Local Life - Wigan - July 2016

Wigan Edition

July 2016

Book-Cycle’s African

mission

Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Business View...

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RIP

D

Maud

ivorce, death and moving home are said to be the three most traumatic experiences you will encounter in your life. But I have a nasty feeling that what I’m about to experience will run a close fourth. The girl’s 17th birthday is imminent and she wants to learn to drive.

Whatever cash she gets for her birthday will go towards lessons, but that driving time will obviously need supplementing by a willing parent with a small car – and after what happened to me when I was her age I do feel obliged to come forward.

It was in the early 80’s when I moved south to look for a job and stayed for a while with my sister. Maud was her beloved Renault 4, and one day I was allowed to drive her home from the nearest Tesco, where we’d just picked up the weekly shop.

Long story short, I lost control on a long bend, swiped a car, went up a grass bank, came back from the bank onto the road and crashed into a van full of glassware, which was then rear-ended by another car. It wasn’t pretty, and as for Maud, she was no more – RIP Maud. Again, I’m very sorry Sis… So for a long overdue penance, I’ll be putting my life and our dinky Local Life car in the hands of the girl this summer so, residents of Orrell and Winstanley, you’ve been warned!

Do have a lovely summer, and with a bit of luck, I’ll see you next time.

Chris Pearce - Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Next issue - August 2016

Advertising deadline - Thursday 30 June Published - Thursday 14 July Local Life Media

@locallifemedia

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In this issue Bigging up

Orrell

proms

spuds

30

68

Need to see a

Jack’s Tracks visits

GP?

Brinscall

41

75 Test Drive -

Book-Cycle’s African

mission

Range Rover

58 Regulars

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

22 Class from the past

74

46 Puzzle Corner

98 The Lump

Eating Out Guide

Editorial: Mark Taylor

64 What’s On

Sections

sales@locallife247.co.uk

wigannews@locallife247.co.uk

Design: Peter Bretherton

design@locallife247.co.uk

Distribution: Sally Boon

sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

Accounts: Sam Garrahan accounts@locallife247.co.uk

6 Property

64 Leisure

14 Local News

68 Food & Drink

41 Heath & Fitness

79 Motoring

48 Travel

82 Gardening

52 Legal & Finance

86 Home Services

56 Business View

Telephone: 01695 627 999 Sales: Clare Glover, Nicola Gray

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

This issue is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton.

The next issue is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh.

You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan, or read online at www.locallife247.co.uk

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.

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£2.5k up for grabs Groups and individuals in Orrell and Billinge are urged to come forward and bid for up to £2,500 of funding. The money has been raised by the Saturday Breakfast Community Fundraisers held every Saturday at St Luke’s church hall in Orrell, and represents the money raised by the organisation since it launched in March.

Over the past few weeks, customers of the café have been voting how they would like to splash the cash and have identified four distinct areas – Community Events, Youth, Environment and Education.

Organisers are now inviting bids from people or groups who have ideas for projects centred around these areas which will enhance the lives of residents of Orrell and Billinge.

Mary Forrester, one of the organisers of Saturday Breakfast, said: “We’re looking for people to come forward with their big idea and also a feasible plan

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on how they can achieve it. Although we welcome bids from established community groups, we also welcome bids from informal groups – perhaps a group of residents or a group of parents who share a common goal.”

To get a form to submit a bid, email Michael Winstanley at mwinstanleym@aol.com. Closing dates for all bids is July 31.

The Saturday Breakfast event consists of a pop up breakfast café, with a number of stalls, and is held at the church hall every Saturday between 9am-noon.

Saturday Breakfast will be open for June 18 and 25 but will then close for the summer and reopen on Saturday, September 3.

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Medieval Fayre

Ramble on

Get a flavour of life in bygone times at St Thomas the Martyr Church’s Medieval Fayre on Saturday, July 2.

If you want to make the most of the lighter nights, why not join the Wigan Rambling and Climbing Club on their Tuesday evening walks which handily start and end at a local pub!

Between 1 and 4pm, the church and grounds of Up Holland Parish Church, Church Street, Up Holland will be transformed with live music and a variety of stalls. Afternoon teas will be served and a barbecue will be fired up.

Children’s attractions include a bouncy castle while there will also be your chance to try archery, hook a duck and other traditional games.

The band Tapestry of Music will be playing during the afternoon and there will be a variety of stalls including a local produce market, fresh bread, homemade cakes, fancy goods, plants and lots more.

Admission is free. Call Sue on 01695 577532 for more details.

The walks begin at 7.20pm and return to the start before the sun goes down. For more details, visit the website www.wiganwalkers.com or contact secretary Jill Shilladay on 01257 421926. The evening walks take place until August 16 (this being the last one).

Every month the group also puts on a coach ramble (£10) and on Sunday, June 26 they are off to Hawkshead. On Sunday, July 31 a trip to Pately Bridge is planned while it’s destination is Keswick on August 21.

The group reminds readers that although the website says ‘wiganwalkers’ the group’s name is Wigan Rambling and Climbing Club and not Wigan Walkers - this is a different club.

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Going green One of the highlights of the local summer schedule, the Green Fayre at Beacon Country Park in Upholland is West Lancashire’s Premier Countryside Show.

The show is packed with craftspeople, demonstrations and stalls in working woodlands, show arena and craft areas. A range of traditional and greenwood skills will be showcased as well as some fantastic locally produced goods.

The show’s living history area will help you discover how the area looked 1000 years ago. There are a variety of acts and displays in the show arena and you can also relax and unwind in the music marquee while tasting some excellent produce

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from the show’s range of catering options.

There are plenty of attractions for younger visitors including a full petting farm, a climbing wall, caving experience, archery, traditional funfair and bouncy castles.

There is something for everyone at the show and entry is free. The show is held on Saturday July 23 and Sunday July 24 between 11am and 5pm.

Fun of the fair This year’s Orrell Holgate Primary School Summer Fair takes place on Saturday, July 2 between 11am1pm.

There will be lots of stalls including children’s face painting and hair braiding, cakes, ice-cream, chocolate tombola, teddy tombola, fun rides and more.

Raffle tickets will be on sale and a barbecue lunch will be available. Phone 01942 776670 for more details.

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Half a Sixpence Orrell Musical and Dramatic Society will be performing their annual musical at St Michael’s Parish Hall, Shaw St, Wigan this July.

This year’s show is Half a Sixpence which tells the story of Arthur Kipps, an orphan, who unexpectedly inherits a fortune but realises money cannot buy happiness.

The production is packed with well-known songs and tickets are available on 01695 622713. Ticket prices are: £8 (concessions Tuesday and Thursday £7). The show will be performed on Tuesday July 19, Thursday July 21, Friday July 22 and Saturday July 23, starting at 7.30pm.

Distributors wanted Local Life requires distributors aged 13 and above for this edition of our magazine. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every eight weeks. The areas we currently require distributors is as follows: Pemberton Chapel Street, Brook Lane, Meadowbrook Estate, Leopold Street, Valley Road, Marina Drive and Queen Street Winstanley Dereham Way, Redgrave Rise and Saxthorpe Close If you are interested, please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

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Family fun day St Teresa’s Primary School on College Road in Up Holland stage their Summer Fair on Saturday June 25 between 12.30 and 3pm.

Lots of traditional activities will be taking place on the day such as games, a bouncy castle and stalls plus there’s a raffle with the chance to win a Marks and Spencer hamper worth £100 and a “bucket of booze”.

Cafe/refreshments available and the bar in the club next door will be open too.

Summer fayre Winstanley Community Primary School on Tan House Drive holds its Summer Fayre on Saturday June 25.

Admission is free and between noon and 3pm there will be lots to do including arts and crafts, beat

the goalie, pony rides and – weather permitting bouncy castles.

Look out for the wine and chocolate tombola, a barbecue and stalls serving up tasty treats like ice cream and candy floss.

Field Day returns!

Windy Arbour Farm’s popular Field Day returns on Saturday, June 18 between 10am and 7pm.

It’s a repeat of last year’s hugely popular Finest Produce and Family Fun event and will feature a bar, hog roast, barbecue, archery and stalls selling local produce.

For children, there will be face painting, a bouncy castle and the chance to get a close look at a tractor.

Mr Yipadee will be performing a children’s singalong show at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

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Ashcroft to

tour

Former lead singer of The Verve Richard Ashcroft is to tour in support of his new album, These People.

Once an Up Holland High School pupil, Richard will play the Echo Arena in Liverpool on Wednesday, December 7. He recently returned to the stage after a lengthy absence with shows in Manchester and London.

Richard formed Verve, later renamed The Verve while at Up Holland High School in 1989 with classmates Simon Jones, Simon Tong and Peter Salisbury. Nick McCabe joined later.

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Fun day ahead There promises to be something for the whole family at the Marus Bridge Summer Fayre on Saturday, June 25.

Held at Marus Bridge Primary School on Kelvin Grove between 11am and 2pm, the show will feature Skye and Marshall from the popular children’s cartoon Paw Patrol.

You will have the chance to take a close look at a fire engine as well as checking out stands selling hot dogs, candy floss and popcorn. Traditional fairground type attractions will include a tombola and lucky dip.

There will be a huge range of prizes to be won on the day including a party pass for 10 children

at Gioco Play Centre plus tickets for AMF Bowling and vouchers for meals at Nando’s and Frankie and Benny’s.

Anyone for tennis?

Why not try your hand at tennis at Winstanley Tennis Club’s summer open day on Sunday, July 17?

Bring the whole family between 12.30 and 4.00 pm and enjoy an afternoon of free tuition from head coach Chris Anders.

All rackets and balls will be provided and there will also be a tombola and refreshments. The club is based in Hall Lane, just off Winstanley Road (WN5 7XD). For more information, visit the club’s website: www.winstanleytennisclub.co.uk

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Class from the

past

This month’s Class from the Past is from Lamberhead Green School, and is believed to have been taken in the 1970s.

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Your sporting heroes?

Nominations are now open for the 2016 Believe Sports Awards.

The prestigious event, organised by Inspiring healthy lifestyles on behalf of Wigan Council, rewards and recognises the work of voluntary sector coaches, clubs and volunteers, as well as celebrating the achievements of local athletes. The ceremony will take place at the DW Stadium on Friday October 7.

Councillor Paul Kenny, Wigan Council’s cabinet member for leisure, said: “This is your chance to nominate those individuals and clubs who are making a real difference within the borough, whether it’s through an outstanding achievement or an exceptional commitment to supporting our upcoming sporting stars.”

Nominations can be made in the following categories: Coach of the Year; Club of the Year; Sports Achiever of the Year; Disabled Sports Achiever of the

Year; Volunteer of the Year; The Wilf Brogan Unsung Hero Award; Changing Lifestyle Recognition Award; Team of the Year (Wigan awards only); The Martin Lynn Special Contribution to School Sport Award (Wigan awards only); Sports Apprentice of the Year (Wigan awards only) Nominations should reflect achievements between September 2015 and the closing date of Friday August 5. Category winners go forward to represent Wigan Borough at the Greater Manchester Sports Awards on Friday November 4 at The Point, Emirates Old Trafford.

For more information, and to nominate, visit www. inspiringhealthylifestyles.org/BelieveSportsAwards or contact Inspiring healthy lifestyles on 01942 404995.

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Brigade Reunion Were you a member of the Boys’ Brigade or the Girls’ Brigade in the Orrell area in the 1970s, 1980s or 1990s?

If so, you may be interested to hear that there’s a reunion of members taking place at the Orrell Post Methodist Church on Sunday, July 24 at 10.45am.

The 22nd Wigan Boys’ Brigade and the 1st Orrell Girls’ Brigade were formed in 1972 and collectively had around 100 members from 5-18 years old.

After creating lots of great memories and bringing people together, the groups disbanded in the early 1990s.

A celebration of the groups will take place at

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morning service, and you can catch up with your fellow brigade members afterwards while enjoying some refreshments. There’s no charge and everyone is welcome. Call Mrs Gleaves on 01695 624303 for further details.

Rail upgrades Gathurst and Pemberton rail stations have been upgraded thanks to a funding boost from Transport for Greater Manchester.

Passengers are now benefiting from improved facilities providing up-to-date journey information along with station-wide CCTV. New public address systems have also been installed.

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Museum

visit

Brownies from the 3rd Up Holland (Alma Hill Methodist) Brownies enjoyed a trip to the Museum of Wigan Life.

The girls looked round the museum to investigate their community – which forms part of their promise.

Community History Manager, Lynda Jackson showed them some of the most precious artefacts and discussed some of the paintings with them.

The girls then completed the Discover Arts Award and received their Arts Award certificates.

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Fit for summer A ladies only bootcamp is coming to St Peter’s High School in Orrell on Monday, June 27.

It’s a chance to get fit, meet new people and stay active and takes place between 6.30 and 7.30pm.

The classes take place in the gymnasium.

To book call Nichola on 01942 512492 or email nickthompson2008@hotmail.co.uk.

Make a Deal Wigan Council’s The Deal initiative arrives in Orrell next month with a range of activities.

It’s a chance to see The Deal in action on your doorstep and will showcase some of its services and benefits.

The schedule is as follows: Tuesday July 21, 10am-3pm at Orrell Water Park: Fun Day with family activities

Wednesday July 22 at Orrell Methodist Church: Meet your local Councillors Thursday July 23 at Hewitt Business Park, Orrell: Business advice and information drop in: 2-4pm Friday July 24 at Wigan Youth Zone: Youth zone activities - 6:30pm, pick up for young people at Orrell Water Park. Drop off at 9:30pm

Shape up Join Victoria Watkin for her Hatha Yoga class at Orrell St Peter’s School on Wednesday, June 29.

Between 7.30 and 8.30pm, you can stretch, tone and relax your entire body. Whether you are trying to feel more comfortable in your body, cope with work related stress, get in better shape or simply stretch tight muscles this hatha yoga class will help you achieve your goal.

Contact Victoria on 07796215585 or email victoria. watkin@btinetnet.com for more details.

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Waxing

Lyrical

Do you remember the glory days of the Lyric Cinema on Grove Road in Upholland? Maybe you used to be a regular movie-goer or know someone who worked there?

The distinctive building has been the home of M&D Allyn for 40 years and the company is hoping to mark the milestone with a celebration event for customers and locals.

But staff at the cleaning supplies firm are struggling to find out more about the building’s history and are hoping Local Life readers might be able to help.

celebrating our 40th Anniversary in Holland Hall Hotel and we are aiming to put on a reception day for our customers and neighbours showing the building from beginning to now. What we are looking for are photos and stories about the site – maybe when it was a cinema. We have really struggled to find any photos of it during its heyday.”

Mandy Trevarton from M&D said: “M&D started in 1976 but moved to Grove Road in 1982. We are

If you can help, call Mandy during office hours on 01695 627999.

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Prayers and a cuppa Orrell St Luke’s Church holds a Café Church morning on Sunday, June 19.

Entitled Messengers of God, the event signals the start of a new series on the prophets of the Bible.

You are encouraged to go along and learn about the Christian faith in an informal way as the group meet, eat, talk and pray together.

Everyone is welcome but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Also, morning prayer takes place at the same venue every Thursday between 9 and 9.30am.

Cheer we go The Supreme Starlights cheerleading group train every Tuesday at Orrell St Peter’s School and you’re welcome to go along and give it a go.

Established in 2002, the group has teams from tots

to adults and compete nationally.

Classes take place between 5.15 and 9pm (time varies dependent on age group). For more information contact Zoe on winstanleyzoe@yahoo. co.uk or phone 07951606101

New members needed Pemberton Youth Brass Band is on the lookout for new recruits.

You can be a novice or a maestro – everyone is welcome to go along and try their hand.

Free tuition is given and instruments are loaned to new starters.

The band meet every Saturday between 10am and noon each Saturday with the beginners group getting together between 4 and 5pm on Mondays at 115 Tunstall Lane, Pemberton. Call John for more information on: 07746 443721.

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Orrell

T

he pomp, the pageantry, the colour – there’s nothing quite like the Last Night of the Proms. A tradition as British as Wimbledon, cream teas and cricket on the village green.

Of course, not everyone can get to the Royal Albert Halls and wave their flags so we’re indebted to the Orrell Proms for delivering some of that atmosphere on our doorstep.

Returning on Saturday, September 10, the event is again being staged at Orrell Cricket Club and hopes are high that it will be just as grand an affair as last year.

What started off as a one-off fund raising event is one of the most anticipated dates in the community’s calendar. Organisers Spencer Anglesea and Paul Mottram are striving to make this year’s event even better.

People of all ages are encouraged to get along and

proms

By Mark Taylor

enjoy themselves and make it a real community showpiece.

Spencer and Paul said: “Last year, the whole day was very special and not since the days of Orrell Carnival had we seen an event like this culminating in an amazing performance at the end by Golborne Brass Band with all of those Prom favourites.

“We are both really excited about the plans and although their main objective has always been to raise valuable funding for the cricket club, it is very obvious they really just want everyone to have a great day out and enjoy some great musical performances.

“This year we have Carolynne Poole a fantastic female vocalist who got through to the live finals on X Factor a few years ago, Nathan Moore from Brother Beyond, a genuine 80s popstar.

“Soul Kinda Wonderful will be performing those

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Soul and Motown hits from a bygone era including music by the Drifters, the Four Tops and many more.

No Orrell musical event would be complete without local acts Andy Crawford and Crawford & Brown who will be treating us to their usual top quality performances. This amazing line up leads us to the climax of the whole day with the brilliant Golborne Brass Band performing all the flag waving Proms favourites and without doubt , the highlight of last year.

“We would also once again like to thank Local Life, our local councillors Steve Murphy, Dave Arrowsmith and Michael Winstanley and the Brighter Borough Fund as well as Mather and Stuart for their continued support allowing us to host this very special Orrell Event.”

John Lawrence of Orrell Cricket Club said: ““As well as bringing the local community together to celebrate a fabulous music event, the success of the Proms provides vital financial support to the

cricket club without which we would not be able to maintain & improve our facilities which are used by so many of our local youngsters & from the Wigan Borough as a whole.”

This year there will also be a cocktail bar if you fancy something a bit different and a Hog Roast.

Tickets available online now from the website: www.orrell-live.co.uk

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34

Greenfest

returns

Greenslate Farm’s popular Greenfest is back on Saturday, August 6.

It’s a laid-back, good natured, family-friendly event which helps to raise funds for Greenslate Community Farm – a therapeutic environment for clients with a variety of additional needs.

Back in 2012 Greenslate Community Farm was nothing more than a trial vegetable plot in a snowcovered field with a handful of frozen volunteers.

Now, it’s a successful community farm that employs several staff to manage the various aspects of the farm and community activities.

In those early days a few local musicians volunteered to put on a couple of evenings of entertainment to help raise funds for the farm. The success of these

nights lead to what we now know as Greenfest, a free farm music festival and family fun day.

Other activities at the farm include producing wholesome and local food, kids’ clubs, woodland walks, various workshops allowing people to learn new skills and gain new experiences (drumming,

35

bee keeping, veg growing etc). They also provide more than 30 allotments for local families and individuals to grow their own food.

At Greenfest 2015, more than 1,000 people attended despite some pretty appalling weather during the early part of the day. The organisers hope they can make this year’s event an even bigger success and a number of bands have been lined up to perform.

On top of the music, there are kids activities and games, craft and art stalls, plus a few special surprises.

the vegan food stall ‘Give Peas A Chance’.

Throughout the day, visitors will be able to buy food and drinks from locally sourced suppliers. There’s a large bar serving a choice of local real ales, ciders, wine and lager. Food is available from the BBQ and

The festival is free to enter again although since it’s a fund raising event, donations are welcomed.

Visit the website for more details: http:// greenslatefarm.org.uk

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36

May Day of

old

This photograph was submitted by reader Marjorie Price and shows May Day celebrations in Orrell from a bygone era.

The shot was taken in front of Glover’s Farm on Sefton Road where the Sallowfields estate now stands.

Marjorie explains: “My neighbour Marion Bamber thinks she was nine or 10 years old in the photo and she will be 87 this year so that makes it about 78 years ago.

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“Marion has a brother Cyril and they lived at no.66 Sefton Road but her married name is Marion Leyland and she has lived next door to me on Gathurst Road for the past 40 years”.

“Maybe the baby in the pram or one or two of the younger ones may still be around today but if not, maybe their relatives will recognise people in the photograph.”

The people in the photo are remembered as: John Roby, Marion Bamber, Anne Halliwell, Henry Winstanley, Sydney Birchall, Ronnie Unsworth, Fredy Barber, Tony Horrocks, Kathless Derbyshire, Jeffrey Derbyshire, Reggie Birchall.

Summer fun Craft stalls and a bouncy castle will be among the attractions at Orrell Book Cycle’s Summer Fair on Saturday, June 25 between noon and 4pm.

Book Cycle is on Orrell Road and for more details call 01942 665646.

Competition Winners Two lucky Local Life readers have each won a pair of tickets to see Tom Jones, live at Haydock Park. The competition was run in our May edition of Local Life and the two winners were Maureen Brooks of Wirral Drive, Winstanley, and Mary Prior of Billinge Road, Highfield. Thanks to all who entered and a big well done to the winners!

38

Leading Winstanley College student Amy Sandbach is celebrating after she was offered a place to study at English and Theatre Studies at Leeds University this September.

Amy is hoping to follow in the footsteps of many other successful former alumni who have gone on to be professional actors.

Most recently, Amy completed an impressive 11 night performance at Wigan Little Theatre after landing the leading role in Be My Baby.

The 1960s-based play focuses on the 1960s and details the plight of young single mothers and the trials and tribulations of mother and baby homes.

Amy, who has been part of Wigan Youth Theatre Group for three years, played the part of Mary, who, after getting pregnant by her boyfriend, is placed in a mother and baby home to give her a ‘better life’.

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40

Can you

care?

A charity which offers support and advice for young carers across Wigan is looking for new volunteers to help it to extend its reach and help more people.

Wigan and Leigh Young Carers provides after school support groups as well as days out and counselling for those aged between five and 24 who look after a family member who has a physical illness or is struggling with other issues.

These can include someone with a disability, mental health issues, a sensory disability or a problematic use of alcohol or drugs. The level of care the young people provide would normally be undertaken by an adult so can impact on their childhood. By supporting the carers, the group can offer practical, physical and emotional support.

Three staff and 45 dedicated volunteers help to keep the charity running on a day-today basis but there is a need for new recruits in Orrell, Winstanley and Pemberton.

Because of this shortage, some people in these areas are missing out and the group is keen to address that.

Paul Carroll is project manager and he explained how important the group is to a young person.

“We visit schools to support young carers and help identify young people who may need help,” he said.

“We receive support from Wigan Council and BBC Children in Need but are always looking for funding to help cover the costs of running our groups. We

are always looking for additional volunteers who can support especially in the west of the borough.”

The group’s after school groups offer friendship and support. Socialising with others who have similar life experiences can help reduce the sense of isolation sometimes associated with caring responsibilities. Peer support also offers young carers the opportunity to experience the everyday

pleasures of childhood, which is an essential part of their growth and development.

The groups are held in a safe and supportive environment. Anyone over 18 years old can volunteer for Wigan and Leigh Young Carers. You need to have a clean Enhanced Disclosure DBS check in.

If you are interested in volunteering, visit the website: Info@walyc.org.uk or call 01942 679352.

41

Health & Fitness

Need to see a

GP?

By Lisa Salmon

T

he shortage of NHS GPs means many patients are facing a lengthy wait for a doctor’s appointment - and increasing numbers are turning to a digital doctor for healthcare advice.

Figures released last month show the number of people waiting at least a week to see their GP rose by 500,000 in 2015, to 14.2 million patients, possibly because the number of GPs hasn’t kept pace with our growing, and ageing, population.

But figures also suggest a growing trend for people turning to the web to consult doctors. A recent survey by Push Doctor found 62% of Brits have used online technology to access healthcare, either through online consultations, accessing medical records, booking appointments and ordering repeat prescriptions.

Dr Maureen Baker, chair of the Royal College of GPs (RCGP), says: “With waiting times for appointments getting longer, there is the potential for apps and medical devices to support health professionals explore alternative ways of delivering care to patients.

“Anything that encourages patients to take an interest in their health is a good thing - and advances in technology bring enormous potential to support patients to care for themselves, and help them to foster active lifestyles.”

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Nearly a third (30%) say they’d consult a GP via video if it meant they could have an appointment when and where they wanted, and 27% say they’d book a video consultation if they could have an immediate or same-day appointment.

Push Doctor founder Eren Ozagir says video consultations encourage increased patient choice and make seeing a GP more accessible.

“It’s a more practical and engaging way of consulting than a telephone appointment, and is

Eren Ozagir, CEO and founder of PushDoctor.co.uk.

What’s available?

From last month, all GPs have to provide patients with online access to detailed information in their GP records, and most also allow patients to book and cancel appointments, and order repeat prescriptions online.

allowing more timely care that works around the individual patient. The UK’s clinicians and patients are continuing to embrace technology and digital solutions in healthcare, from glucose monitors to video consultations, and they are doing so in increasing numbers. This is a positive move as it’s freeing clinician time, making health services more efficient and improving how we engage with and access healthcare.

“Ultimately, this comes down to providing greater

In addition, increasing numbers of online doctor services are available, where patients register and can then book paid-for video consultations or live online chats with qualified GPs. One such service is Push Doctor (www.pushdoctor. co.uk), which charges £1 for the first consultation, and then £14 for each 10-minute video ‘appointment’ thereafter. Online prescriptions, referral letters and fit-for-work notes are also available at an additional cost.

Popular prescription Not surprisingly, younger age groups (those aged 18-24 and 35-44) are driving the adoption of online healthcare.

The Push Doctor survey, which quizzed more than 1,000 adults, found ordering repeat prescriptions is currently the most popular way Brits use technology to access healthcare (29%), followed by communicating with a GP via live webchat (22%), and video consultations (17%).

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43

patient choice - enabling them to have more control over how and when they access their healthcare.”

History checks Services like Push Doctor take medical histories from the patients themselves, and Ozagir points out that this is the way it’s done in any private consultation.

However, Dr Baker says the RCGP has concerns about the patient-safety implications of services offering virtual consultations via smartphones.

“Patients will be having consultations with GPs who are unfamiliar with -

44

Dr Maureen Baker and won’t necessarily have access to - their medical history, or information about drugs they’ve been prescribed,” she stresses.

“Medical histories provided by patients themselves will rarely be as comprehensive as those held by their family doctor. There are also many signs and symptoms that GPs look out for when making a diagnosis, that the patient might not think to raise.”

Fee concerns Furthermore, Dr Baker insists access to a GP should never be dependent on a patient’s ability to pay.

“We are very concerned about devices that charge patients to see a family doctor,” she adds. “This is something that would fundamentally change one of the founding principles of the NHS - that healthcare is free at the point of need.”

She says the focus should be on implementing aims to build the general practice workforce.

“This way, we can provide more appointments and give all our patients the care they need and deserve, free of charge on the NHS,” she says.

“Technology definitely has a place as part of a 21st century health service, but apps offering access to GPs for a fee are not the solution to the intense pressures facing general practice, or for our patients who are finding it difficult to make an appointment.”

45

46

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Answers are on page 80 of this magazine

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48

Travel

Rise of the

rivers

R

iver cruising has seen huge strides in innovation in the past few years, both in terms of features on the ships but also a broadening appeal to both families and younger passengers. Whilst older river cruise boats were small with few cabins with balconies, limited dining options and poor entertainment, this situation has changed significantly with the new ships entering the market.

One of the biggest differences between an ocean cruise and a river cruise is that the former takes you to countries, while the latter takes you through countries, making river cruising in many ways a more all-encompassing experience. Much of the beauty of France lies in its rustic countryside, away from the coast, where rivers and canals are the gateway to the lavender fields of Provence and the vineyards of Burgundy.

Saga Holidays, as you would expect, are one of the leading river cruise operators and you can collect their 2017 River Cruise brochure now from Marken Travel in Billinge.

One of the highlights of the Saga River Cruise programme is the quality of their boats and here we put the spotlight on just one of their many destinations – the South of France.

With its place on the Eurostar Network, as well as an international airport, Lyon is a popular starting point for French river cruises. Often dubbed the gastronomic

49

capital of France, Lyon is the meeting place for the Rhone and Saone rivers. The city centre reflects 2,000 years of history and Lyon was also the centre of the 19th century silk trade. You can explore a Roman amphitheatre in Fourvière, medieval and Renaissance architecture, and perhaps follow some of the ancient traboules or secret alleyways used by the silk workers to traverse the city undetected.

Sail north up the Saone and discover Macon, with its distinctly Mediterranean feel. Mâcon is famous for its wine, most coming from the Chardonnay grape with Pouilly-Fuissé, St-Véran and Mâcon-Villages Blanc the most well-known, whilst connoisseurs of red or rose can enjoy the juice from the Gamay or Pinot Noir grape.

Further north is Chalon-sur-Saone, with its rich Roman and medieval heritage. The enormous Cathedrale St. Vincent and the surrounding place are the heart of Chalon. It was built between 1090 and 1522 and sits on a wonderful square with neat shops and restaurants.

Head south down the Rhone and a popular venue

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Tuesday, 5th July, 6.30pm A Saga representative will be on hand to answer your questions.

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Telephone: 01744 893291

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French Checklist Language: French Currency: Euro Time difference: +2 hours Cost of a beer: €1.51 Cost of a bottle of wine: €5.00 3 Course meal (mid range restaurant): €25.00

for a river cruise stop is the historic walled city of Viviers, with a majestic cathedral dominating the city that’s set between the Rhone and the hills beyond. Often excursions from the river cruises in this part of the world include trips to see places like Carmague, where you could see the wild horses, and the Ardeche Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of Europe.

The narrow streets and squares of Avignon, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a pleasure to explore. This medieval city was, for seventy years, the centre of the Papal court and is known as the ‘City of Popes’ and the Papal Palace at night is a spectacle to behold.

Further south atop a limestone hill beside the Rhone is Arles, founded by Roman soldiers and

home to one of Van Gogh’s masterpieces, Café Terrace at Night. You can perhaps enjoy a coffee at the same restaurant, or explore the well preserved Roman amphitheatre. Arles captures the true charm of Provence and is well worth a visit.

Port St Louis, on the shores of the Mediterranean is the port section of Marseille, the oldest and second largest city in France. Nearby are three beaches, the famous marshes and the cultivated plains where wild horses and flamingos roam.

River cruising in the South of France is truly a trip to experience. The number of UK travellers choosing a river cruise hit an all-time high last year, so if you’re looking for something different next year, contact Marken Travel in Billinge who will enlighten you on the complete river cruise experience with Saga or come along to the Open Night hosted by Saga at Marken Travel – see below for details.

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52

Financial planning

Drawdown or

Annuity?

by David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP), Chartered Financial Planner and Managing Director

A

fter taking 25% tax-free cash, two common choices for accessing the remainder of your pension are drawdown and annuities. Both options offer their own advantages and drawbacks, which is why many people use a combination of both, depending on their circumstances. You may benefit from consulting a financial planner before making a decision, but this is our guide to the pros and cons of both options.

Flexibility & Control Drawdown - You have complete control to access as much of your money as often as you like. You can also choose your own investments, but this could mean additional time unless you choose a managed solution.

Annuity - Some annuities will let you choose your frequency of payment, but you have no other control over your income and once you’ve purchased an annuity you cannot change your mind (this is expected to change from April 2017). However, there are no investments to manage.

Security Drawdown - There is no guaranteed level of income – the investments within your SIPP remain invested and can go down as well as up in value.

Annuity - Your income will usually last for at least the remainder of your life, regardless of how long you live and how the markets perform. However, you may not be protected against inflation.

Choices Drawdown - You will normally have a very wide choice of funds to choose from within your self-invested pension to match your attitude to investment risk.

Annuity - Every provider offers different rates on the different types of annuity, so it pays to shop around.

You can use our annuity service to compare live rates before buying an annuity.

Value for Money Drawdown - Most SIPPs and funds will charge you annual fees, although your returns could be higher with drawdown than an annuity however this cannot be guaranteed.

Annuity - You make a one-off purchase for a guaranteed income that usually lasts until you die.

This could prove to be good or bad value depending on how long you live.

What happens when I die?

Drawdown - Your pension can be passed on to beneficiaries as a lump sum or an income. The money may be subject to tax, depending on your age at death.

Annuity - Usually there are no more payments, unless you purchase a joint life or guaranteed period annuity in which case a pre-agreed level of income will be paid afterwards.

Health & Lifestyle Drawdown - Your health and lifestyle will not affect your level of income.

Annuity - If you smoke, have a health condition or take prescribed medicine you could get a higher level of income by purchasing an enhanced annuity.

Many of our clients benefit from using both an annuity and drawdown to provide retirement income. The annuity is used for your essential living expenses, with the remainder of the fund accessible through drawdown as and when they need to. This can be a complex area, so if you are unsure please get in touch with one of our qualified financial planners on 01257 423800

The value of investments, and the income derived from them, can go down as well as up and you can get back less than you originally invested.

53

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54

Jean gets switched An Orrell pensioner with a serious eye condition says digital technology is opening up a new chapter in her life.

Jean Bradshaw, 75, has age-related macular degeneration which will eventually cause her vision to deteriorate.

on

In the past year 692 people have taken part in the Get Online and iPad sessions.

People can learn how to access email addresses and websites and generally make the most of digital technology.

Jean said: “I came to the library initially with a friend who wanted to learn to use a laptop and the course was very good indeed. I then got the chance about how to learn to use an iPad.” Jean says the impending deterioration of her sight is driving her to learn how to use the different functions of the iPad which will help her in future years.

“I know my sight is going to go so I know I am going to be isolated,” she said.

“So I am learning the sound part of the iPad as well as the vison part of the iPad. The fact the council is providing this course is fantastic.

Jean is preparing for this through embracing digital technology and is now learning all about what using an iPad can offer thanks to free advice sessions from the council.

“It’s given me a complete new interest. I really was frightened of iPads and I’m not anymore.”

Jean regularly attends Wigan Council’s Get Online digital inclusion sessions at Lamberhead Green

Jean advised others who may be in a similar position and unsure about digital technology to get involved and drop in to one of the Get Online sessions.

Library in Orrell.

“I would say ‘go for it’!

The sessions take place across the borough in libraries and Life Centres and offer free introductory advice to help people get online and access Wigan

Anyone interested in a Get Online course can pop into their local library or Life Centre and speak to a staff member or log on to: www.wigan.gov.uk/ getonline

Council services.

55

Day trippers Billinge and Garswood Carers Group helps to give carers a much-needed break by offering day trips

There are also touch rugby sessions on Fridays between 6.30 and 7.30pm at the same venue.

For more information email orrellrufc@outlook.com

and meetings.

If you care for someone who is sick or has a disability, a mental illness or is an elderly relative or friend, you are invited to get involved.

The group meets on the first Tuesday of the month at the Foresters Arms pub, Main Street, Billinge at 1pm.

For more details, call 01744 892224 or 01744 895295 or email info@carersgroup.org

Player search Orrell Rugby Union Club are always looking for new players of all ages.

Simply turn up for training at St John Rigby School.

Juniors train Wednesday between 6 and 7pm with the seniors following them between 7 and 9pm.

Tell us your story!

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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56

Business view

Pay less

tax

by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy

S

o the Budget’s come and gone and we’re now into a new tax year. Here we look at what you can do to ensure you’re in the best financial position for the coming year.

Tax tips for individuals Marriage allowance was introduced in April 2015, there’s evidence that not everyone has cottoned on to the tax savings available. If you’re a basic rate taxpayer and your spouse doesn’t work or they do not pay tax, they can transfer up to £1,100 of their allowance to the higher earner, resulting in tax savings.

Interest from ISA accounts is tax free and the ISA allowance is £15,240 for the 2016/17 tax year and £20,000 for 2017/18. Although the investment itself doesn’t attract any tax relief, any income generated from it will be tax-free.

The Capital Gains Tax exemption is currently £11,100 a year and this exemption cannot be carried forward, so if you do not use it you lose it. Remember that the annual exemption is per individual, so if you are married you essentially have a £22,200 annual opportunity to take advantage of.

Tax tips for business owners The new dividend allowance means that the first £5,000 of your dividend income is tax-free.

Family-owned businesses may want to consider restructuring their share capital to take advantage of this. Married couples should spread their dividend paying share portfolios between them to take advantage of each individual’s allowance and don’t forget that the allowance applies to higher rate taxpayers too!

If your company’s involved in making advancements in science or technology, you could potentially benefit from Research & Development Tax Relief.

This could be up to 130% additional enhancement of your R&D spend and if you’re loss-making, it could enable a Corporation Tax refund or cash credit.

The annual allowance for pension contributions still remains at £40,000 for 2016/17 for most tax payers.

Consider maximizing your pension contributions and use the option to carry forward contributions from the previous three years, if the full pension contributions were not made in those years.

The rules for Employer’s NI allowance have changed. The allowance has increased to £3,000, however you are excluded from making a claim if you are a company with one director and no employees. If you are a one-director company, contact us for ways to make your business as tax efficient as possible.

These are just a few examples of CMA can do to help to minimise your tax liabilities.

Before you take any action you really should take advice on your personal circumstances. If you would like to get in touch then please feel free to email us on info@cma-accountancy.com and we would gladly help you.

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57

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58

Book-Cycle’s African

mission...

by Mark Taylor

housands of books are winging their way from Wigan to schools in Ghana as part of one of Book-Cycle’s most ambitious projects to date.

T

then carefully packed at the Book-Cycle centre on Ridyard Street. Volunteers formed an army-style human chain to load the container full of boxes ready for their long journey to Ghana.

Volunteers from the group helped load up a container headed for Africa with not just books but clothes, stationery, toiletries and sports equipment.

The books will arrive in Tema this month and be distributed among schools in the Ashanti region of Ghana.

Around 20 old style, manual sewing machines were also shipped out. These will allow people the opportunity to make their own items which they can then sell, giving them the chance to learn a trade while supporting their families.

In July, there will also be 24 Book-Cycle volunteers traveling to Ashanti in Ghana to help build statues, distribute books and decorate dilapidated classrooms. They will also help to construct shelving for the libraries and visit a community of single mums in Besease.

More than 50,000 books, all boxed depending on the type of subject matter, had been stored

The books will be distributed among many schools

59

The following schools were involved in Book-Cycle’s World Book Day event and donated books: Ince Primary Mabs Cross St Marks C of E Winstanley Primary St Paul’s Shevington High School Hawkley Hall High School Rainford High School

who have limited access to books or no library facilities at all. Volunteers will also collaborate with Enliven Mama Africa who work with a community of young single mothers by empowering them to thrive through small scale entrepreneurship.

Currently 14 women are attending trade school with the hope of becoming self-sustainable.

This represents one of the biggest challenges BookCycle have taken on and it generated funding via the Thunderclap website. Here, people can make donations in much the same way people can support businesses through Kickstarter.

Anthony Melling, who helped found Book-Cycle and was one of the lead campaigners on this current project explained how much difference books and sewing machines - can make to children’s lives.

60

“There has been an overwhelming reaction to this particular project,” he said. “Around 20 of our volunteers helped to load the container and we also had help from three volunteers from Greenslate Farm.

About Book-Cycle

“It only actually took around 90 minutes to load the container because everyone got stuck in and helped.

“There is an incredible thirst for knowledge amongst the children where these books are going.

Some of the children have never even handled a book but there is an incredible thirst for knowledge.

“For them to hold them and have a book of their own is extremely exciting. Many of the books are what you’d describe as solid learning books – things like alphabets and text books. We have a lot of children’s story books but there are some things we don’t send. For example Harry Potter might be seen over there as witchcraft and we are careful not to include religious books.

“Even though some of the children are what we would class as primary school age, their reading is behind in terms of development because they don’t have the same access to books and teaching.”

Children from local schools also wrote notes and letters to be included in the consignment in a bid to encourage a link between here and Ghana.

Run by volunteers, Book-Cycle is a UK based charity with a mission to empower children worldwide through the provision of free books and educational resources.

The group also help to reforest England by offering trees and information on sustainability. Book-Cycle works in communities throughout the UK and has proved especially popular in Wigan. As well as libraries in Beech Hill and Orrell, there is a donation centre in The Galleries. There are also branches in Exeter and in Rome.

Book-Cycle looks to establish projects to encourage self-reliance through home food growing, community gardening and promoting wildlife through the planting of trees. They also provide seed banks and host a variety of workshops.

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62

It’s a dog’s

life

T

his is the deal. Whilst you’re on your annual fortnightly sojourn in Torremolinos, Fido gets to go off and spend time in doggy paradise (aka the local boarding kennels) with his pals. The weather might not be as nice as Torremolinos, but the company is invariably better!

Not all dogs like boarding kennels though and if your dog is a bit of a sensitive soul then what other options have you got? Staying with family or friends is ok, but people lead busy lives nowadays and it’s not always possible for them to give your furry friends the care and exercise they need.

Here’s an option you may not have considered before – Digs for Dogs!

Digs for Dogs offers a professional, caring service where pets are accommodated in a loving home environment with select families whilst their owners are away from home for whatever reason. Pets are suitably matched with a loving home boarding family who continues the owner’s existing routine for exercising and feeding, and whose environment is similar to the pet’s home.

Digs for Dogs home boarding families are very special people. They have all, without exception, met the strict criteria and are dedicated pet lovers.

Many home boarding families are retired people who miss the routine and exercise when they suddenly find themselves without a pet.

Lisa Rose has worked as a Primary School Teacher trained in Special Educational Needs for the past 16 years and was initially introduced

to Digs for Dogs along with husband, Shaun, and daughter, Lucy, as a home-boarding host family.

They loved caring for lots of friendly dogs and had great fun providing them with a safe and secure family environment.

Lisa has taken a great leap of faith and now runs the Wigan franchise for Digs for Dogs and is now looking forward to offering dog owners peace of mind for their dog/s as a great alternative to kennels in Wigan and the surrounding areas.

If you would like more information on Digs for Dogs then please contact Lisa for further information on 07845 552608, email her on lisarose@digsfordogs.uk.com or visit our website www.digsfordogs.uk.com.

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Local Life is now welcomed into 130,000 quality homes in; Wigan, Chorley, Warrington, St Helens, Leigh & West Lancs Little mags, BIG reach

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Agility classes KC Rally Obedience classes Puppy classes One to one training Puppy socialisation parties Give Jo a call today on 01257 423726 or email her on jo@standishdogtrainer.co.uk

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64

Events & Leisure

What’s

on Rockprest Saturday, July 2 - Sunday, July 3

Symphony at the Tower Friday, July 1 - Sunday, July 3 Will Young and Joe Bonamassa top the bill at this year’s musical extravaganza at Hoghton Tower near Preston.

After winning Pop Idol in 2002, Young has gone on to sell millions of albums as well as establishing himself as a stage performer and actor. He will headline the opening night of the event so expect to hear some of his big hits such as Leave Right Now, Evergreen, Jealousy and Light My Fire.

A day later, US blues and rock musician Joe Bonamassa performs as part of only five UK dates in 2016. The influential guitarist will take to the stage on Saturday night.

Sunday’s concert is being billed as the Symphony Spectacular with a feel of the Last Night of the Proms about it. All the family are invited along and enjoy a picnic while listening to some much-loved classical pieces.

Call 01772 629171 for tickets.

A tribute act festival that brings you familiar sounding sets from the some of the best live bands on the circuit.

Expect some of the biggest tribute acts in Europe on two stages, over two days of crowd-surfing, chorus-chanting and festival fun.

There will be tributes to the likes of Guns N Roses, Queen and Led Zeppelin. Gates open at 11am on both days with the music going on till late.

Moor Park, Preston Tickets are free - though you have to pay the booking fee – and you can claim them online: www.rockprest.com/tickets/

The Sound of Music 5 July 2016 - 9 July 2016 One of the greatest musicals of all time returns to the Winter gardens in Blackpool in a magnificent new production to enchant and enthral the young and the young at heart.

Based on Baroness Maria von Trapp’s 1949 autobiography, this wonderfully lavish new staging of The Sound of Music tells the true story of the world-famous singing family, from their romantic beginnings and search for happiness, to their thrilling escape to freedom as their beloved Austria becomes part of the Third Reich at the start of WWll. Tickets start at £21.45 plus booking fee and are available by calling 0844 856 1111.

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Summer Days Festival Wednesday July 6, Friday, July 8 and Saturday, July 9 Simply Red are one of the top names appearing at this new three-day music festival held within the beautiful grounds of Clitheroe Castle.

Described as a “boutique music and food festival”, there will be two live stages featuring more than 30 artists, a locally sourced gourmet food village and a dedicated real ale area.

Other acts performing include The Christians, Roachford and Gabrielle.

Tickets available from summerdaysfestival.com.

You can buy a ticket for each day or a special VIP pass to cover the whole event.

Starsailor Wednesday, July 13 It might not be on the same grand scale as The Verve’s homecoming, but Starsailor will be back on familiar ground on Wednesday, July 13.

The band whose members hail from Wigan and Chorley will perform at Robin Park Arena, showcasing many of the songs from their breakthrough album Love Is Here which featured the singles Good Souls and Four to the Floor.

They first got together at Wigan and Leigh College and still have strong links with the area.

Lead singer James Walsh has written for other artists in recent years and also performed on his own. But the band have reunited in support of their Greatest Hits album.

Tickets, starting at £21 are on sale now.

Robin Park Arena www.ticketweb.com

The Proclaimers Friday, July 29 From the booming chorus of (I’m Gonna Be) 500 Miles to the poetic beauty of Sunshine on Leith, The Proclaimers have the ability to lift you up or reduce you to tears. Twin brothers Craig and Charlie Reid have enjoyed global success and continue to tour relentlessly. Their live shows are famously good natured affairs and often they meet fans for a pint after the show. On Friday, July 29 they come to the Parr Hall and tickets cost £29.50 including booking fee.

Parr Hall, Cultural Quarter, Palmyra Square South, Warrington, Cheshire WA1 1BL Contact 01925 442345

Chorley Flower Show July 30-31 Fans of floral displays will be able to enjoy a blaze of colour in Astley Park.

Some of the best exhibitors from across the country will be in town after the success of the first ever Chorley Flower Show, which attracted 10,000 people to Astley Park.

New elements for the 2016 show will include introducing show gardens to complement Chorley’s award-winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show exhibit ‘The Evaders’ Garden’ and increasing the variety of horticultural stands in the vicinity of Astley Hall.

There are a range of ticket options and discounts for booking in advance.

Call 01257 515151 for details.

66

Lytham Festival August 1-7, 2016

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Rock legend Bryan Adams and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds are the two headline acts for this year’s Lytham Festival.

There will also be performances from pop stars including The Village People, Bay City Rollers and Earth Wind & Fire and a host of West End stars will take to the stage over three nights at Lytham Festival 2016.

The headline act for Thursday, August 4 is Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. It will be the first time he has played live on the Fylde Coast since October 1995 when his former band Oasis performed at Blackpool’s Empress Ballroom.

On Friday, it’s Mix Tape night with live music from disco giants The Village People and Earth, Wind and Fire, Scottish rockers Bay City Rollers, 90s popstars Liberty X, Toploader and 911 and 80s chart-toppers 5 Star.

Saturday night will see multi-platinum recording artist and Canadian rock giant Bryan Adams headline. With classic hits such classics as Summer of 69, (Everything I Do) I Do It For You and Run To You, Adams is sure to be a crowd favourite.

The Traditional Last Night of the Proms showcase will be on Sunday August 7 and bring the festival to a colourful close.

The programme will also include West End performers such as Jodie Prenger and Ruthie Henshall signing songs from such shows as Miss Saigon, Les Miserable and the Phantom of the Opera.

Tickets for Lytham Festival are available from www.lythamfestival.com or by calling 0844 888 0200.

Blackpool Air Show August 7-8 Watch planes classic and modern take to the skies in Blackpool’s famous air show. Gasp at spectacular wing walkers and admire some beautiful flying machines form the past and present - a marvellous family day out for young and old.

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Expect to see The Red Arrows along with appearances from the Typhoon, Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster Bomber.

The free seafront show, which features a whole host of incredible flying machines and attracts tens of thousands of people to the Promenade each year, will take place on Sunday 7 and Monday 8 August.

Call 01253 478222 for details.

Ormskirk Motorfest Sunday, August 28.

See vintage and classic cars close up at the ever popular Ormskirk Motorfest.

Around 10,000 people are expected to enjoy the free motoring extravaganza, which will feature between 250 and 300 vehicles on display. These include 1950s bubble cars, rally, racing and stock car competition vehicles, and classic, vintage and competition motorcycles.

For further information see www.ormskirkmotorfest.com

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Wednesday, August 31 One of the biggest legends in rock history, The Who, bring their Back To The Who Tour 2016 to the Manchester Arena.

With a string of unforgettable hits such as My Generation and Won’t Get Fooled Again, original members Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend remain at the top of their form.

Tickets cost from £67.75 – see www.eventim.co.uk for more details.

Call Joe on

07877 480 572 for details

St James Social Centre St James Road Orrell, WN5 7AA 01695 623902

68

Food & Drink

Bigging up

spuds

By Keeley Bolger

H

e might be known for his rare-breed pigs, but entomologist-turned-farmer Jimmy Doherty’s latest initiative lets their veggie sidekick - the humble potato - do the talking.

“The Jersey Royal is an iconic food item and something we should celebrate,” the 40-year-old enthuses of his collaboration with the seasonal spud. “If the Italians or French had this, they would be going on about it all the time.”

“As a kid, having Jersey Royals with your spring lamb was pretty important,” he muses. “I’m a big believer in seasonality.”

Available from April until the end of June, Jersey Royals’ Protected Designation of Origin status means its five-generational farmers use 130-year-old techniques to ensure their nutty flavour, creamy consistency and flaky skins.

certainly practises what he preaches at home.

“I visited Jersey, and I arrived thinking, ‘I’m used to farming in the British Isles’, but I’ve never seen it like that before,” admits Doherty. “They’re all crackers, and the fields they hand-plant their crops on - cotils - are steep, so the planters have to be winched up!”

“The simplest way [to serve Jersey Royals] is freshly dug with butter, but I use them for my kids all the time as mini roast potatoes. Rather than peeling and chopping, I just put them straight in the roaster and they love them.

Delivered to supermarkets within 48 hours of being gathered up, the TV foodie is also a firm believer that these potatoes - and other varieties - should be a diet staple.

“My kids get excited about food. Understanding where food comes from is a very natural part of their life, and it should be the case for everyone.

“We forget potatoes are full of vitamin C, antioxidants and fibre, and we’re moving to other carbohydrates like rice and pasta,” he says. “We should go back to eating lots of potatoes.

“I wish we could emulate what Jersey does,” he continues. “ If all of the schools [across the UK] were excited by Jersey Royal season, and did little competitions where they grow the potatoes, it would show pride and respect for the environment.”

“It’s about portion control, that’s all,” he adds, in response to any spud critics, and the father-of-three

Try your hand at Doherty’s family-friendly recipes, specifically created for the iconic Jersey Royal...

69

Sausage and Jersey Royal

bake

Serves 4 Ingredients 600g Jersey Royal new potatoes, scrubbed (not peeled) and cut in half lengthways 8 large herb sausages 2tbsp olive oil 1 medium red onion, peeled and cut into 8 wedges 1/2 red pepper, deseeded and cut into quarters 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and cut into quarters 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 10 large sage leaves, roughly chopped 200g cherry tomatoes 150g asparagus 2tbsp balsamic vinegar

Method Preheat the oven to 200C/180C fan.

Cook the Jersey Royals in a medium pan of salted water for eight to 10 minutes until just tender.

Add the sausages to a large roasting tin with two tablespoons of olive oil and roast for 10 minutes.

Drain the Jersey Royals, and add to the roasting tin with the remaining ingredients, excluding the tomatoes and asparagus. Mix together and roast for 25 minutes until vegetables are slightly caramelised around the edges, stir occasionally.

Coarsely ground black pepper

Scatter over the tomatoes and asparagus, mix well and roast for a further 10 minutes until the sausages are golden and cooked through.

Crusty bread and mustard to serve

Serve hot with crusty bread and mustard.

Sea salt

70

Jersey Royal potato spring vegetable

frittata Method

To make the frittata, c ook the Jersey Royals in a pan of water for 12-15 minutes, until tender. Drain and, when cool, slice thinly.

Serves 4 - 6

Cook the peas and broad beans in boiling water for two minutes (or four to five if from frozen) then drain and refresh under cold water.

Ingredients

Whisk the eggs in a medium bowl with the mint, salt and pepper.

For the frittata:

Heat the oil in a 24cm non-stick frying pan. Add the courgettes cook for one to two minutes then add the potatoes, onions and garlic, cook for three to four minutes, until beginning brown. Stir in the peas and broad beans, keeping 10g of each for the

300g Jersey Royal new potatoes 100g Fresh peas, podded or frozen 100g broad beans, podded and shelled or frozen 6 large free range eggs 3tbsp mint, roughly chopped 1tbsp olive oil 4 salad onions, thinly sliced 4 baby courgettes, sliced in half lengthways 1 garlic clove, crushed 100g feta, crumbled

salad.

Preheat the grill. Pour the whisked egg over the vegetables and crumble over the feta, keeping 20g of feta for the salad. Cook over a gentle heat for 1012 minutes until almost set. Transfer the pan to the grill and cook for three to five minutes until the top is golden and cooked through.

Coarsely ground black pepper

Place a plate or board over the top of the pan so that the frittata falls onto the plate. Slice into wedges and serve with the salad.

For the pea shoot and mint salad:

Pea shoot and mint salad:

40g fresh pea shoots

Wash the pea shoots and rocket, dry well, and tear into bite sized pieces if necessary, add to a medium bowl with the mint, reserved peas, broad beans and feta.

Sea salt

40g fresh rocket leaves 1 small bunch of torn mint leaves 1tbsp extra virgin olive oil Squeeze lemon juice Sea Salt Ground black peppe

Drizzle the leaves with the oil and a squeeze of lemon juice, seasoning with a little salt and pepper.

Mix leaves and dressing together and serve with the frittata

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72

Jersey Royal and halloumi rosemary

skewers

Method Serves 6 Ingredients For the mint oil: 25g fresh mint, leaves only 150ml extra virgin olive oil Sea salt Coarsely ground black pepper For the skewers: 4 x straight woody stems of rosemary around 25cm long

To make the mint oil, a dd all the ingredients to the food processor and process for one to two minutes until smooth.

To make the skewers, a dd the potatoes, halloumi, aubergine and tomatoes to the mint oil. Mix well to ensure that everything is evenly coated.

Strip the base rosemary leaves from each stem, leaving the top 4cm of each with leaves. Thread alternate potato, halloumi, aubergine and tomatoes along each stem and continue until everything is used up.

Preheat the barbecue or grill.

1 medium aubergine, cut into 3cm cubes

Cover the leafy tops of the rosemary skewers with a sheet of tin foil, to prevent them burning, then g rill or barbecue the skewers over a medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning regularly until the potatoes are cooked through and the vegetables are golden. Baste occasionally with the mint oil.

200g cherry tomatoes

Serve with a drizzle of remaining mint oil.

500g Jersey Royal new potatoes, scrubbed (not peeled) and cut in half 360g halloumi cheese, cut into 3cm cubes

73

ms Road Inn The Sim a swo d d, WN4 X 532 G r

o R

0H

Andrew Burton - previously head chef at the Travellers Rest, Lowton 1984 - 1994 moved to Simms Road, chef/proprietor 1994 - 2006 recently returned to Simms Road, July 2013 serving Home made traditionally prepared pub classics.

Food is available 7 days lunch and evening (Sunday all day)

Mon to Sat 12 ‘till 2-30 and 5-30pm ‘till 8pm

Whats On? Burger Monday Burger and a free bottle of beer Ruby Tuesday Freshly prepared curries (free popadoms) plus a free drink Wednesday - Quiz Night Fun quiz with prizes and free food at half time Thursday - Steak Night Two steaks plus a bottle of wine for... £25 Fish Friday Fish, chips and peas plus a drink £10 Saturday - Pie Night Free bottle of beer with your choice of our home made pies (as a meal) BT sport and sky sport in the bar for all your favourite teams

01744 894246 Voucher only valid upon display*

74

Eating out

guide Lovels Bistro

Papa Luigi’s

Tasty food, happy times and great value - you’ll not be disappointed with the quality, taste and service.

We’re more than just a great wedding venue.

01695 624 426 Holland Hall, Lafford Lane, Up Holland, WN8 0QZ hollandhallhotel.co.uk

Traditional Italian cuisine at its best!

Enjoy a little bit of Italy in elegant surroundings and a warm friendly atmosphere, where you can relax and unwind or celebrate in style. See our website for more information.

01942 231558 Wigan Lane, Wigan, WN1 1JP papaluigiswigan.co.uk

The Simms Road Inn Homemade pub food classics made with locally sourced produce - featuring our award winning Steak & Ale pie, supplemented with cask ales and quality wines from around the world. Food served every lunch and dinner.

01744 894246 Garswood, WN4 0XH burtonandrew55@yahoo.com

Rigby’s Coffee Shop

Fifteens @ The Fox

Enjoy a trip out to Pimbo Garden Centre and tuck into a wide selection of delicious home cooked, locally sourced, food served seven days a week at Rigby’s Coffee Shop.

01695 622601 Pimbo Garden Centre, 32 Pimbo Lane, Up Holland, WN8 9QQ pimbogardencentre.co.uk

This quirky and popular pub dates back to the 17th century and offers fabulous home cooked food using recipes developed by our chefs. The real ale selection is superb too.

01695 628178 Fifteens @ The Fox, Roby Mill, Up Holland WN8 0QF fifteensatthefox.com

Advertise

here £30 + VAT

Call 01695 627999

Houghwood In a perfect setting, Houghwood’s restaurant has panoramic views across the golf course and over to the Welsh hills. A modern British menu is served Wednesday to Sunday. 5 star food hygiene rating.

01744 894754 Crank Road, St Helens, WA11 8RL houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk

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sponsored by

Beautiful

Brinscall

by Chris Pearce

A

t just over 4 miles long, this must be one of the shortest Jack’s Tracks we have done, but despite that it’s a lovely walk for a warm summer’s day, with a good mix of shade and sun. The handsome Lancashire village of Brinscall is chockful of the stone terrace houses of yesteryear, but can boast many facilities such as a swimming pool, excellent play facilities and the reservoir which is popular with local fishermen. Overlooking the village is the brooding West Pennine Moors which is littered with the ruins of farms deserted by their tenants in 1902 when the land was acquired under compulsory purchase order.

We start off at the car park behind the swimming baths in Brinscall (PR6 8QU). Return to the main road and turn right onto School Lane. Within 50 yards the road bends and morphs into Railway Road.

Don’t follow this road but instead go straight on up Butterworth Brow.

Follow this road uphill until you reach a row of cottages on the right. About 50 yards after the cottages turn right up the path which takes you uphill behind the back of the cottages and onto the moor overlooking Brinscall. The path runs alongside a fairly dry brook and is a bit rough in places so you

76

School L

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Start/Finish

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Brinscall

Lo dg

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Dic

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ane

ne

yR wa

il Ra

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La

Wheelton Plantation

Trigg Lane

Heapey CP

White Coppice Cricket Club

The G

iot

Old Withnells Farm

White Coppice

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

need to watch your footing as you clamber up the hill. You’ll pass a wide green lane bordered by stone walling which leads up to the ruins of Cocker’s Folly, which is an interesting tangent from the walk.

Even in bright sunlight, the moor’s a bit eerie, with remnants of old stone buildings and the odd metal structure protecting old mine shafts, but the views over Brinscall are pretty impressive. Follow the path until you reach a track by an abandoned metal tractor trailer.

77

Turn right at this point and follow the track downhill until you reach a single track road (Well Lane).

Turn right down Well Lane for 75 yards or so and then take the left turn into Brinscall Woods and follow the main track all the way through these pleasant woods for 0.6 of a mile until you reach a bridge by the Goit. The Goit is a small canal used to ferry drinking water and it stretches from Roddlesworth, initially underground, and opens up in Brinscall Woods until its final destination in Rivington. Cross the bridge over The Goit and then turn left down the footpath.

Follow the footpath for a further 0.6 miles until you reach the cricket ground at White Coppice.

This venue is well known as probably the prettiest cricket ground in Lancashire, and has a popular café

that opens at weekends during the cricket season.

Walk past the café and exit the cricket ground to the left. Once you arrived at the imaginatively named Heapey Reservoir Number 6, turn right and walk alongside the reservoir.

Hop over the stile next to the weir and bear left uphill until you reach another stile. Cross that and head across the field in the direction indicated on the sign. Once you’ve crossed the field you’ll go over another stile and land on a concrete path. Turn right, walk 200 yards or so and bear left just before you reach Lowe Fold Cottage. You’ll then arrive at a stile with an option to go left or go straight on.

Go straight on and you’ll go over a number of stiles in quick succession as you exit a wooden area and the path opens up onto a field that overlooks the

78

moorland on the opposite side of the Goit. Follow the path on the left hand of the perimeter all the way downhill to Old Withnells Farm via a muddy exit and a tight squeeze through a gate.

Negotiate your way through the farm buildings and you’ll see that the path improves as you exit the farm. Once you hit a three way junction, hop over the stile and go straight ahead across the field. It’s a bit boggy in places but the worst of it is negated by a wooden walkway in the centre of the field. Once you exit the field through a wooden structure and cross over a brook, you’ll need to take the welldefined path which runs diagonally across the next field, which leads to the disused Lancashire Union railway line which ran between Blackburn and St Helens, most of which closed in the 1960’s.

Once you reach the line, turn right either along the line itself or on the path running parallel to it. Follow the line for 300 yards or so and your path will be barred by a steel gate, so divert to the left and follow that single track road in the same general direction past the derelict houses on either side of the track.

Follow the track for approximately ¼ mile. Look out for Coach House on the left (with Brinscall Hall

behind it) and then, 25 yards on, turn right down Dick Lane. Follow this straight lane for 1/3 of a mile until the exit on School Lane. Turn right and walk downhill to your starting point.

79

Test drive

Range Rover 3.0 TDV6

Vogue SE

by Tim Barnes-Clay

T

his car is big – and it never lets you forget that. Even behind the wheel you are aware that you’re in charge of a two-tonne luxury machine.

I think that’s a good thing. It keeps you on your toes and stops you driving like a fool. Mind you, even if you are predisposed to moments of motoring madness, the Range Rover 3.0 TDV6 Vogue SE does its best to placate you. It brings out the gentleman in you and makes you feel good. Not superior – just good.

But with every positive, there tends to be a negative. And in the Range Rover’s case it seems that unfortunate false impressions can quickly be born. For example, when parking at the beach with my family, a guy commented that it was “alright for

some” to have enough money to buy such a car.

And while wafting along the M1 in the fast lane I was greeted with a one finger salute. The fact that the possessor of the digit had been hogging the

80

middle lane for the last five miles didn’t seem to matter to him. I don’t get those kind of reactions when driving smaller test cars, so the Range Rover does seem to be the common denominator here.

the car insulates you from the world when you’re hustling. There’s barely any wind noise, and the erudite thrum of the V6 diesel soothes, rather than irritates.

But, if there’s one thing I’ve learnt in life: you can’t control what other’s think. So it’s best to let them get on with it and enjoy what you’re doing. And when you’re driving a Range Rover, it’s hard to be anything other than happy.

The Range Rover is just as accomplished off-road, literally crushing any non-tarmac terrain under its huge wheels. And back on the blacktop, it only starts to tell you “enough is enough” when pushed hard around twisty ribbons of road. The large car expresses its distaste like a stallion. But rather than bucking and whinnying, it lurches and squeals.

Inside, it’s tastefully minimalistic with all the key functions controlled through straightforward switchgear. Even the touch-screen infotainment system is clear and uncomplicated to use. Better still, the driving position is first-rate and offers a commanding view of the road. Quite frankly, cabins don’t get much more sumptuous than the Range Rover’s.

The workmanship is of a very high standard, meaning the whole kit and caboodle looks and feels good enough to eat.

From a handling perspective, the luxury Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), is astonishingly nimble for its size. It feels accurate and self-assured on the straights; but sophistication is the Range Rover’s most obvious characteristic. Particularly remarkable is the way

Puzzle

All versions, including this mid-spec Vogue SE, have all the equipment necessary for happy motoring, and the power unit under the bonnet is hooked up to computerised gadgetry to keep things shiny side up, whether on asphalt or over the rough stuff. Indeed, the car scored the full five-stars when tested by safety body, Euro NCAP. All things considered, the Range Rover is a wonderfully relaxed and utterly competent machine on and off-road. It’s even relatively economical with a V6 oil-burner under the bonnet.

Just be aware of other motorists who may judge you due to their inverted badge snobbery. But that’s their problem, right?

solutions

The photo on page 46 is of Abbey Lakes

81

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82

We’re ALL going on

holiday

Award Winner

by Angie Barker

R

egular readers may recall that I acquired my first ever greenhouse towards the end of last year, having wished for one for many years. I have enjoyed it tremendously. I have over wintered tender plants which previously I would have thrown out, having no means of getting them through the winter and I’ve grown tender annual plants for the garden this summer for the first time. My grandaughter has also been involved as we shared a packet of seed and she has enjoyed watching seeds turn to seedlings and seedling to plants which can then be planted in the garden.

However... I have realised that this owning a greenhouse milarky comes at a price. What happens when we go on our summer holiday to Anglesey?

Who will tend my plants and crops, nurtured lovingly over many weeks and months. The best bet, I thought, is my daughter although, god bless her, she has not inherited her mothers green fingers and would consider trekking up every night to my house to water the greenhouse plants a real chore.

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.

Beside that she works long hours and so it seems a big ask. Then I thought, I’ll take my precious potted plants to her house where she can look after them, but then of course there is Evie and Percy. Their two very naughty, mad cats who would destroy the plants within 5 minutes of them being there. Whilst my grandaughter is showing very promising signs of developing an interest in gardening, I’m not sure I could entrust my precious cargo to a five year old.

I could of course move them to outside in the garden with the hope that there is enough rainfall to keep them content, however in my experience, even when it is pouring with rain in Anglesey, it will be cracking the flags in Wigan.

No, there’s only one thing for it. Hubby will have to leave room on the back seat – they’re coming with us. I have never been on holiday before with four tomato plants, two courgettes, two cucumbers, three chillies and a red pepper. Yes I know, Hubby thinks I’m barmy too.

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

Want your business to grow in 2016?

Advertising packages start from

£39 + VAT per month

Call 01695 627999 for details.

Want a beautiful garden without all the hard work?

Professional Lawn Treatment & Garden Maintenance

01942 200 039

Advertise

~ Est. 2001 ~

or

07950 651 956

here

Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

AC U F TU N

E TH MA

APPLICATION OF LAWN TREATMENTS GARDEN MAINTENANCE WEEDING & BORDERS HEDGES & SHRUBS MAINTAINED WEED SPRAYING OF PATHS & DRIVEWAYS

DIR ER

T FROM

• • • • •

R

EC

At GreenHills we don’t just treat your lawns, we offer a complete service all year round.

Little mags, BIG reach

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

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

www.solidsheds.com

Ashurst Fencing All fencing work undertaken Wood Fence panels for sale

Call David for a Free estimate:

•

•

• Gates and railings • Repairs and restorations • Ironwork and welding • Traditional forge work over 20 years experience

07747 725999 01942 832747

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

84

Need help with your garden?

Landscapes

Creating the ideal outdoor living space Garden Design & Construction Driveways & Patios | BBQs & Fireplaces

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 Design & Quality Landscaping Quality work & reliability at competitive prices

Award Winner

Call today for a FREE quote

Call Stewart Ashcroft on;

01695 622460 or 07894 217191 email:westdene41@btinternet.com Winstanley Road, Billinge

01942 510 986 07710 405 214 Visit our website to see previous projects

www.ashlandscapingandmaintenance.co.uk Established 1994

Garden Services & Landscaping

Our aim is to deliver a creative, personal service adhering to our customers requirements and within budget.

Large projects or small makeovers are all carried out with the same commitment and dedication. We take great pride in completing all projects to the highest possible standards.

garden maintenance fertilising & moss control weed control to lawn & turfing & landscaping driveways tree surgery hedge cutting one off jobs or regular garden tidy ups maintenance

HND qualified. PA1 PA2 & PA6 spraying qualifications.

20 years experience. Billinge based.

w w w. p d h o m e a n d g a r d e n . c o . u k

07946 751308

01942 206503

day: 07929 366769 eve: 01744 302793

All aspects of landscaping from design to build

Garden maintenance ~ General tidy ups Hedge cutting ~ Pressure washing ~ Fencing

25 years experience!

Call - 01942 225711 or 07773 296880

Contact Phil: 07511 126 260 or 01942 703 049 Wimborne Road, Orrell

Eton Way, Orrell

85

ORRELL MACHINERY SALES • SERVICE • SPARES • REPAIRS

Does your mower need its annual service?

We service all mowers & power tools

Advertise

here

Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

NO VAT CHARGED

FREE

pick up & drop off ! for mower services

Unit 6, Hewitt Business Park, Orrell WN5 7XB

Call - 01695 682 043

Creative solutions for all garden sizes & budgets.

Paving Driveways

Phone: 01257 781 003

Mobile: 07967539919 glyn@downtoearthgroundworks.uk

Turfing Planting

Down to Earth service, Rock solid reliability

• Machine Hire • Ground Maintenance • Flagging • Block Paving • Fencing • Contractor • Fully Insured

Decking For a no-obligation consultation, call today on

07850 940 429 or 01942 512 635 www.orrellpaving.co.uk

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

Contact Us Today For A No Obligation Quote

Garden Rescue

Tree Services Trees Felled & Pruned Hedges Trimmed Qualified & Insured Free Estimates

01695 623 909 / 07903 290 878 Based in Up Holland

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

86

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Quality Security systems for your home or business • Burglar Alarms • Digital CCTV • Wireless Alarms

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01942 836 937 or 07557 914 788

Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane Wigan

www.ghewigan.co.uk

87

Power Washing I’ll clean your:

Driveways - Patios - Decking No job too small - Friendly & reliable service

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

Call Paul on 07736 396374 for a free quote

Wigan Good Trader Of The Year 2015

‘Dream To Gleam’ Domestic Cleaning Services

5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme

• Carpets • Rugs • Fabric & Leather Upholstery

Floors; Kitchens; Bathrooms; Dusting; Ironing; Internal Windows and more...

Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote

Competitive Prices Friendly and reliable service

Call - 01257 251221

Tel Kath - 07931 111139

Mobile - 07908 770808

Fully Insured and DBS Checked

www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk

dreamtogleam@yahoo.co.uk

FREE *

GUTTER

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G

*with any cleani or painting packagng e purchased

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JETWASHING

• Driveways & Patios etc.

EXTERIOR PAINTING • Fascias, Rendered Walls etc.

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

01942 470 089 / 07834 241 642 www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com

Providing professional carpet & upholstery cleaning since 1993 Carpets Leather

Upholstery Curtains Oriental Rugs Hard Floors

For more information call:

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

www.alliancechemdry.co.uk

88

Good

trader

by Chris Pearce

Y

ou may recall reading recently about a worker at Lloyds Bank who helped to prevent a Lowton pensioner from being scammed by a cowboy builder. The quick thinking staff member raised the alarm after becoming suspicious when the pensioner applied for a loan to have work done to the roof of his bungalow, and revealed that the builder had cold-called him and said that his roof tiles needed replacing after only a couple of months of being installed.

This incident brings into focus the need for local residents to be aware of the Good Trader scheme, which was launched almost ten years ago and is run

by Trading Standards officers at Wigan Council.

Over 210 local tradespeople have signed up for the scheme, all of whom have been checked out prior to joining the scheme by Trading Standards.

Subsequent customers of the traders are then asked to submit a star rating of up to five gold stars for any work carried out – and the more satisfied the customer, the better the business rating. The scheme’s website received over 33,000 hits last year, more than 26% up on the previous year, and is an indication that more and more residents are realising the important of checking out tradespeople prior to engaging them in work.

The scheme’s annual awards ceremony took place last week at Leigh Sports village, where forty of the Good Trader scheme’s best performers gathered in a night of celebration. Presenting at the event was Julie Middlehurst, the Group Manager of Trading Standards and Licensing, and she was accompanied

by Councillor Kevin Anderson and Mark Tilley, the Assistant Director for Infrastructure at Wigan Council.

89

If you’re a tradesperson and you’d like to join the Good Trader Scheme, please visit www. wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader for more details.

If you have any questions, please phone the Trading Standards team on 01942 827476.

If you’re a householder and you’re looking to use the scheme to find a Good Trader, visit www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader or look out for companies displaying the Good Trader logo in the Home Services or Garden Services sections of Local Life.

All forty traders at the event received Certificate of Excellence awards, but there were also trophies presented to five traders who, in the opinion of Trading Standards staff, had achieved the highest standard of service in the past year. The winners were; Good Trader of the Year (Wigan) Paul Burke – Advanced Fencing & Gates Ltd Good Trader of the Year (Leigh) John Clements – A&J Kitchen Fitters Highly Commended (Wigan) Andy Clark – Standish Property Maintenance & Pest Control Highly Commended (Leigh) Paul Haddock – PH Windows Best Newcomer Karl Mather – KDM Electrical

90

TV Aerial from £65 fully fitted Sky Dish £60 - Setup Service Telephone/Broadband repair TV Wall Installation

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

ANDY HIDDEN Domestic Electrician

No Job Too Small!

• • • • • • •

Re-Wires Additional Sockets / Lights Home Safety Tests Fuse Board Upgrades Security Lighting Alarms CCTV

Certificate of Excellence Winner 2012/13/14/15

07946 844 904 08000 842 394 Email: andy@ahde.co.uk

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

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

24 hour Call Out Service

Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane Wigan Contact Us: 01942 836 937 / 07557 914788 www.ghewigan.co.uk

All electrical work undertaken

Good Trader Of The Year Winner in the Wigan Trading Standards Best of the Best Awards 2013/14.

Award Winner 2012/13/14/15

• All aspects of electrical work welcomed • From new sockets to full re-wire - no job too small • CCTV/Alarms/Security Lighting a speciality

• Rewire specialists • Extra sockets & lights fitted • Mains board upgrades

Free quotations

A.J.S.

BAILEYS ELECTRICAL

01942 215 769 07739 709 005

Smart Electrical Contractors - Domestic - Commercial - Industrial • Rewire • PAT Testing • CCTV • Alarms Tel: 01257 367386 Mob: 07594 240054

Domestic - Commercial - Industrial

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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

www.expertcomputers.co.uk ‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner

Advertise

here

01695 627999

£20

no

Saving money is the clear benefit!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

1 w£

Wind Turbines Heat Pumps

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

LED Lighting

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

...and general NG SERVICI

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

Savings

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

FREE Dennis Goulding Mossy Lea Road

01695 627 999

For more information call

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

ally

rm

no

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

and we’ll provide you with a detailed report showing the returns

A49

For more information please phone

l Geails N 5

Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service

B5250

Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month

Design & Print available from- 12:00 yournoon Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am

own solar panels Y S 84 of Crostonwww.dglwindows.co.uk (10% typical return) J27 dio residents me!

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

s Natalie

A5209

Standish

Shevington

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

Call

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

ay, Tuesd

Mond

01772

REPAIR

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Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan.

WN6

DING 7TP & WEL

Slash your electricity and water heating bill

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

Call us now

0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or

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

we make it our business to help yours

92

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

Advertise

here

Advertise your business in this

Garage and£39 entrance doors section from + VAT a month information please phone inFor more matching styles 01695 627 999

Is your garage door broken ?

Call us today for a free estimate to Repair or Replace it

GARAGE DOOR

REPAIRS

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

Doors of all ages repaired

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

Design & Print l Geails N 5

Flyers, postcards, brochures and distribution service

Wind Turbines Heat Pumps

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

LED Lighting

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

...and general NG SERVICI

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

Savings

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

FREE Dennis Goulding Mossy Lea Road

01695 627999

no

Saving money is the clear benefit!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

1 w£

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

and we’ll provide you with a detailed report showing the returns

A49

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

£20

B5250

For more information call

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

ally

rm

no

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

own solar panels Y S 84 of Crostonwww.dglwindows.co.uk (10% typical return) J27 dio residents me!

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

s Natalie

A5209

Standish

Shevington

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

Call

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

ay, Tuesd

Mond

01772

REPAIR

603923

Street Business Park off Miry Lane, Wigan.

WN6

DING 7TP & WEL

Slash your electricity and water heating bill

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

Call us now

0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or

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

we make it our business to help yours

93

Plumbing & Heating Specialist Complete Bathroom & Tiling service

John Bailey - 01942 495785

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

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

Ian Martland

Painter & Decorator Established 1990

Award Winner

• All aspects of Decorating • Interior & Exterior • Free Estimates

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

01695 632 477 | 07748 195 809

www.topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk

LTD

J&P

01257 426 234

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

Call us today for a free quotation Home Service available

Choose from 1000s of paint & paper samples in the comfort of our own home

01942 212096 07831 102 511 www.jpmoorcroft.com

Lady Decorator

Professional Interior Decorating Service Reduced rates for Pensioners Clean, tidy and conscientious Tel: 01942 366996 or 07962 422856

Just Imagine

Decorating - Interior Design - Soft Furnishings

Create your Dream Home today…

Our Master Craftsman Derek and his friendly team will help you create your dream home.

All aspects of decorating - from simple painting or wallpapering to complex murals.

50 years wallpapering expertise.

100% satisfaction guaranteed.

Call Derek today for a free consultation & quote

Call 07831 505 672

email franklindecorators@gmail.com

www.wigandecorators.co.uk

94

…for a more majestic way of living Extensions - from design to completion Orangeries & Conservatories Garage & Loft Conversions Driveways & Paving Garden Buildings Conservatory roof replacements Highly experienced ~ no job too small ~ Orrell based

Call us today for expert advice and a free quotation

0800 085 3987 MOBILE 07917 735 686

FREEPHONE

www.majesticbuildingservices.co.uk

Elite Bathrooms

Great Value Bathrooms!

Installation & Tiling • Bathrooms • Wall Tiling • Floor Tiling 0770344 8890 FREE Estimates

01942 208926

Arley Cabinet Company Ltd • Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •

Full Bathrooms & En-Suites Showers, Trays & Cubicles Relocation of Bathroom Suites 25 years bathroom experience Call Chris now for a free quotation

C L Bathrooms

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

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

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

01942 225771 / 07803 057940 Eton Way, Orrell, Wigan WN5 8PN www.ljplumbingandbathrooms.co.uk

95

A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff

brand New bathrooms boiler + Central Heating Installs, servicing + Repairs Extended warranties available 24 Hour Call-out Domestic + Commercial

SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES

Accredited Installer & Ser vice Partner • Annual Boiler Servicing • Landlord & Home Owner Gas Safety Checks • Gas Fire & Cooker Installations • Under Floor Heating Specialists • Home Efficiency Control Upgrades

Freephone 0300 3030121 Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809 21 Naburn Dr Orrell wN5 8sb

Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk

www.orrellheating.co.uk

506515

WARRANTY

• Full bathroom/wetroom renovations

PATON PLUMBING

& HEATING LTD

• Boiler service and repairs • Landlord’s gas safety certificates

T: 01744 634 525

10 YEARS

EXTENDED

• Complete central heating installations

ON SELECTED BOILER INSTALLATIONS

01942 504 429 88604

• Central Heating • Plumbing • Gas Appliances • Gas Safety Checks • Landlord’s Certificates • Maintenance/Breakdowns

TEL: MOB:

01257 421 660 07931 766 684

www.fgwelch.co.uk

M: 07825 323 711

IAIN LOWE 01695 623236

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

Telephone:

Registration No. 542856

Finance available

PETER RODAN LTD • All Heating & Plumbing work • Full Heating Installations • Boiler Servicing & Repairs 221213 • Boiler Conversions • 20 year experience • Vaillant & Ideal Boilers Fitted (7 Year Warranty) Tel: Mob:

01257 472 385 07971 631 709

Standish based

C &D

Plumbing and Heating

Heating & Bathroom Specialist Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P 07973714222 01695625171

96

Improving your home?

• Fitted Kitchens • Loft Conversions • New Bathrooms • Conservatories If you plan to improve your home in 2016 call Gareth today for a free quotation

K Stone Building Services

All types of building work undertaken 25 years experience

• Brickwork • Pointing • Garden Walls • Patios • Joinery • Flagging • Alterations • Plastering

01942 495412 / 07974 496676

Billinge Based

The Complete Answer to Building & Joinery Jobs

01744 603 231 / 07501 270 436

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

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

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

Home Improvements • Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms • Garage & Loft Conversions • Floors, Doors & Windows For all your home improvement needs call David on...

01942 203 804 DS Joiner 07851 225 876

Advertise

here

Advertise your business in this section from £39 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

97

M H Roofing Ltd

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

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

Call 01744 884117 or 07702 693225

www.mhroofingltd.co.uk

Fully Insured & Insurance Backed Guarantees

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

• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985

Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair • Fascia & soffit installation

W.Newman ROOFING & REPAIRS

01695 627 212 MOBILE: 07774 943 706

52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years

• 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

98

A View From The Lump Local gossip, gripes and goings-on Last Post?

After the closure of the Wigan Courier last month, eyes now turn to the other Wigan newspaper on ‘death row’, the Wigan Evening Post, where sales have dropped to less than 4,000 copies a day.

Falkirk-based owners Johnston Press, who also own the Wigan Observer and the Wigan Reporter, are due to make a decision soon on the Post and other ‘sub-core’ titles they own in the UK. It’s unlikely to earn a reprieve, though the death of the Post could mean

a change in the frequency of the Observer.

As many of us old timers will testify, the Evening Post is but a pale imitation of its predecessor, the Evening Post and Chronicle, which ceased publication in the early 80’s. This was a proper Wigan paper, loved by readers and advertisers, printed in the afternoon and sold for a reasonable price. Just another example of corporate bean counters saving money and destroying value.

Butt Dial It was a quiet Wednesday afternoon in the office when Mrs Lump’s mobile telephone trilled.

According to the display it was Mr Lump himself and after a few seconds it became apparent to her that the call was a so-called butt dial, a slang term used to mean an unintentional call because the call button was accidentally pressed by one’s posterior.

So she did what every responsible, self-respecting spouse would do and put me on speaker phone for the entire office to hear me warbling alongside Frankie, Sammy and Dean with the

occasional “Get in there, boy” as I negotiated the speed bumps of Rainford in the dinky Local Life i10.

Suffice to say, the general opinion was that I wouldn’t be invited on Britain’s Got Talent anytime soon…

Euro Fever It’s a happy – or unhappy depending on your standpoint – coincidence that the EU referendum has dropped in the middle of the European Football Championships.

Recently I drove past a pub draped in all the flags of the competing nations – quite a site to behold. The building next door was covered with stickers saying “Leave the EU”.

The snapshot seemed to sum up many people’s indecision on whether to go it alone or remain in the EU. And are the cars proudly flying their St George flags merely backing Roy Hodgson’s men?

Or are they making a case for independence?

As the last Election proved, opinion polls can be famously off target but commentators are suggesting the referendum vote could be a very close run thing. At least it can’t go to penalties!

99