Local Life - Wigan - February 2018

LocalLife Wigan Edition

February 2018

The spy who loved

Wigan Pages 48

Lonely without you Pages 36

Cronton Walk Pages 75

Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Garden Diary Event2Go Home Services locallife247.co.uk

Lordy Close, Standish

£300,000

Ince Hall Ave, Ince

£300,000

Set in a quiet residential close this beautiful 4-bed detached home with attractive gardens has stunning open views to the rear over Haigh County Park.

A truly impressive 3-bed detached bungalow with a beautiful open plan lounge diner and a stunning fitted kitchen set within ¼ acre of land.

Broomfield Cottage, Standish £300,000

Woodhurst Drive, Standish

This 5-bed former coach house on Bradley Lane offers 2,600 sq ft of charming accommodation including a master bedroom with a stunning vaulted ceiling.

This immaculately presented 4-bed detached family home with a stunning open plan living kitchen, is on one of Standish’s most popular developments.

Shevington Moor, Standish

Hesketh Drive, Standish

£275,000

This newly-refurbished stylish 2-bed bungalow, with its open plan lounge/kitchen leading to a beautiful garden, can only truly be appreciated by viewing.

£275,000

£260,000

This modern 4-bed detached home offers neutrally presented accommodation in a private close, and has a spacious plot with a generous rear garden.

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NEW PRICE Fellside, Whelley

£230,000

Edgeway Road, Hawkley

£225,000

An exceptionally large 4-bed detached home, located on a large plot in a quiet cul-de-sac, with a high level of presentation throughout and a large rear garden.

This generously proportioned and well-presented 4-bed detached home with a fabulous kitchen and sun room is located on one of Wigan’s most popular estates.

Pepper Lane, Standish

Riverdale Close, Standish LG

£220,000

£220,000

Immaculately presented, this 3-bed semi-detached home with period features offers an open plan layout, a beautiful rear garden and ample off road parking.

Perfectly positioned, is this beautifully maintained 4-bed detached family home which sits in a quiet cul-de-sac and overlooks Christopher Park to the rear.

Swinley Lane, Swinley

£190,000

Brooklands Road, Up Holland £170,000

This delightful 4-bed terraced family home, located near Mesnes Park is well equipped, tastefully decorated and retains much of its traditional character.

This 3-bed semi-detached dormer bungalow is cleverly laid out with many interior and exterior design features which combine to create a stunning family home.

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Copyhold Farm, Wrightington - OIRO ÂŁ800,000

Very rarely does a property like this come up for sale. Parts of Copyhold Farm date back to the early 1600s and many original features have been retained.

Set within excess of 3 acres of gardens and pastures, this superb 4 bed family home also offers potential for equestrian use.

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Planning

F

ahead

ebruary is very definitely a month for planning.

House improvements, extensions and garden makeovers; you name it, February is the perfect month for planning ahead, assuming you’ve managed to pay off the credit card bills in January that is. You’ll find numerous very capable businesses and long-established local tradespeople to help you in Local Life, so do give them a call for some friendly advice.

February is also a great month for planning forthcoming community events. If you’re launching a new event or you want to publicise an existing event in 2018, Local Life can help you do this. Coffee mornings, car boot sales, charity nights, village fetes, art exhibitions, school fayres, craft festivals, organised walks, street markets, music concerts; you name it, you can publicise these absolutely free and to thousands of Local Life readers.

Simply visit our website www.locallife247.co.uk and click on ‘Events2Go’, then ‘Upload your Event’. Or you can visit locallife247.co.uk/events/community/add There is absolutely no charge and you can even upload an image for the event. Please upload your event by the first of the month for the month after – so by the 1st March for the April issue and so on.

We’re celebrating a big birthday in 2018 – in May it is our 10th anniversary. Suffice to say, the party is one thing we haven’t planned yet because we’re too busy planning our 2018 magazines for you; Sounds like a job for February!

See you next time

Chris Pearce - Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

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In this issue The spy who loved

Wigan

Regulars 26 Planning 66 Events2Go 43 Class From The Past 82 Garden Diary 52 Puzzle Corner 98 The Lump

Sections 48 Cutting

6 Property 8 Local News 54 Health 60 Legal & Finance

62 Business View 71 Food & Drink 82 Gardening 86 Home Services

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54 Low-carb

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71 Jack’s Tracks visits

Cronton

75 Test Drive

Range Rover Sport 79 locallifemagazine247

Published - Wednesday, 21 February

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

Telephone: 01695 627 999 Publisher: Chris Sales: Nicola, Sally Editorial: David Design: Peter Distribution: Sally Accounts: Sam

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk sales@locallife247.co.uk wigannews@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk sallyb@locallife247.co.uk accounts@locallife247.co.uk

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

This issue is delivered to 13,039 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh.

The next issue is delivered to 13,034 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton.

You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan.

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.

@locallifemedia

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Homes on ex-pub car

park?

Fresh proposals have been put forward to develop a former pub car park in Standish Lower Ground.

to be material planning considerations which significantly outweigh this impact and can be treated as very special circumstances that can be used to justify the proposed development.

Plans have been unveiled to build three detached bungalows at the old Royal Oak Hotel on Wigan Lower Road.

“Due to the fact that the Royal Oak is no longer a drinking or eating establishment and has been redeveloped into a high quality apartment scheme, the application site no longer has any purpose. It is now a relatively large piece of hardstanding in the Green Belt and nothing else. It is suggested that it would be reasonable and logical to use it to provide much needed housing to the borough.

A previous application to redevelop the site was rejected last August, with the council claiming it would “represent inappropriate development” in the green belt.

Documents lodged with Wigan Council state: “While the introduction of three houses to the site would undoubtedly have a degree of impact on the openness of the Green Belt, there are considered

“It has been confirmed by Wigan Council that there is a clear identified need for bungalows in the borough.

“There were extremely limited objections to the previous application thus indicating that there is a desire to see this site developed from the locals. This is not unsurprising given the potential for the site to become unkempt – or even worse – occupied by trespassers.

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“A high quality, well landscaped residential scheme such as the one proposed will be much more pleasing on the eye in this Green Belt location than a vacant car park and fencing.

“While it is appreciated that it is challenging to justify residential development on Green Belt sites, this particular site is considered to be unusual in Green Belt terms and its development in the manner proposed makes a lot of sense given the reasons above which are considered to amount to very special circumstances.

“This planning application presents Wigan Council with the opportunity to approve the development of three much needed bungalows for the borough and at the same time, by doing so, remove a host of potential issues that could be associated with a vacant piece of hardstanding in the Green Belt.”

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More Wiganers online

Protecting victims

The number of people in Wigan who are ‘digitally excluded’ has been cut. The area’s rate for people are aren’t online was downgraded to ‘low’ in the UK Consumer Digital Index. The news comes after Wigan Council revealed that almost a third of the borough’s residents have signed up for an online account to access council services. The cash-strapped authority has been pushing people to sign up to their My Account service in a bid to reduce costs.

The safeguarding team at WWL flagged increased

Wigan Council launched My Account in 2015 and more than 100,000 people have now signed up - with almost 50 per cent of them making a transaction in the last six months. Lesley O’Halloran, assistant director for customer services at Wigan Council, said: “ Digital services are cost effective and help us keep council tax low. In times of austerity, our council tax remains one of the lowest in Greater Manchester.”

levels of domestic violence within the Borough.

2016-2017 figures on domestic abuse were obtained from the Wigan Borough Domestic Abuse multi-agency steering group.

A representative for the Trust said: “The hospital Trust has a number of initiatives on-going to address domestic abuse; we have a Domestic Abuse Policy for staff and service users, Trust wide Domestic Abuse Awareness Training, Staff who are Domestic Abuse ‘champions’.

“The Trust has also been involved in a joint initiative with Wigan Borough Council to pilot a hospital based Independent Domestic Violence Advisor on site, this has had encouraging results.

“Overall, staff at WWL now have a greater awareness of domestic abuse and further work this area is ongoing.”

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Rotary’s huge

success

Wigan Rotary Club’s annual Christmas collection proved to be a huge success thanks to local residents.

The staff from Wigan Council including their chief executive and directors, joined in the fun at Tesco who have been a huge support throughout the year.

Father Christmas, accompanied by his little helpers at Wigan Rotary Club raised £14,063 throughout December.

Local businesses, the major supermarkets and all the willing pairs of hands all helped with the fundraising efforts, showing fantastic community spirit.

Wigan Rotary president Gwyneth Millard said: “Thank you to all the great people of Wigan who have donated so generously throughout December.

“We met some fantastic people on the routes and at the supermarkets and with this record collection we can continue to support the work of community groups in Wigan.

“The Club is grateful to all its sponsors, however Westwood Van Hire, Local Life, The 78 Club do need special thanks for their remarkable contribution.”

Wigan Rotary Club meets weekly on a Thursday at 12.30pm. at the Owls in Standish. For more information contact Colin Wilkinson on 01942 742692 or go to www.wiganrotaryclub.org.uk

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Festive joy Congratulations to Standish resident Tracey Fletcher who was one of the lucky winners of a Local Life festive hamper.

Tracey, of Spiredale Brow, received her basket of goodies just before Christmas after entering our competition. Other winners were Sharon Grayston, of Cricketers Green, Eccleston, Chorley; Kaye Willan, of Crossgill, Astley; Kathryn Adamson, of Regal Drive, Windle, St Helens and Sarah Williams, of Beechwood Drive, Ormskirk.

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Makerfield (pictured); Emily Evans, of Tatham Grove, Winstanley; Eileen Graham of Turnditch Close, Wigan; Joanne Barr, of Munro Avenue, Orrell, and Suzanne Cotton, of Dingle Avenue, Appley Bridge.

Well done as well to Barbara Griffiths, of Gawsworth Road, Golborne, (pictured) who won £500 worth of vouchers for OD’s designer clothing in St Helens.

Remember, to be in with a chance of winning one of our great prizes, keep reading Local Life!

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Pay boost Apprentices in Wigan will receive a boost thanks to a living wage pledge by the leader of Wigan Council.

Lord Peter Smith has increased the rate of pay to the national living wage rate of £7.50 an hour for more than 50 apprentices at Wigan Council.

This means, some apprentices received an increase in pay of more than £1,500 a year and the wage has been back-paid to April.

The council employs apprentices in all areas of its work including administrational, environmental services and social care.

Lord Smith said: “At Wigan Council we are fully committed to apprenticeships as a proven way for young people to gain the experience and skills of work while earning a wage.”

The boost was welcomed by apprentices Cory Hope, 19, Joe Lally, 25, and Jake Deakin, 20 all first year apprentices who work in the council’s Greenspaces horticultural department.

Joe said: “We received a letter to say we were getting an increase in our wage. It was a nice surprise!”

Cory added: “It means we are all being paid the same which is good. We are all being treated as equals.”

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Mindful

fashion

A Wigan man has found strength in fashion when it comes to coping with his mental health.

Matthew also backs the local #TogetherWeCan campaign, which hopes to encourage people living with a mental illness or those who notice a dip in their mental health to seek help.

Matthew, 28, was diagnosed with depression in 2015 after a constant battle with suicidal thoughts and feelings of uselessness led Matthew to not want to leave his home.

Professor Kate Ardern, director for public health at Wigan Council said: “We want to work together with health providers, volunteers and residents to make sure everybody knows that help is available on both a national and a local scale.”

For more information about the campaign, visit wigan.gov.uk/togetherwecan or to get involved, please email publichealth@wigan.gov.uk

Since receiving help, he wants to help others too and in 2017 kick-started clothing brand ‘Behind a Smile’ which hopes to remove the stigma surrounding mental health, and help those affected by it through collaborative designs.

He said: “I want people to know that there doesn’t always have to be a big event in your life that can change your mental health. For me it was a buildup of things that I didn’t know how to manage and eventually it took its toll.”

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Simply the best Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Cancer Services have been ranked number one out of 135 NHS Trusts.

activity; continued improved compliance with SACT (Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy) dataset; lung chemotherapy regimen now in use at Wigan.

WWL has beaten other NHS Trusts across the country to the top position when it comes to beginning patient treatment after urgent GP referral.

As well as the continued expansion of chemotherapy regimens used locally, offering more treatment options for metastatic disease, and fortunately there is now a blood service on bank holidays to ensure a smooth running service.

From April 2016 to April 2017 ‘The Christie’ has provided approximately 5,000 chemotherapy and supportive treatments, an increase of 1500 on the previous year.

The strong working relationship between WWL and Christie hospitals has enabled the centre to provide: increased chemotherapy treatment

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Fungi in the

park

A number of trees in Haigh Woodland Park have been felled due to an outbreak of parasitic fungi.

Dozens of specimens needed to be cut down in the Higher Plantations while other trees in the area have also been marked for removal following talks with the Forestry Commission.

Park users have been informed that trees in the woodland away from main paths have been left alone as these will not endanger routes used by walkers.

It’s also worth noting the Forestry Commission has said any felled timber should be left where it falls to ensure the spread of potential diseases are contained.

Penny McGinty, the council’s assistant contracts director, said: “The trees which have been felled at Haigh have been identified to have a parasitic fungi, which cause trees to fracture or fall and leads to imminent danger.

“We will continue to conduct further risk surveys until all immediate priority trees have been dealt and then we will continue to monitor the woodland.”

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Standish Cricket Club has launched a fundraising appeal to raise money after a break in and burglary over the Christmas holidays.

Thieves broke into the club’s pavilion at the end of Green Lane and emptied out the stock from the cellar, as well as causing substantial damage to the club’s interior and exterior.

The club hopes to raise £1,500 through its crowdfunding campaign to bring the club back to its former glory.

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Standish Cricket Club has said: “Thank you all for the many kind messages received in support of this (your) community asset.”

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If you’d like to donate, please visit www.justgiving. com/crowdfunding/standishcricketclub

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Planning Matters Aspull 34 Cross Street: To extend dwellinghouse single storey to rear (ref: A/17/84917/HH).

Shevington Launswood Wigan Road: To construct two-storey detached house and double garage following demolition of storage barn (ref: A/17/84915/FULL).

Land Adjacent 45-51 Inward Drive: Installation of 4 parking bays (ref: A/17/84793/FULL).

Standish 14 Wilkesley Avenue: To extend dwellinghouse first floor over existing single storey extension and single storey to rear, including balcony to rear (ref: A/17/84938/HH).

Jolly Mill Cottage, Chorley Road: Erection of detached double garage to side, shed to rear and summer house to rear to decked area following minor engineering works (ref: A/17/84803/HH).

Dam House Farm, Bradley Lane: Demolition of existing workshop and erection of one detached dwelling (ref: A/17/84895/FULL).

Standish Lower Ground Car Park Royal Oak Hotel 56 Wigan Lower Road: Erection of three detached bungalows, associated parking and landscaping, together with formation of new vehicular access on Wigan Lower Road (ref: A/18/84977/FULL).

Wigan 2 Bishopgate: Change of Use of premises to Authentic Thai Massage Use (ref: A/17/84997/CU).

Walmsley House 35 Dicconson Street: Change of use from A2 to residential apartments (C3a) comprising of 11 apartments together with external alterations to include, new roof lights, boundary treatment and new window openings (ref: A/17/84906/MAJOR).

For more information on these plans, visit www.wigan.gov.uk

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Property

Blame

game

by Alan Batt

T

alk to any group of UK 20-somethings and you’ll sense a simmering resentment of the Baby Boomer generation and the benefits they have enjoyed; free university education with grants, eye watering property windfalls, golden final salary pensions and even free bus passes.

council houses and Nigel Lawson’s delayed ending of the MIRAS tax relief in 1987. The Blair/Brown combo doubled stamp duty in 1997 and again in 2000, which, as a tax on property transactions, precludes a more efficient distribution of the current housing stock.

But to blame Baby Boomers seems a little unfair and I don’t believe they can be censured or made liable for the rise in property values – society just reacted to the inducements of our property and tax system. Those who joined the property market party in the 1970’s and 1980’s were able to take out huge mortgages, protected in the knowledge that inflation would corrode the real value of the mortgage, while wage gains would boost their ability to repay.

Neither do I directly blame the multitude of Wigan buy to let landlords, buying up their 10th or 11th property to add to their buy to let empire. They too are just reacting to the peculiar historic inducements of the UK property market.

So, who is to blame?

Margaret Thatcher and Nigel Lawson are good people to blame with Maggie selling off millions of

Alan Batt Alan Batt is a member of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and has worked within the Wigan property market for over 30 years.

Over the last few years though, I’ve seen a change in Government policy towards housing. The new breed of Wigan buy-to-let landlords that have come about since the Millennium, have had their wings clipped over the last couple of years, with the introduction of new tax rules (meaning it is slightly more difficult to make money out of property unless you have all the national information and Wigan property trends to hand).

It’s easy to blame landlords for pricing first time buyers out of the Wigan housing market, but I don’t think it’s entirely fair. With first time buyers struggling to save for a deposit, if it weren’t for those landlords buying up those homes over the last 10/15 years, we would have a bigger housing crisis than we have today. Local councils certainly haven’t had enough

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30 money to build new homes, so the homes owned by buy to let landlords have allowed many youngsters to enter a rental market.

One side of the argument is that 1,000 homes are being bought up by buy to let landlords each year in the Wigan when otherwise they might have become available to other buyers, the other side of the argument is the current national average deposit is £51,800, which is, by far, the greatest barrier to

those wanting to buy their first home. Those homes bought by local buy to let landlords are not left idle, as they equate to 7,000 homes for local people, most of whom who now see renting as a better option because of the choice, the simplicity and the flexibility which renting brings.

So, next time your 20-something starts the blame game argument, just remind them that sometimes situations aren’t as cut and dried as they seem.

Rising costs for

mortgage holders Wigan homeowners will be among those affected by the latest rise in the Bank of England interest rates in November. This was the first increase in 10 years; from 0.25 percent to 0.5 per cent. This uplift comes as inflation hits 3.1%, the highest rate for six years, whilst the national unemployment rate is at an all-time low of 4.3 per cent.

The rise will cost Wigan homeowners on average an extra £158.77 per year.

So, what will this interest rate actually do to the Wigan housing market?

Well, if I’m being frank – not a great deal. Nowadays only 42.3% of homeowners have mortgages with variable rate mortgages (and thus directly affected by a Bank of England rate rise), and most people now have mortgages with fixed interest rates, so there is less chance of people having to sell their properties because they can’t afford the monthly repayments.

Because UK inflation levels are rising and the Bank of England is tasked to keep inflation at 2 per cent, interest rate rises might be on the cards in 2018 as increasing interest rates tends to dampen inflation. Fundamentally though, the British economy is in decent shape and as people will always need housing, even if we see a slight dip in prices in the short term, in the medium to long term, the Wigan property market will always remain strong for both homeowners and landlords alike.

If you are looking for an agent that is well established, professional and communicative, then contact us to find out how we can get the best out of your investment property.

Email me on alan@alanbatt.co.uk or call on 01942 233999

For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis on the Wigan property market, check out www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk

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Nearest care bed ‘in A West Lancashire patient who needed a care bed was told the nearest one was over 200 miles away... in Somerset.

Somerset’ and this has reduced them significantly in the last calendar year. Demand in Lancashire for secondary/ specialist mental health services is almost 3 times the level of demand in other parts of the country.

That’s the claim which was made in a parliamentary question to the Under Secretary of State for Health

by West Lancs MP.

“There are still significant delays to discharge due to a lack of onward provision in the care home sector.

This impacts on the Trust’s ability to deal with demand due to a lack of available beds.”

Ms Cooper said the matter involved Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust, and called on the

In response to the MP’s question, government minister Jackie Doyle Price said: “Day to day

Government to investigate.

operational decisions about the management of individual patients are a matter for NHS England and/or the trusts with responsibility for patient care.

When contacted by Local Life, the Trust said ‘out of area’ placements are now down to fewer than 20.

A spokeswoman added: “The Trust has been working hard to reduce out of area placements by putting in place local clinically appropriate options

“Inappropriate out of area placements are unacceptable and the Government has set a target to eliminate these in non-specialist, acute mental health care by 2020/21.”

35

New councillor

Tell Us Your Story!

Shevington has a new councillor. Marlaine Whitham, of Labour, was victorious in the by-election just before Christmas. The poll was called following the resignation of Damian Edwardson. The full results were as follows: Janet Brown (Shevington Independents) - 552 votes Callum Chadwick (Conservatives) - 402 votes Joshua Hindle (Lib Dems) - 15 votes Joseph Rylance (Greens) - 30 votes Marlaine Witham (Labour) - 765 votes Turnout in the election was 18.7% Meanwhile, there is set to be another Wigan Council by-election soon following the controversial resignation of Bryn councillor Steve Jones. The independent claims that he had rescinded his resignation, but was told by the council that, by law, he could not do that, and that a fresh poll would have to be held.

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!

Simply email us at wigannews@locallife247.co.uk

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Lonely without you Loneliness can affect anyone at anytime, as George Fairhurst knows only too well.

The Standish pensioner recently lost his wife of 50plus years, Maria, to cancer. The shock of her not being there has left him bereft.

“Night time is the worst, and getting up in the mornings, as she’s no longer there. During the day, you can keep busy but it’s those times which are the most difficult.

“Maria was just brilliant. She’d look after me, and I’d often say to her ‘how did I end up with someone as fantastic as you?’ We met at the old Ritz Cinema on Station Road in Wigan Town Centre, which is where the Grand Arcade is now. We got married at Wigan Parish Church in 1965.”

The issue of loneliness is now firmly on the national agenda, with local authorities routinely collecting

data to pinpoint ‘hotspots.’ For Wigan, the highest concentrations are by far in the less well-off areas such as Ince, Scholes, Whelley, Abram and Platt Bridge, which has double the amount of lonely over 65s compared to Standish and Shevington.

George, who is also a Standish councillor on Wigan Council, has now set up the Standish Bereavement Group in order to help those who, like him, have had to come to terms with their new-found loss of companionship.

“It’s not just for people in Standish, we welcome anyone and everyone,” says George, 76.

“It’s not a professional counselling service though.

It’s simply a place where you can chat with people who have been through similar circumstances.”

The Standish Bereavement Group meets on the first Tuesday of the month, 1.30pm at the Lychgate Tavern, Church Street, Standish. For more information, contact George on 012578 400251 or email george.fairhurst@blueyonder. co.uk

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38

All things Artisan There’s a new Artisan Market open in the heart of Wigan on the second Saturday of every month.

Wigan Auction House only opened its doors in September, but now locals can enjoy an Artisan Market too.

Janice Halliwell, of Wigan Auction House, said: “We wanted to bring good quality food producers and really nice, original handmade foods and products together.”

Expect to see organic meat and dairy, homemade artisan pies and cakes, arts and crafts, bespoke kids’ clothing, collectables and more.

The first market, held in December, saw a good turnout - so much so all the stallholders will be making their way back again soon.

Janice said: “We have a fully licensed bar; Parbold resident Jenny Wren does delicious pies, cakes and really nice big cookies.

“We’ve got the Travelling Pizza Company too, and Cook and Forage sold a lot of their meat products in December.”

Wigan Auction House also has an auction on the first Saturday of every month.

Auction items can be viewed the week before online for anyone on the lookout.

For more details visit wiganauctionhouse.co.uk

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39

Greener village

A cycling project in Standish to restore an old mineral line has been given the green light.

‘The Line’, a former railway track in Standish has been given the go ahead after an objection to the scheme was withdrawn.

The planned works by Wigan Council as part of The Deal will upgrade the muddy track to the village and Standish High School to a surfaced and lit walking, cycling and bridle path.

It will be accessible all year round, providing an easier way to travel into Standish, and will hopefully prompt people to leave cars at home.

Funding for the project comes from Section 106 contributions from developers building new homes in Standish.

The route will run from School Lane through to Brookfield Road for a more direct and safer off-road connection to Shevington Moor.

Cllr David Molyneux, deputy leader at the council, said: “This is the long-awaited good news we have been hoping for. We know how much residents in Standish want The Line project to happen and we’re glad we can finally get it moving.”

Please visit www.wigan.gov.uk/cycling for updates on the project.

40

Flying low New stats reveal fly tipping incidents in Wigan Borough are declining and recycling rates are rising.

According to Wigan Council figures, there has been a 35% reduction in fly tipping reports, falling from 2,105 reports in 2016 to 1,373 in 2017.

The council says this is all down to a proactive approach, as well as the introduction of a new environmental enforcement and education team.

But good news for the environment doesn’t stop there as residents are recycling more than ever, and the borough’s recycling rate is set to beat central government’s 50% target.

As part of The Deal, the more people recycle and dispose of their waste correctly the more money

the council saves helping it to keep council tax low.

The environmental enforcement team tackle all types of environmental crime, including fly tipping, littering and dog fouling. They are also trialling CCTV cameras which will help them catch offenders.

Councillor Kevin Anderson, cabinet member for environment, said: “This is great news to start the New Year and we’d like to say a big thank you to residents for recycling more and for doing their bit to look after the environment.”

To report a fly tipping incident visit www.wigan. gov.uk/reportit or download the council’s Report It app via your smartphone. For more information about recycling visit www.wigan.gov.uk/recycling

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Never giving up A Wigan charity focussed on getting people off the streets and their lives back on track has returned.

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Helping the Homeless Wigan had to shut down operations after more than a year of supporting vulnerable people in the borough in October 2017.

But founders Dawn French and Lana Nocker, both from Kitt Green, couldn’t walk away without a fight and are re-launching the charity, which focuses on support and hopes to prevent people from sleeping rough.

Dawn said: “We’re needed out there. We are seeing how things seem to be going backwards with more people on the streets. I’m absolutely made up about getting started again. We will be going out on the streets checking on people’s wellbeing and linking them back into services.

“We will provide help with benefits, drug and alcohol treatments and doctors’ appointments and we’ll also re-establish our connections with estate agents and housing providers.”

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More coppers for coppers?

More tax rises are set to hit the pockets of West Lancashire folk as of this spring.

Local Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw is planning to raise his part of the Council Tax in a bid to stave off frontline cuts. He claimed the rise could be anywhere between 6p per week and 40p a week.

Mr Grunshaw said: “With rising demands, increasing costs through inflation and growing online threats we cannot accept a further reduction in our police budget.”

“There has been widespread speculation that authorities such as councils and the fire service will cumatively put up bills beyond inflation this year.

It follows a number of years of Council Tax freezes.

West Lancs council leader Ian Moran also hinted that a rise this year will be on the cards: In previous years we have made savings while minimising any effects on services, but now these options are more difficult to find.”

45

46

Lead role for One of the borough’s leading schools is set to be converted into an academy.

Standish Community High School has joined the ranks of a multi-academy trust alongside Southlands High School in Chorley.

Both schools will no longer be under the control of their local authorities, with Standish High taking on the role of “lead” school in the in the amalgamation.

In a letter to parents, headteacher Andrew Pollard said: “I’m very happy to inform you that the twoyear partnership between Standish Community High School and Southlands High School has been formalised by the Department for Education as a Mosaic multi-academy trust.

“We intend to ensure both schools have excellent systems in place to promote the best teaching and

school learning, the most relevant curriculum for students and to provide safe and inspiring schools.

“In partnership we have already seen academic success in the 2017 results when Standish outperformed its previous year for progress and attainment.”

Stan Aspinall commented on Standish Voice’s Facebook post saying: “Well it’s really quite sad to think that after all Wigan has put into Standish High it has gone off to become an academy.

“It wasn’t what we fought for, way back in the 70s when there was a doubt about even building a new school in Standish.”

Standish High follows other schools converting into academies, including Orrell’s Dean Trust Wigan, Hawkley Hall High School, and Rose Bridge Academy in Ince.

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The female

Spy

Can you imagine having the power to save an empire in your underwear?

Niamh Ollerton digs into the life of a Wigan spy who did exactly that.

J

ames Bond may have taken down Jaws, Boris Grishenko and Le Chiffre, but would he have been brave enough to come face to face with one of the greatest war lords of our lifetime? Because a young, beautiful opera singer from Wigan did just that.

Margery Myers Booth Strohm was born in Hodges Street, Wigan in 1906, the daughter of Levi and Ada Booth. Not much is known about her childhood other than the family moved to Southport when she was young and evidently had a love for singing.

With this passion and talent realised, she trained all over the country including in Bolton with R. Evans, in Knightsbridge with Eileen D’Orme, and finally in 1925 attended the Guildhall School of Music with a scholarship under her belt.

Margery stayed true to her Wigan roots and returned to make her professional debut at the Queen’s Hall on October 4 1935; a fitting choice as she had been a part of Wigan’s Operatic Society since her teens and trained in Bolton.

But the lure of London must have been all too enticing as she made her Covent Garden debut in 1936, which further promoted her talent.

In the same year, Margery married a German, Dr Egon Strohm in Southport. The couple then made their home in Germany before the outbreak of WWII. The relocation proved fruitful for Margery as she soon become a part of the Berlin State Opera and appeared at the Wagner Festivals in Bayreuth. By the outbreak of WWII, Margery

49 was going places in her career, including her most famous casting as Carmen.

In 1933, Margery was, shall we say *graced* with Hitler’s presence, when the German leader visited her dressing room to gift her 200 roses wrapped in a swastika for her performance.

Obviously enchanted by the starlet, Hitler chose her to sing as an example of Germany’s cultural dominance and superiority over Europe. Although her loyalty remained with Britain, the Nazis mistook her as one of their own, and she was asked to sing at a British Prisoner of War camp in Genshagen.

Even when singing for the enemy, her love for her birthplace was obvious as she began all performances introducing herself, “I’m Margery Booth from Wigan.”

German officials hoped the British Prisoner of War camps – nicknamed ‘Holiday Camps’ – would persuade British soldiers to defect to the Nazi cause, head back into the British forces (the British Free Corps) and work as spies.

she went on stage at the Berlin State Opera to perform for Hitler et al.

Margery had no choice but to put them under her dress, and performed for Hitler with secrets hidden in her underwear. The spies were lucky to have gotten away at all.

It was here, in 1943, soldier John Brown was transferred to Genshagen, pulling the wool over the eyes of the Nazis, and worked as a double agent against them. He and Booth soon started working together against their Nazi hosts to obtain details of traitors – such as William Joyce, known as Lord Haw Haw – and were both thoroughly questioned by the Gestapo on a regular basis.

One infamous story that is both brave and dangerous is when Brown handed Margery a pile of secret documents, ready to pass on to British Intelligence, minutes before

Margery Booth - singing at Stalag 111D

50 If Booth and Brown were unlucky enough to have been caught during their covert operation, the pair would have without a doubt headed for the firing squad.

who remained loyal to Britain while working for MI6 under extremely dangerous conditions; her bravery and sense of duty even saw her hiding escaped British airmen in her Berlin apartment.

After the war Brown wrote a book, ‘In Durance Vile’, and wrote that Margery was initially given personal assurances from Hitler and Goebbels that they would ‘deal with the matter personally’ if she was insulted because of her British birth.

But her course with the Nazis didn’t run smooth forever, and in early 1944 she was arrested and tortured by the Gestapo as a suspected spy. But her bravery didn’t falter as she refused to reveal any information.

Booth escaped Berlin during a bombing raid and returned to Britain where the information she provided helped in the Old Bailey trials of traitors Lord Haw Haw, and John Amery, who were hanged for treason.

However, Booth now divorced, recovered her British nationality and returned to live in Wigan.

But due to her German ties, she was treated like a pariah by neighbours and was unable to find work in the UK after some producers mistakenly concluded she had been a Nazi.

Emigrating to New York, on arrival she was referred to a doctor who diagnosed her with terminal cancer, which claimed her life soon after on Good Friday, 11 April 1952.

Miss Booth’s bravery has gone largely unrecognised, and calls for her to receive a posthumous honour have gone unheeded.

Richard Westwood-Brookes, of Mullock’s Auctions in Ludlow, Shropshire, said: ‘It is quite astonishing that the life and heroic activities of this opera singer are not widely known about.

But this is about to change, as Margery is the focal point of a film currently in production entitled ‘Margery Booth: The Spy in the Eagle’s Nest’ which focusses on the secret mission of Margery while she worked closely with Nazis.

The film will depict Hitler’s obsession of Margery,

We may need to allow poetic licencing for the film’s storyline, but expect to see Margery with Hitler on his birthday, and sending critical technical data back to Bletchley Park as a song to be decoded.

Her bravery in the film adaptation will also see her captured and tortured by the Gestapo.

The film also features some big names in the industry including Anna Friel as Margery Booth and Stephen Fry as Reichsmarschall Hermann Goering.

After many years in the shadows, this will be a fitting tribute to the brave opera singer from Wigan.

51

52

CROSSWORD Across:

Down:

7. Scrooge-Like (5,8)

1. Withered (4)

8. Treat (8)

2. Charge (6)

9. Infiltrator (4)

3. Raiment (7)

10. Beguiled (7)

4. Taunt (5)

12. Application (5)

5. Gland (6)

14. Sphere (5)

6. Pre-Smart Phone (8)

16. Circular (7)

11. Gravy Train (5-3)

19. Footwear (4)

13. Arbiter (7)

20. Capsize (8)

15. Honorary Rank (6)

22. Driving Aid (5,8)

17. Impending (6) 18. Lichen covered (5)

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56

Health & Fitness

Cutting

S

o there might be a super-size helping of clean-eating backlash simmering at the moment (hurrah!), but that doesn’t mean all notions of healthy-eating need to go out the window.

And this includes sugar. Luckily, when it comes to blatant sugar-fests (doughnuts, birthday cakes, family-sized Dairy Milks...), our nauseous stomachs make it clear when enough’s enough. Where it gets trickier though, is all this ‘hidden sugar’ malarkey (I mean, how does a few spoons of beans have more sugar than a biscuit?!). And then there’s fruit, and juice, and all the confusion around that.

So how can we have our cake and eat it - without totally screwing up our health goals? :: What’s wrong with sugar?

“For many of us brought up from the Sixties to the Eighties, Saturdays meant a trip to the corner shop or your local Woolworths to spend pocket money on as many sweets as you could fit into a pick ‘n’ mix bag. It was also commonplace to have a well-stocked biscuit tin in the kitchen,” says Rob Hobson, author of The Detox Kitchen Bible and head of nutrition at Healthspan (www.healthspan. co.uk). “ We’re now reaping the legacy of this, and of the food industry’s habit of slipping sugar

sugar

By Abi Jackson

into everything from soups to smoothies, in the epidemic of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and dementia. Highly refined sugars are the worst and have a dramatic effect on blood glucose levels.

In excess, these sugars are converted to blood fats called triglycerides, that may have a harmful effect on the liver and encourage the build-up of bad cholesterol, implicated in heart disease risk.” :: What’s being done about that?

Official bodies are “all over the message to cut down on sugar”, Hobson notes. In March last year, the WHO (World Health Organisation) urged us to “reduce ‘free’ sugars added during food processing, preparation or cooking, and in honey, syrups and fruit juice”. A few months on, the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN), which advises the government on diet, recommended slashing added sugars to 5% of daily calories - “half the previous recommended intake,” Hobson adds. Experts now agree we should aim for around six teaspoons of added sugars a day, but research suggests most of us consume around 12. :: Why is it so confusing?

“Unfortunately, it’s not easy to tell how much you consume, as sugar masquerades under many

57 different names. Fructose, for example, may appear on labels as itself or be concealed under the umbrella of sucrose, which is half fructose, half glucose,” explains Hobson.

“Weirdly, I sometimes find myself in defence of sugar, as some people begin to focus too much on this single nutrient and become obsessed with anything that contains a single grain of the stuff,” he adds. “A little is fine - and yes, soft drinks are a definite no-no - but worrying about yoghurts and the odd glass of fruit juice seems a bit over the top.

“It’s also funny that those worried about sugar turn to ‘natural’ alternatives that are essentially sugar, whether that’s in the form of agave, maple syrup, coconut sugar, date syrup or any other trendy food product. There is also a certain comfort and sense of occasion with sweet foods that you just can’t get from any others; a slice of birthday cake for example” :: One lump of common sense, or two dear?

“The key is to take a sensible approach to how you

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58 eat, and unfortunately that goes back to the adage of everything in moderation. Set a realistic goal for reducing sugar that you can stick with in the longterm, rather than go cold turkey,” says Hobson.

4. Sweet food swaps

Here are his seven top tips for reducing sugar...

Try sweetening foods with a little fresh or dried fruit or go for ‘sweet food options’ that are fruit based. A slice of malt loaf has a quarter of the sugar content and twice the fibre of a chocolate cookie.

1. Check the label

5. Include proteins and fats

Always check labels. Ingredients are listed in order of amount, so the nearer the top, the higher the quantity. Look for foods with green and amber traffic light labels.

A Mediterranean diet, with protein from fish, lean meat, cheese and yoghurt and healthy fats mainly from olive oil, nuts and seeds, will keep you more satisfied between meals, which in turn means you are less likely to reach for the biscuit tin.

2. Seek out certain ingredients Sucrose, glucose, fructose, or anything that ends in -ose, as well as healthier sounding alternatives, such as raw sugar, barley malt, maple syrup, coconut nectar, palm sugar, agave nectar, date sugar and brown rice syrup are among sugar’s many guises.

6. Get spicy

3. Take your time

Soft drinks are some of the biggest offenders in boosting sugar intake. But shop-bought smoothies, energy drinks, fruit juices, iced teas, coffees and flavoured waters can all be sugar-laden too.

If you’re a sugar addict, cut the amount you add to cereals, pancakes, tea or coffee by half. Once you’ve got used to the taste, halve the amount again.

Flavour foods that you would normally sweeten with sugar, with spices. Try ginger, allspice, nutmeg and cinnamon.

7. Don’t be a softie

59

60

Financial Planning

New Year

Resolutions

by David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP),

Chartered Financial Planner and Managing Director

A

Happy New Year to everyone, let’s hope you will all “Prosper” throughout 2018.

Amongst the nation’s favourite resolutions are more exercise, more dieting and less drink. Sadly, all these involve an element of deprivation and it’s hardly surprising that even the most strong willed of us are faltering by mid-February.

One resolution that you may want to retrospectively add to your list, which importantly involves very little pain but can have significant benefits, is to have an investment health check.

Every January I notice a significant increase in the number of enquiries from Local Life readers.

What prompts this increase?

Perhaps time off over Christmas, completion of tax returns, whatever the trigger, reviewing and revamping your portfolio now could make a significant difference to your portfolio value. Apart from weeding out the poor performing funds and checking you’re still on track, you might find your finances could be arranged more tax-efficiently.

I was recently talking to a new client who was having a moan about the amount of paperwork he was receiving from all his different investments.

At the heart of the problem was that “everything was all over the place” - for every investment he was dealing with a different company. He’d lost

complete control of his portfolio and the piles of paper in his study had continued to grow. No action was being taken by his previous adviser, potentially costing him money.

He didn’t have a clue what his valuations were and didn’t know how well his investments had been performing. I asked him what his “ideal” would feel and look like. He replied that he wanted to; Retake full control of his investments rather than getting swamped with paperwork and information.

Have “peace of mind” knowing that an expert was also keeping an eye on his investments.

Invest in a wide choice of leading companies without being tied in to a single company/fund.

Just deal with “one firm” for all of his different investments rather than speaking to many.

It probably does not come as a great surprise to learn that we have the solution to all these issues and our Wealth Management Service delivers on all the points above. Indeed one of our recently engaged clients described the difference between the old way of managing investments and using the Prosper Wealth Management Service as “an absolute revelation”.

If you would like more information please feel free to get in touch on 01257 423800. Alternatively visit our website www.prosper-ifa.co.uk or email us to request a brochure. The cost of the initial consultation is met by us and you are under no obligation to take things further.

If you invest in the stock market the value of your investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount invested.

Remember all investments can fall as well as rise in value so investors could get back less than they invest.

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Train woes impacting on

jobs

Wiganers who face a daily commute by train are considering quitting their jobs because they can’t face it anymore.

That’s the claim from Wigan MP Lisa Nandy who was speaking in a transport debate in Parliament recently.

The MP said that the “human cost” of overcrowded, late and dirty trains is enormous.

She told MPs said: “For most of my constituents in Wigan it is not so much a daily commute as a daily struggle to get on trains that are older than I am and that are often late, overcrowded, dirty and cold, for which they are rewarded by seeing their fares go up every year.

The human cost is enormous. I am contacted every week by constituents who are tired, stressed, anxious about money or seriously considering giving up their job because they do not know how many more bedtimes, bath times or story times with their kids they can miss. We are failing in one of the basic functions of the state, which is to provide a decent public transport service. There is a much wider cost in towns like mine.”

Responding to the claims, minister Jo Johnson said: “As we have repeatedly made clear, this Government are making the largest investment in our railways since the Victorian era, with £48 billion over the five years from 2019. We will have ordered 7,122 vehicles for the rolling stock fleet, compared with 5,720 in the period from 1997 to 2010.”

Business high flier appointed to top post A business advisor to the government has taken up the reins at Lancashire County Council. Angie Ridgwell has joined as interim chief executive from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), where she was director general for Finance and Corporate Services.

A qualified accountant by profession, she has worked in a wide range of public sector bodies and local authorities, principally as chief executive or director of finance. She has also worked in

consultancy and as an associate with KPMG. Speaking about her new role, Ms Ridgewell said: “I am really enthusiastic about ensuring we are providing the best services possible to those most in need and encouraging business development.”

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CEO post goes at The

Brick

Wigan homeless charity The Brick has taken on its first ever business director.

Nick Brookes was welcomed to the role as part of a management restructure which also sees the retirement of Kathleen Pitt as chief executive. Her role is being axed and, instead, the responsibilities will be shared between Nick and operations director Louise Green.

Nick, who has been a business advisor to The Brick for more than two years set up of the business breakfasts, and the 5k for £5k parkrun.

He will initially be taking on three days a week for six months – working alongside operations director Louise, who has been at the charity since 2011.

Nick said: “I am excited to be taking on this new role for The Brick, working more closely with an organisation that I believe in, and alongside Louise who has a fantastic knowledge of the workings of the charity. I hope together we will have a big impact on increasing support and ensuring The Brick has a future to help people in the Wigan community.”

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Business View

CMA Accountancy – How we can

How we can help

by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy

C

MA provide dynamic, value for money accountancy services and work alongside business owners to implement cloud based solutions that enables them to work efficiently and achieve their personal and business goals.

Despite all the uncertainties of Brexit, 2018 presents opportunities for company owners to build their business and for individuals to improve their financial position. Here at CMA we can help make the coming year more successful for you.

For Business Owners we can: • Streamline your bookkeeping records by introducing you to cloud based software that will save you both time and money.

• Show you how to conveniently manage your finances at push of a button by using your camera on a smartphone and send receipts directly to your accounting software • If you want to focus on growing your business then why not outsource your bookkeeping to us.

You’ll be surprised how much extra time this will free up.

• Provide management accounts which will allow you to plan for your tax payments and see how you are performing before your year end.

• Help you plan for the upcoming changes being introduced under Making Tax Digital and the General Data Protection Regulations.

• Advise business on how pension auto enrolment will impact their business.

• Act as a sounding board for business owners to bounce ideas off.

For Individuals we can: • Ensure that you have fully utilised your tax allowances for 2017-18 particular in regards to capital gains tax and pensions contributions.

• Look at salary sacrifice opportunities for high income individuals • Advise property owners with buy to let properties on the impact of the changes being introduced for interest charges and other deductible expenses.

Please contact us if you would like to discuss anything in this article. We don’t make a charge for an initial meeting and it is a good way to see how we can work together. So drop by the office on Skull House Lane in Appley Bridge and we can discuss these further over a coffee.

Contact Details Chris Alcock ACMA CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR Tel: 01257 255521 Email info@handsonaccounting.co.uk web www.handsonaccounting.co.uk

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Do you need help and guidance with;

SA

Company Accounts?

Auto Enrolment?

Self Assessment?

Cloud-based Software?

Payroll Services?

Call CMA Accountancy today www.cma-accountancy.com info@cma-accountancy.com Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521

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Upload your event for FREE at www.locallife247.co.uk/events Follow us on Facebook

events2go

Yoga and Meditation

Ladies Race Night

Every Sunday to Sunday, July 22, 8am-10am

Friday, February 2, 7pm-11.55pm

Explore static yoga postures, flowing movements, different types of breath work, and numerous meditations. Each class is £10 paid at the door.

Raise money for Wigan Youth Zone at a ladies charity race night. There’ll be eight races, so get dress accordingly! Bets start at £2, and all proceeds will go to Wigan Youth Zone. Tickets are £40pp. To donate raffle prizes please email anne@ wiganpierpromotions.co.uk

Appley Bridge Village Hall, Wigan, WN6 9AQ.

Hospice Family Fun Day Saturday, January 27, 1pm There’ll be coffee and cake, face painting, stalls, raffles and much more throughout the day.

Heskin Village Hall, 243 Wood Lane, PR7 5NS, Chorley. Tel: 01257 452476

Furniture Painting Saturday, January 27, 10am-2.30pm The workshop is £60pp and includes lunch and materials. It’s ideal for all levels. Imagine how lovely your hand-finished furniture will look at home!

None Too Shabby, 7 Ladies Lane, Hindley, Wigan, WN2 2QA. Tel: 07737 567086

Led Zeppelin Tribute Friday, February 2, 7.30pm-11.30pm Mothership - described in Classic Rock Magazine as “the most authentic-sounding Zep tribute in the UK”. Tickets are £12(+£1.01 booking fee) in advance or £14 on the door. www.eventbrite.co.uk The Grand Vault, The Old Courts, Crawford Street, WN1 1NA. Tel: 01942 834747

The Paddock at Derby House, 157 Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RE. Tel: 01257 426514

Liverpool Cruise Fair Saturday, February 3, 10am-4pm A day packed full of information, presentations, exclusive offers and more! Don’t miss your chance to meet up with TV Presenters John Cooper & Richard Cross from Holiday and Cruise TV. Chat to all the major cruise line reps and cruise specialists.

Free entry.

Hilton Liverpool City Centre, 3 Thomas Steers Way, Liverpool, L1 8LW. Tel: 0151 708 4200

Fairy Footsteps - 20 miles Saturday, February 3, 8.30am If you’re an avid walker, why not give this 20 mile walk a try? It’s an early start at 8.30am at the lay-by opposite Fairy Glen on A5209 east of Parbold. For more info contact Chris Seddon on 01254 245818 or 07972 068084 Fairy Glen, Hall Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9EQ.

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Through the Decades

The Script

Sat, Feb 3, 7.30pm to Sun, Feb 4, 1.30am

Monday, February 12, 7pm-10pm

Enjoy a 4 course meal and then dance the night away to the sounds of the resident DJ. Tickets are £22.50pp from www.dwstadium.com

With their recent album Freedom Child launching to No.1 on the UK Official Album Chart, seeing off the likes of LCD Soundsystem and OMD, The Script have announced a series of tour dates. For more info or to book visit http://tidd.ly/e4c576b6

DW Stadium Official, Loire Drive, Robin Park, Wigan, WN5 0UZ. Tel: 01942 774000

College Open Day Thursday, February 8, 6.30pm A warm invitation to all Year 10 and 11 students and their parents. No need to book; just turn up!

Winstanley College, Winstanley Road, Wigan, WN5 7XF. Tel: 01695 633244

Teaching Braille to Children Thursday, February 8, 9.30am-3.30pm

Echo Arena Liverpool, Monarchs Quay, Liverpool, L3 4FP. Tel: 0844 800 0400

The Figments Gig Saturday, February 17, 7.45pm-11.59pm 1980s tunes galore, with few modern hits thrownin… the Figments will be rocking the house down.

There’s Tim Watkinson - lead vocals & guitar; Mark Bibb - bass & backing vocals; Adrian Bradshaw - keyboards & backing vocals; Justin Davenport – drums.

An introduction to the delivery of the mainstream curriculum in braille, to a child with vision impairment. Tickets £80 - www.positiveeye.co.uk

Lamberhead Green Working Mens Club, 16 White Street, Pemberton, WN5 8JW. Tel: 01942 745046

Positive Eye Ltd, 48 Royden Road, Billinge, WN5 7LP. Tel: 07947 571 559

Derby Day Double Header

Artisan Market

Get ready for Derby Day pre-season friendlies, known as the Double Header. Both first & ‘A’ teams for Wigan St Jude’s and Wigan St Patrick’s will be going head-to-head.

Saturday, February 10, 10am-4pm There’ll be stalls selling organic meat and dairy, homemade pies & cakes, arts & crafts, children’s’ clothes, vintage traders and more. Free entry.

Wigan Auction House, Miry Lane, Wigan, WN6 7TG. Tel: 01942 230460

Rebecca Ferguson

Saturday, February 17, 2pm

Wigan St Jude’s ARLFC, Keats Ave, Wigan, WN3 5UB. Tel: 01942 826808

Waggy Tails Walk Sunday, February 18, 11am-12.30pm

£22.50-£35(+booking fee) from www.ents24.com

Enjoy a Sunday morning stroll with your furry fourlegged friends and Haigh’s green space. All dogs must be on a non-extendable during walk. Free to attend. Call 01942 828280 for more info. Meet in the Kitchen Courtyard.

Preston Guild Hall & Charter Theatre, Lancaster Road, Preston, PR1 1HT. Tel: 01772 80 44 44

Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, Wigan, WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828280

Saturday, February 10, 7pm This soulful singer from Liverpool was the runner up of X Factor in 2010. Tickets from

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Coding with Processing

Racing Scholarship Qualifier

Wednesday, February 21, 7pm-9pm

Sunday, February 25, 9am-7pm

This is designed for complete beginners to programming to give an introduction to coding, and the creative language of processing. Register your place at www.eventbrite.co.uk to make sure there are enough resources. Spaces are limited, only register if you can attend. You must be 13 years+

You could become a racing driver in 2018. You’ll race a fully funded season in the National Formula Ford Championship plus a testing programme by driving on the simulators at Three Sisters Circuit, Wigan. Book at www.jmrscholarship.co.uk to secure your place in advance.

Wigan STEAM, 33-53 Library St, Wigan, WN1 1NU.

Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Road, Ashton in Makerfield, WN4 8DD. Tel: 01942 719030

The Blackheart Orchestra Friday, February 23, 8.30pm-11.59pm

Audience with Murder

The Blackheart Orchestra will be playing The Bailiff Bar. Think Florence & The Machine meets soft Kate Bush style vocals. With four critically acclaimed albums, TV commercials and films under their belt this is not to be missed. Supported by Tom Jones & Hoonose. Over 18’s only. Tickets are £3.25 via www. eventbrite.co.uk

Wednesday, February 28, 7.30pm to Saturday, March 10, 7.30pm

The Old Courts, Crawford Street, Wigan, WN1 1NA. Tel: 01942 834747

Wigan Little Theatre, Crompton Street, Wigan, WN1 3SL. Tel: 01942 242561

CheeseFest Manchester

60’s Charity Night

Saturday, February 24, 10am-6pm, and Sunday, February 25, 10am-6pm

Friday, March 2, 7.30pm

It’s been called ‘A Russian doll of a play’, as layer after layer, it moves from a seemingly innocuous domestic play, through a murder mystery, to an unexpected climax. Tickets from www.wiganlittletheatre.co.uk *Contains strong language.*

Let there be cheese at the UK’s biggest touring cheese festival! Cheese Fest UK lands in Manchester this at the BEC Arena! Pre-registration tickets cost just £3 at www.cheesefestuk.com/manchester

Enjoy a ‘60s themed charity night with food, fun, a raffle, auction and music from local band T’OTHERS. All proceeds go to the Storehouse Project - helping the most vulnerable in our community. For tickets call 07816623612 or visit events.bookitbee.com

Bowlers Manchester, Longbridge Rd, Manchester, M17 1SN. Tel: 01706 299902

St Judes Social Club, Poolstock Lane, Wigan, WN3 5JE. Tel: 01942 241401

LEARN TO PLAY PIANO Study for music exams or just for enjoyment. No age limit!

DBS Checked

Call Louise McAleer GMus PGCE 01257 421056 or 07908 614664 louise.mcaleer29@yahoo.co.uk

Capturing tender special moments to cherish and treasure

Newborn Weddings Christenings Special Parties Please contact Eleanor T: 01257 792745 M: 07510 612926

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Independent Comic Con

Shoulder Tips & Tricks

Saturday, March 3, 10am-5pm

Thursday, March 15 8am, to Friday, March 16 5pm

Cosplay, special guests and exhibitors. Liverpool will get the epic comic con it deserves. All enquiries to epic@liverpoolcon.com

Wrightington’s Flagship Shoulder course with National and International faculty members.

Two days of discussion, workshops, surgical tips and talks revolving around shoulder surgery and rehabilitation.

St George’s Hall, Liverpool, L1 1JJ. Tel: 0151 233 3020

Pink Floydian Saturday, March 3, doors open 7pm, starts 9pm Pink Floydian is one of the most authentic Pink Floyd tribute bands from the cream of North West.

From “Shine on you Crazy Diamond” to “A Great Gig in the Sky” the band will take you through the career of the world’s most successful progressive rock band. To book the band call Ian on 07427 611 957 or email info@pinkfloydian.com Tickets are £8.80 (incl. booking fee) www.seetickets.com The E Rooms, 14 Westgate, Skelmersdale, WN8 8AZ. Tel: 01695 731016

GMP Band Friday, March 9, 7.30pm-11pm St John Rigby College is pleased to welcome back the GMP Band for the third year! It’ll be an evening filled with pop, soul and funk! Free entry.

St John Rigby College, Gathurst Road, Orell, WN5 0LJ. Tel: 01942 214797

Night at the Races Saturday, March 10, 7pm-11.59pm Everyone’s a winner at this race night. You can buy horses with the owners of the winning horses winning prizes, have a bet and win pennies galore, as well as lots of fun and games.

Honeysuckle Inn, 75 Pool Street, Wigan, WN3 5BT. Tel: 01942 241551

Upper Limb Unit, Wrightington Hospital, Appley Bridge, WN6 9EP. Tel: 01257 256248

Rio Carnival in Liverpool Friday, Mar 16, 10pm to Saturday, Mar 17, 4am There’ll be Latin parade performers, you can learn to Carnival samba with infamous Rio beats and rhythms and international DJ’s. As well as a range of South American Street Food Stalls, Brazilian beers, and a face paint artist. Find out all you need to know at www.facebook.com/events/510369545981463/ Liverpool City Centre

Walking Weekend Criccieth Friday, March 16, 9am, to Sunday, March 18, 10am The annual walking weekend holiday for 2018 will be to Criccieth in North Wales. It’s £139pp for bed, breakfast and evening meals. A £40pp deposit will be required to secure your place, this is payable directly to Worldchoice Travel, 34 Market Street, Wigan, WN1 1JF, or by telephone at 01942 242121.

Email info@wigananddistrictramblers.org.uk to find out more.

Run Wigan Festival 2 Sunday, March 18, 9.30am-2pm Joining Jack has organised Half Marathon, 5k and Family Mile races all starting in Market Street for you to spectate or take part. There’ll be live music and entertainment and European food markets too. To register your place for any race visit runwiganfestivals.co.uk/ Market Street, Wigan

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Food & Drink

Low-

carb

By Keeley Bolger

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ickie De Beer knew something was wrong when her normally energetic eight-yearold son Lucca began to struggle to wake in the mornings, and came back from an annual camping trip looking unusually exhausted.

Although her husband and three sons often returned pleasantly tired from a few days in the wilderness, this was different. Lucca was wiped out, his breath was “sickly sweet” and he’d been asking for far more cold drinks than usual.

At first, De Beer - a food writer, chef and stylist thought Lucca might have a throat infection.

But an appointment with their doctor the next day, and a round of blood tests, revealed her son actually had Type 1 diabetes - the form of diabetes which occurs when cells responsible for producing insulin in the body are destroyed. Unlike Type 2, it is not linked with lifestyle or weight, and tends to first appear during childhood or younger years - and the diagnosis meant Lucca would have to manage the condition for life with insulin injections.

“From the moment Lucca was diagnosed, we decided that we would deal with his diabetes as a family unit,” explains De Beer. “This was not only Lucca’s problem. We changed the way the whole family ate.”

On the advice of medics, the family stuck to a wholegrain, low GI (glycemic index) diet, keeping a close check on carbohydrate counts, to ensure Lucca’s blood sugars were stable, and managed his insulin dosage. But De Beer still had concerns about their meals.

“I always felt we weren’t managing his blood sugars to the best of our ability. Although his threemonthly blood sugar blood tests were always stable, we couldn’t bring the extreme fluctuations under control.”

Drawing on her food background, De Beer set about creating a low-carb plan in an attempt to help, meaning instead of starchy ‘white’ foods like pasta, rice, bread, cakes and biscuits, they eat fibrous green vegetables, like courgette noodles, green beans and long stem broccoli.

“Not only were his blood sugars more stable, without the extreme fluctuations, but he also had more energy and far less anxiety,” Now, De Beer has teamed up with dietitian Kath Megaw, refining the recipes in a new cookbook.

The Diabetes Cookbook: Low Carb Recipes For The Whole Family is packed with practical advice for people living with the condition, as well as plenty of personal anecdotes and family-friendly recipes.

Interested? Here are two family-friendly recipes from the book to try now...

Type 1 And Type 2: The Diabetes Cookbook: Low Carb Recipes For The Whole Family by Vickie De Beer and Kath Megaw, published by Pavilion Books, priced £12.99.

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Carbonara Zoodles

Method Serves 4 Ingredients 500g large courgettes, cut into strips 30g butter 250g streaky bacon, cut into cubes 250ml double cream 2 eggs 60g grated Parmesan cheese Salt and freshly ground black pepper A handful of chopped parsley, to serve

Bring a large saucepan with salted water to the boil.

Cook the courgettes for 30 seconds in the boiling water. Drain and set aside.

In a large frying pan, heat the butter over a medium-high heat. Add the bacon and fry until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside (keep the bacon fat in the pan).

Combine the cream, eggs and Parmesan in a bowl or measuring jug. Season with salt and pepper. Add to the frying pan and stir over a low heat until the sauce starts to thicken. Toss the courgettes through the sauce and crumble the bacon over the top.

Sprinkle over the chopped parsley and serve at once.

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Wednesday 14th February Romantic Meal For Two

£49.00 per couple

Valentines Night

Includes 3 course meal

in Lovels Bistro Holland Hall Hotel

Holland Hall Romantic Stay Over Package Just £99 per couple

includes, 3 course meal in Lovels Bistro and *1 night stay at Holland Hall Hotel including Breakfast!

Special Offer any Proposal’s on the night are offered discounted Wedding Package at Holland Hall Contact Holland Hall Hotel to book or for further information

Telephone: 01695 624 426

Open Day HOLLAND HALL HOTEL

Sunday 18th February Free entry, Free parking Opens 12 noon to 4pm.

Come along and see our Wedding Suites dressed, speak to our professional Wedding Co-ordinator Karen and meet our local Wedding Professionals.

Holland Hall Hotel Lafford Lane, Up Holland, WN5 OQZ

*subject to availability. T&Cs apply

info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk

01695 624426

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Chicken Parmigiano

Method Preheat the oven to 200C.

Serves 8 Ingredients 1 batch basic tomato sauce (see below) 3 large aubergines, thickly sliced Salt 4tbsp olive oil or coconut oil 6 chicken breast fillets, sliced through horizontally and bashed with a rolling pin to make thinner 3 large handfuls of Parmesan cheese 150g grated mozzarella For the basic tomato sauce: (Makes 750ml) 2tbsp olive oil 1 onion chopped 2 garlic cloves minced 1/2 celery stick, grated 2 x 400g cans whole tomatoes 2tbsp tomato puree A handful of fresh basil chopped

First make the tomato sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium-high heat. Fry the onions and garlic for three to five minutes until softened. Add the celery and fry for another two minutes. Add the whole tomatoes and tomato puree; press the tomatoes to a finer consistency with a fork. Leave to simmer, stirring, for 10 minutes or until the sauce becomes thick. Add the basil leaves at the end. Keep warm until needed.

Place the aubergine slices on a well-oiled baking sheet. Season with salt and drizzle with more oil.

Bake in the oven until just soft and light golden.

Heat the rest of the oil in a non-stick pan and season the chicken fillets with salt. Brown the chicken on both sides, in batches, in the pan over a medium heat. Set aside.

In a big, deep ovenproof baking dish (about 25 x 15cm) or casserole dish, begin to layer the Parmigiano.

Start with ladles of the tomato sauce, followed by a layer of cooked aubergine. Sprinkle a good layer of the Parmesan over, followed by some of the chicken fillets.

Repeat the layers until you have used all the ingredients, ending with a layer of the tomato sauce.

Sprinkle the mozzarella over and bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes until golden and bubbly.

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Cronton

by Niamh Ollerton

O

gate and into the field; keeping to the left of it.

The starting point for our 4.5 mile walk was the car park next to the Leighton Observatory at Pex Hill.

Once booted up, wrapped up warm, and ready for the challenge, my colleague Peter and I headed off on the very cold, but clear winter afternoon.

Continue on through the next field, which happened to be filled with potatoes as far as the eye could see, and follow the path around the old sewage works which has an almost eerie air around it. Carry on until you hit the track running along the side of the motorway.

Firstly head left out of the car park – where you’ll actually be walking between two covered reservoirs – and follow the road down the hill, through the

Turn left and carry on past the motorway footbridge and continue along the track. As you look up on your left you will just about see the shimmering

n this walk you’ll wander through the historical village of Cronton that appeared in the 1086 Domesday Book, walk above the now disused quarry that will have provided the foundation stones of homes close by, and see far into the distance from the top of Pex Hill. And with companions at the ready, this route has all the ingredients for an enjoyable outing.

As we headed down the side of the field, Peter and I were chatting about travel and the like to which he said do you know what the Dream is? To which I thought he meant a deep philosophical question, but as you look to your right, in the distance you’ll in fact see the Dream statue.

76 silver dome of the Observatory above the vast trees.

You’ll leave the track as it turns towards Pex Hill, and continue down the footpath on the right of the corner, heading down past Cronton Hall. But before you reach Cronton Hall, on your right you will see a paddock protected by a metal fence which is home to the most beautiful black Shire horse which would give Black Beauty a run for its money.

Once you reach Hall Lane (the main road), turn right and enjoy the quaint village of Cronton. You’ll pass the weathered remains of Cronton Cross which was once the resting place for bearers carrying to the cemetery, and continue straight on to Penny Lane.

Just before you reach Tue Lane, take the public footpath on the left. Continue along the footpath which reminded me of the carriage tracks in films like Great Expectations, until you’ve crossed the field and hit a stone footbridge that takes you on towards Cronton Road.

Cross the road and go right, then turn left into Lodge Lane. Once past the farm, ignore the first public footpath sign and continue on to the second one on your left. Take this one, keeping to the right of the ditch, through the field and into the next, until you reach the footbridge on your left.

Go over the footbridge and follow the path until reaching the next footpath sign and turn right. This will then take you up along the edge of fields until you emerge onto Chapel Lane.

Here you’ll cross the road and go right, following the road round the bend to the next public footpath on the left. Take this footpath and you’ll pass the farm building – but if there’s been heavy rainfall be wary of the deep tractor tracks – and go through two small gates, and continue to follow the path round and out onto Sandy Lane, where you go left.

You can take a closer look at the Dream statue on our Sutton walk. There are guides to all our walks at www.locallife247.co.uk

77 It shocked me to find out that thin and windy Sandy Lane was once a 60mph road, but is now closed to motor vehicles. With the ‘slow’ markings still on the tarmac road, it’s clear to see the vegetation has made itself at home and the road will eventually be completely covered in greenery. Sandy Lane will look lovely in the spring and summertime with the trees lining the road.

At the end of Sandy Lane go left along Cronton Road a short distance, then cross over to go up Hall Lane on your right, passing a lovely red brick family church. And you’ll then turn right again into Mill Lane.

When the road turns sharply to the left, instead you’ll head straight on through the gate, going up to footpath that was once the continuation of Mill Lane many moons ago.

At the top, the path reaches the old sandstone quarry which if you’d like to venture down, a lot of free climbers are said to dare the heights.

Continue around the fence above the quarry, following the path round to the footpath entrance to Pex Hill Nature Reserve, which is beautiful come any season.

As we walked up the path we had a great view over to Liverpool; being able to pick out the two Cathedrals and the Radio City Tower. Then it was back to the car and off to find a hot cup of tea and a well-earned piece of cake.

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Length of walk: 4.5 miles M62

Difficulty: Easy Accessibility: We did the walk after some prolonged rainfall and there was some very muddy sections.

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

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Test Drive

Range Rover

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ow, here’s a question that you might not know the answer to but will almost certainly have an opinion on. Is the Range Rover Sport one of the most influential cars of the modern era? A decade or so ago it seemed like all the celebrities were arriving to events in a Range Rover Sport, and since then the SUV market has exploded.

Now nearly everybody wants one. Furthermore, almost every manufacturer is now making them.

The Sport is not really a full-blown Range Rover.

It’s cheaper for a start, and comes with five seats, but it does offer the option of seven. That said, the additional chairs are tiny and aren’t appropriate for fitting kids’ car seats. This is a lower, smaller ‘Rangie’, designed to appeal to a slightly less affluent, but still successful, crowd. And the focus has moved from out-and-out luxury to one that is more about power and pure on-road use.

Sport

by Tim Barnes-Clay

Of course, it’s a Range Rover, so it is well equipped, and the interior is of a high quality. The Windsor leather seats are impeccable - but the Sport is quite different to the full ‘Range Rover’. There are three diesels, two petrols, and even a new hybrid powertrain to choose from - and all are tuned primarily for clout. Only the entry level TDV6 feels a little lacking, but equally I couldn’t recommend the powerful eight-cylinder petrol engine on offer - unless you own a small oil producing nation. This will really eat away at your cash reserves.

Being designed for on-road action, rather than the full-blown Range Rover’s off-road capability, the Sport comes with optional air suspension. This keeps it comfortable and composed, even when cornering hard. The issue with driving it fast is more the size than the capability of the car. Britain’s most enjoyable roads are just a bit too small to be

80

throwing a two-tonne SUV around, however good it might be.

The Range Rover Sport is a status symbol, a luxury cruiser, and an enjoyable car to drive hard. But it’s expensive to buy and run - especially with its more commanding engines. And it’s not certain that the new hybrid unit can deliver on the claimed figures.

Nevertheless, those who want one won’t be put off by such trivial matters.

Fast Facts • 0-62 mph: 7.2 secs • Combined mpg: 40.4 • Engine layout: 2993cc six-cylinder turbo diesel • Max. power (PS): 306 • CO2: 185 g/km • Price: £69,145

81

Car Paintwork Repairs PCP or lease coming to an end?

Call me now and save £000’s

SCuffS/SCratCheS mended minor dentS repaired alloy wheel repairS

no Vat Charged we’ll beat any quote!

Call Chris on 01942 215 111 or 07969 357 751

www.cosmeticar.co.uk

We’ll fix your; Paintwork Scratches Bumper Scuffs Alloy Wheel Damage Minor Dents

No VAT charged!

Quality repairs with a lifetime guarantee.

Mobile Service – we come to you!

For your free estimate, call Dave on

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c/o JW Gaskell Garages, Dingle Garage, Dingle Road, Up Holland, WN8 0EN

82

Good garden design

by Angie Barker Award Winner

H

ubby has a favourite saying. It goes something like “I thought you had finished the garden”. Well for me, the design of your garden is every bit as important as the interior design of your home, and as your home is continually undergoing changes in terms of re-decoration, new furniture and so on, so it is with the garden.

A well planned garden that is good to look at will make you want to use it all year round and in these days of limited space the best gardens work as an extension of the home.

The key to success is the coming together of practicality and good looks.

Garden design is all about making your outside space work for you by matching your needs and wants with the constraints of your plot ie. size, aspect, soil type and so on. These are the things you can’t change.

Gardens also have to fulfil a number of needs – planting to give texture and colour and to soften hard landscaping; space for relaxation, entertaining and cooking; room for childrens’ play, and space for growing some herbs or vegetables.

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

Here are my top design principles: • Use texture to create interest – both in planting and hard landscaping • Incorporate a lawn whenever possible. A lawn gives a wonderful foil for planting, it is safe for children to play on, it is environmentally sound and good for wildlife • Use focal points around the garden and in borders to draw the eye and make your garden unique • Include more than one seating area wherever space allows. This will give you the option of viewing the garden from a different aspect and at different times of the day in sun • Decide what look you are going for – contemporary clean lines or more traditional incorporating curves. You should try and blend the look with the style of your house • Above all, the garden must meet the needs of your family and work for them So as the new year gets underway, give some thought to your outside space, because now could be the perfect time to make some changes. (Hubby puts his head in his hands).

Call Angie now for your free consultation!

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

Award Winner

83

Garden Services

Semmens Landscapes

Garden Design • Landscaping • Maintenance Complete Solution to all Garden & Tree Services

Garden maintenance One-off clearances Treework Landscaping

Professional & reliable service For a free quote, call Andy on

M: 07814 133 690 T: 01942 588 628

Approved contractor West Lancs BC Call Iain today for friendly advice and a free quote

Tel: 01695 632773 Mob: 07724 298193 www.hands-onlandscapes.co.uk

Landscape & Artificial Grass Specialist We’ll design & create your new modern low-maintenance garden

Billinge-based

Our wide range of artificial grass are all guaranteed for 10 years

10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Call Andy today for more details

01942 387 044 ~ 07941 602 539 Check out our projects on www.turfcouk.co.uk

•

•

• Gates and railings • Repairs and restorations • Ironwork and welding • Traditional forge work

25 years of expertise

Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202 The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland

84

Puzzle Pages Solutions

Give your garden a makeover!

We offer high quality landscaping, garden design and ground maintenance services Quality work and reliability at competitive prices

01942 510 986 07710 405 214 www.ashlandscapingandmaintenance.co.uk Established 1994

Need help with your garden?

Orrell-Based*

We offer a regular garden maintenance service Landscaping, flagging, fencing, tree work, pruning, turfing and decking work also completed.

Friendly and reliable service Call Mick now for details

01942 700377 or 07982 928816

Oak Tree Maintenance Garden maintenance ~ General tidy ups Hedge cutting ~ Pressure washing ~ Fencing

Call - 01942 225711 or 07773 296880

Qualified Tree Surgeon NCA RFS NPTC All types of Tree and Hedge Work Fully Insured Felling, Reducing, Pruning, Shaping

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07713 121135 / 01695 322153

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Garden need a little

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• Tree Surgery • Flagging & Fencing • Landscaping & Design • Garden Clearances • Logs For Sale Wood chipping & stump grinder services

Call Lloyd today for a free estimate

01942 367170 / 07900 738637

LANDSCAPE & DRIVEWAY SPECIALISTS LANDSCAPING • Block Paving • Indian Stone • Turfing & Artificial Grass • Driveways & Patios • Fencing & Decking • Jet Washing • Gravelling

TREE SPECIALISTS

A

• Pruning & Shaping • Felling & Topping • Stump Grinding

Cricket St, Wigan, WN6 7TP www.ltcgroup.co.uk

SMN

Tree and Landscape Management West Lancashire District Council approved contractor

Day: 07970 521 692 Eve: 01942 214 121 www.smntrees.co.uk

steve@smntrees.co.uk

All aspects of tree work undertaken

NO JOB TOO LARGE OR TOO SMALL Call us today for a free, no obligation, quote;

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OFF

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86

Home Services

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Our engineers will rePAir yOur; • wAshers/Dryers • COOkers/hObs • FriDges/VACuums A friendly, efficient and reliable service Our mobile repair service works Mon-Sat

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Mr Soot

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

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

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

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

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Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working

ally

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01695 627 999 mr-soot.com 07724 311 992

l Geails N £15

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

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

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

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H AT E D E C O R AT I N G ?

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We are a husband and wife team, CRB cleared with references available.

Exterior & Interior Decorating Domestic & Commercial work undertaken Competitive rate Contact Graham now - free estimate provided

01257 426 234

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Professional Painting and Decorating • Domestic & Commercial Work • Interior & Exterior work welcomed • Old/listed buildings a speciality

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SG

PAINTING & DECORATING Interior painting & decorating Specialise in standard wall coverings, extra wide vinyl, lincrusta & coving Free estimates. References available upon request

07714 363 377 / 01942 749 971 Sefton Road, Orrell, WN5 8UP

Need a new look for your home?

Skilled interior and exterior work undertaken at reasonable prices!

Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator

01942 518126 or 07545 065119 Orrell based business

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PB UPVC CLEANING

• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.

CONSERVATORIES

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Power Washing

HOUSE CLEANING AT ITS BEST Driveways Conservatories Patios & Decking Gutters & Fascias Bricks & Walls

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SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF ALL CLEANING PACKAGES Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.

01942 470 089 / 07834 241 642 www.justcleanpropertycare.co.uk

Call Paul today to arrange a free quote

01257 402 113 ~ 07736 396 374 www.pbpowerwashing.co.uk

Want to promote your company in Local Life?

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Orrell Laundry 11 Sefton Road, Orrell, WN5 8UP 01695 623 796

Wigan’s premier domestic cleaning service

Cleaning in the Wigan area for 10+ years

We only use reliable, vetted staff • £10.75 per hour - minimum 2 hrs • Same cleaner each visit • All domestic duties provided

Call or email Joanne 01942 203442 joanne@acleanbreak.co.uk / www.acleanbreak.co.uk/wigan

• Bedding & duvets • Domestic washes • Commercial washing • Ironing services • Dry cleaning • Team sports kits welcomed

Open 7 days Free pick-up see website for opening times

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Serving the community for over 50 years

Free pICk-up & DrOp OFF

service to/from Standish, Shevington, Appley Bridge

www.orrell-laundry.co.uk

89

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning • traditional service, state of the art results •

Wigan Good Trader Of The Year 2015

5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme

• Carpets • Rugs • Fabric & Leather Upholstery Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote

Call - 01257 251221

Mobile - 07908 770808

www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk

Providing professional carpet & upholstery cleaning since 1993 Carpets Leather

as seen

Upholstery Curtains Oriental Rugs Hard Floors

ON TV

For more information call:

01942 470 081 Visit our website and check out the testimonials.

www.alliancechemdry.co.uk

Ovenclean will transform your oven and put the sparkle back into your kitchen!

• • • •

Ovens Grills Extractors BBQ’s

• • • •

Hobs Ranges Microwaves AGA’s

Call today to book your oven clean

0800 840 7127 or 07724 694337 www.ovenclean.com

90

Arley Cabinet Company Ltd • Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •

We measure we make we fit and have done for 60 years.

Visit our showroom or call us today for a FREE estimate

Arley Cabinet Co. Ltd 214a Gidlow Lane Wigan WN6 7BN Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm Sat: 9am - 12pm

www.arleycabinets.com tel: 01942 246190

TV Aerials installed & repaired Sky, Freesat, Talk Talk & BT Setup Service Telephone/Broadband repair Tv Wall mounting & CCTV

Ring Paul on www.wiganaerials.com 01942 514532 - 07709 490095

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Wireless Alarm System

Electrical Installation & Maintenance • From new sockets to full re-wires • No job too small • PAT testing

ONLY £349

1x Live LED GHE Bell box 1x dummy GHE bell box 1x Mains panel with battery back up 1x wireless door contact 2x Wireless PIR Motion detectors

Security Installation & Maintenance • Smart phone controlled security systems • Wired and wireless security systems • CCTV and burglar alarms

Domestic and commercial work welcomed ~ Call us today for friendly advice and a free quote Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est Cale Lane Wigan

01942 836 937 or 07557 914 788

All electrical work undertaken • Rewire specialists • Extra sockets & lights fitted • Mains board upgrades

Free quotations

A.J.S.

ELECTRICAL

All electrical work undertaken Competitive rates Proficient and professional service

01942 215 769 07739 709 005

Emergency call outs 24/7 Call: 01942 553 248 Dan: 07850 273 783 Ste: 07701 036 872

BAILEYS

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

l Geails N 5

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For more information call

Wind Turbines

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a

rm

no

w£

forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and

LED Lighting

every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding

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

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

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

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

Dennis Goulding A49

Mossy Lea Road

A5209

s Natalie

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from your www.dglwindows.co.uk

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e WN5 for all , Billing 400 - 6PM Road 4 619 ford ay 10AMKeep : 0781 Saturd hone : 84 Rain - 7PM, Open Telep 10AM y

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Services Ltd J.Dillon Electrical

Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826 www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk

Heat Pumps

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 with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect

no

B5250

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money is the clear benefit!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

0 lly £2

Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved

01695 627 999

www.ghewigan.co.uk

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Covering all North West Areas.

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

• All types of electrical work • 20+ years experience • Friendly, fast and reliable • 24 hour call out service

92

Great Value Bathrooms!

Elite Bathrooms Installation & Tiling • Bathrooms • Wall Tiling • Floor Tiling

Full Bathrooms & En-Suites Showers, Trays & Cubicles Relocation of Bathroom Suites

FREE Estimates

07703 448890 01942 208926

25 years bathroom experience Call Chris now for a free quotation

C L Bathrooms

01942 749085 or 07801 295483 www.clbathrooms.co.uk

• Bathroom Installation, Full Bathrooms & En-Suites • Plumbing Services • Wall & Floor Tiling • Ceiling Panelling

01942 397173 / 07803 057940 Douglas Drive, Orrell, Wigan www.ljplumbingandbathrooms.co.uk

PLASTERER Re-skims Dot & dab Rendering 2 coat work Unwanted artex

For a free quote, call Ian Ridley on

01942 218 160

or 07958 695 116

Plumbing & Heating Specialist Complete Bathroom & Tiling service

John Bailey - 01942 495785

or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238 Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan

APPLEY BRIDGE HEATING & PLUMBING Boiler & Full System Installation, Replacement & Repair

Landlord Gas Safety Certificates Call Dave now for a free quote...

201323

07814 639 430

IAIN LOWE 01695 623236 • Central Heating • Plumbing • Gas Appliances • Gas Safety Checks • Landlord’s Certificates • Maintenance/Breakdowns

93

Boiler & Central Heating Experts A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff

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SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES

For an effective and friendly service call Haigh Energy

01257 424 166

www.haighenergy.co.uk Unit S7, Standish Court , Bradley Lane Trading Estate, Standish, WN6 0XQ

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10 YEARS

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WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

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01942 221221

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C &D

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88604

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www.fgwelch.co.uk

Brand New Bathrooms Boiler + Central Heating Installs, Servicing + Repairs Extended warranties available 24 Hour Call-out Domestic + Commercial

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94

JJ Driveways

Imprinted Concrete Specialists

GDR Driveways Flagging • Block paving Concreting • Fencing

Huge range of colours & patterns

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• Resin Driveways • Block Paving • Indian Stone • Flagging

01942 217 113 | 07715 177 754

We can also revive your old drive!

Ask about our sealing service

Call Joe for a free quotation on

Garage and doors 01942 621 959entrance / 07867 697 972 www.jjdriveways.co.uk in matching styles

Is your garage door broken ?

Complete Driveways & Landscapes Landscapes

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Driveways

Block paving, flagging, printed concrete driveway specialist.

‘the complete answer for driveways & landscapes’ Call Gary for a free, no obligation quote;

01942 355 993 07712 352 411

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

Doors of all ages repaired

CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB t: 01942 738347 w: www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk

01744 894939 07891 330214 NO FIX, NO CHARGE! www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk Strawberry Cottage, Pimbo Road, Upholland WN8 9QL

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• Conservatory repairs • Locks, handles and hinges • Replacement glass • Windows and doors installed • Replacement conservatory roofs Call MARK now on 01942 737 381 / 0776 315 1720 conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com www.fixmyconservatory.com

01257 422317 or 07852 202867 www.mtjoiner y.co.uk

Brickwork & Property Maintenance

M M

Ma rc Mulligan

• Brickwork, Extensions, Re-pointing • Garden Walls, Decorative Walls • Platform Steps, Paths & patios Disabled Adaptations & Access

01942 248 537 • Wall to Floor Rails, Floor to Floor 07749 806 566 Rails & Path Rails Fully Qualified - 28 Years Experience

Home Improvements • • • •

Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms Garage & Loft Conversions Floors, Doors & Windows Garden Gates

For all your home improvement needs call David on...

01942 203 804 DS Joinery 07851 225 876

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y Eas

Mix

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

l Geails N £15

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

For more information call

Heat Pumps

LED Lighting

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

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

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

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

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

Dennis Goulding A49

Mossy Lea Road

LocalLife

Wind Turbines

w

no

B5250

01695 627 999

£20

Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working

ally

rm

no

money is the clear benefit!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)

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

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

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

s

Natalie

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

J27

Shevington

Standish

FREE

Call

esday Thursd ay, Wedn Closed

ay, Tuesd

Mond

TwinLakesMotorE

ngineers

0843 224 9555 07595 420237

01772

REPAIR

603923

DING & WEL

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House Extensions New Kitchens & Bathrooms Garage Conversions Full Refurbishments All our work is fully insured & guaranteed References available on request Call now for a free quotation

• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985

Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair • Fascia & soffit installation • Guttering and felting services Call us now for a free estimate

01695 633173 Colin: 07958 302 166 Brian: 07760 160 988 www.wilson-bros.co.uk

01942 561 848 | 07725 909 257 www.freshbuildconstruction.co.uk

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Building services Joinery Specialists

LOCAL, RELIABLE, FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL AND HONEST • Conservatories & Orangeries • Extensions • Refurbishments & Alterations • Fencing & Decking

• Garage & Loft Conversions • Kitchens & Fitted Bedrooms • Doors & Windows • All aspects of joinery work

Call Phil - 01257 425997 or 07703 007675

Ashurst Building & Roofing Services All types of building and roofing work undertaken including;

E: 01942 Brickwork, 832747 Joinery, Flagging 07747 725999 Plastering & Renovations Family run business with 25 years of experience

Call David today for a free quotation TELEPHONE: 01942 832747 Mobile: 07747 725999

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B.A. Berry Building & Roofing Specialists •All building work undertaken.

• From a broken tile to a full re roof.

• Flat roofs renewed and repaired.

• Extensions, Alterations, Structural repairs including Lintels.

First Class Workmanship • All types of re-roofs • Strip & re-slate or re-tile • Built up felt/flat roofs, dormers etc.

• Insurance work undertaken • Roofline uPVC fascias, soffits & guttering

W.Newman ROOFING & REPAIRS

Your local fully qualified tradesman with

30 years experience

01695 627 212

Call us now for a free, no obligation quote

01695 622 704 / 07968 652 320 www.baberry.co.uk

MOBILE: 07774 943 706

52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years

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

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

For more information call

Building Services

All types of building work undertaken 25 years experience

LED Lighting

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

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Dennis Goulding

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

Mossy Lea Road

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Heat Pumps

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

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

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

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

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

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REPAIR

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603923

DING & WEL

• Brickwork • Pointing • Garden Walls • Patios • Roof Repairs • Flagging • Alterations • Driveways

01942 495412 / 07974 496676

NEW ROOFS REPAIRS FASCIAS, SOFFITS & GUTTERS

Dormers and Garages Rubber Cover Roofing Specialist Guaranteed 50 years

Call for free quote

T: 01942 864 624 M: 07894 687 384 M: 07868 713 520

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A View From The Lump Local gossip, gripes and goings-on Poles apart

Talking tactics

“What football team do you support, grandad?” asked Lump Jr the other day.

Interesting results from the recent Shevington by-election.

The Tories, who once held the seat, were knocked into third place (402 votes) by Shevington Independents (552 votes).

Together, though, they outpolled victorious Labour (765 votes).

Tactical voting has never taken off in Wigan. But if it did, Labour may have cause for concern.

“Wigan Athletic of course, son” I replied, quite proudly.

“Yeah, I know that grandad, but which proper club do you support? Man Utd?” came the follow up.

It’s no secret that most Latics fans also have a ‘big team’. For them, supporting Wigan is a bit like going to church - it’s not something to be done every week, but the odd occasion to ‘keep your hand in’ will suffice.

During a recent match, I got chatting with a couple of lads next to me. Turns out they’re Polish, and have lived in Wigan for the past eight years. Not only that, they’re now fervent fans and get to as many home games as possible.

So I asked whether they had a ‘second team’, either here or in the Polish league. “No... Wigan is our team now. 100%. Up The ‘Tics!” said one the lads, before continuing to sup his Bovril. Good on them, they could teach some of the locally-raised glory hunters a thing or two...

Unhealthy debate Another winter and another round of ‘we’re all going to hell in a handcart’ headlines about the state of the NHS. What irks me isn’t so much about the issue being raised, it’s the sterile debate which ensues. ‘We need more money’, ‘it’s the Government’s fault’.... they’re the usual attack lines. They hold some water, but the cold, hard truth is we are an ageing population which has a social care crisis coupled with a free-at-the-point-of-use health service which isn’t that far away from the original post-war blueprint. Any organisation which stays broadly the same for 70-odd years is going to have some issues.

Last year, this magazine ran an indepth interview with an eminent

consultant from Wigan Infirmary, who pintpointed the problems which largely centred around dementia and ‘brain failure’. What we are living with now is a lack of planning - things which should have been put in place 25 years ago were either not brought up or simply kicked into the long grass as they were politically inconvenient/unaffordable. The person who grasps the nettle is likely to be very brave but politically stupid. We have a surfeit who are the latter but are sadly lacking in those with the former qualities...

New kid on the bloc Sick of winter? Me too.... so we’ve been looking at booking a holiday for the past month or so. Mrs Lump wishes to have a peek before the old Iron Curtain, On the other hand, I’m lobbying for sunnier climes so in the spirit of co-operation, I’ve suggested Bulgaria. Suitably warm to pull out my Speedos, but with enough Commie chic to keep her indoors happy.

Apparently, you can also pick up a pint of the local Snakebite for 50p a throw. Should make all the day trips to various ex-gulags that bit more bearable.

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Come and visit the largest showroom in the North West

® Quality installations of windows, doors, fascias, soffits and gutters First for quality • First for service • First for reliability No contractors • No salesmen Just a smile and a honest price from a family run business

® Rockdoor Approved Installer Reg No 02767596

SISTER COMPANY OF FOXWELLS BUILDERS Established 16 years

Call us for a Free Quote Office Number: 01942 871 777 Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria Street, Leigh, WN7 5SE warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk