Local Life - Wigan - September 2019 by Local Life 247 Ltd

LocalLife Wigan Edition

September 2019

Public Art Trail Pages 53-56

Memories of Central Park Page 14-16

Martin Mere Competition

Pages 84-85

Parbold Walk Pages 87-90

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Local Life

Handy Contacts Hope you’ve all had a lovely summer so far? As you can see from the events in this September magazine, there’s plenty of life left in the summer yet! We’ve been beavering away over the last few months and, as well as tweaking the contents of the magazine slightly, we’ve also developed our new Handy Contacts web directory – see the illustration here on an iPhone. We know lots of you use the magazine to source good quality tradesmen, so we’ve pulled together all of our tradespeople in a new Handy Contacts directory that you can access on your phone, via our website, at any time. Currently there are over three hundred people on there, all neatly categorised and waiting for your call. You can access Handy Contacts on your phone, laptop, tablet or PC, or you can stick to the pages at the back of Local Life – it’s your choice! Just check out www.locallife247.co.uk/ handy-contacts If you’re a tradesperson and you’re wondering how much it costs to be included in our Handy Contacts – it’s FREE when you advertise in Local Life magazine! Give me a call, email me or drop into our Orrell offices for a chat about how we can help you promote your company. See you next time!

Chris Pearce, Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

Local Life

In this issue

Regulars 66 Puzzle page

Memories of Central Park

94 Garden Diary

Sections 58 Food & Drink 44 Property 68 Travel 72 Legal & Finance 76 Business View

14 Keeping It Fresh

78 Health 82 Events2Go 91 Motoring 94 Gardening 100 Home Services

Next issue - October 2019

Advertising deadline - Wednesday, 11 September Published - Wednesday, 25 September

LocalLife

Public Art Trail

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

Telephone: 01695 627 999 Publisher: Chris chrisp@locallife247.co.uk Sales: Nicola sales@locallife247.co.uk Editorial: Jess wigannews@locallife247.co.uk Design: Mary Anne design@locallife247.co.uk Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk Accounts: Christina accounts@locallife247.co.uk

53 A Day in the Life of: Andy Baxendale

Local Life is published every month and distributed into the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. This issue is delivered to 13,299 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton.

The next issue is delivered to 13,025 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh.

Top 10 Electric Cars

You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

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@locallifemedia

News & Features

A Beery Good Time To celebrate and fundraise for a joint partnership between Orrell RUFC and Winstanley Park Cricket Club (collectively known as Orrell & Winstanley Community Sports Club) a beer, gin and prosecco festival takes place at Winstanley Tennis Club this month. On Friday, September 20 and Saturday, September 21, you can enjoy a range of real ales, ciders, gins and a tipple of prosecco along with live music and entertainment. There’ll also be loads of delicious nibbles available. The event is free to enter and has plenty to keep the kids occupied too. Keep an eye on the Orrell & Winstanley Community Sports Club Facebook page for more info and updates.

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Sound Spectacular Bispham Methodist Church will host a spectacular night of music with the U3A Music Group on Saturday, Nov 1 at 7:30pm. Get up on the dance floor for a disco and live music, along with a hotpot supper and a raffle. The event takes place at St. Teresa’s Church Hall on College Road, Up Holland. Tickets are £12 with proceeds to Bispham’s ‘Building for the Future’ fund for church alterations, available from Brenda on 07913 382258.

Coffee for Cancer Standish-based solicitors RJT are hosting a coffee morning in support of Macmillan this month. Expect delicious cakes, biscuits and hot drinks – all

for the very worthy cause of supporting Macmillan nurses in helping those with cancer. The event takes place on Friday, September 27 from 10am-12pm at RJT’s office on High Street, Standish. Last year’s RJT coffee morning raised an amazing £358 for Macmillan.

Wigan 10K The Wigan 10K begins on Market Street on Sunday, September 1 at 10am and offers runners the chance to challenge themselves on a route through the town centre, past the DW Stadium and around Mesnes Park. Entry costs £20, and prizes are available in different age categories. For more info or to register, visit www.northernrunningguide.com/race/wigan-10k/

In Mining Memoriam Golborne Ex-Miners have published a booklet to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Golborne Colliery Disaster, which killed 10 miners in March 1979. On Sunday, March 18th 1979, a buildup of gas at Golborne Colliery causes a spark, followed by an explosion which instantly killed three men. The injured were taken to Withington Hospital, where a further seven died of their injuries – burns so bad only one man survived: 20 year old apprentice Brian Rawsthorne. Brian later married a nurse who cared for him in the ward. The new booklet, which launched at Golborne Library in August, details an account of the explosion, rescue and later commemorations. It gathers heartfelt recollections of family members who were falsely informed that their loved ones were safe, only to find out later it wasn’t true, while teenagers had to conduct funeral arrangements for their parents that children under 12 were not allowed to attend.

their ancestors felt and remembered.’ The booklet is available for £4 to cover the cost of production from the Ex-Miners, from any Wigan library and from the Museum of Wigan Life.

Despite the overwhelming sadness of these accounts, the community rallied together, providing support for one another and fundraising campaigns from the Lowton Boys Brigade and Mayor of Wigan. Memories of Ken Dodd’s Wigan fundraising concert can also be found within the pages of the booklet. A stained glass window at St. Thomas Church in Golborne bears the names of those who lost their lives in the disaster, with a memorial plaque outside the old colliery entrance. Treasurer Eric Foster commented: ‘The commemoration clearly demonstrates how our community keeps the memory in their hearts. Our children, grandchildren and those who follow us will be able to have some understanding of what

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Computer Classes Shevington Library will host computer courses in September and October to help improve your skills. Courses are available for terrified people and beginners/improvers - both are 4 weeks long, with continued learning available over 8 weeks. Dates range from September 11 to October 30. Courses cost ÂŁ16 or ÂŁ32 and early booking is advised. For more information or to secure your place, call Shirley on 07502153484.

Junction Consultation The public are invited to have their say on the Victoria Street junction improvement scheme. Plans include a new toucan crossing close to Arundel Street and the addition of double yellow lines on the A49 between Hildyard Street, Mere Street and Woodyates Street, with on-street parking relocated to side streets. You can have your say by visiting www.wigan.gov.uk/ majorprojects until Sunday, September 8.

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Diggers’ Delight Returning for its ninth year, the Wigan Diggers’ Festival is back in town on Saturday, September 7 with a whole host of fabulous acts across two stages.

Along with performances throughout, there’ll be more than fifty stalls to browse, educational talks and children’s entertainment, along with locally brewed real ales.

The festival is dedicated to the life and times of Gerrard Winstanley, who in the seventeenth century gathered a group to give voice to the poor after being abused by powerful players in parliament and the monarchy. Winstanley dubbed his movement ‘the Diggers’ – they believed land should be available to everyone for digging and sowing, and put this into practice by farming land that belonged to no-one.

The Wigan Diggers Festival is free to enter and takes place in The Wiend from 11am-9:30pm.

The festival opens with a 1649 Digging reenactment with the Bolton Clarion Choir and community singing of The Diggers Song before an eclectic line-up of musicians, poets and storytellers take to the stage. The Gerrard Winstanley Spade will also be presented during the festivities.

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Body Butter, £18.95, which is every bit as good as I was hoping and perfect for uber-dry skin. It’s very rich but absorbs quickly and really ‘feeds’ the skin with cocoa butter, shea butter, calendula, chamomile and other nourishing natural ingredients. See www.weleda.co.uk. Planning a last minute getaway or trying to cut down on your plastic? Try a shampoo bar. This will last several times longer than a bottle of shampoo. There’s less plastic waste, and the bars are easy to transport. I’ve been trialling The Shine Bar, which lathers well, leaves hair feeling clean and shiny, and has a pleasant citrus fragrance. It also comes in a handy metal storage tin, ideal for taking to the gym or for travelling. The Shine Bar costs £9.50 from www.shineshampoobars.co.uk. I’m a huge fan of Weleda’s Skin Food. The eco-brand has recently released a Skin Food

Keep that summer feeling going as long as possible, with a colourful nail polish. Jolly Good by Butter London is a rich, cheerful coral that suits most skin tones. Its chip resistant formula is supposed to keep your nails looking salon-worthy for up to 10 days. It costs £15 at www.lookfantastic.com.

Season of Song Parbold Douglas Music launches its brand new season of concerts in September, to be performed at the acoustically superb auditorium at Parbold Village Hall. The new calendar opens with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra’s Ambassadors Sextet in September, (21st) performing swinging sensations from The Great American Songbook. October’s concert (12th) is performed by the highly regarded Brodsky Quartet alongside international star Martin Roscoe, ahead of a Christmas event (Dec 7) which combines traditional and medieval folk with a contemporary beat in ‘Sing we Yule’ by Joglaresa.

Abduraimov, Anna Fedorova and Intrada Brass. Tickets are priced from £16-18, with young persons tickets available for anyone under 22 years old for just £5. To book tickets or for a full events calendar, visit www.parbolddouglasmusic.org or call 01257 498452.

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Memories of

Central Park By Jess Phillips

It’s been twenty years since the closure of Wigan’s Central Park stadium. It may be hard to believe, but Wigan RLFC’s old home saw its last game played in September 1999, almost 97 years after it opened in the same month back in 1902. Now a Tesco supermarket, the site’s sporting legacy is marked only by the bronze rugby ball sculpture which sits at the entrance to the car park. To say Central Park’s demolition was a melancholy day for many fans would be an understatement – some 18,000 Wigan fans packed the stadium out one last time to see the team victorious against

arch-nemeses St. Helens, beating them 28-20 on September 5, 1999. It was originally hoped that Wigan Athletic giant Dave Whelan would redevelop the stadium into a 20,000 seated venue, but this was rejected in favour of a more flexible deal from Tesco. Fans of the opposition would turn up to Central Park with Tesco carrier bags during the last season at the old stadium in an attempt to throw Wigan off their game – but they were not to be swayed. Wigan’s first game at Central Park against Batley attracted a crowd of around 9,000 spectators. True to form, Wigan beat them 14-8 in the opening

15 match of the brand new First Division, beginning their Central Park career on a high. The stadium broke records, however, on Good Friday 1959 when it attracted an audience of 47,747 – the biggest attendance for a regular season rugby league game in Britain. Wigan defeated St. Helens 19-14 in a dramatic match that originally looked as though it had Wigan beat. The stadium itself was made up of the ‘Kop’ - which got its name from a steep hill soldiers gathered on during the Battle of Spion Kop during the Second Boer War in 1900 – the Whitbread Stand (later renamed the Billy Boston stand), and the Douglas Stand after the River Douglas. During WWII Central Park was used as a training centre for the Home Guard, Air Training Corps and the Territorial Army, while part of the Douglas Stand became a billet and one of the dressing rooms a temporary jail. The Riverside Club was built alongside the Pavilion after a fire destroyed the original in 1950 – many Wiganers will fondly recall local entertainer and club owner John Martin taking to the stage with rousing renditions of classic pop hits. He even had to invest in steel-enforced chairs so people could dance on the furniture!

these great players right away; even when I left to go and play for Blackpool, I’d still go back and watch Wigan matches and chat with the current players.’

Ray Ashby was one of the players who made Central Park his home during the 60s, playing alongside legends like Billy Boston, Brian McTigue and Eric Ashton. I sat down with him to discuss the magical moments the stadium inspired – and there were plenty.

After the grit and glory of so many successful decades and players, it’s difficult to imagine the stadium’s humble roots. Originally, in lieu of changing rooms, players had to head to the nearby Prince of Wales pub on Greenhough Street until proper facilities were installed in the early 1910s.

‘The atmosphere at Central Park was just tremendous,’ Ray tells me. ‘It really was electric. There was nothing quite like walking down that tunnel before a match and emerging onto the pitch – you could cut the atmosphere with a knife.’

‘You just don’t get that same sense of camaraderie in the changing rooms these days,’ Ray tells me. ‘We’d all pile into that 40ft square bath – both us and the opposing team – passing round a bottle of shampoo and a couple of beers. You could hear the fans outside still contesting tries – sometimes they’d knock on the window and we’d tell them to look in tomorrow’s paper!’

As players entered the field to the tune of Julius Fucik’s ‘March of the Gladiators’, young lads would scramble onto the tunnel wall to get a good glimpse of their heroes - archivist Keith Sutch still remembers the hairs on the back of his neck standing up as he watched the team emerge. ‘It was a kind of madness that just kept drawing you back,’ Ray continues. ‘I was accepted into the fold of

Central Park was filled with memories for Ashby, but his ultimate high was going to Wembley as part of Wigan RLFC. ‘I remember getting off the coach and Brian McTigue taking me to one side. He said “go into what you’re doing today and remember every

16 minute of it, or else you’ll go home wondering what just happened!” I still think about that today and, do you know what? I remember every second of that experience.’ It was a sad day for the town indeed when demolition day finally arrived. Though Warriors would soon make the move into their new home at JJB (now DW Stadium), Wigan lost a part of itself with Central Park. ‘It was absolutely soul-destroying,’ Ray admits. ‘Central Park was almost a century old, and packed with history. Some fans had their ashes scattered on that pitch. I’d often go down to witness it in different stages of demolition; they got rid of the Pavilion first. I was just gutted to see it gone.’

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Brilliant Books

#FindABook

The Manchester Literature Festival is back for October with a whole host of literary events to get stuck into.

A book hunt has been taking place around Orrell, with loads of children’s titles up for grabs. Organised by Sarah Rice, books are distributed around the local area to entice young people to get into reading during the holidays.

Some of the highlights from the festival include a one-woman show from acclaimed author Jeanette Winterson, a conversation with experienced trauma surgeon David Nott, and an interactive children’s storytelling experience from Grimm & Co. Visitors to the festival can also get involved in walking tours and pub crawls across the city, delving into the lives of rebel authors, feminists and working class heroes. Meanwhile, a series of ‘People’s Lectures’ aim to make poetry more accessible, broaching authors like Sylvia Plath and Elizabeth Bishop. There really is something for everyone to get involved in. For more information and a full events line-up, visit www.manchesterliteraturefestival.co.uk

Use the hashtag #OrrellFindABook on social media to share pictures of the books you find before hiding them again!

Chorley Live The Lancashire Tourism Award-winning Chorley Live returns this October, with a huge number of acts across 30 town centre venues. Wristbands cost just £5 and get you access to every venue over the two nights of Friday, October 4 and Saturday, October 5. They’re available from Chorley Council’s Union Street office in advance or from any of the venues. More info at www.chorleylive.com

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Love getting out and about in the countryside for walks? The Wigan & District Ramblers is a group of enthusiastic walkers who go on two rambles a month – and you’re very welcome to join them.

TransPennine Express have launched its Transform grant scheme with £50k of funding available to local community and environmental projects.

A coach ramble takes place on the first Saturday of the month to various locations, while a footpath ramble occurs on the third Saturday of each month. Coach pickups take place on Library Street in Wigan at 9am, while local walks begin at 2pm at various locations. More pickup points are also available in Golborne and Standish. For further information, wigananddistrictramblers.org.uk

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25 Consumer champion Which cites the average life span of UPVC as 20 years, but it’s suggested that high-quality uPVC windows and doors that are installed correctly can last for over 35 years.

house and let them know what colour you’d like, they will reply with an image of your house with UPVC spray-painted in that colour, so you can see exactly just how stylish your house will look.

But whilst your windows and doors may work perfectly well, the appearance of the window frames do fade somewhat over the years and this leads to a tired look for your home. Many homeowners opt to replace their windows and doors before they need to, often spending over £10,000 buying new UPVC products with stylish new colours designed to refresh the look of the house.

So you can save thousands of pounds, there are lots of colour choices and it’s so easy to choose. Don’t delay, get your free quote today.

And here’s to help you with that is one of Wigan’s oldest established painting and decorating companies. Established in 1968, Pemberton-based J&P Moorcroft Ltd have worked for thousands of Wigan homeowners and also work all over the UK for a number of commercial customers including the Co-op, Go Outdoors, William Hill and the NHS. After thorough masking and preparation, they apply ten to fifteen coats, waiting for each coat to dry before reapplying. Once the product has been applied to the frames, it bonds with the existing surface creating an extremely hard-wearing finish which will last for at least ten years. The average full house takes two days to do, but you can opt to just re-spray the front or rear of the house. Roofline, garage doors and porches can also be sprayed to match and the company can also replace damaged or failed double glazed units.

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Competition Winners Congratulations to the winners of our August competition to win a pair of tickets to Southport Flower Show! The competition winners were Gillian Wilson from Wigan (pictured), Kenneth Taberner from Winstanley (pictured) and Lynne Foster from Orrell. We hope you have an amazing time at the Flower Show! Don’t forget to see pages 84-85 for your chance to win a family ticket to Martin Mere Wetland Centre this month. Did you know we also run social media competitions exclusively for fans of our Facebook page, Local Life Magazines? Make sure to give it a like to stay up to date!

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

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Lasting Power of

Attorney

It is often assumed that if a person loses their mental capacity then their ‘next of kin’ will be able to make decisions on their behalf. In many cases, it will already be too late when family members are made aware that they have no legal authority to make such decisions without a Lasting Power of Attorney, even if that person is a spouse or adult child. Very much like the preparation of a Will before death, a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) must be put into place before the event occurs. In other words, the document has to be drafted and legally signed by the donor before they lose their mental capacity. Lasting Powers of Attorney are required by law for protection purposes. To prevent anyone from exploiting an individual’s finances, banks or other financial institutions will usually freeze their accounts if they lose their capacity to make decisions themselves as a result of a stroke or Alzheimer’s or Dementia for example. A sale of their property cannot be completed in such circumstances without an LPA. With regard to a person’s health and welfare matters, an LPA is required to allow chosen people to make any such decisions on their behalf. Sean Devlin, Director and Head of the Wills and Probate Department says: “We receive many enquiries from family members who contact us to ask whether a Lasting Power of

Attorney can be put into place for family members so that funds can be accessed to take care of their needs. It often surprises them to learn that the donor needs to pass a test of capacity before the LPA can be put into effect. When mental capacity has already been lost, we are able to assist with the alternative option of applying to the Court of Protection, but this is a lengthy and more expensive process and why we stress the importance of getting their affairs in order whilst they are of full sound mind. It can be easy to put off making an LPA when you are fit and healthy, but a person can lose their mental capacity instantly, for example as a result of a stroke or an accident. It is hoped that you never actually need to make use of your LPA but by putting one in place now means that you are doing so at a time when all of your faculties are in place and not when you are vulnerable, in a state of uncertainty and at risk from exploitation. In some respects, it could be considered that an LPA is even more important than a Will because decisions made by your chosen attorneys will have an impact upon you during your lifetime.” If you would like to put your Lasting Powers of Attorney into place or wish to know more about them please contact Sean Devlin or his colleague Rowena Foat on 01942 246241 or by email to sdevlin@abhlaw.co.uk or rfoat@abhlaw.co.uk.

Our lawyers are familiar with the needs of the people & businesses in the area and our full range of services includes:

• Business Law • Commercial Litigation • Family Law • Wills & Probate

• Conveyancing • Employment Law • Personal Injury • Lasting Powers Of Attorney

Our highly experienced team provide reassurance & guidance when it is needed most. You will find a professional who is ready to listen and advise on your specific needs – and your case will not be passed to another lawyer or support staff When you face complications in your personal life or have business problems, making the correct choice of legal advisor is crucial

Make the right choice – choose Alker Ball Healds! To find out how we can help you Contact us today on:

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Church’s Ambitious Plans St. James the Great C of E Church in Wrightington aims to extend its Church Hall facilities – by sending its vicar on a pilgrimage.

Vicar Stef with his fundraising ladder

On August 30th, Reverend Stef will be taking the long route from the vicarage to the church hall, walking the whole of the parish boundary, then camping out overnight behind the hall no matter the weather in order to raise sponsorship for the extension. The current church hall already has a jam packed schedule – between Sunday School classes, St. James Players’ rehearsals and various community events, it’s no wonder the church now want to make using the hall more flexible and attractive. It will feature improved kitchen and bathroom facilities, better storage arrangements and access to an enclosed garden area through patio doors. The hall’s extension has already received planning permission to include a café space for smaller groups to meet – in total, the extension should cost around £60,000. The church is now encouraging the community to rally round and help support their new venture. The ‘Buy a Brick’ scheme enables you to purchase a brick for the new hall for £10 each. Any donations of over £500 will be acknowledged with a plaque in the new room.

On Friday, September 20 a dance will take place at the church hall with Sounds Retro. On the night, you can get involved in an ‘Auction of Talents’, donating your time and skills in a variety of tasks, such as airport transportation, car washing, cooking or dog walking. If you have a skill you think someone might want to bid on, let the church know! You can also donate to Reverend Stef’s JustGiving page at h t t p s : / / w w w. j u s t g i v i n g. c o m / crowdfunding/stefscamino For more information about what you can do to help expand the church hall, call 01257 451332 or email vicar@stjamesthegreat.net

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Choosing a

Window Treatment Curtains, blinds or even shutters â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we look at how to choose the best window treatment options.

Colour, pattern, fabric weight and hanging style are important. Grander curtains tend to suit larger, period rooms, while simple curtains better suit modern properties. Check the heading: usually, a tape is hooked onto curtain rings, but tab, tie, eyelet or hemmed tops are other choices. Curtain poles come in a variety of materials, with simple or ornamental finials. Curtain track is sometimes better: it can be mounted on walls or ceilings, bent around bays, and needs less clearance. Maximise natural light by fitting a pole or track wide enough to allow the curtains to be drawn away from the window. Floor-length curtains are generally better than sill-length, though not if radiators, window seats or furnishings are in the way. Linings help curtains hang neatly and protect from fading, dirt and condensation. Blackout linings are ideal for bedrooms, while thermal linings can be an effective insulator.

Blinds are great for modern homes, kitchens, bathrooms, and smaller rooms. Roller blinds are the most basic style, or choose roll-up versions tied with tape or ribbon. Roman blinds suit most rooms. Choose fabric that is mid-weight and not too textured, as blinds need to roll or fold easily. Consider combining more than one colour or pattern; perhaps a plain and a sheer fabric, to allow light through at the top of the window while giving privacy beneath. Plain blinds can be boosted with a good-looking pull or trim. For a dressier look, add curtains as well.

www.blinds-2go.co.uk

Curtains

Blinds

Shutters Shutters suit both old and new properties. They are good at blocking sound and light, and can provide extra security. Both plain and louvred shutters offer privacy and light control, and can be left as natural wood or painted. They can

www.californiashutters.co.uk

Window treatments are a key part of interior design, adding colour, pattern, texture and sophistication. They can correct a badly proportioned window, disguise an unattractive view, filter bright light and provide a visual link between inside and out. Think about your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style and what else is in the room, to narrow down the options.

be made in a variety of styles and fitted within a reveal or to fold back against the walls.

Budget options: Frosted window film is inexpensive and can be cut to any size and shape. Alternatively, a muslin panel hung from hooks or a slender pole provides instant privacy, as will a simple roller blind or unlined, ready-made curtains.

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The Railway Children Wigan Little Theatre’s September production is an adaptation of E. Nesbit’s classic children’s novel: The Railway Children. Follow the Waterbury children – Bobbie, Phyllis and Peter – as they move close to the railway after their father is imprisoned on false charges. In a story that celebrates family, community and the power of hope, you’ll travel back by train to a more innocent era. Performances take place from Wednesday, September 4 until Saturday, September 14 at 7:30pm each night. Tickets range from £10-£12 and are available on 01942 242561 or at www. wiganlittletheatre.co.uk

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 contact us on wigannews@locallife247. co.uk or call us on 01695 627999.

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Keep It

Fresh

A combination of blue and white is bright and breezy for summer, and timelessly appealing all year round. A blue painted wall in an otherwise white room creates a note of smart sophistication. Minnie two-and-a-half seat sofa in Frost Highland tweed, £1,250; Colorado medium rug in Indigo, £149; Paper Leaf scatter 45x45cm cushion by Zoe Glencross in Anchor, £70; House scatter 45x45cm cushion in Navy pure Belgian linen £55 - Sofa.com

Hand-painted spots and circles create an upgrade on traditional blue and white dinnerware. Sigur 12-piece earthenware dinner set, £39, MADE.COM

Blue and white tiles are an absolute classic, and these hand-decorated Spanish examples are appealingly timeless. Cabera Jazmin blue tiles, £4.49 each, Claybrook Studio

Depicting an ocean setting with gentle, abstract waves, this striking canvas combines cool blue and crisp white tones, framed in elegant silver. Waves abstract canvas, £195, Cox & Cox

This handy jute bag is perfect for laundry and storage, featuring soft rope handles, metal eyelets and a stiffened base. Nautical storage bag, £12.95, Live Laugh Love

43 Welcome home with a bright and breezy doormat that demonstrates even basics can be beautiful. Coir mat, £19, Red Candy

This soft Turkish cotton towel, with its geometric pattern, is super absorbent, quick drying, lightweight and easy to pack. Inca Hammam towel in blue, £36, Bohemia Design

How to use blue & white • Nautical but nice – blue and white stripes have that classic look that never goes out of style. Use in small doses to provide a dash of interest without becoming overwhelming. • A wall (or even a whole room) painted in deep blue is very on-trend. Interesting, cosy and sophisticated, it looks handsome combined with white woodwork – like a tailored suit with a smart white shirt.

A simple blind may be all that’s needed to add a jolt of vibrant pattern to any room. Vector Border Denim Roman blind, from £33, Blinds2Go

A statement throw will bring a pop of Santorini-inspired colour to a living space. Blue and grey striped throw, £45, Cox & Cox

• Balance the crisp feel of blue and white by adding soft and rustic textures, such as wool throws, wicker baskets and jute rugs. Alternatively, opt for a more industrial vibe with exposed brickwork and copper piping. • Classic blue and white decorating might include Chinese ginger jars, Wedgwood plates, toile de Jouy fabric and Cornishware crockery. There are, however, plenty of more modern interpretations, too. Look for chevrons, triangles and other geometric patterns as well as bold, contemporary florals to liven up the look. • Include some extra colours for interest. A touch of black is strong and sophisticated, while orange, lime and fuchsia will really pop against deep blue. For a paler scheme, add soft greens, yellows and pinks for a countrygarden effect.

Property

Going

Green!

A few weeks ago, the Government pledged they were going to make the country carbon neutral by 2050, a huge and ambitious commitment which will undoubtedly have a positive impact for future generations. It is estimated that Britain’s 27.2 million homes are responsible for more than 25% of the country’s CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions, so how successful we are as a nation in reducing the carbon footprint of our houses will play a huge part in whether we manage to achieve this pledge.

However those plans pan out, there is no doubt that the energy efficiency of a property will become more important to homeowners and potential

homeowners in years to come. The more energy efficient a property is, the less you have to spend to reach the carbon neutral benchmark. Every home that has been built, rented out or put on to the market in Wigan since 2007 has had to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), giving it a rating between A and G. A is highest rating (i.e. most efficient and greener) and G is the worst energy performance rating. The illustration shows most homeowners have got a way to go in order to improve energy ratings.

Researchers at Nottingham Trent University have estimated that it would cost £17,000 per property to make the average UK home carbon neutral, by retrofitting renewable energy and insulation, and that’s at today’s prices and if the measures are fitted en masse, and not piecemeal. This would cost the UK £462.4bn. To put that into some context, the NHS costs us £154bn per year. The benefits of making homes carbon neutral go further than saving the planet, as homeowners would have much lower gas and electric bills, but it is safe to say that most will certainly be unenthusiastic to take on the cost of such building works. So how will the government make the green revolution as painless as possible for homeowners? Undoubtedly incentives and grants will play a part, and future technology developments could include hydrogen central heating instead of mains gas, solar panels for electricity, triple glazed windows and even ground-sourced heating.

If you want to find your EPC report of your home, go to www.epcregister.com and look for the ‘Retrieve Report Using Property Address’ bar on the left hand side of the website. You don’t need to spend thousands to find out what you can do to make your property greener, but the report will tell you what small changes you can make to improve your energy efficiency rating and ultimately save yourself money. If you are looking for an agent that is well established, professional and communicative, then email me on alan@alanbatt.co.uk or call on 01942 233999.

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

For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis on the Wigan property market, check out

Alan Batt

www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk

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Where There’s a Will... Appley Bridge’s legal practice McHale Baker have been instrumental in helping raise money for Cancer Research UK, facilitating over £329,000 worth of gifts from people leaving a charity legacy in their will. The firm, which specialises in wills, lasting power of attorney and asset protection, decided to offer Cancer Research UK’s Free Will Service to help support life-saving research. The option is available for people aged 55 and over in the Appley Bridge, Parbold and surrounding areas, and provides advice and guidance for those wishing to leave a legacy gift to the charity. Cancer Research UK relies heavily on the generosity of people leaving gifts in their wills

as it receives no government funding; over a third of its research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer is funded through supporters leaving a legacy to the charity. A legacy gift can be anything a person leaves in their will: typically it’s money, but some people also choose to leave property or a specific item of monetary value. Anything left to Cancer Research

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49 UK is free of tax and marked for research into a specific cancer type within the local area. Cancer survival in the UK has doubled since the early 1970s, with Cancer Research UK’s work at the heart of that progress. Karen Baker of McHale Baker commented: ‘We are absolutely delighted to support Cancer Research UK and have been overwhelmed by the generosity of people living in the local area. We all understand that making a Will can be a daunting prospect – if you’ve been putting it off, please just give us a call and be assured that your wishes will be dealt with in a friendly and dignified manner.’ Director of Legacies at Cancer Research UK Clare Moore said: ‘It’s quite astonishing to think that by simply combining enthusiasm with the highest professional standards McHale Baker has helped secure over £329,000 worth of legacy gifts, which will go a long way towards helping our scientists, doctors and nurses beat cancer sooner.’

Creative Walk Looking for some inspiration for your next creative project? Want to feel at one with nature? This year’s creative walk from Hindley Community Centre might be just the ticket. On Friday, September 13 from 10:45am enjoy the walk around Borsdane Woods, finishing up at Chapter One Tearooms in Hindley for a delicious cream tea. Carefully designed starting points will encourage creativity to unfold in whatever medium you’re working in, whether that’s photography, sketching, writing or painting. Please bring along any creative equipment and sturdy footwear. The walk costs £5 and is open to over-18s - to book, call 01942 316455 or email booking@crispcic.co.uk

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A very warm welcome awaits you at our superb showroom, whilst it’s not supersized it more than makes up for it with variety & personality. We are a family run business & have been established for over 35 years, all of our staff are either local or have worked in the community that we cover for many years, supplying & installing top quality fires, fireplaces and stoves at the best value prices, across Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside & Cheshire. Our central location means we are very easy to reach, lying just 5 minutes from Junction 26 of the M6 motorway & M58 junction. There is no need to battle your way through congested town centres and decisions on where to leave the car either, as we can offer ample FREE parking to the rear of the shop. We have thousands of different combinations in our extensive back catalogue and within

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our showroom, where we allow you to view everything at your own pace without feeling overlooked or under pressure. All the top brands are stocked along with our unbeatable made to measure service available on our fireplaces, you are sure to find what you are looking for at The Fireplace Wigan. No need for internet shopping, we regularly beat all those on our complete packages so why go elsewhere? We offer a full design service and FREE survey to make sure what you are expecting is exactly what you will get with no hidden surprises! If that isn’t enough, we can also take care of the fitting arrangements, all carried out by our own Gas Safe and HETAS registered fitters who treat your home with the care &

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Testimonial

Amazing customer service, fantastic knowledge of all the fireplaces and really made us feel that any option was possible! Customer service from start to finish was exceptional and we are now the proud owners of the most gorgeous fireplace. Thank you so much Tony & all your team, we could not recommend you enough to family and friends. Thanks again! - Debbie Champion from Pemberton

respect it deserves. At the forefront of what we do, is offering good “old fashioned” customer service, it’s more important to BEFORE us that you have the right thing rather than anything. We think our reviews speak for themselves and we are very grateful for each and every one of those customers who took the time to thank us for our unbeatable service, reliability and quality of product & installation. We don’t rest on our laurels though, ”kaizen” is the company motto that we live by, always looking for areas we can improve! Our speciality is in marble, stone and quartz fireplaces, no job is too big or too small, we can design and supply something unique to you. We do not believe there is ever a problem, just a number of solutions which we can offer!!! Electric fires are currently experiencing a boom as technological advances mean fires are getting more realistic all the time. We are a Premier retailer for Dimplex which includes the magical Optimyst range, the amazing smoking fire and we are the main distributor for award winning Bespoke fires range. Multifuel stoves still remain very popular and we can offer a great selection of styles from the totally controllable Clock range and all of the well-known names from Casttec, Flavel, ACR, Henley, Hunter and many more besides. If time is more pressing then gas offers a convenient alternative for instant

AFTER heat with Crystal, Paragon & Flavel offering great style, performance and value. Whether you have a modern building with no chimney or a traditional home with a brick class 1 chimney, we have a fire and a fireplace for you. It’s worth visiting our very informative website, wiganfiresandfireplaces.co.uk which has pages dedicated to everything we do and a little bit more! For before and after transformations, just follow the link to our Facebook page.

Pop down for an informal and open chat and let us see what magic we can create for you. All tastes and budgets are catered for, we transform the mundane delivering proper “wow” factor.

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Public Art

Trail

The Face of Wigan, photo by Matt Harrop

By Jess Phillips

Warp & Weft

Face of Wigan

Sculpted by Adrian Moakes, Wigan Warp and Weft was erected in 2002, and is said to represent the relationship between the town’s former major industries. Aptly named after a weaving technique to turn yarn into fabric, the sweeping structure’s individual parts intertwine with one another as they sprout upwards

Towering 18 feet above The Wiend in Wigan town centre, the Face of Wigan was created by sculptor Rick Kirby in 2008. It was originally located in the Grand Arcade and cost £80,000, which was funded by Modus Properties.

as Wigan’s future grows beyond mills and mining. Is it coincidence that the crossed points make a W?

Rather than capturing a famous Wigan face, the giant bust is sculpted from hundreds of reflective panels to create a huge mirror image of Wigan residents. They are,

54 after all, the true ‘face’ of the town. Kirby himself commented at the time of the sculpture’s construction that ‘these are the people who make the place what it is today, and indeed have the power to determine what will be the future.’

Douglas Dragonflies These bronze dragonflies can be found along the River Douglas just off Hilton Street. The Douglas and Yarrow Valley Action group and Tesco commissioned artist Joanne Risley to create the swooping insects, which rest at the top of branch-like poles three metres high.

Giant Rugby Ball Another of Joanne Risley’s works, Tesco shoppers are all well aware of the giant rugby ball which harks back to the town’s legendary sporting career. Erected in 2001, the sculpture depicts a traditional ball complete with laces and embossed rugby players to commemorate the former Central Park stadium which lay on the site. Central Park dates back to 1902; the stadium saw its last ever game played in September 1999, with Wigan beating St. Helens.

Billy Boston Wiganers might not have been able to choose from the ream of famous rugby faces when they opted for the giant rugby ball, but one man stands out from the crowd. Billy Boston made his debut at Central Park in 1953 for Wigan and went on to play 31 games for Great Britain. He was the first nonwhite player to tour Australia and New Zealand in 1954, and scored a record number of tries in the process.

Sir Francis Powell

His likeness - holding a rugby ball and clad in Boston’s iconic kit - stands in Believe Square and was crafted by sculptor Steve Winterburn. It was unveiled in 2016, with Boston in attendance.

Sir Francis Powell For decades it’s been considered good luck to rub the foot of Sir Francis Sharpe Powell in Mesnes Park. It’s believed the tradition began after the war, when children were drawn to the statue for luck when it would have been in high demand. Powell, the 1st Baronet, was born in Wigan in 1827, and became Conservative MP for the town from 1863-1910. His statue was designed by Ernest Gillick and erected in 1910.

George Formby Ask anyone which musician they associate with Wigan, and they’ll probably opt for George Formby. Born George Hoy Booth, the keen ukulele player was born in the town in 1904, and delighted a worldwide audience with comical songs and films throughout the 1930s and 40s. Members of the George Formby Society helped bring the statue, which stands inside the Grand Arcade, brandishing his famous ukulele, to life in 2007. Indeed, George looks as though he might be about to break into a rendition of When I’m Cleaning Windows.

Dave Whelan Outside the DW Stadium rests a bronze monument to Wigan Athletic’s Dave Whelan, owner of the club from 1995-2018. Unveiled in 2016, Whelan is pictured holding the FA Cup which his Wigan team won in 2013 following a match against Manchester City – their first major trophy in their Premier League history.

Automata Along the chimney breast of Trencherfield Mill lie three curious mechanical faces. Designed by Andy Hazell in 1999, the faces are said to represent a family, and originally moved continuously as though coming to life. The top of a head opened and closed, the middle spun around, while the bottom face had a tin opener rotating around its head.

Photos by Jess Phillips

People of the Pier Wigan Pier was originally supposed to have four statues, but each has a sad history of vandalism. In 2009, before they were due to be unveiled to the artist, two of the statues were stolen. The first, depicting a Pit Brow Lass working on the canal was eventually found underwater and rescued, now standing along the canal a little way down from the entrance. The second statue, of a boat builder, was never found. You can also spot a bargee looking over the water close to the entrance, though his

56 flatcap has been sheared from his head, and the mill worker, sitting on a bench by Trencherfield Mill, was decapitated.

Spirit of Wigan Located on the Landgate roundabout in Marus Bridge, the Spirit of Wigan is a tall metal arch with three figures poised to perform acrobatics along it. The sculpture was unveiled back in 2006 and reaches 10 metres into the air – it was created by local artist Clare Bigger to represent Wigan’s strength and optimism in the face of adversity. The figures at the bottom of the sculpture symbolise labourers from the cotton and coal industries - which were vital in establishing Wigan as a major player up North - while the future figure rises above them.

Little Jimmy White On the site of the first Methodist church in Lamberhead Green – Wesleyan Methodist Church, built in 1790 – sits ‘Little Jimmy White’s Garden’. When Pemberton’s new church was built the old one was demolished, and all those resting in the small cemetery were relocated to St. John’s Churchyard. In 2003, the Pemberton Community Association decided to renovate the neglected site, designing a memorial garden to the former chapel and churchyard. Watching over the garden is a wooden statue of a WWI soldier, and a regular memorial service now takes place in November each year.

Boer War Memorial In 2013, a new Boer War Memorial was erected in Mesnes Park to commemorate the Wigan soldiers who lost their lives. The original statue, which depicted a British soldier standing victoriously during the Second South Africa War (18991902), was removed in 1968 after suffering from

pollution and vandalism – rumours say it is buried somewhere within the park. The new statue can be found outside Frederick’s Ice Cream Parlour.

Going Green A new topiary sculpture was commissioned as part of The Deal in 2016. A huge green mother and son hold brooms to clean up the environment on Northway, opposite Wigan Market. This huge piece of eco-art encourages the local community to get involved in cleaning up their act too.

Notable Mentions • Hands of Ince, Walmesley Park • Scholes Sign, Scholes • Red Wood Sculptures, Redwood Park, Orrell • Memorial Cenotaph, Wigan Parish Church

57 PLATINUM

Food

A Day in the Life of

Andy Baxendale The Willy Wonka of Wigan began his delicious career at the Chewits factory in Southport before he set up his own Sweet Consultancy business in 2008. Since then, he’s appeared on BBC show ‘The Sweet Makers’ examining the history of the industry - now the Orrell-based fudge fanatic travels the world training people in the candy world.

1:00pm Lunch - if you can stomach it - is a deservedly savoury affair.

6:00am Andy’s already on the road bright and early. Whether he’s travelling further afield (Guyana, California, Sweden – the list goes on!) or just heading to the Sweetdreams factory in Northumberland where he’s Technical Director, the early bird definitely catches the gummy worm.

TicTacs. All in a day’s work for the Sweet Consultant!

11:00am With great candy comes great responsibility. Today Andy’s testing a new sugar replacement for sugar-free sweets, but someone missed the memo about its laxative effects. Better factor that out

of the recipe as soon as the poor guy’s off the loo!

2:00pm Afterwards, Andy might be training staff on how to use factory machinery, altering recipes or carrying out quality control. In the USA, he’s helping produce Miracle Mints for the new cannabis market: think a more relaxing version of

7:00pm Andy’s heading back to the UK for some R&R. He tries his best to take a full weapons search at the border in his stride. 10:00pm On a good day, Andy would be home filling his face with chicken tikka madras and a pint. Otherwise, he’s catching some much-needed Zs on the plane back!

Andy can be contacted on 07786 624681 or at andy@ thesweetconsultant. co.uk - alternatively, visit his website at www. thesweetconsultant.co.uk

A Class

Act

By Jess Phillips Some folk are wary about the term ‘gastropub’, envisioning soulless décor and identikit menus. Nowhere is this further from the truth than The Fox at Roby Mill, where my colleague Sally and I headed out to take advantage of the brand new lunch menu. We were immediately met with a classy, cosily-lit bar area, rustic furnishings and an intimate, friendly atmosphere – all delivered by owners Wendy Green and Chris Wilson. Formerly Fifteens @The Fox, the pub has shed its more eccentric skin to become a more sophisticated version of itself – albeit without losing its sense of humour. A sign above the fireplace declares ‘nobody gets out sober!’ and the waiting staff are all up for a friendly chat. With a thorough menu and a healthy dose of village charm, The Fox delivers a dining experience in a seventeenth century building you certainly won’t forget in a hurry. We sat down to peruse the menus, which were beautifully bound in genuine wood. In the mood for something light, I opted for the queen scallop and crab bisque served with freshly made brown bread

and locally sourced butter. To say it was the best soup I’ve ever tasted wouldn’t be an exaggeration – Chef William Fitzmaurice really went all out. Served in a classic lion-headed bowl, the bisque was a delicate salmon colour and beautifully smooth to taste. Tiny chunks of queen scallop and crab that just melted in the mouth added a subtle seafood flavour to the creamy crux of the meal, while the homey texture of the fresh bread and butter proved perfect for dipping. Sally, meanwhile, had chosen one of The Fox’s brand new offerings: a flatbread. Served slightly toasted yet still incredibly soft, Sally’s flatbread was topped with creamy goats cheese and sweet caramelised onion chutney sprinkled with greens. Accompanied by a side of skin-on-fries, Sally’s main was light and fluffy: the perfect prelude to a delicious dessert. Before we could order, however, we got slightly side-tracked by The Fox’s dessert cocktail offerings. From the Snickertini (Baileys, Godiva chocolate liquor, amaretto and Stolichnaya salted caramel) to the Espresso Martini (Absolut Vanilla, Kahlua, Tia Maria and double espresso), the temptation was unimaginably difficult to resist, but, thinking of the drive home ahead, we channelled our desires into another vice: sweet, non-alcoholic treats. Sally couldn’t resist the warm pecan pie, topped with a delicious scoop of Mrs. Dowson’s caramel ice cream and a side-helping of fresh berries. The plate was finished off with a generous swirl of salted caramel sauce, which was ideal

61 for dipping the crumbly pastry. The tang of the salted caramel offset the nutty edge of the pecans beautifully; this classic American dessert proved one of the showstoppers of our outing. Never one to resist something chocolatey, I elected for the hot chocolate brownie, which came with chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream. The balance between the heat and richness of the brownie and the chill of ice cream is something rather difficult to get right (at least without an incident or two of brain-freeze), but The Fox definitely pulled it off. The brownie was tasty and gooey without being overpowering, finished off perfectly with the heady flavour of the chocolate sauce and sweetness of fresh strawberries and blueberries. Our waiter was kind enough to let us know that we shouldn’t leave without trying the hot Bakewell tart – and who were we to refuse? Accompanied by black cherry and amaretto ice cream, the tart offered its trademark coconut flair with sweet jam and buttery shortcrust pastry – definitely a great dish to share.

The Fox really does have it all: a diverse menu with heart, that cosy pub ambience and, above all, enough stunning dishes to suit every palate. It’s a much-coveted balance to achieve, but the pub pulls it off expertly, and I for one can’t wait to return. The Fox 24 Roby Mill, Up Holland, WN8 0QF 01695 628178 www.thefoxrobymill.co.uk

Sally’s Specials by Marti of The Star Inn

The Star Inn

Garlic and Rosemary Lamb Shank This slow-roasted lamb shank recipe is a great and easy way to enjoy lamb. This lamb recipe has only a few ingredients, but thanks to the long, slow cooking, the results are an incredibly flavourful meal to remember.

Serves 1 Ingredients 16oz Shank, from your butcher or local supermarket Olive oil 2 cloves of garlic 2 sprigs of rosemary Seasoning 2 carrots 2 stalks of celery 1 small onion 1 pint of beef stock Splash of red wine

Method Preheat the oven to 170°c Start by rubbing a little oil, garlic, rosemary and seasoning into the Lamb Shank. Try to do this the day before cooking to ensure maximum flavour for the final dish. Prepare a small mirepoix of vegetables, this is a flavour base made from diced vegetables. To achieve this roughly cut the carrots, celery and onion. Heat a little oil in a deep roasting tray or casserole dish, ensure the tray is hot but not smoking hot. Next, seal the lamb on all sides and the bottom, until it’s a lovely golden brown. Add in your mirepoix but be careful not to burn the meat or vegetables. If the tray is too hot turn the heat down at this point. Right about now the smells and aroma of the lamb, garlic and herbs should be filling your kitchen up nicely Add in the pint of beef stock and a generous splash of red wine. Now it’s ready to go into the oven! Cover the meat with some parchment paper or baking paper to protect the meat from drying out. Cover again with tin foil and roast in the oven for approximately 3 hours. To check the lamb, open the foil and use a spoon to test the meat, it should be very soft and ready to fall off the bone. The lamb is best served with a red wine sauce, mashed potato and vegetables.

65 Sally’s at The Star Inn was launched in 2007 in homage to landlord and chef Marti’s mother Sally, who passed away in 1996. A great cook herself, it was Sally’s lifelong dream to have a restaurant in her name, and Marti wanted to honour that promise when he took the reins of The Star Inn at Roby Mill.

Fresh Tomato, Basil and Garlic Concasse

This concasse is cooked quickly and because of the fresh ingredients, it’s a tasty and versatile tomato sauce. Adding oregano can make it even better and can be used for a pizza base or to dress spaghetti or penne pasta. My favourite way to eat this is by loading it on to a toasted piece of Bruschetta!

Ingredients

Serves 4

4 tins of chopped tomatoes

Method

1 large onion 2 garlic cloves Handful of chopped basil leaves Olive oil 1 sprig of oregano (optional) Seasoning

To start, strain the tinned tomatoes. Don’t waste the juice, it can be kept and used in other dishes. Dice the onion and finely chop the basil leaves, leave to one side. Blend up the garlic cloves in some olive oil to make a little garlic oil. I like to use Olive Pomace oil, but any olive oil will do. Using a thick bottomed saucepan or small pot, gently heat a little oil. Once warm, add the diced onion and cook for around one minute. By this time your pan is nice and hot, and your onions should be softening but not burning! Add the basil and the tomato chunks, turn the heat up and add the garlic oil. Simmer for another five minutes and season to taste. Serve with fresh pasta or get the kids involved and make a homemade pizza for all the family. To make more, simply increase the recipe and have a tasty and healthy pasta sauce on hand whenever you need it!

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Travel

Beautiful

Benidorm By Jess Phillips

No destination offers more versatility than Benidorm. There really is something for the whole family – whether you’re taking the kids to swim with dolphins at Mundomar, absorbing the many fine examples of Moorish architecture or pausing to enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine. The Benidorm skyline is one of the most easily recognisable in Spain for many of us. Its modern metropolitan feel gives way to beautiful mountainous regions and glorious beaches, perfect for taking a day trip out of the centre – try parasailing, head out to the Algar Waterfalls or visit Valencia. But first, take some time to explore what’s right on your doorstep. Benidorm is known for its family-friendly attractions, with waterparks like Aqualandia and Aqua Natura boasting a variety of thrilling slides, wave pools and splash zones for

the little ones. The brand new Cyclon at Aqualandia stands at a whopping 200 metres high – a must-ride during your trip. Head inland to find the Terra Mitica theme park: the ideal family day out. The park offers a range of rollercoasters, thrill rides and smaller attractions for younger children too, combining typical theme park elements with plenty of summer fun. Fear not, the park isn’t just for adrenaline junkies; you’ll find a spa area equipped with Jacuzzis and a huge swimming pool, plus breath-taking performances in themed areas throughout the day. Benidorm is also home to a number of wildlife parks: spend the day at Terra Natura Zoo for stunning birds of prey displays and interactive experiences,

69 and see the elephants roaming free. Meanwhile, at Mundomar, snap a photo with parakeets, swim with sea lions and witness the extraordinary feats of skilled dolphins. Regular feeding sessions take place with the lemurs and penguins too. Both parks help to protect endangered species by recreating their natural environments and protecting vulnerable animals from outside threats. Wanting to escape the hustle and bustle definitely merits a visit to Benidorm’s Old Town, where you’ll find the San Jaime Church. Dating back to the eighteenth century, the Neoclassical church is dedicated to St. James, the patron saint of Benidorm, and set back on a picturesque hill in the Old Town. It features a traditional blue Mediterranean dome and is a must-visit for fans of Spanish architecture. In the twisting streets of the Old Town you’ll also find the ruins of Benidorm Castle, which was originally built to defend the region from pirates. Some of the original walls still stand today, providing spectacular views across the coast. The El Cisne flea

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market takes place every Sunday, with fruit and veg stalls popping up on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Foodies will be delighted to discover Calle Santo Domingo, a.k.a. Tapas Alley – so named because of the abundance of tapas bars you’ll find along it. Whether you’re craving authentic Paella, spicy chorizo or something a bit sweeter, you won’t have to walk far to find it. Just a few miles north up the coast lies Valencia: a city of juxtapositions. Spain’s answer to the Sydney Opera House, the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is hard to miss, jutting out from the harbour as it

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does. This state-of-the-art facility is comprised of a huge IMAX cinema dome, The Oceanogràfic aquarium and ever-changing exhibition rooms. Valencia used to be surrounded by the formidable Christian Wall, built over a thousand years ago to protect the city from invading armies and

marauders. The wall was interspersed with twelve gates, two of which still stand today. You’ll find the Torres de Serranos to the north and the Torres de Quart to the west – both perfect spots for gazing out over the city. The Algar Waterfalls are a must-see if you’re staying in Benidorm. The river Algar empties into the Mediterranean Sea at Altea, passing the Callosa d’en Sarria where it forms the series of roaring falls. Regular buses operate to the site, and although it’s a steep climb up wooden steps to reach the falls, the experience is definitely worth it. The area is fully lifeguarded, offering plenty of swimming opportunities, as well as shade to relax in. Benidorm has so much to offer beyond its bustling surface, whether you’re after a relaxing beach holiday or a break to immerse yourself in European culture. Explore the picturesque Old Town or take a day trip to a new metropolis - however you choose to spend it, a Benidorm break is just the ticket for a summer in the sun.

Holiday Savings Saving money is often the last thing we want to think about on holiday, but there are a few easy tips

are relaxed, informative and help you find your bearings in a new place. Public transport passes are

and tricks you can try to come home with currency left over.

also a good idea if you’re in the same city for a few days.

Check data roaming charges before you go. Legislation introduced in 2017 means that you can now use your mobile phone allowance free in EUmember states. Beware of ‘fair usage’ limits applied by mobile phone providers, however, as a lower limit may be set on your usage abroad.

Make lunch your biggest meal. Set lunch menu prices can be considerably cheaper than paying for an evening meal. Doing this for a couple of days during your holiday means you’ll also be able to afford a few lunchtime drinks without breaking the bank.

Be wary of airport parking fees. If you’re flying early in the morning, consider staying at a budget hotel close to the airport, and look into deals that combine an overnight stay and hotel parking for the duration of your holiday. This is often cheaper than paying airport fees!

Avoid the tourist traps. Eating away from the main sights, even just a short walk away, can halve your food and drink costs abroad. Enjoy a more authentic atmosphere where the locals eat, along with locally-produced wines which are also cheaper (and often nicer!)

Enjoy a free walking tour when you arrive. These

By Ann Haldon

Local travel company sponsor Latics Supporters of Wigan Athletic Football Club will notice new signage around the DW stadium as part of a sponsorship deal with Worldchoice Travel. The local independent travel agency has agreed a one-year long sponsorship package to sponsor Wigan Athletic and Gill Blundell, Worldchoice’s Manager, says it’s all about helping the agency build further brand awareness. Gill said: ‘Worldchoice Travel has a long and successful history of operating in Wigan and we have built up a very strong and loyal customer base, but we are always keen to attract new customers. We have signed this sponsorship deal with Wigan Athletic with the objective of raising our brand even further through looking for initiatives that support our local community.’ As part of the deal, Worldchoice Travel is also sponsoring team kits for two local school rugby teams: St Cuthbert’s ARLFC & Shevington Sharks.

Jonty Castle, Head of Business Development at Wigan Athletic said, ‘To have the backing of such a well-established firm within the town is brilliant, and we thank Gill and the team for their support of Wigan Athletic’. www.worldchoicetravelwigan.co.uk/

Legal & Finance

Choosing Your

Financial Adviser Like your most influential teacher at school, a good financial adviser should inspire, advise and reassure you, so that you can enjoy a better financial future. Whilst a poor adviser will put their interests before yours and sell you a product you don’t really need and have no interest in your future. Worryingly both advisers will be FCA registered, both have at least a Level 4 qualification, and both will sound plausible. So how do you select the right adviser for you? The right qualifications You want an adviser who takes professional knowledge and development very seriously and is completely independent. Look for an adviser who is a Chartered Financial Planner or a Certified Financial Planner - or is actively working towards these qualifications. These are Level 6 qualifications - equivalent to a university degree and are the “Gold Standard” amongst financial advisers. Advisers who have achieved this level of technical competence have demonstrated that they are capable of dealing with clients that perhaps have more complicated financial planning requirements. A clear plan A good adviser will ask challenging questions and map out a plan to achieve your goals. They will spend considerable time listening to you and asking smart questions to help you define your short, medium, and long-term objectives, to determine your desired future lifestyle. Your adviser will create a financial plan to meet your objectives, ensuring that account is taken of tax-efficient planning such as pensions, and considering estate planning too. You can be certain that events won’t turn out exactly

as the plan indicates, and your adviser should review and update the plan on a regular basis. Relationships count Your financial adviser will become an important professional person in your life so it is essential that you get on well. Ask yourself whether the adviser really cares about you, genuinely wants you to reach your goals, and is willing and able to challenge you along the way. And finally, fees Fees should be open, transparent and fair. You should feel you are getting good value for money. Given that a good adviser could potentially make a difference of many thousands of pounds to your financial position over time, we suggest that you base your decision primarily on qualifications, approach and relationship as opposed to price alone. Should you wish to have a chat with one of our qualified financial planners please feel free to give us a call on 01257 423800. We are on the high street in Standish and have client parking. The initial meeting is at our expense and, of course, is without any obligation. David Barton APFS Cert CII (MP) Managing Director & Chartered Financial Planner

Legal & Finance

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Heritage

Open Days Rufford Old Hall Saturday, September 14, 11am-5pm (last entry 4:30pm) Liverpool Road, Rufford, L40 1SG

Heritage Open Days is a nationwide scheme offering free tours and days out to help you learn more about local places and their history, taking place each September.

Explore Rufford Old Hall for free – you’ll be stepping into more than 500 years of history at this Tudor building. Unwind in the Victorian gardens and get closer to nature with bug hunting kits for children.

Blackpool Tower Sunday, September 15 & Sunday, September 22, 11:30am Bank Hey Street, Blackpool, FY1 4BJ This iconic Victorian pleasure complex opened its doors in 1894, and now invites guests to enjoy a free guided tour during its 125th anniversary year. Pre-booking required on 01253 478090 or heritage@blackpool.gov.uk

Infantry Museum Saturday, September 14, 10am-4pm Watling Street Road, Preston, PR2 8AA Embark on a guided tour of the usually inaccessible Fulwood Barracks, which were constructed in response to the Plug Riots of 1842. The 47th Regiment of Foot Reenactment Society will also be recreating a slice of the American War of Independence (1775-1783), with WWI kits and weapons on display.

Mersey Tunnel Tours Saturday, September 14 & Sunday, September 15, 10am-4pm George’s Dock Building, Liverpool, L3 1DD Get a glimpse behind the Art Deco exterior of the George’s Dock Building and experience tours to the original Control Room and through the Fan Chamber to the Queensway Tunnel.

https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/

Lancaster Castle

Museum of Transport

Saturday, September 21 & Sunday, September 22, 10am-4pm

September 14, 15, 21 & 22, 10am-4:30pm

Castle Parade, Lancaster, LA1 1YJ

the Drop Room, Hadrian’s Tower and the Old Cells.

The museum opens its doors for free to offer a ride back in time – expert volunteers are on hand to explain the stories behind the many treasures in the museum.

Speke Hall

Bank Hall

Saturday, September 21, 10:30am-4:30pm

Sunday, September 15, 12pm-4pm

The Walk, Speke, L24 1XD

Bank Hall Drive, Liverpool Rd., Bretherton, PR26 9AT

Embark on a guided tour of the castle where 200 prisoners were hanged. Explore the Chapel Yard,

This National Trust property opens its doors for free – explore the huge Tudor house or set the kids free in the maze and play areas. Guided tours available.

Anderton Boat Lift Saturday, September 21 & Sunday, September 22, 9:30am-5pm Lift Lane, Anderton, CW9 6FW Head off on a free Top of the World Tour at the Anderton Boat Lift – a Victorian feat of engineering offering spectacular panoramic views from the top. Pre-booking required on 01606 786777.

Boyle Street, Manchester, M8 8UW

Enjoy a guided tour around the house exterior and find out about its history, with craft stalls to browse and refreshments available.

Terraced Gardens Saturday, September 7, 10am onwards Rivington Terraced Gardens, Rivington, BL6 7SA Explore Rivington Terraced Gardens like never before, with experience historians on hand to answer your questions. The Pigeon Tower will be open to the public on the day.

Business View

Xero the Hero by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy 5 Reasons why your business needs Xero Xero is the leading online accountancy software for small businesses in the UK. The development of online software has seen a shift from desktop products such as Sage to modern, intuitive online products such as Xero and Quickbooks. CMA have been partnering with Xero since 2010 and here are some of the reasons why we love it: 1. Real time information - Xero’s focus is on realtime information and not on giving you a historic view of your business. The dashboard gives you a current view of your cash and bank balances and outstanding bills and invoices. 2. Daily bank feeds - Your bank transactions feed directly into the software, showing incoming and outgoing transactions as they happen. 3. Automated bookkeeping - By linking Xero with products such as Receipt Bank and Auto Entry, purchase invoices can be automatically scanned and uploaded into your Xero data, so no manual input is required. This not only saves time but reduces the risk of human inputting errors. No need for files of paper invoices, as all documents are saved in the cloud. 4. Online sales invoices - No need to print and post out sales invoices as these can be sent automatically online. This saves on printing and postage costs and also avoids postage delays so you many even get paid quicker! Xero has a credit control function and can send out automatic chaser emails for unpaid invoices. 5. Access anywhere, anytime - Unlike desktop accounting packages, Xero can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. So when you need those numbers fast, they’re always available.

In addition to these features, Xero is fully compliant with Making Tax Digital and therefore submitting your VAT return via the software ensures that you are staying on top of the changes being introduced by HMRC. We have seen first-hand how Xero can revolutionise businesses. It enables CMA to work closely with our clients and proactively help them make better decisions. We can assist you in a number of ways by either helping you set up the software, train you and your staff to get the most from it or you can leave everything to us and we’ll process your bookkeeping and send you a report at the end of each month so you can see how your business is performing

Special Offer For a limited period we are offering all new clients Xero software free of charge for 6 MONTHS if they sign up for our services before the end of September.

We offer a free consultation for anyone that would like to speak to us about these changes – just drop by our office on Skull House Lane in Appley Bridge. The kettle is always on and there will be no charge for the initial meeting. Chris Alcock ACMA - CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR Tel: 01257 255521 Email info@handsonaccounting.co.uk web www.handsonaccounting.co.uk

Making Tax Digital Do you have a business thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VAT-registered and has a turnover of ÂŁ85,000+? Are you aware that the Making Tax Digital changes are now LIVE? Would you like your business to enjoy the benefits of online accounting? Call us today for a free consultation.

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

Health & Fitness

National Eye Health Week:

Seven Steps to Healthy Eyes According to the Royal National Institute for the Blind, around half of all sight loss in the UK is avoidable. National Eye Health Week (NEHW) is running from the 23rd to the 29th of September this year, reminding us of the importance of eye health and the vital role regular eye tests play. So how can you look after your eyes? 1. Keep alcohol consumption low Heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing cataracts and early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). By causing deficiency of Vitamins B1 and A, it can also cause weakness or paralysis in the eye muscles, night blindness, corneal thinning or perforation, dryness, and even blindness. Heavy drinkers (especially those who smoke) also run the risk of tobacco-alcohol amblyopia, a progressive optic neuropathy that typically causes bilateral, painless, visual impairment with loss of colour vision and a central visual field defect. Excessive alcohol intake during pregnancy can cause foetal alcohol syndrome, resulting in ocular abnormalities in the baby (optic nerve development issues, eye coordination difficulties and drooping eyelids). Both men and women should keep alcohol consumption under fourteen units a week. If you regularly drink this many units, ensure they’re spread out over at least three days. 2. Don’t smoke Aside from aging, smoking is the biggest risk factor for developing AMD, and smokers are far more likely to develop it than non-smokers. Smoking also increases your risk of developing cataracts.

3. Eat an eye-friendly diet Diet plays a highly significant role in eye health, particularly in the prevention of cataracts and AMD. Research indicates that eating just one portion of fish a week may reduce your AMD risk by up to 40%. Important foods to include in your diet are: • Cod, sardines, tuna, mackerel and salmon • Green, leafy vegetables like spinach or kale, and broccoli • Brightly-coloured fruit and vegetables such as corn, carrots, orange sweet peppers, oranges, blueberries, grapes and papaya • Eggs • Whole grains and avocados • Garlic, onions, shallots and capers • Soy 4. Take regular exercise Lack of exercise contributes significantly to several eye conditions, particularly amongst the over-60s. Exercise may reduce the risk of sight loss caused by narrowing or hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure and diabetes, and it’s linked to a reduced risk of glaucoma, cataracts and AMD.

79 5. Maintain a healthy weight and do everything possible to avoid Type 2 Diabetes Maintaining a healthy weight helps preserve macular pigment density, which in turn can prevent AMD onset. Excess body weight has also been linked to glaucoma. Diabetes can cause diabetic retinopathy and (potentially) blindness. Exercising and eating healthily can help you reduce your Type 2 Diabetes risk and maintain a healthy weight. 6. Protect your eyes from UV light UV light can damage your eyes just as it can damage your skin and it’s a risk factor for cataracts. Never look at the sun directly and on bright days always wear sunglasses bearing the CE mark or the British Standard BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013, which indicates they offer adequate ultraviolet protection. 7. Have regular eye tests – even if you think your think your eyesight and health are fine Sight tests are about more than checking if you need glasses. They can detect eye conditions you may be unaware of as yet, catching them at an early

stage when treatment may be easier and sight loss potentially avoidable. Sight tests can also detect other health conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes. Everyone should have a sight test every two years, but you may need one more frequently if you’re over 40, of Afro-Caribbean or Asian descent, or have a family history of eye conditions. You may qualify for a free NHS eye test - see www.nhs.co.uk for details.

More information: Find out more about Eye Health Week and eye health at: www.visionmatters.org.uk @myvisionmatters

A Dementia-Friendly

Future

Dementia is not, as many people believe, a natural consequence of old age (although the older you are, the more likely you are to be affected) and it is predicted that the number of UK residents with the condition will increase to over one million by 2025. That figure is set to double by 2051.

Local people are encouraged to decide what works best for them.

Given these statistics, it’s seems likely that in future our public health and social care services could struggle to care for people who develop the condition. Dementia-friendly initiatives therefore serve a dual purpose: helping people stay at home for as long as possible and relieving some of the burden that would otherwise be placed on our public care providers.

While flexibility is encouraged, there are certain measures that are regularly adopted by towns and cities who want to become DFCs. Businesses that regularly come into contact with older people, such as banks and taxi firms, are asked to provide extra support for customers with dementia, while museums and art galleries are encouraged to offer dementia-friendly activities. Other initiatives include ‘dementia cafes’ and drop-in centres. In the public realm planners use clear signage, creating well-defined open spaces with public toilets, seats, shelters and good lighting.

Things we all take for granted, such as using technology, getting served in shops and banks, going on holiday or enjoying hobbies are difficult when you have dementia, but they can become even harder when the individuals around you don’t know how to respond appropriately.

The Alzheimer’s Society has estimated that one in six people aged over 80 in the United Kingdom currently has dementia, and a further 225,000 people will be diagnosed this year. There’s no time to lose, so it’s reassuring to see that new dementiafriendly communities are appearing every day.

For this reason it’s not uncommon for people to shut themselves away as their condition progresses. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, over two-thirds of those polled have reported feeling lonely.

By Kate McLellan

A dementia-friendly community is a place where people with dementia are understood, respected and supported. It can be a street, village, town, city or region, an organisation, a group or even a virtual community.

Health & Fitness

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Over 60 walks FREE to download at locallife247.co.uk

Leisure

Upload your event for FREE at www.locallife247.co.uk/events Charity Football Match

Singalong Cinema

Sunday, August 25, 11am

Friday, Sept 6 & Saturday, Sept 7, 6pm

Wilf’s Vets go against St. Wilfrid’s FC to raise money for Derian House! A charity raffle will be held afterwards.

Catch singalong versions of Dirty Dancing and Mamma Mia in a woodland setting. Themed games and giveaways throughout. Tickets £7.99 per adult or £6.99 per child at www.boxoffice.wlct.org

Standish Recreation Ground, Standish, WN6 0TH

Wigan 10K Sunday, September 1, 10am-12pm Raise money for Derian House in the 2019 Wigan 10K – and try to beat the record for fastest time! Runners must raise a minimum of £100 in sponsorship – email challenges@derianhouse.co.uk to express your interest. Wigan Town Centre

Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, Wigan, WN2 1PE

Memory Walk Saturday, September 7, 11am-3pm A choice of 2 walks – a 1 hour walk or a 10 miler – around Haigh Woodland Park, with various activities on offer. Proceeds to the Alzheimer’s Society. To register, visit www.inspiringhealthylifestyles.org meet at visitors centre.

Fashion Show

Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Ln, WN2 1PE

Monday, September 2, doors at 7pm

Diggers’ Festival

Barbara’s of Standish present a fashion show, with prosecco, sandwiches and homemade cakes, plus a raffle. Tickets £10 on 01257 425330/463407/426252. Tunley URC Hall, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RW

Saturday, September 7, 11am-9:30pm The 9th annual festival celebrating Wigan’s industrial roots returns, with live entertainment across two stages, food and book stalls, digging reenactments and educational talks. Free entry.

Spanish Night

The Wiend, Wigan, WN1 1PF

Friday, September 6, 7:30pm-11:45pm

Picnic Proms

Sample a taste of Spanish culture with tapas platters and sangria, along with music from flamenco guitarist Mike Ciaputa. A professional salsa teacher will be on hand to sweep you off your feet! Tickets £25 on 01942 834747. The Old Courts, Crawford Street, Wigan, WN1 1NA

Saturday, September 7, 6pm-10pm A night of fanfare and fireworks – bring a picnic along and enjoy the end of summer. Tickets £8 per adult or £6 per child at www.boxoffice.wlct.org Mesnes Park, Wigan, WN1 1TU

Owlfest

Cotton Bales + Canopic Jars

Saturday, September 14, 11am-2pm

Thursday, September 19, 12:30pm-1:30pm

Celebrate Standish’s iconic bird with live owl displays, an owl trail through the village, history, crafts and competitions! Free entry, refreshments available.

Ian Trumble presents a talk on Greater Manchester’s Annie Barlow, a Victorian woman devoted to preserving the heritage of Ancient Egypt and who amassed a collection of over 10,000 artefacts. Tickets £3 including hot drinks on 01942 828128.

Standish Library, Cross Street, Standish, WN6 0HQ

Museum of Wigan Life, Library St, WN1 1NU

Cycling Fun Day Saturday, September 14, 11am-4pm A fun day to celebrate the Tour of Britain – the race will be shown on a huge screen, with live music from Joe Astley & The Gestures, plus activities and cycling stalls. Spectator areas are set up for when the race passes through Haigh estate. Free entry.

Bat Walk Friday, September 20, 7pm-9pm A free nocturnal bat walk searching for night-time wildlife. Meet at Kitchen Courtyard. Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, Wigan, WN2 1PE

Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Ln, WN2 1PE

Charity Evening Saturday, September 14, 7pm Help raise money for Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and Carers UK with a 4-course meal, raffle and auction, entertainment from a live band and DJ. Dress to impress – tickets £40 on 07972 282833.

Beer, Gin & Prosecco Fest Friday, Sept 20 & Saturday, Sept 21, 7pm-10:30pm Enjoy a selection of beers and gins, along with a tipple of Prosecco & live entertainment – free entry. Winstanley Tennis Club, Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XN

DW Stadium, Loire Drive, Wigan, WN5 0UH

Charity 5-Aside

Manchester Moon Festival

Saturday, September 21, 10am

Saturday, Sept 14 & Sunday, Sept 15, 12pm-9pm A free event celebrating the Chinese Moon Festival – immerse yourself in colourful lantern displays and enjoy a range of authentic foods, along with cakemaking and craft activities.

Raise awareness for male mental health with Place2Place at a 5-aside football tournament. Entry £20 per team in support of the Wigan Warriors Community Foundation. Call 07393 346875 for more info. Robin Park, Loire Drive, Wigan, WN5 0UL

Chinatown, Faulkner Street, Manchester, M1 4EE

DIY Lampshade Workshop Wednesday, September 18, 6:30pm-8:30pm Learn to make a lampshade from fabric for a ceiling or table light. Tickets £15 on Eventbrite including all materials. Wigan STEAM, The Galleries, Wigan, WN1 1QF

Brass Band Concert Sunday, September 22, 7pm The Pemberton Old Wigan A Band perform under Ben Dixon. Refreshments available, tickets £6 from www.pembertonoldwiganband.co.uk Pemberton Band Room, Enfield St, Pemberton, WN5 8DZ

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Martin Mere! WWT Wetland Centre Martin Mere and Local Life have joined forces to present one lucky local family with a fabulous day out at Martin Mere in Burscough. With leaves crunching beneath your feet, striking sunsets across the mere and the arrival of up to 40,000 pink footed geese from Iceland – Autumn is an amazing time to visit Martin Mere Wetland Centre.

Our Autumn season begins with one of our most popular events on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 September: Animal Magic! From funky frogs to marvellous meerkats, amazing amphibians to beautiful birds of prey, Animal Magic is a great weekend to get up close to wonderful wildlife.

85 Exotic Zoo will be showcasing loads of fantastic animals throughout the weekend, including an armadillo, adorable meerkats and a petting zoo! Critters 2 You will be bringing everything from snakes to lizards - will you have a go at holding a tarantula? Local rescue centre Corio Raptors will also be here with some amazing birds of prey, including a majestic barn owl and a beautiful buzzard. During the weekend we’ve also got a whole range of additional activities for the family to enjoy. Our onsite cattle will be on show from the Gladstone Hide - go along to the talk and feed to see the beautiful herd of cows, including 14 calves, to find out more about how the cows help us to manage our reserve. We’ll also be running bird watching for beginners sessions to inspire the younger generation - head to the Discovery Hide and pick up your bird watching for beginners guide and see what you can spot on the mere! There’ll also be all our usual daily talks and feeds, pond dipping in our new Pond Zone, our Canoe Safari and Boat Tours and our adventure playground with wet play! Come and have a wild day out in our extraordinary wetland landscape; buy your tickets online and save 10% on admission! We’re giving you the chance to win a Family Day Pass for Martin Mere, plus a free boat tour and a

£30 voucher to spend in Mere Side Café – giving you and your family everything you need for a wild day out. To enter the competition, simply visit our website, www.locallife247.co.uk, click on ‘free stuff’ and then on ‘competitions’ and then answer the following question; How many pink-footed geese migrate from Iceland to Martin Mere each year? The expiry date for the competition is midnight on Monday 30th September 2019 and the winners will be notified within five working days. Entrants must be over 16 years of age. Only one entry per household. Local Life 247 cannot accept responsibility for entries that do not reach us. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd and their families are not eligible to enter this competition.

For more information about visiting Martin Mere, check out the website here; www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/martin-mere

Gin Night

Foraging Walk

Friday, September 27, 7:30pm-11:30pm

Sunday, September 29, 10am-12pm

Enjoy a scrumptious selection of gins and tapas – tickets £10 including a commemorative glass and your first gin.

Dave Winnard teaches you what to forage and what to leave alone – free entry, meet at Hindley Tunnel end.

Houghwood Golf, Crank Road, Billinge, WA11 8RL

Borsdane Wood, Danes Avenue, Wigan, WN2 4BT

Macmillan Coffee Morning

Fawlty Towers Dinner

Saturday, September 28, 10am-12pm

Friday, October 4, 6pm-midnight

Enjoy coffee and cakes together, along with a Bring and Buy sale in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Don’t miss this Fawlty Towers tribute act bringing Basil, Sybil and Manuel to life for a comedy dining experience. Tickets £65 including a 3-course meal and drink on arrival, available on 01695 624426.

Trinity United Reformed Church, Milton Grove, Wigan, WN1 2PG

Fungi Foray Sunday, September 29, 10am-12pm A peaceful walk around Worthington Reservoir seeking out the fungi sprouting into season. No dogs allowed. Worthington Reservoir, Standish, WN1 2XW

Holland Hall, Lafford Lane, Upholland, WN8 0QZ

Chorley Live Friday, Oct 4 & Saturday, Oct 5, 7pm-11pm Catch amazing live entertainment across over 30 venues. Wristbands £5 from each venue or from Chorley Council office on Union Street. Visit www. chorleylive.com for more information and updates. Chorley Town Centre

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Parbold Eight by Chris Pearce Distance: 7 miles Difficulty: Medium This month we make an overdue but welcome return to the walking capital of West Lancashire to tackle the Parbold Eight, a reference not to the mileage but to the shape of this seven mile walk. As you can see from the pictures, we picked a gorgeous day to tackle an outstanding walk rich in high quality picturesque views of the Douglas Valley, the peaks of the western Pennine hills and also of the Lancashire coastline.

Go through the bars and take one of the paths immediately to the left which merge into one path just before emerging onto Whittle Lane. Follow the road uphill in the same direction, taking great care on this country lane with no pavements. Once you reach the Rigbye Arms follow the road through a 90 degree left turn onto High Moor Lane and then take a right turn on Broad Hey Lane.

Park up in the small car park at Hunters Hill (L40 3SR) in rural Bispham, a former quarry site that’s been transformed into a woodlands retreat by the local council, and is well worth a visit for the panoramic views alone.

Once you reach the bend on Broad Hey Lane, take the track branching off to the left. Follow the path on a gentle descent and once you’ve passed two ponds on the left, you’ll come to a fork; take the left path towards woods.

88 right hand side of the brook, keep to the lower left hand path and you’ll finally come to steps leading to a stile. Cross the stile and head straight across two open fields. Carry on in the same direction gently downhill, and you’ll end up on a narrow path towards Gillibrand House. Fifty yards after the house, take a left turn downhill, crossing the railway bridge and ending up at the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Cross bridge 40 and turn right down the canal towpath until you reach bridge 39. Cross the bridge and then carefully navigate the railway crossing shortly afterwards. Now the uphill trek begins in earnest as you climb Chapel Lane to the T-junction with Wood Lane. Turn right, then immediate left up the path towards the spire of Parbold’s Christ Church. Turn left and follow the jagged path around the perimeter of the woods. Just as the path turns into the woods, you take a 90 degree left turn towards an open field. Cross the stile and make your way round the left hand perimeter to the far corner of the field, cross the stile and you’re now by the A5209. Turn right, cross over, then take the first left into Fairy Glen, taking the footpath on the immediate left leading down into this ancient woodland. For all its waterfalls and sandstone cliffs, Fairy Glen is a beautiful oasis of calm and tranquillity, much loved by everyone who visits. You’ll criss-cross Sprodley Brook but keep heading gently downhill through Fairy Glen until you reach a raised wooden bridge by some concrete steps. Cross the bridge to the

Climb the path up to the main A5209, turn left and when you see a bus stop on the right, cross over and take the path next to the bus stop, heading down into a wooden area. Cross Alder Lane Brook and then head uphill on a path running parallel to the brook and its woodland surrounds, crossing a

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

90 couple of stiles on the way, until you come to a track running diagonally right across open fields. Follow the track uphill and eventually you’ll end up back on Broad Hey Lane. Follow this back to its junction with High Moor Lane and turn right. Immediately after the High Moor restaurant take a left turn up the majestic driveway to the Harrock Estate. Follow the driveway (ignore first footpath sign) and once the driveway bends to the left, take the footpath which branches off to the right and follow this path uphill to the highest point of the walk, near to Harrock Hill Reservoir. The path bends to the left at this point; follow the path out of the woods, round the left hand side of a copse and follow the right hand perimeter of the field, heading towards another wooded area. Climb over the stile and turn left following the path downhill. When you reach a 90 degree right turn, carry on a few yards and negotiate your way over a drystone wall using wooden steps.

Follow the path downhill squeezing through gorse, over the stile and via a steep descent through a field until you reach a farmyard. Walk through the farmyard in the same direction until you reach Jackson’s Lane. Turn left and follow this quiet country lane until you reach Bannister Lane where you turn left again, ready for your final challenge; a 550 yard uphill climb to the car park atop Hunters Hill, where a couple of benches await you for a welldeserved rest and those panoramic views.

Where’s Jack? Now and again, we get an enquiry from readers asking about Jack from Jack’s Tracks, our series of local walks. Namely, who is Jack and why doesn’t he write for the magazine anymore? Just for the record, Jack’s Tracks was named after Jack, a border collier who lives with the Publisher’s in-laws in Billinge. A rescue dog picked up in Jacksmere Lane in Scarisbrick, Jack’s picture was often included in our early walks. As the picture illustrates, Jack’s alive and well and recently completed a coastal walk of Anglesey. He’s often seen in Orrell Water Park, pulling his owners in the direction of Madisons cafe. There are now over 60 Jack’s Tracks walks from the local area, all free and ready to download at www.locallife247.co.uk

Motoring

Battery

Life

The 10 best electric cars on sale today The rise of the electric car can’t be underestimated. Each manufacturer is rushing their own plug-in car to market, and demand for these new models is increasing by the hour. But which ones are best? We’ve put together some of the ideal all-electric cars currently on sale. Hyundai Kona Electric Hyundai has changed the game with its new Kona Electric. Capable of travelling up to 279 miles on a single charge, it’s got one of the most impressive ranges of any new electric car available. And as a result of being based on the regular Kona, it brings funky styling and plenty of in-car technology too. It’s all put together in a compact package, which means that it’s just as well suited to urban driving as it is to longer distance motoring. Jaguar I-Pace The British firm has struggled in recent years as the diesel crisis hit shortly after it invested heavily in the fuel. Fortunately, its bet on an allelectric SUV has paid off, with customers queuing up to buy one. It’s easy to see why – the I-Pace is fast when you want it to be but a comfortable cruiser when you want to relax. It’s far from cheap at £64,495, but that’s good value compared with the Tesla Model X, its biggest rival, and with almost 300 miles of range recharging should be a rare occurrence.

Nissan Leaf Nissan’s Leaf is often one of the first cars that springs to mind when you think of electric vehicles. It was, after all, one of the very first all-electric cars to become popular, and has gone on to retain a lot of this popularity as the years have gone by. These days the Leaf can still hold its own. It’ll crack 239 miles on a single charge, and is spacious and comfortable too. BMW i3s BMW has taken time to refine its i3 all-electric city car, ditching its petrol range extender thanks to better range. The firm has also added this – the i3s – which gives the car a little added performance. It comes with a tuned stability system and a slightly more dynamic look – but still encapsulates all the good qualities of the regular i3 too. Kia e-Niro Ever since journalists first got behind the wheel of the e-Niro, they’ve praised the crossover for being good to drive and offering a battery capacity that can consign range anxiety to the past. However, unfortunately the e-Niro has been a victim of its own success. Kia hasn’t been able to source batteries quickly enough to meet demand for the car, so wait times are now up to about twelve months.

92 Hyundai Ioniq Electric Do you want the good news or the bad news? The good news is that the Ioniq Electric is a mighty appealing electric car. It’s practical, good to drive and surprisingly quick, too. The interior feels a little on the cheap side, but it’s far from disappointing. The bad news, though, is that Hyundai is hit by the same battery shortage as Kia, so wait times can be up to a year. So if you want one, you’re going to have to wait. Audi E-tron Audi may be one of the largest carmakers around, but it’s actually been relatively late when it comes to an all-electric model. However, this – the E-Tron – is its first model, bringing a premium look and feel as well as impressive electric technology.

That’s where the new Model 3 chimes in. It’s designed to be a bit more affordable, but still capable of delivering plenty of range and high technology levels too. Volkswagen e-Golf If you’re looking for a safe bet when it comes to your electric vehicle purchase, you really can’t go wrong with the Volkswagen e-Golf. It brings the build quality and dependability you’d expect from one of the UK’s best-selling models, and simply adds an electric powertrain. It can travel up to 144 miles before the batteries need topping up, and while that’s far from the best in the segment, it’s perfectly acceptable for the typical commuter. With plug-in car grant applied, prices hover around the £30,000 mark.

Myths Busted

Audi claims that it’ll do 248 miles on a single charge, but also provide plenty of space and practicality while it does so.

You can’t drive them in the rain.

Renault Zoe

why manufacturers are really careful to seal all of

The Renault Zoe offers one of the cheapest entry points to EV ownership, but don’t mistake that for meaning it’s a cheap and cheerful offering that should be avoided – the Zoe is a great little supermini.

the electrified components.

Opt for the big battery version and you get 186 miles of range, so most inner-city commuters will only have to charge it once or twice a week. Prices start at just over £17,000 with the plug-in grant. Tesla Model 3 Tesla could be classed as one of the founding fathers of the electric car. The Model S, its saloon car, has arguably been one of its most successful. But for many, it was just a touch too expensive and a little out of reach.

We all know water and electricity don’t mix. That’s

You can’t go very far. That may have been the case a few years ago, but now most electric vehicles have a range in excess of 150 miles, with 200 miles becoming the norm.

There’s nowhere to charge them. Charge point locator Zap Map indicates there are almost 15,000 connectors at more than 5,000 locations in the UK, with more added all the time.

They take ages to charge. Charging doesn’t take as long as you might think. Rapid chargers can provide 80 per cent of charge in about 30 minutes.

They’re boring to drive. If ‘electric vehicle’ conjures up images of a milk float, you need to get with the times! Modern electric cars can be genuinely fun to drive thanks to the high-torque motors.

Services Repairs Diagnostics for all makes & models

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Gardening

Are you sitting

Award Winner

comfortably? by Angie Barker

If you are looking to make a statement in your garden then you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go wrong with placing a Lutyens bench as a focal point. Sir Edward Lutyens was an acclaimed architect in the arts and crafts movement in the late 1800s, early 1900s and he designed many English country houses, war memorials and public buildings. He also designed his classic and unique Lutyens bench. You should always try and include more than one seating area in a garden because having more than one seating area gives you a different view of the garden and also means you can make the most of sitting in the sun as it moves around your plot. It will encourage you to venture out into the garden and beyond the patio near the back door. You will be amazed at how different your garden looks from a different angle and it can become a retreat, a little hideaway. Placing a Lutyens bench at the end of a path, in the curve of a lawn or under a pergola, creates a focal point which will draw the eye and add style to your garden. And if you have a shady corner, paint the bench white which will make it shine out.

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.

Photo credit: Acabashi on Wikipedia

A Lutyens bench will suit any style of garden. It can fit seamlessly into a traditional, cottage garden or just as well into a contemporary scheme. Especially if it is painted to match other accessories around the garden. Whenever possible I would include some planting around a seating area whether this be a border or a raised bed, as this will complete the picture and enable you to plant some scented plants which you can appreciate from your new bench. I have always hankered after a Lutyens bench and I think it will bring a timeless, classic style and grace to my garden â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just like Hubby does!

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

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Decking

07850 940 429 or 01942 512 635

We’ll design & create your new modern low-maintenance garden Our wide range of artificial grass are all guaranteed for 10 years

Driveways

Planting

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

07814 133 690

FREE HandyContacts web listing when you advertise in LocalLife magazine Prices start from £39+ VAT per issue Free artwork Monthly payments Call us today on

01695 627999

www.locallife247.co.uk/handy-contacts/

Garden Make-Overs

Before

After

JTH Landscaping All aspects of Landscaping & Tree work undertaken

•Landscaping •Driveways •Decking •Design

Quality work & reliability at competitive prices

Call for free estimate Colin 07958 302 166 Brian 07760 160 988

• Landscape design & implementation • Tree felling, tree pruning • Japanese knotweed control • One off garden tidy • 24 hour emergency tree call out

Wilson Brothers

01695 633173 Wilson Brothers www.wilson-bros.co.uk

Call Thomas today for a free quote: 07923 035300 or 01744 895570 email: jthlandscaping@icloud.com Ashfield Farm, 43, Garswood Road, Billinge

Award-winning, local family run business offers:

Garden Landscaping (lawn laying, planting, fencing)

Garden Maintenance

(weeding, mowing, trimming, hedges)

Regular or one off visits

Plants & Planting

WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON QUALITY OR PRICE • Landscaping • Driveways & Patios • Block Paving • Indian Stone

(wide range of plants available with advice and planting service)

• Fencing & Decking • Turfing & Artificial Grass

Call now for a friendly, no obligation quote

01257 401193 / 0771 077 2732 www.newleafgardenservices.co.uk

NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN? I’ll do the hard work for you; Friendly and professional female gardener Regular maintenance service Weeding, planting and pruning Contact Hannah on

01257 402 149 07454 393 217

www.artemisgardening.co.uk

Tree Work • Shaping & Pruning • Felling & Topping

UP TO 25% DISCOUNT

Call Al today for a free quote or advice OFFICE

MOBILE

01942 396 818 07796 494 463

Want a beautiful garden without all the hard work?

We’ll do it all for you!

• • • • •

GARDEN MAINTENANCE / ONE OFF TIDY UPS JETWASHING DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS APPLICATION OF LAWN TREATMENTS HEDGES & SHRUBS MAINTAINED WEED SPRAYING OF PATHS & DRIVEWAYS

Garden Design & Quality Landscaping Quality work & reliability at competitive prices Garden makeovers with artificial grass a speciality Established 1994

Call today for a FREE quote

01942 510 986 / 07710 405 214

Landscapes

Professional Lawn Treatment & Garden Maintenance ~ Est. 2001 ~

01744 893 477 or 07950 651 956

GreenhillsLC@gmail.com

BILLINGE BASED

Creating the ideal outdoor living space Garden Design & Construction All aspects of Paving, Driveways & Patios

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

l Geails N £15

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

For more information call

LED Lighting

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

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

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

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

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

Dennis Goulding Mossy Lea Road

A5209

Natalie

(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)

A49

LocalLife

Heat Pumps

embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working

B5250

01695 627 999

Wind Turbines

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

ally

money is the clear beneﬁt!

Solar Thermal & Solar PV

£20

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

...andreturns available

from your www.dglwindows.co.uk

FREE

own solar panels

J27

Standish

Unit 4a, Cricket Street Business Park n and Miry Lane, Crosto of off Wigan. residents WN6 7TP

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

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, Friday & Sunda esday Thursday ay, Wedn Closed

0843 A224 9555 U rton 07595S 420237 me!

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Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk T you need Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk me until Check

Health FREE Car Book your Call now on

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k h ChecVisit our showroom at

Healt Car84

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Slash your electricity and water heating bill

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

(10% typical return)

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01772

REPAIR

603923

DING & WEL

Call Stewart Ashcroft on;

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

Garden Services & Lawncare

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. 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

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.

jmagardenservices.co.uk

day: 07929 366769 eve: 01744 302793

99 www.treetechsolutions.co.uk • All tree work • Hedge cutting • Grounds maintenance • Stump grinding

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

NO JOB TOO SMALL EMERGENCY CALL OUTS WELCOME BILLINGE BASED

SMN

Call Wes for a free quote on

07713 121135 / 01695 322153

QUALIFIED & INSURED

FREE ESTIMATES

Tree and Landscape Management

TELEPHONE:

Tree Felling & Pruning Site Clearance Tree Surveys and Reports Invasive Weed Control Ground Maintenance Agricultural & Domestic Fencing Firewood & Woodchip Woodland Maintenance 24 Hour Emergency Tree Work West Lancashire Borough Council approved contractor Wigan Council approved contractor

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

steve@smntrees.co.uk

Garden need a little

LTC?

• Tree Surgery • Flagging & Fencing • Landscaping & Design • Garden Clearances • Logs For Sale

01695 623 909 07903 290 878 www.gardenrescue-treeservices.com

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

OAP Discounts

TREE SPECIALISTS • Pruning & Shaping • Felling & Topping • Stump Grinding All aspects of tree work undertaken

Wood chipping & stump grinder services

NO JOB TOO LARGE OR TOO SMALL

Call Lloyd today for a free estimate

Call us today for a free, no obligation, quote;

01942 367170 / 07900 738637 Cricket St, Wigan, WN6 7TP www.ltcgroup.co.uk

JOHN: 07879 024 070 OFFICE: 01925 271108 Email: fourseasons.treespecialists@gmail.com

20% OFF ALL

AUTUMN BOOKINGS

100

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