Local Life - West Lancashire - October 2016

West Lancashire Edition

October 2016

Apple festival in Aughton Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health What’s On Home Services... www.locallife247.co.uk

2

113A Southport New Rd, Tarleton, Lancs, PR4 6HX

Tel : 01772 816901

PLANTS GALORE AND SO MUCH MORE! Winter Pansies now available plus a vast selection of top quality topiary trees, specimen plants, shrubs and perennials.

NEW Autumn Stock arriving daily, offering a wide range of shrubs. Any 3 Shrubs for only £20 or £7.99 each.

The North West’s largest selection of basket and bedding plants, home grown at Sootys. Hanging baskets from only £4.99

NOW AVAILABLE Wallings Homemade Ice Cream by the tub or cone…

• Homemade Food • Daily Specials • Italian Coffees

Tel: 01772 812540

N

ow Open all year round 7 days a week, offering a wide range of indoor & outdoor plants to enhance every home or garden, along with a great selection of outdoor furniture & accessories.

The helpful team are always on hand to offer advice & tips on planting & nurturing the right blooms for every home & garden.

After browsing through the garden centre why not enjoy a relaxing coffee and bite to eat at Sweep’s café which now hosts 2 NEW chefs offering even more variety to our already loved menu.

3

McGrath’s Carpets, Blinds & Curtains

The Complete Home Furnishings Store

Transform your home with McGrath’s 5 ★ Service

CURTAINS

“Here at McGrath’s we probably have the biggest selection of fabrics in the north west”

FREE •

AMAZING CHOICE

Measuring & Quotation Service • Advice & Design • Fitting & Dressing of made to Measure curtains • Fitting of our tracks & poles when purchasing made to measure curtains

5★

Curtain Service

Manufactured to the highest standard in our store

CARPETS Fantastic selection of Carpets & Vinyls From only £5.99 sq yd

FREE

5★

• Measuring & Quotation Service • Moving of Furniture • Uplift & Disposal of old carpet • Grippers & Doorplates

Carpet Service

BLINDS & SHUTTERS Huge selection of Rollers • Vertical • Alu Venetian • Wood Venetian • Romans • Vision/day night ...plus more!

5★

We come to you!

FREE

Blinds & Shutters Service

Plus a 5 YEAR GUARANTEE

Manufactured to the highest standard in our store

FITTED BEDROOMS In Store Displays

FREE

• Measure & Design • Computer generated images • 5 Year Guarantee • Fitting

Telephone:

• Measuring • Fitting • Home Quotation Service

Produce LOCAL LIF

E to receive

10% off everything

in store

5★

Fitted Bedroom Service

01704 894699 OPEN 6 days a week : Monday – Friday 9.am-5pm & Saturday 10am-4pm Moss Lane, Burscough, L40 4AY On the A59 between Burscough & Rufford * Ample Parking

www.mcgrathscarpetsblindsandcurtains.co.uk

4

The kids are

alright

The luxury, relaxed, yet personal service any bride should expect.

Beautiful collections:

Rosa Clará Two Rosa Clará Soft Louise Bentley Sacha James Sacha James Curvy Plus Bridesmaid & Prom collection

by Dessy

2017 Collection Arriving in September

FREE veil

or accessory with every 2017 dress purchased.*

94, Church Road, Tarleton, Lancashire, PR4 6UP Telephone:

01772 816512 / 07736 327291 Opening Hours

Mon, Weds, Fri, Sat 10am – 4pm; Thurs 4pm – 8pm.

Out of hours appointments available – please ask. * Offer valid until November 2016.

For your special day or something special to say!

Join us at our Wedding Fair on Sunday, 2nd October at The Mansion House, St Helens

T

he onset of autumn also makes me feel a little reflective. Kids going back to school or onto college/university... the lush green leaves of summer giving way to increasing specks of yellow... the return of the ghastly X Factor to our TVs... it’s a time when I always ponder on the past. This year is something of a landmark as it is two decades since I left school - my first real steps towards a career in journalism. In the family, we have one young lady off to high school and another who is, as I write, heading to university. Heady times for all involved but extremely exciting. The one interesting thing is I’ve found is that, these days, students seem to be less fixated on a certain career path. Compared to when I was at school, students of today seem to be much more flexible about what they want to do.

And that can only be a good thing, for the world of work is changing at a faster pace than ever. Jobs for life have virtually disappeared, and technology is changing the way we work and the world is now smaller than ever. That said, one aspect of study which has remained the same is that you never actually stop learning. Every day, I learn something new, and yet I’ve not stepped inside a classroom since Ariana Grande was a toddler. The prophets of doom will always paint a bleak picture for our kids, but truth be told that, with modern technology (and our handy 24 guide!), it’s never been easier to keep on learning.

Telephone orders welcome and same day delivery, where possible, within a 15 mile radius.

Why not visit our newly refurbished shop at: 29 Church Road, Rainford, WA11 8HE

National & International

01744 885 363 Open: Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5.30pm; Sat 8.30am-5.00pm www.wendysflowers.co.uk

David Sudworth - Editor

Local Life Media

@locallifemedia

5

In this issue Eat like you’re on

What’s

holiday

on

21

38 A family

Get someone

in

kitchen

26

41

Education

Jack’s Tracks visits

special

Dalton

31

48

Regulars 16 Planning 18 Class From The Past 24 Puzzle Page

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

38 What’s on 47 Eating Out Guide 48 Jack’s Tracks

Sections 6 Local News 21 Health 31 Education

38 Leisure 41 Food & Drink 52 Home Services

Next issue - November 2016

Advertising deadline - Friday 30, September Published - Friday 21, October

Telephone: 01695 627 999 Publisher: Chris Pearce chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Sales: Lisa Jackson, Nicola Gray sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: David Sudworth westlancsnews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Peter Bretherton design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally Boon sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Sam Garrahan accounts@locallife247.co.uk Local Life is published every month. The magazine will be distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis.

This edition will be edition is delivered via Royal Mail to every home in the L39 postcode district and also to the L40-6 postcode sector - that’s a total of 12,655 copies.

The next edition will be delivered via Royal Mail to every home in the L40 postcode district and also to the PR4-6 and WN8-7 postcode sectors - that’s a total of 13,240 copies.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data 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 may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

6

Festival Fun

Co-op for pub site?

Plans have been unveiled to demolish an old Ormskirk pub in favour of a new Co-op store on the site. The Ropers Arms, on Wigan Road, could be razed to the ground under proposals from Michael McComb. Previous plans to convert the Ropers building into a convenience store were withdrawn in 2014 following pressure from residents. Papers submitted to West Lancs council planners claim: “It will give this location a vibrant public interface creating a true sense of ‘place’ where currently there is nothing but overgrown planting and a vacant public house, which the local population get no benefit from.”

Free, no obligation discussion for all your bookkeeping needs Contact Petra on Telephone Mobile

The place to be in Ormskirk over the weekend of September 23-25 is surely the Cricket Club on Altys Lane, which plays host to the much awaited Ormskirk Beer, Food & Wine Festival. You can sample some of the finest food prepared by various restaurants and cafes such as The Cricketers, The Ship at Lathom, Derby House Catering, Infusions of Burscough and more.

And to wash that food down, you can sample no fewer than 60 hand pulled real ales, a range of wines from around the world, and also try a snifter or two from the Craft Gin bar. Live music goes on all weekend featuring local artists and bands. The dates are Friday, Saturday and Sunday, September 23, 24 and 25 - the Sunday is family day when kids games and activities will be staged all day long.

Festival times are Friday 4pm-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm and Sunday 11am-7pm.

7

8

Angela’s

joy

Angela Davidson wasn’t the only one waiting to get her hands on a pair of Southport Flower Show tickets - so was her grandaughter Harriet!

Angela, from Thompson Avenue, Ormskirk, was among the lucky winners of our recent competition.

The others were Mrs Grant from Swanpool Lane, Aughton; Alan Moran from Delph Park Avenue; Mr J. Hanson of Larkfield Avenue in Whitley, Wigan, Paula Spiers from Woodlands Drive in Shevington, Wigan; Maureen Derbyshire of Martland Crescent, Wigan.; Mrs O’Donoughue of Rutland Street in Leigh, P. Dobson of Primula Drive, Lowton; Jannette Worthington of Spawell Close, Lowton; Beverley Swires of Coppull Hall Lane, Coppull; Sharon Grayston of Cricketers Green in Eccleston; Margaret

Horsley of Melrose Gardens in Croston; Geoffrey Swift of Nutgrove Hall Drive in St Helens; Sue Hobin of Easington Road in St Helens and Diane McAuliffe of Widdale Avenue in Rainhill.

AUGHTON BLINDS & SHUTTERS (Formerly Cane & Table)

Over 30 Years Of Quality & Service

• FREE MEASURING & FITTING • FREE QUOTATIONS & HOME VISIT Call for a quote child safe

Tel: 01695 422947 • Mob: 07719 742984 www.aughtonblinds.co.uk Aughton Blinds

9

Historical talks

Signs of action

Ormskirk Historical Society is holding three talks in October. On Monday, October 3, Martin Jones gives an illustrated presentation on John Westhead, the Newburgh village blacksmith. On Monday, October 31, Peter Speirs, a lifelong Quaker, describes the origins of Quaker history, including meeting houses, families and considers the question as to ‘why Quakers had a greater influence on the world than their numbers might justifty’.

Safety improvements are being installed following accidents at a Halsall bridge. The crossing at Morris Lane has seen a few incidents recently, and this prompted the parish council to call for action.

Councillors have now been informed that, following consultation with the police, Lancashire County Council officers have agreed to additional signage which, it is hoped, will cut the number of accidents.

And finally, on Monday, October 31, Janet Niepokojczycka is giving a talk entitled Packhorse Days and Packhorse Ways. Meetings start at 7.30 pm at Four Lane Ends Mission, Skelmersdale Road, Bickerstaffe. Entry is £3 for visitors or free for students.

30k at Motorfest­­ A leading Ormskirk Motorfest organiser hailed this year’s event another roaring success, with around 30,000 people visiting the one-day spectacle. Mike Ashcroft said: “I am delighted we were able to bring such a marvellous event to Ormskirk once again.”

10

Jobs

reprieve?

Closure of West Lancashire libraries may not automatically result in compulsory redundancies.

County council chiefs are hoping that staff affected by the latest round of cost-cutting may be able to carry on working for the library service at another location.

As Local Life went to press, councillors were deciding whether to rubber-stamp plans to close libraries in Parbold, Up Holland and Burscough, and keep those in Ormskirk and Tarleton open.

The proposals were part of a county-wide closure programme in a bid to plug a £200m black hole.

Other services scheduled for closure included Moorgate Children’s Centre and Ormskirk Derby Street Day Centre for Older People .

Homestyle Factory Kitchens High quality kitchens & bedrooms designed to your requirements.

‘Bespoke handmade kitchens & bedrooms offering the perfect balance of refined style, exemplary quality & carefully considered finishing touches.’

Visit the showroom today!

Tel: 01704 543 444.

Unit 3-4 95A Canning Rd, Southport, PR9 7SW www.homestylefactorykitchens.co.uk

However, a report by Steve Browne, deputy chief executive, said: “Prior to consultation on the initial proposed library staffing structure, there was estimated to be a reduction of around 50 posts at Grades 6 and 7 although this would have been mitigated by options at Grade 4. There was also estimated to be a small number of staff at Grade 10 and above at risk of compulsory redundancy.

“However, following the consultation with staff and trade unions more Grade 4 posts are now available than anticipated and there has been some turnover in staff along with increased interest in voluntary redundancy. While it is not yet possible to be certain, it may therefore be that, overall, there are sufficient jobs for staff although this is likely to involve some changes in jobs and work bases, which may be for lower graded jobs.”

Lecture evenings The Ormskirk & District Association of National Trust members (ODANTM) holds lecture evenings in the Christ Church Ministry Centre, Aughton, from October to April. The lectures are on the first Wednesday of each month. On Wednesday, October 6, there will be a trip to the seaside - Shaun Farrely explores the history of the seaside pier in Britain. On Wednesday, November 2, there’s a thousand years of clay - Annette and John Christophers outline the history of pottery from the earliest urban settlements to the industrial revolution in Stoke on Trent. Both talks begin at 8pm.

Get active A new scheme - Active West Lancs - has been launched in a bid to get people of all ages healthy.

Activities include walks, cookery and gardening.

Call Emma Davies on 01695 555804 visit www. activewestlancs.org for more details.

11

12

Photo exhibition

In tune

Ormskirk Camera Club’s annual photographic exhibition has been travelling round the area’s

Ormskirk Ukulele Club is looking for new members to join them. The club meets weekly on Thursdays, 7.15pm to 9.45pm at Ormskirk Rugby Club, Green Lane, Ormskirk.

libraries recently. Rainford Library is the next host, where residents can view the exhibition between September 19 and October 3. For more details about the club, visit www.ormskirkcameraclub. weebly.com.

Equestrianism for all The Riding for the Disabled Association, a registered charity based at Parbold Equestrian Centre on Bradshaw Lane in Parbold, is seeking new clients with physical and/or learning disabilities. Potential riders of all ages and abilities are welcome; call Debbie on 01695 422399 for details.

Martin Hughes, from the club, said: “We offer a welcoming environment for people to develop their ukulele skills, enjoy group singing and making music together with others in an informal and sociable atmosphere. Whether you are a complete beginner or a more experienced ukulele player, all ages from Junior to Senior are welcome.

The club also has a band that regularly performs at private functions and community based events.

Further information from Martin on 01695 423767.

Are you fed up with clutter?

Need EASY ACCESS to your loft?

Do you want to: • De-clutter Your Home • Create Up To 1/3rd More Space • Have Safe & Easy Loft Access We supply and fit: • Loft Ladders & Loft Hatches • Boarding, Lighting • Insulation We guarantee: • Professional & Friendly Service • No Mess • 5 Year Full Parts & Labour Guarantee

2013, 2014 & 2015

CALL NOW TO BOOK YOUR FREE, NO OBLIGATION SURVEY & QUOTE

www.access4lofts-preston.co.uk

email: access4lofts@aol.com

01772 811611

13

14

01257 367 899 www.windoworldupvc.com

20, ST GEORGES STREET, CHORLEY, PR7 2AA

*Subject to size and colour. Pictures for illustration only.

• Supply • Fit • Repair

Call us today for a FREE on site quotation

TEL 01744 883 511 www.garagedoorsnw.com

16 Standish Drive Rainford St Helens WA11 8JY

15

Say “NO” to wet carpets!

Dry Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Our dry cleaning method leaves your carpets CLEAN, FRESH, DRY and ready for IMMEDIATE use.

Call Jason to arrange a free quotation www.zerodrytime.com

Get your main room cleaned & get a 2nd room or hall/stairs cleaned FREE!

#

0800 180 4520

Limited Offer!

16

Planning Matters Halsall Headbolt Farm, Woodvale Road: Extension to existing agricultural livestock building. (ref: 2016/0829/FUL) A decision is due soon.

Lathom

Apple weekend The annual apple weekend takes place at Gorse Hill Nature Reserve on Holly Lane in Aughton (postcode L39 7HB) on Saturday and Sunday, October 8 and 9. Go along and celebrate the apple harvest with apple tastings, tours of the heritage orchard and demonstrations of apple pressing. Opening times are between 11am - 4pm on both days, and you can also enjoy refreshments in the cafe. Entry is free and donations are welcome. For more details visit www. nwecotrust.org.uk

Beechwood, 141 Wigan Road : Bay window to front; flat roof converted to pitched roof; window to side converted to provide Juliette balcony. (ref: 2016/0799/FUL) A decision is due soon.

Ormskirk 11 Rutland Avenue: Change of use to four bedroom student home (ref: 2016/0851/FUL).

Scarisbrick 6 Pinewood Close: Ground floor rear extension (ref: 2016/0836/FUL) A decision is due soon.

Visit www.westlancs.gov.uk for more details

17

Learn new skills Bickerstaffe folk can learn new computer skills in a series of courses. The parish council has teamed up

Tell us your story!

Tips For Buying a PC/Laptop/Tablet Taster Session - Friday, December 16 - one afternoon course from 1.30pm-4.30pm.

Local Life is always on the look out for news stories from the local communities we serve.

Are you raising money for charity? Are you a member of a community group with something to shout about? Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be appearing in the next edition!

Contact the parish council clerk on 07715 156744 for more information or to book a place.

Simply email us at westlancsnews@locallife247. co.uk

with Lancashire Adult Education College to provide the sessions, which are as follows: ICT Functional Skills - starting Friday, September 23, between 9.30am-12.30am, and lasting for 28 weeks until June 30, 2017 Make The Most of Your iPad - Friday, November 11, for five weeks, between 1.30pm-3.30pm

T FROM

AC U F TU N

DIR ER

EC

R

E TH MA

Sheds Log Cabins Workshops Wendy Houses Summer Houses Free delivery Free 100% pressure treated Free erection See our show sites at;

Trebaron Garden Centre Southworth Road, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 0BS Telephone: 01695 589 207 Lady Green Garden Centre Ince Blundell, Nr Formby, L38 1QB Telephone: 01695 589 210 Head Office, 10 Greenhey Place, Skelmersdale WN8 9SA Telephone: 01695 51442 High Legh Garden Centre, Knutsford, WA16 0QW Telephone: 01695 51442

www.solidsheds.com

18

Class from the

past

This month’s Class from the Past is from Ormskirk Grammar School. It’s believed this photo was taken in the 1970s. Maybe you can spot a familiar

face? Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact us today by emailing westlancsnews@locallife247.co.uk

19

20

21

Health & Fitness

Eat like you’re on

holiday

By Lisa Salmon

I

t’s a well-known fact that eating a Mediterranean diet has numerous health benefits. But according to new research, it’s also more likely to help weight loss than a low-fat diet.

A study by the University of Barcelona revealed an unrestricted-calorie Mediterranean diet, high in olive oil, led to participants losing a small amount of weight over five years - an average of 0.88 kg (1.9 pounds), compared to people eating a similar diet rich in nuts, who lost 0.40 kg (0.88 pounds), and people on a low-fat diet, who were 0.60 kg (1.3 pounds) lighter.

It may only be a small amount of weight, but as it was lost on an unrestricted-calorie diet, the study suggests Mediterranean eating could be the best way to go - particularly when you consider the diet’s proven health benefits, including a reduced risk of developing heart disease, some cancers and Type 2 diabetes, as well as having improved brain power.

So how do you eat Mediterranean? While it’s a diet that’s generally rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts, beans, fish and olive oil, here are some more specific tips...

BE HEALTHY WITH YOUR FAT Try to use olive oil for cooking and baking, instead of margarines and butter.

Olive oil is a monounsaturated fat, but

22

polyunsaturated fats from nuts, seeds and oily fish are also included. A key element of the Mediterranean diet is omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish, flax seed, walnuts and pulses.

EAT YOUR GREENS Eat as many vegetables as possible, in a range of colours to maximise antioxidants and vitamins.

REDUCE RED MEAT Cut down on red meat and consume protein from skinless chicken and turkey, fish, beans, nuts and other plants.

GO FOR GRAINS Make sure your bread, pasta, rice and grains are wholegrain. Try grains like oats, quinoa and barley.

SNACK ON SEEDS Snack on seeds, nuts, whole fruits and unprocessed foods, instead of biscuits, cakes and crisps.

KEEP BOOZE INTAKE LOW Keep alcohol consumption low to moderate, and try to only drink with food.

Cloud Chiropody

9

‘‘w a lk on a ir ’’ • General & Diabetic footcare in the comfort of your own home • Nail Care, Ingrowing Toe Nails, Corn & Callus removal • Areas covered: Ormskirk, Aughton, Burscough, Maghull, Lydiate, Skelmersdale and surrounding areas Call Gemma now to make an appointment:

07810 546 226 Cloud 9 Chiropody Mobile Chiropody Service BSc (Hons) Podiatrist

23

Benefits of a mediterranean diet A Mediterranean diet can cut the long-term risk of heart disease by half, research shows. A Greek study of more than 2,500 adults found those who closely followed a traditional Mediterranean diet were 47% less likely to develop heart disease than those who didn’t. The reduced risk may be linked to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

• Research also suggests the Med diet can help reduce the chance of developing Type 2 diabetes as it promotes better control of blood glucose levels and can help lower obesity.

• It may protect against breast cancer.

• Reduces the risk of womb cancer by more than half.

• Helps reduce obesity and its complications, including Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

• Helps reduce brain shrinkage - a US study of 674 people with an average age of 80 showed that those following a Mediterranean-like diet had larger brains.

• Can help preserve memory and thinking abilities.

• Reduced risk of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

• Reduced risk of depression.

• Less inflammation, a risk factor for heart attack, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.

• A 20% reduced risk of death at any age - due mainly to the decreased incidence of heart disease and cancer.

Puzzle

Sudoku Answers are on page 51 of this magazine

24

corner

25

26

Get someone

in

I

f you’re a homeowner, one of your biggest worries is how to maintain your property properly.

Everyone is capable of some DIY, but often won’t possess the skills, the time or the confidence to complete the work required; and then, it’s a case of changing the acronym from DIY to GSI (Get Someone In).

Too often though, the process of contacting tradespeople, arranging quotes and being able to check out their past records can be difficult and very time consuming.

What is more, with doorstep crime and rogue trader incidents on the increase in Lancashire, it’s important you make the right choice of tradesperson.

Step forward Lancashire County Council and their Safe Trader Scheme, which has been operating since 2009 and assists residents of Lancashire to find reputable local traders for property repairs, home improvements,

27

gardening services, mobility aids and other services around the home.

Traders registered with the Scheme have all demonstrated their commitment to fair and honest trading by signing up to our Code of Practice and agreeing to work with us to resolve any problems should they occur. Prior to inclusion on the Scheme checks are carried out by Trading Standards Service officers including a visit to the trader’s premises and checks to ensure they are complying with relevant legislation, have necessary insurance policies in place and are members of regulatory bodies they are legally required to be registered with.

Once admitted to the Scheme they will be featured on the Safe Trader website and provided with promotional materials including vehicle stickers and logos to use when doing business.

Although using the scheme doesn’t mean things will never go wrong, members will have agreed to work with Trading Standards if they do go wrong.

The scheme plays an important part in offering consumers a safer alternative to dealing with the pressure that aggressive cold calling traders can put them under to have work done.

In some cases Trading Standards officers manage to track down these rogue traders and prosecute them‌ but in many cases the trader disappears without trace. This is why the Safe Trader register is so important to to many vulnerable consumers who otherwise have nowhere to turn when they want a job doing.

For more information on the Scheme or to search for a local trader visit the website at www. safetrader.org.uk or telephone 0303 333 1111

28

29

30

31

Parents ‘oversharing’ on

Facebook?

W

hen a baby or child achieves something fantastic - from taking their first steps to coming top in an exam - it’s hard for many parents not to jump straight on social media to share it with the world.

But have you ever thought about how your post may be perceived by others? New research shows 93% of parents believe social media encourages them to ‘overshare’ about their babies, and more than a quarter say they feel under pressure to keep up every week, with 12% admitting to feeling this pressure almost daily.

The problem, it seems, is many social media fans who are also parents feel other mums and dads tend to make claims about their children that are either untrue or exaggerated. This in turn may make other parents feel bad because their child hasn’t achieved the same thing.

The top culprits identified in the survey are ‘Super Mum’ posts, unrealistic achievements and new baby milestones. Mum-of-four and parenting author Sarah

32

Ockwell-Smith points out that social media can be a great virtual support network for mothers, building a community on which they can lean on and turn to for advice. “For a lot of new mothers, this is an incredibly positive experience,” she says. “When your baby achieves something, you’ll likely want to shout it from the rooftops, both in the real world or on social media.

“However, the comparison with others online can cause some mothers to be overwhelmed by feelings that they aren’t good enough. “Be a more ‘sensitive sharer’, particularly if you’re aware of friends having a hard time parenting or even conceiving a baby.”

• Know your audience: Are any of your close friends or family struggling with something, or are there issues that would be better to avoid with them? Consider this before posting on social media - many topics or opinions are better suited to conversations in person, as you can read each other’s feelings much more easily.

National Literacy Trust research has found that less than a third of young people read outside school every day, so it’s joined up with the Premier League to run Premier League Reading Stars, an annual initiative which has enlisted the help of 20 Premier League footballers to use children’s passion for football to motivate them to enjoy reading.

Some of the players involved include Frank Lampard, Adam Lallana, Joey Barton and Boaz Myhill. The players have set literacy challenges for participating children, allowing them to unlock statistics, tips and videos from each footballer as they progress through the online programme.

Manchester City midfielder Lampard says: “As a dad, literacy is a cause close to my heart - I love reading with my girls, and would really encourage other parents to keep reading with their kids.

• Check in with friends offline

And for slightly older children who need more motivation to read, the Reading Stars programme, hopefully combined with a bit of reading with mum or dad, could be exactly what’s needed to spark their interest.

Sometimes sharing with the masses means we’re lazy at communicating with friends who really matter. Some people overshare as a cry for help, so if you think someone you know might be having a hard time, engage with them directly.

The Reading Stars programme is aimed at children aged between 7 and 15 years, but parents seeking help to improve the reading of younger children may gain inspiration from the new free online guide How to Help Your Child to Read: 30 Ways In 30 Days.

• Don’t dismiss friends’ concerns

Homework for parents:

Pay attention - sometimes people just need a listening ear, other times you may want to help them seek professional advice.

• Set a daily time to read to your children and try to stick to it.

• Celebrate others’ achievements too If your friend is really proud of her baby for saying his first word, for example, share in her pride.

Read to your kids Reading is a vital skill that every parent wants their child to learn, yet almost half of UK mums and dads admit they lack the confidence and know-how to help improve their child’s reading at home.

• Hang a family message board in the kitchen.

Leave simple notes for one another with plenty of illustrations.

• Plan a family book club - everyone reads the same book (or has it read to them). Then get together over popcorn to discuss the story.

• As children learn to read themselves, consider allowing them to stay up a bit later as a treat - so long as it’s reading time.

For more about Premier League Reading Stars visit www.literacytrust.org.uk and for the 30 Ways in 30 Days guide visit www.leapfrog.com

33

34

35

36

Catholic

schools

Teachers of the future are being invited to a series of open evenings in the area.

W

igan Catholic Primary School Direct and Wigan & West Lancashire Catholic School Direct are coming to a school near you soon! They’ll be looking to recruit graduates who have the potential of becoming teachers in either a primary or secondary school setting.

Working in partnership with Liverpool Hope University, WCPSD and WWLCSD are able to develop direct training that will have the academic and theoretical underpinning to allow trainees to become outstanding practitioners within the field of education.

A spokesman said: “We are seeking individuals who demonstrate and are able to apply the skills of organisation, flexibility, reflection, evaluation and action to all aspects of the course and their career. Enthusiastic individuals who are able to communicate effectively with pupils, colleagues and parents on a range of levels are essential to our partnership.

Trainees can expect to obtain a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) and QTS Qualified Teacher Status by the end of the programme. The PGCE is a 60 credit award that can offer progression, upon successful application, onto a Liverpool Hope University Masters in Education (180 credits in total) for those students who want to pursue further study.

It’s a programme that gives you 120 days minimum in school, including a minimum of 12 days at Liverpool Hope University. There will be access to learning conferences throughout the year where you will meet and work with trainees from across

WCPSD and WWLCSD, and placements across two contrasting schools.

As part of its training programme, students will also complete the first two modules of the Catholic Certificate of Religious Studies.

For more information see the advertisement below.

Do YOU want to teach ?

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

Tuesday, 10th October & Tuesday, 1st November St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, Wigan All open evenings will be 5:30pm - 7:30pm We are looking for graduates who have the potential to become outstanding primary or secondary school teachers of the future.

Our School Direct teacher training program, accredited

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

For further details about primary teacher training visit www.wcpsd.org.uk. For further details about secondary teacher training visit www.catholicsd.org.uk Applications for September 2017 open at the end of October 2016 and can be made via www.UCAS.com (Search for provider codes 2A4 and course code 2XT7)

37

38

Events & Leisure

What’s

on Animal Magic

Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th September

Blackpool Illuminations Friday 2nd September – Sunday 6th November Autumn just wouldn’t be the same without a trip to Blackpool’s world famous Northern Lights. Hop aboard an open top tram for the clearest views of the lights, relax in a horse drawn carriage as a romantic treat or simply walk the 10km along the front with your bag of fish and chips!

Blackpool Promenade, Lancashire, FY1 5BD www.blackpool-illuminations.net

Leigh Film Festival 2016 Saturday 24th September Come and experience an unforgettable night of new and exciting film screenings at the Turnpike Centre in Leigh. Doors open at 6pm with bar and refreshments available throughout the evening.

The films will be shown between 7pm and 9pm, the evening finishes with an after show party and a live online vote for the winner of the Audience Choice Award. Tickets are £5 and available online.

Turnpike Gallery, Civic Square, Leigh WN7 1EB www.leighfilmfestival.com

Martin Mere Wetland Centre in Burscough will be hosting their enormously popular Animal Magic weekend on these days. In addition to existing attractions, there will be the chance to meet an armadillo, baby crocodiles, wallabies, meerkats, chameleons, alpacas, snakes, bearded dragons, owls, eagles and vultures! Book online to save 10%.

9.30am-6pm Martin Mere Wetland Centre, Fish Lane, Burscough L40 0TA www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/martin-mere/

North West Vintage Rally Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th September Free family day out for all the family at Victoria Park in Widnes. The largest event of its kind in the UK, this rally has hundreds of classic cars and bikes, plus miniature steam engines, model boats, a vintage funfair and the Spitfire Grand Display team.

10am-5pm Victoria Park, Widnes WA8 7SX www.northwestvintagerally.co.uk

39

Euxton Family Festival Weekend

Chorley Live 2016

Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th September

Let your hair down with a fantastic weekend of live entertainment in the heart of Chorley. Music and comedy performances on the hour from 7pm10pm at 30 venues across the town. Entry is via a wristband that costs £5 which gets you in every venue over both nights and under 12s go free.

Various venues/times Find ‘Chorley Live 2016’ on Facebook

An exciting new two day family festival being held at the Euxton Cricket Club on Southport Road, near Chorley. Featuring live bands, tribute acts, children’s entertainers, family entertainment, a food festival, stalls, a funfair and more.

Saturday 12pm-10pm Sunday 12pm-8pm Balshaw Park, Southport Road, Euxton, PR7 6DD

Friday 7th & Saturday 8th October

Southport British Musical Fireworks Championship

King Lear – RSC Live

Friday, 30th Sept, Sat 1st Oct, Sun 2nd Oct

The latest in a series of plays which are performed at the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratfordupon-Avon, and broadcast live to cinemas and theatres throughout the UK. Antony Sher returns to play King Lear, one of the greatest parts written by Shakespeare.

7pm start Arts Centre – Edge Hill University

International standard displays from some of the best pyrotechnic companies in the UK over a three night period. The fireworks are synchronised and choreographed to music and a story unfolds with every 15-20 minute display. Watch the sky over Southport become an array of colours. Tickets start from £7, children under 5 go free.

Victoria Park, Southport PR8 2BZ www.visitsouthport.com/whats-on/southportfireworks

Wednesday 12th October

The Family Pet Show Saturday, 1st & Sunday 2nd October The Family Pet Show (the only indoor Pet Show that you can bring your pet to) includes dog agility displays, a mini-farm, fun dog shows and lots more.

With four main interactive areas of watch, play, learn & have a go, plus areas for all pets in dog world, cat world, furries world, bird world & exotic world there is something for every pet lover.

9.30am to 5.00pm Adult, £9, Child, £7 Event City, Phoenix Way, Manchester, M41 7TB www.thefamilypetshow.co.uk

Southport Comedy Festival Thursday 13th to Sunday 23rd October Headline acts from across the World of Comedy, including Russell Kane, Jason Byrne, Sean Kelly and Jo Caulfield descend on Southport for 11 days of hilarity, with over 40 events in 30 venues across the town. As well as classic stand-up, there are children’s shows and free events, squeaky clean shows and the Southport New Comedian of the Year competition.

Various venues/times/prices www.southportcomedyfestival.com

40

The Tinderbox Sunday 23rd October

Disney On Ice presents Frozen Thursday 13th to Sunday 16th October 2016 Enter a fantastical winter wonderland beyond imagination when Disney On Ice presents a full length production of Frozen on ice at Manchester Arena. Be magically whisked away to wintry Arendelle by dazzling special effects and astonishing skating as you sing and dance along to inspiring songs including “Let It Go.” 17:30pm Manchester Arena, Manchester, M3 1AR

Norwich Puppet Theatre Company presents the classic Hans Christian Anderson tale using puppetry animation and music. This event is suitable for children 4+ and their families.

2pm The Citadel, Waterloo Street, St Helens, WA10 1PX www.citadel.org.uk

Jimmy Carr Saturday 29 Oct 2016 Jimmy is gathering a selection of his very best jokes along with brand new material for the ultimate comedy show.

8pm Preston Guild Hall & Charter Theatre PR1 1HT Contact telephone: 01772 80 44 44 www.prestonguildhall.com

North West Food Lovers Festival Friday 21st-Sunday 23rd October 2016 Over 100 food and drink suppliers all within a massive super structure marquee set in the grounds of Tatton Park. Once you buy your tickets (kids under 12 free), you can then go to as many cooking demonstrations as you like. Your children can take in the Kids Cooking classes, you take the foraging walks, talk, try and buy from any of over 100 exhibitors and while away the time with coffee or glass of wine while enjoying some of the best foods on offer anywhere.

Friday 12pm-5pm & Saturday-Sunday 10pm-5pm Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6QN www.nwfoodloversfestival.co.uk

Twopence to Cross The Mersey The new stage play version of Helen Forrester’s Twopence to Cross the Mersey is performed at a number of NW venues this autumn. This much loved account tells the true story of a young girl and her formerly wealthy family as they are suddenly thrown into the poverty-stricken slums of Liverpool during the Great Depression of the 1930’s.

Preston Charter Theatre PR1 1HT Wednesday 19th to Saturday 22nd October Contact telephone: 01772 804444 Southport Theatre & Convention Centre PR9 ODZ Monday 24th to Thursday 27th October

41

Food & Drink

A family

kitchen

By Gemma Dunn

P

ing Coombes, the 2014 MasterChef champion, has gone on to “spread the word” as global ambassador for her native Malaysian cuisine; cooked up a storm up at food festivals around the world, and landed her debut cookery book, the eye-poppingly bright and brilliant Malaysia: Recipes From A Family Kitchen.

Malaysian food - a fusion of Chinese, Malay and Indian tastes - has long been a hidden jewel of South-East Asian cuisine, and growing up in Malaysia’s vibrant city of Ipoh, Coombes distinctly recalls a world that revolved around shedloads of the stuff.

“We had big gatherings,” she recalls, mimicking the mealtime call ‘Sek fan la!’ - meaning ‘Come and eat’.

“As children, we would always sit down with my mum and dad to eat as a family, and that’s been ingrained in me.”

And having dedicated her book to her family, it’s a tradition she’s keen to uphold.

“Even though my husband [Andrew] and I may not eat with my daughter [Alexa], because she eats early, we’ll always sit with her to enjoy the meal together, so that she understands mealtimes.

“We don’t have things like iPads [at the table], because we want her to enjoy the food as a family.”

Yet while she remains heavily inspired by her upbringing, Coombes claims she was eager to adapt her collection of 100 recipes - including such delights as Chilli Crab and Caramel Pork Belly - to “fit in with life in the UK.” “I simplify a lot of the recipes but still retain the flavour,” she says, reeling off the major supermarkets that now stock shelves of Malaysian products.

“People want to try a foreign cuisine, but to cook it, it needs to be simple and delicious.

That’s the inspiration behind it; my travels, my childhood, and when I moved to the UK for university 17 years ago... It’s what I have developed in my kitchen and my mum’s kitchen.”

Here are three of Coombes’ recipes to try for yourself...

Malaysia: Recipes From A Family Kitchen by Ping Coombes is published by Orion, priced £25.

42

Taste test

Style and

substance T

he seemingly ever-developing village of Burscough faces an ongoing fight to hang onto what’s left of its heritage so step forward James Kennedy and Gavin Williams with good news. These childhood friends from Parbold who, after the successful launch of their first business, Allotment, a bar in the Northern Quarter of Manchester, have returned nearer home to transform the Old Packet House on Liverpool Road.

Built in 1775, the Old Packet House became an important staging point between the canal and the turnpike road (now the A59). It’s not the first attempt to rejuvenate this building in recent years, but it’s the finest and, it has to be said, the most authentic. The handsome exterior with its blooming flower display is a far cry from the dilapidated pub that it used to be, and the interior has been worked well to highlight the traditional design features of the building.

So my dining partner and I took our table overlooking the canal on a sunny summer’s afternoon wondering if the substance at the new Old Packet House was going to be as impressive as the obvious style.

She’s not long awoken from her Saturday morning lie-in so, my partner kicked off with a proper Lancashire breakfast, in this case black pudding and poached egg on a toasted muffin topped with hollandaise sauce. The large poached egg was cooked to perfection and combined beautifully with the lightly spiced black pudding, whilst the hollandaise sauce was buttery and quite exquisite.

I plump for a starter of a fresh salad containing buffalo mozzarella, beetroot, pine nuts and pesto. The tangy backdrop of the mozzarella merged magnificently with the delicious pesto, with the pine nuts adding texture to the dish. The tasty salad and the vibrant beetroot concluded this deliciously light, colourful and accomplished starter.

Though a committed carnivore, I uncharacteristically opted for the vegetarian dish of Roast Butternut Squash. Almost like bedding someone new, I had no idea what to expect from the dish but it was a complete revelation! The thick slice of butternut

43

Out came the quintessential summer pudding of Eton Mess, served a home-made vanilla ice cream, a crumble, a large strawberry and blackberry, and the crowning glory of a milk and white chocolate tuile. Sadly though, it ended up on the other side of the table, and such was the fierce resistance of my dining partner, I didn’t get much of a taste.

squash was cooked perfectly, with succulent flesh topped with a bit of burnt texture. Although I’m unable to get excited about the taste of the quinoa (who can?), the rest of the dish consisted of sun blushed tomato sauce with green beans, black beans, kidney beans, roasted carrots, asparagus and kale, topped with sweet potato shavings. It was delicious, and an absolute delight to eat. Wow! On the other side of the table, my partner was tucking into corn-fed chicken with a balsamic glaze and roasted Chantenay carrots, Ormskirk potatoes and a green bean salad and seemed to be enjoying it as much as I was enjoying my dish. The white flesh of the chicken was beautifully tender, she reported, up there with the most tender she’s ever had, with the taste of balsamic enhancing the scrumptious chicken. The firm new potatoes, tasty carrots and salad were a perfect accompaniment.

However, my disappointment was overcome by my dessert; a pot of blackberry and apple crumble served with a pot of the aforementioned ice cream. Cleverly, the crumble was made of crushed shortbread biscuits, which was gorgeous, and the sweetness of the dessert combined so well with the ice cream. Both desserts were top drawer – an absolute triumph.

Our verdict? - We were delighted at the quality of the food, the imaginative menus and the reasonable pricing at the Old Packet House. They even offer a Lite Bite Menu from Monday to Thursday (12-2 & 5-6.30), for just £6.95 for a single course or £10.50 for two courses. It’s had a few renovations in its time but at the end of the day, a restaurant survives because it has got substance as well as style, and the new Old Packet House has got both in spades.

The Old Packet House, 29 Liverpool Rd North, Burscough L40 5TN 01704 807330 Open Mon-Sat 12pm-11pm, Sun 12pm-10.30pm www.oldpackethouse.co.uk

44

Prawn cha keow

teow

Stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns

Method Bring a saucepan of water to the boil and cook the noodles for about 10 minutes, or until soft but still with a bit of bite. Drain and drizzle with a little vegetable oil to stop them sticking.

Serves 4 Ingredients 200g flat rice noodles 2tbsp vegetable oil, plus extra for drizzling 1 onion, thickly sliced 1 garlic clove, finely chopped 4-6 garlic chives, sliced into batons (or normal chives if you can’t find them) 200g raw shelled king prawns 2 free-range eggs, beaten 2tbsp sweet soy sauce 2tbsp light soy sauce 1tbsp dark soy sauce (optional) 180g bean sprouts

Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan over a high heat until smoking, then add the onion and stir constantly. You want to char the onions but not burn them. Add the garlic and garlic chives. Stir for one minute, then add the cooked noodles. Let the mixture sit for a minute over the heat, untouched.

Add the prawns to the wok or pan and stir-fry for one minute. Push everything to the edge of the wok furthest away from you and add the beaten eggs to the empty part of the pan. Stir, to cook the eggs a little, then gently fold the rest of the ingredients into the eggs until well incorporated.

Add the sweet soy sauce, light soy sauce and dark soy sauce, if using, and stir-fry well for 30 seconds.

Finally, tip the bean sprouts into the wok and work them through the noodles. They cook very quickly and are ready when they have just softened. You want to keep their crunchiness. Taste and add more soy or sweet soy sauce if necessary. Serve immediately.

45

46

Daging lembu dan

saderi

Stir-fried beef and celery

Method Mix the ingredients for the marinade together in a bowl, add the beef and stir to coat, then set aside for 20 minutes.

Serves 2 - 4 Ingredients 250g rib-eye steak, cut into thin strips 1tsp Chinese fermented black beans (optional) 4 celery sticks, trimmed 2tbsp vegetable oil 1tsp whole black peppercorns, slightly crushed 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1tbsp oyster sauce 2tbsp water For the marinade: 1 1/2tsp cornflour 1tsp light soy sauce Pinch of ground white pepper

Soak the black beans, if using, in a bowl of cold water for five minutes, then drain.

Using a vegetable peeler, carefully peel a thin layer off the celery sticks, to ensure they’re not stringy. Then, cut them into four 1cm batons.

Heat half the oil in wok or frying pan until smoking, then throw in the marinated beef and fry over a high heat for 30 seconds. Remove the beef and set aside. There might be bits of beef left in the wok or pan but don’t worry, it all adds to the flavour of the dish.

Turn down the heat to medium, add the remaining oil and the crushed peppercorns, drained black beans and garlic and fry for one minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn the mixture).

Add the celery batons and fry for two to three minutes,then return the beef to the pan, add the oyster sauce and water. Stir and cook for a further 30 seconds.

Serve immediately.

47

Eating out

guide Old Packet House A beautiful historic pub overlooking the canal. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, sophisticated evening meal, cask ales or cocktails, value and quality is guaranteed.

01704 807330 29, Liverpool Road North, Burscough, L40 5TN oldpackethouse.co.uk

Quattro’s A family run Italian restaurant situated on the Rainford By-pass at Bickerstaffe. Being just off the slip road of the M58 makes this an ideal location for meeting friends and business lunches.

01695 720800 54 Rainford Road, Bickerstaffe, Ormskirk L39 0HF quattros.co.uk

The Stocks Tavern Warmest and friendliest of welcomes with award winning chef Mike Heap, who uses only the finest, freshest, local ingredients to ensure you leave completely satisfied.

01257 462874 16, Alder Lane, Parbold, WN8 7NN thestockstavern.co.uk

Brookes Bistro A stylish and contemporary venue serving great bistro style food.

Home cooked food & cakes. Full English Breakfast and Breakfast Menu Served all day every day.

Delicious Sunday Lunches.

01695 581557 Brookside Living, Aughton Street, Ormskirk, L39 3BH

Advertise

here £30 + VAT

Call 01695 627999

The Cricketers In elegant yet cosy surroundings near Ormskirk centre, you can enjoy simple pub classics or a range of innovative daily specials. Famed for its delicious selection of Lancashire Tapas. Fantastic value set menu every Sunday.

01695 571123 24 Chapel St, Ormskirk L39 4QF thecricketers-ormskirk.co.uk

48

sponsored by

Ashurst’s Beacon &

Dalton

by David Sudworth

A

utumn is possibly the best time of year to pull on the walking boots. The leaves are turning a golden colour, the weather is mild and nature’s bounty is in full flow, with conkers, acorns and fir cones covering the ground. So it was in high spirits we headed towards Ashurst’s Beacon (near Up Holland for this month’s walk of just under 4 miles.

No sooner had we parked the Local Life charabanc and Jack, as per usual, was raring to go. We chose a car park just opposite The Beacon Inn pub (WN8 7RR), fronting onto the golf course, which gave us a sneak preview of the views to come, as well as

giving Jack a few minutes to find his ‘fetch’ stick from the undergrowth. Walking boots on and armed with copious energy-boosting chocolate bars, we crossed the road and headed toward Ashurst’s Beacon. The pathway towards the monument is just to the left of the pub and not signposted. Once at the top we had an early treat; stunning 180 degree views from Cheshire in the south to Blackpool Tower in the north. The wind was blowing quite a bit, and had a distinctive autumnal chill, but it wasn’t enough to distract us. To give some perspective of distance, Dalton Parish Council’s 100 year centenary

49

stone, just a bit further up, advises that standing at the top of the Beacon, we are five miles from Wigan Parish Church, 27 miles to the Bowland Fells and 84 miles to the Isle of Man. We started the walk from the Beacon itself, but you need to have your wits about you as the paths aren’t immediately obvious. We had to walk in a north westerly direction towards the woodland. As a rule, If you can see Blackpool Tower, basically you need to head towards that, and the informal pathway will become apparent.

Once in the woods, we were greeted with a floor scattered with pine cones. Having picked up a few for my six-year-old daughter, we headed westwards and eventually hit a cobbled footpath with fields on either side. Around five minutes later, continuing eastwards, we cross a stile onto a bit of a grass clearing and an old stone house, complete with a rather large, solid wooden gate. If you turn around you should see some sort of rusted farm machinery at the boundary of the grassland. We bore left down the side of the house and carried straight on. What greeted us at the end of the path was a beautiful 17th Century stone dovecot, which as we discovered was restored by the North West

Buildings Preservation Trust in 1985. Alongside this was a small pond and trees groaning with conkers and acorns. Suffice to say, being a big kid at heart, I started hoovering these up in anticipation of being able to use my haul to stage a mass conker challenge back at Local Life Towers. However, Jack being a dog and therefore having no interest in conker fights was in no mood to hang around so headed off towards the car park of the magnificent St Michael & All Angels Church. The church faces the equally impressive and historic Ashurst’s Hall, a Grade II listed building which was originally the seat of the Ashurst family. Coming out of the car park, we took a right past the primary school and down Higher Lane. Before long, the pleasing sound of acorns crunching underfoot was ringing in our ears – they were all over the place and to be honest my heart sank a little when I saw the street sweeper a little further down the road. Before I became too disheartened, we peeled off rightwards onto a tree-lined Dungeon Lane, where we came across some very colourful wild, but I am advised highly poisonous, mushrooms. As a seasoned walker, Jack didn’t pay much attention to the various fungi on display but for a novice like myself, I couldn’t resist whipping out my lens for a quick photo op. At the end of the lane, we turned left and then around 50 yards down we turned right. Now admittedly, at first we were hesitant as it looked very much like a private driveway (signage says Blackbird’s Farm/ Lees Lane Nursery/Mobility Store) but according to our trusty Ordnance Survey map, it was a public footpath so went down it. Towards the rear of the property, we saw the all-important way markers and a stile so headed over it.

Eventually we came to a field and spotted a bridge over the River Douglas in the distance.

However, before that, we had a challenge we just couldn’t avoid – a

50

field full of cows. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love animals but these cows were a bit too friendly for my liking. Jack didn’t seem to mind them and pleasantly sauntered off like he was on a Sunday stroll. I, on the other hand, hot-footed it towards the bridge. Once safely out of harm’s way, we headed off towards the Leeds-Liverpool canal. We went over a stile and ended up at what felt, again, to be

Parbold

Lee d

& Li

verp

ool

like private property with some well- tended grass and bushes adorning the landscape. Just to the right was a rather pleasant and unexpected feature of this walk, a memorial stone showing the site of the Old Douglas Chapel, which existed for 400 years Hill Parbold before being demolished in 1875. The memorial A5209 cross is carved from the old church’s threshold stone, and erected in 1906 as a lasting memory of

Can a

l

Old Douglas Chapel Cross

River Do

uglas

Blackbird’s Farm

Lan

e

Le e

nge

on

sL

an

e

Du

Lower House Farm Lees Lane

Dalton her

Hig e

Lan eys

H ng

e

Lan

Lo Deacon Lane

Ashurst’s Hall

De

aco

nL

ane

Ashurst’s Beacon

Start/Finish

Skelmersdale

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.

51

somewhere which was clearly an important focal point for this rural community. Once past the stone, and a cluster of old dwellings, we carried on, taking the towpath on the Dalton side heading towards Wigan. Although he maintained his usual ice-cool exterior throughout, I suspect the recent bovine drama must have caused Jack some anxiety as he decided to crouch down by the canal and take some hearty slurps to quench his very sudden thirst. Once suitably refreshed, we started to head back, over the Douglas and headed towards Keckle Hey Wood.

The pathway went past a few barn conversions on the right, before emerging on to Lees Lane. Going left, it was a short walk before we turned up the track opposite Lower House Farm. We headed up through Wigan Lane Wood and started to get some lovely views towards Standish, with Winter Hill in the distance. We continued heading southwards before taking a right onto Long Heys Lane. It’s at this point the walk becomes quite steep so, in anticipation of the energy sapping gradient I was about to embark upon, I cracked open one of my choccie bars and steeled myself for the challenge. I’ve no idea how Jack – at this point on his lead due to the frequency of vehicles using the road - managed it without

Puzzle

solutions

refuelling but he did. After about 10 minutes or so, we spotted a small path off to the right and headed down it. Cross the driveway to Bradshaw Farm and Bradshaw Barn and head off again into the wooded area which adjoins the properties. Before long, the pathway comes out near the Beacon and, five miles later, the walk was complete.

All in all this was a very enjoyable afternoon. Due to the informal nature of some of the pathways, and some possible confusion which can arise due to lack of signage, you do need to keep your wits about you. But the rewards are plentiful; beautiful buildings, historical points of interest, stunning views. And If that doesn’t grab you, then there’s always the lure of a pocket full of free conkers…

Scruffy To Fluffy Leigh Bennet Dog Groomer City and Guilds Qualified

Bathe your pet in luxury

07342692146 ScruffyToFluffybyLeigh

Scruffy-fluffybyleigh@outlook.com

52

Home Services

Decorators, plumbers, builders...

Call Paul

Locksmiths EstablishEd 2000

• Emergency door Opening • uPVC door lock Repairs • uPVC door lock Changes • uPVC door lock upgrades • Wood door lock Changes • all Work Guaranteed a Registered insured NCFE Certified Company call Paul For A fast, Reliable, Professional service

tELEPhoNE

moBiLE

01744 526 589 / 07932 718 362 WWW.CALLPAULLOCKSMITH.CO.UK

• Drains unblocked

• Gullies & Interceptors emptied

• Drains traced

• Septic tanks emptied • CCTV drain surveys

Need an Upholsterer?

Upholstery & Re-Upholstery Services Curtains & Blinds supplied and fitted Contract polishing

Willco Interior Furnishings

• Wincan Reporting

• Site drain surveys

FREEPHONE - 03333 202189

07826 599 599 Domestic & commercial work welcomed

• High pressure water jetting

Based in Appley Bridge

www.cj-lyon.co.uk email – info@cj-lyon.co.uk

53

AG E S

A CLE

A

UPVC CLEANING

CK

LL

20% OFF N

I N G PA

• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.

CONSERVATORIES

• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)

JETWASHING

• Driveways & Patios etc.

EXTERIOR PAINTING NEW Service Wash

Clothes & Duvets Washed, Dried & Folded Domestic cleaning Oven cleaning Carpet cleaning Ironing service Dry cleaning

01257 806 134 www.dreamcleanswigan.co.uk 3, Station Road, Parbold, WN8 7NU OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK: Monday to Saturday, 9:30am - 5pm

• Fascias, Rendered Walls etc.

Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.

01695 372 371 or 07834 241 642 www.justcleanpropertycare.co.uk

S TA I N E D G L A S S R E PA I R S

Restorations & repairs • New Commissions welcomed Stained glass craft workshops – ask for details

Mike Allen Glass

The Old Stables, Mill Lane, Burscough, L40 5TJ Call: 0750 212 0453 E-mail: mikeallenglass@hotmail.co.uk www.mikeallenglass.co.uk

Say “NO” to wet carpets!

Dry Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Our unique dry cleaning method leaves your CARPETS clean, DRY and READY FOR IMMEDIATE USE.

Deep cleans and sanitises You will our Fully insured Dry Cleaning System!

Safe for children and pets FREE Stain Guard on all carpets Specialists in leather and Family run business upholstery suites

New Dry Cleaning Professional Oven Cleaning FREE Collection and Delivery

Call Jason to arrange a free quotation

0800 180 4520 www.zerodrytime.com

3 Church House, Park Road, Ormskirk, L39 3AJ

Tel: 01695 577 695

www.ormskirkcleaners.co.uk

54

Shevington El ect ri cal S er v ic e s L td NAPIT part ‘P’ registered JIB Approved Technician 31 Years Experience

Local. Honest & Reliable Domestic Industrial & Commercial

Covering all North West Areas.

Call: 0800 6446100 or 07904 127663 www.shevington-electrical-services.co.uk

General Building & Maintenance Work • General Joinery • Fascias, Gutters, Roofing • Plastering & Texture Rendering • Double Glazing • Flagging Driveways & Patios Call Paul for a free quotation on

01695 578495 or 07944 550268

Does your home need extending or adapting?

• Bedroom and shower room extensions • Seamlessly add space to your home

HYBRO LIMITED SPECIALISTS IN HOME EXTENSIONS

email: hybro.ltd@aol.com

01695 581 489

Taylor Made Taylor Made Handyman The complete A to Z of Home Improvements Inside and Out

Darren Taylor

01704 840 373 07791 291 743 Full Public Liability Insurance.

ELECTRIC GATE REPAIR All Makes Installed, Repaired & Serviced Local Family Business We can even automate your existing gates Telephone:

01704 543311 / 07870 586307

Automatic Gates Installation • Service • Repair Telephone

07768 314 082 or 01257 795 242

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

ally

rm

£20

w no

no

Saving money is the clear benefit!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

£1

Wind Turbines Heat Pumps

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

For more information call

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 NG SERVICI

VAN CAR & motorcycles too es E ...and Lash Tan Book X y your FREE Spra H ils home survey eds A k Sunb & GeTl Na Health ChecTelephone: 01257 427 000 ic Car U rton Acryl Y n and Brethe S Crosto Don’t forget, we also offer all of theseEnergy services daily...

Savings

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

01695 627 999

FREE Dennis Goulding

s Natalie

Mossy Lea Road

‘We love the jobs you hate’

l Geails N 5

Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service

A49

Experienced, Local and Honest.

Design & Print B5250

From Cleaning Gutters to Full House Refurbishments / Buy to Lets

Contact:

84

Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RS (Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)

and we’ll provide you with a detailed report showing the returns available from- 12:00 yournoon Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am own solar panels www.dglwindows.co.uk

J27 dio residents me! return) T R Stu @ for all7PG me until you needCheck E e WN5Keep S HealthVisit our showroom at , Billing 400 FREE Car on - 6PM Unit 4a, Road S 4 619 your ford ay 10AM now Book Cricket : 0781 A5209

Shevington

Saturd hone : 84 Rain - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM y

Call

, Friday & Sunda ngineers esday Thursday TwinLakesMotorE ay, Wedn Closed

ay, Tuesd

Mond

of

(10% typical

Standish

01772

REPAIR

603923

Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan.

DING 7TP & WEL WN6

Slash your electricity and water heating bill

Protect your household from future energy price rises Reduce your household’s impact on the environment

Call us now

0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or

Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk

we make it our business to help yours

Suffering from poor reception?

SK Installations are accredited experts in Aerial & Satellite work We also install wall mount TV’s, phone extensions, home entertainment systems & CCTV

Fast response and quality work guaranteed!

Tel: 01704 89 40 89

www.sk-installationsltd.co.uk

GARAGE DOOR

REPAIRS

All GARAGE DOORS REPAIRED : Springs, Cables, Locks, Rollers etc.

Doors of all ages repaired

01704 833332 07891 330214 NO FIX, NO CHARGE! www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk Unit 3 Stephensons Way, Formby, L37 8EG

55

M H Roofing Ltd

Established over 15 years Friendly advice and competitive rates No job too small

• High Performance Felt Flat Roof Systems • Storm Damage and Insurance Work • Slating and Tiling full roofs • Poiniting and Guttering • Fascia Boards

Call 01744 884117 or 07702 693225

www.mhroofingltd.co.uk

Fully Insured & Insurance Backed Guarantees

Do you need a Tree Surgeon?

• • • • • • •

Advertise

here

Advertise your business in this section for £35 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

All Aspects Of Tree Work RFS Certified Tree Surgeons Garden Tree & Hedge Specialist TPO Application, Tree Planting Fully Insured. NPTC Certified All Pruning To BS3998 WLBC Approved Arboricultural Contractor

Call now for your free quote

01704 822 403 07841 508 288

Rufford

Proud stockists of

Visit our showroom to view our fine selection of...

Bespoke Curtains & Blinds | Fabrics | Carpets | Wallcoverings & Paint Curtain Poles | Plantation Shutters | Accessories for the home

Full design service available from qualified interior designers

Millan Interiors, 5/7 Mill Lane, Parbold WN8 7NW

T: 01257 46 34 77

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10.00am - 4.30pm, Saturday: 10.00am - 2.00pm

www.millaninteriors.co.uk