably peer under the Rapid and conclude that there’s not a lot that’s too exciting about this car. And you’d be right. There’s a simple strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear end with tried and trusted Volkswagen Group engines plumbed under the bonnet. The front end is a modified Polo platform, whereas the rear end comes from the Beetle. The result is a car which rides firmly, has light steering and excellent all-round visibility making the Rapid an easy car to drive.

The entry-level engine in the range is a 1.2-litre threecylinder petrol unit that packs 75PS and will thrash its way to 60mph in 13.4 seconds. A more satisfying option can be found in the rather brilliant turbocharged 1.2-litre TSI four units, while there’s a seven-speed DSG-gearboxed 122PS 1.4-litre TSI at the top of the

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range that looks a little redundant but which is the only car in the line-up that can crack 10 seconds to 60mph.

Diesel drivers get a 1.6-litre turbodiesel with 105PS. So, as you can see, rapidity isn’t big on the Rapid’s agenda.

The Rapid is an unusually proportioned car. Fairly long and relatively narrow, it’s a hatchback that looks much like a saloon and is also a good deal bigger expect at its price point. It’s not extrovertly styled in any way and this feeling of sparse utility is really rather refreshing in a market rammed with gaudy attention seekers.

The interior is unconventional in its own way as well.

Touch many of the cabin plastics and they’re rather hard and scratchy, but it looks well built. It looks elegant. It looks, above all else, as if it’s not trying too hard. And if there’s a better definition of cool than that, I’ve yet to hear it. Rear legroom is excellent although shoulder room is a pinch for three. Headroom is good as well, while the boot is bigger than that of a Ford Mondeo and accessed through a huge tailgate.

Pricing start at around £13,000, so you’re paying a lot less than you would be for a basic Ford Focus. Despite this, the standard specification runs to remote central locking, curtain airbags, daytime running lights, rake/ reach-adjustable steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and electric front windows.

SE trim starts at around the £15,000 mark and adds 15-inch alloy wheels, body-coloured door mirrors and handles, air-conditioning, a Maxi-dot trip computer, an

Those with long memories will recall Skoda’s last Rapid.

This one is nothing like it. Andy Enright reports.

MDI (Multi Device Interface), a leather steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity. Buyers opting for rangetopping Elegance models benefit from 16-inch alloys, cornering front fog lamps, cruise control, a heightadjustable passenger seat, rear electric windows, chrome interior detailing and a four spoke multifunctional steering wheel.

The engine line-up is clearly geared towards economy rather than excitement and the 1.2-litre TSI powerplant may well work out as the most cost-effective for the lower mileage user, especially as it’s the cheapest variant to insure, ratings starting from 7E. The diesel is sure to be popular, putting out 114g/km of CO2.

things but Skoda has in fact built something rather intriguing. It has brought to market a car that doesn’t rely on gimmicks in any way. That presupposes a real maturity from its customers and it would be heartening to see the Czech brand’s faith repaid. The Rapid is a car that can only be bought by the self-assured customer; the sort of person who doesn’t need to hide behind a badge to impress others.

Overall? Well, perhaps we are entering an age of pared back utility. After all, 2012’s coolest car may well have been the Dacia Duster. The Skoda Rapid isn’t that pared back but it will still appeal to the buyer who’ll never be deemed a try-hard. We like that.

The Rapid might seem unremarkable on the face of

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