Local Life - Wigan - December 2020

LocalLife Wigan Edition

December 2020

WINer

mp a hforayour lockdown hero!

Christmas on a Budget Pages 16-17

Christmas Recipes Pages 26-28

Hometown Brushstrokes Pages 38-41

Top Santa Apps Page 44

Books for Christmas Page 48

Jack’s Tracks: Carr Mill Pages 62-63

LOCAL NEWS | EVENTS2GO | FOOD | HEALTH | WALKS | COMPETITIONS | HOME & GARDEN SERVICES

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The gorgeous Love It Gallery in Billinge has an excellent range of original gifts to suit all budgets, made from craftspeople, many of them local. From Christmas cards, wrapping, advent calendars and decorations, right through to gifts sets, accessories, jewellery, ceramics, and soft furnishings, Love It Gallery has got something for everyone this Christmas.

As the home of Morpheus Glass, it’s not surprising that the range of inspirational glass art at Love It Gallery is huge, with clocks, bowls, mirrors, vases, wall panels and much more featuring prominently, many pieces carrying the rainbow theme of 2020.

On site at the gallery is Bag & Bean coffee shop, where you can enjoy coffee, cake and light lunches, socially distanced style - with additional outdoor and undercover seating with heating.

Love It Gallery, Winstanley Road, Billinge WN5 7XG Open: 9.30am-5pm Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm Sunday Telephone: 01695

622 332

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T

his is the final Local Life of 2020 and I can safely say that it is a year that everyone is going to glad to see the back of. The news on the vaccine front gives us hope that 2021 will be the year the world learns how to cope with this virus, but in the meantime, we are facing a toned-down Christmas.

Whilst this is an awful situation for everyone, please remember in your thoughts those families that will be facing their first Christmas without loved ones. Christmas can also be a tough time of year for many who are lonely and isolated, and sending a simple Christmas card or making a phone call can mean a lot to them.

With light finally showing at the end of the (admittedly very long) tunnel, now is the time to look forward to what you can hopefully enjoy next year; to the party you’re going to have next Christmas, to next year’s sunshine holiday, to celebrating birthdays, graduations, proms, to watching live sport in person or in a crowd down the pub, going to the cinema and doing all those things that we have taken for granted for so long.

Never before, certainly in my lifetime, will the sentiment ‘Happy New Year’ be delivered with as much sincerity as it will be this year. Enjoy Christmas, keep your family close – but not too close – and from us all at Local Life, a Happy New Year.

Chris Pearce, Publisher chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

Keep in touch with the LocalLife Team!

LocalLife

Telephone: 01695 627 999 info@locallife247.co.uk

locallifemagazine247 @locallifemedia Local Life 247 Ltd, PO Box 779, Wigan WN1 9UB 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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This month’s highlights 38. Hometown Brushstrokes

Contents 20. Competition Winners The lucky Rainbow Glass winners.

24. Beauty Gift set inspiration this Christmas.

42. Tech Top ticket Christmas gifts 2020.

44. Top Christmas Apps Discover the magic of Christmas!

16. A Budget Christmas

26. Christmas Recipes

56. Health Overcome your digestive problems.

58. Puzzle Pages Try these brainteasers for size.

60. Motoring 6 health conditions to declare.

65. Home & Garden Services

62. Jack’s Tracks - Carr Mill

30. Win a Luxury Hamper

48. Books for Christmas

Next Issue - January 2021

Advertising deadline - 16th December Published - 20th January

Find the best local traders.

Want to promote your business in

LocalLife?

01695 627 999 www.locallife247.co.uk

6

Hospice Support Hospice UK, the national charity which leads Hospice Care Week, estimates that UK hospices have lost in the region of £70m in income so far this year, with charity shops closed throughout the first lockdown and many major fundraising events having to be cancelled.

You can help Wigan and Leigh Hospice face this unprecedented financial challenge by supporting the Hospice’s annual Light for a Life appeal, which provides an opportunity to celebrate and remember those you love and have loved.

A light is lit on the Hospice Christmas tree for every dedication made each year and every name is featured

in a Book of Dedications which is printed into a bound hard-backed book and is available to view all year round.

Dedications can be made to anyone, there does not need to be a connection to the Hospice. It is a simple and moving way of remembering those you love or have loved at Christmas time.

For more details, visit www. wlh.org.uk.

You can also support the Hospice by buying any last-minute Christmas cards you need. The Hospice has a range of eight Christmas cards and these are sold in packs of ten cards for £2.99 each online at www.wlh.org.uk.

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Christmas Market

Festive Night In

Standish Christmas Market will be a bit different this year and organisers are hoping that their virtual offerings will help to keep the Christmas spirit alive.

Wigan Youth Zone will be hosting a festive night in on Sunday 20th December. You can join them at 6pm on Zoom to for a fun-filled evening packed with amazing performances from the young people of Wigan Borough, messages from celebrity guests and they will also be revealing the winners of The Big Christmas Raffle!

The hope is that they will be back in Market Place and the craft halls next year, but for 2020 they have teamed up with Pedddle.com to host a Virtual Christmas Market weekend.

You will be able to access the market at www.pedddle. com - just search for Standish Christmas Market. There will be a sneak preview of who is going to be trading from Wednesday 2nd December and it will go live on Friday 4th December and run until Sunday 6th December.

The market will be full of familiar traders from previous non-virtual markets, along with a few fresh faces. The same sentiment stands this year - shop local and support small businesses.

Prizes for The Big Christmas Raffle include a diamond necklace worth £1000, Moschino sunglasses, cameras, hampers, experiences days and much more! For more information on how to secure a raffle ticket, please email Sharon.McLaren@wiganyouthzone.org or alternatively you can purchase your ticket through the website at www.wiganyouthzone.org

So break open the mulled wine, warm up the mince pies, curl up on your sofa and have your credit cards handy let’s go Christmas shopping!

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WINTER MEMBERSHIP OFFERS You can join Gathurst Golf Club without signing up for a full membership Come along & give us a try!

• Join for 1 month (Jan, Feb or Mar) for just £50 per month & play as much golf as you can fit in • Join for 2 months (any combination of Jan, Feb & Mar) for just £100 and play as much golf as you can fit in • Join for 3 months (Jan to Mar inclusive) for £150 & play as much golf as you can fit in.

If you’ve already made up your mind that you want to join us, then take advantage of becoming a Full Member right now and get 15 months golf for the price of 12.

Sign up in December or January & your membership will be valid until 31 March 2022

Various categories available, for full details please contact the club on: 01257 255235 or email: secretary@gathurstgolfclub.co.uk

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Zoom with Santa The Santa float that normally tours Wigan’s estates in December, staffed by Wigan Rotary Club, will not be running this year due to the current health crisis.

However, the club have come up with a contact-free way for the children still to be able to tell Santa what is on their Christmas list. Via the Wigan Rotary Club’s website, or by scanning the QR Code on this page, parents will be able to book a meeting for their child or children to sit in their house and link up with Santa in his grotto.

Rotary President Rosemary Charles said “We are very disappointed that children will not be able to see Santa come down their street or when they go to the supermarket so we wanted to make sure they could still have a direct line to Santa with a special meeting we hope they will treasure.

‘Zoom with Santa’ means they will still be able to see Santa this year in his grotto and have time to chat to him and tell him what they want for Christmas. This is a fully personalised experience and will see Santa speaking one to one with each child from his Lapland grotto and recreate the magic of this festive tradition as best as possible.’

‘Rosemany adds, “We are not making a charge for this but we hope everyone will feel able to make a donation which will cover the costs of the event and help us to continue all the work we do in the Wigan community”.

Bookings are now been taken via www.wiganrotaryclub. org.uk with full details of the dates and times available.

You can also scan the QR code on this page for arrange your very own meeting with Santa For any queries email wiganrotaryzoom@gmail.com or ring 07813 471000 If you wish to donate without making a booking just go to www.wiganrotaryclub.org.uk and click on the ‘Donate Now’ button.

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Choose a caring community It has never been more important to choose the right care setting.

Belong villages provide high quality 24-hour support in a safe household environment, with focus on wellbeing, meaningful occupation and exercise.

Small households create a homely setting, cohorting in ‘bubbles’ of up to 12 people Specially adapted processes to facilitate safe move-ins and family visits Robust infection prevention and control measures, and regular testing for colleagues and residents Services include 24-hour support, including nursing and dementia care and independent living apartments

Belong also operates an award-winning home care service, providing support with daily living, companionship and a range of initiatives to help with physical and mental wellbeing during lockdown.

To find out more, contact your nearest village enquiries@belong.org.uk www.belong.org.uk Belong Atherton 55 Mealhouse Lane, Atherton M46 0EU T: 01942 898410

Belong Wigan Millers Lane, Platt Bridge, Wigan WN2 5DD T: 01942 855600

Your life, your pace, your way

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Escape to Gulliver’s With many festive options for family fun closed off this year because of COVID-19, those in search of a Christmas family adventure can still depend on Gulliver’s World in Warrington. The packages are a little different this year, but you can still enjoy a classic collection of fabulous festive treats for all the family.

Elf Workshop and, of course, enjoy the festive rides and attractions.

Packages start from £19 per person (concession prices are available) and all packages include a trip aboard the North Pole Express to the Winter Wonderland, stopping off on the way for special festive sights! Every child will have the chance to give Santa their Christmas wish list in a socially distant manner, choose their own gifts from the

Gulliver’s World is open in Warrington on every weekend up to and including 19/20 December, and also open throughout Christmas week right up until the 24th December. Santa Sleepovers are also available on selected dates at the Gulliver’s Hotel on site. For further details and to book your tickets, visit www.gulliversfun.co.uk.

The ’Festive Breakfast’ and ‘Cracker’ packages, which start from £25 per person (concession prices are available) include either breakfast or lunch, and a chance to enjoy Gully’s Christmas Show too.

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Volunteers Wanted The Wigan Borough Volunteer Hub are on the lookout for volunteers. The Hub is run by WBCP, a registered charity which exists to provide advice, training, and support to the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.

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• Family Law • Personal Injury • Wills & Probate Call us today to arrange a free 30 minute consultation

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ACCOUNTS help to grow your business TAX plan to save PAYROLL outsource the valuable resource BOOKEEPING in the game without the strain VAT meet the deadline BUSINESS START UP get going on the right foot MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTS help you to drive forward AUTO ENROLMENT plan to relax

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Are you willing to support those who are self-isolating, by helping with activities such as personal shopping and food deliveries?If so, please contact WBCP on 01942 363621 or emaiL info@wbcommunitypartnership.org.

School Admissions The deadline for new primary school admissions is 15th January. If your child was born between 1/9/16 and 31/8/17, they will start reception class in September 2021.

To be considered for your preferred primary schools, you must apply online on the Wigan Council (or Lancashire County Council website) or fill in the primary school application form.

If you need assistance, then call the School Organisation Team on 01942 489013 (or 0300 123 6707 for Lancashire residents).

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New Use for School Site Wigan Council is carrying out an analysis to re-develop the former Shevington Community Primary School site to provide housing for elderly residents and people living with disabilities. If approved, the site will remain in ownership of the council and will offer high-quality, affordable rent homes to those who meet the criteria for extra care accommodation.

Councillor Terry Halliwell, cabinet member for housing and welfare said: “Affordable accommodation suitable for older people has historically been in short supply in Shevington, so we’re glad to have identified a potential site to bring a new scheme forward.”

No design work has started, and residents will be consulted on the proposals before planning permission is sought. If given the go ahead, it is hoped that the scheme will be funded by the council with Homes England support, subject to grant funding.

Councillor Halliwell added: “This is very much an early proposal, if approved, no work would start on site before 2022. It’s imperative that we speak directly with local people to seek their thoughts so we can ensure this scheme is shaped to respect the environmental sensitivities of the site whilst considering local views.”

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UDG B A ON

ET

Free and low-cost ideas to make Christmas magical!

Try a digital advent calendar (£3.70)

Send a message from Santa (Free)

The Jacquie Lawson advent calendar is a firm favourite in our house. (I love it as much as the kids.) A new game, story or creative activity is released each day throughout December. The calendar is centred around a Christmassy scene, and many of the activities then become part of that scene. So your child might decorate the tree, dress up the snowman or create a wreath to hang on a shop door, for example. See www.jacquielawson.com/advent.

Santa has been wishing my kids a happy Christmas through a Portable North Pole (www. por tablenor thpole. com) video for years. The shorter personalised video is free to create and is pretty much guaranteed to delight younger children. (It’s also worth looking in your phone’s app store for Christmasthemed apps like Santa Spy Cam and Elf Yourself.)

Look for low-cost elves (£1) A branded Elf on a Shelf could set you back over £20, so look for alternatives. I picked up a couple of small bendable elves for £1 each from Tiger a couple of years ago, which did the job just as well as a bigger elf – until the dog got hold of them!

Organise a second-hand scavenger hunt (£10 or under) Most children enjoy a scavenger hunt around the house or garden. The most successful one I’ve organised for my children involved a load of Shopkins and other mini figures that I picked up second-hand from Facebook Marketplace for under £10. The elves that I mentioned above also create a treasure hunt every year, with a series of clues leading to a craft activity, gift-wrapped sweets or a small toy.

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Buy in bulk If you can club together with other families, you might be able to make savings on stocking fillers and activities by bulk buying. Baker and Ross (www.bakerross.co.uk) for example, sell a wide range of craft kits, activities and small toys. They mainly sell to schools, so if you bulk buy it works out a lot cheaper. My son adored the Gingerbread House Kit last year (two for £6.95 or 10 for £22.50).

The Rainbow Wooden Keyring Craft Kits (four for £6.95 or sixteen for £18.40), Racing Reindeers (four for £5.95 or sixteen for £14.88) and Woodland Friends Stationery Sets (four for £6.95 or sixteen for £18.40) would all make great stocking fillers. There’s also usually an offer on whereby you can save more money if you spend over a certain amount.

Jewels May is a wonderful independent jewellers.

The shop has recently expanded so as to offer customers more on site specialist services, one-toone consultation, specialist design and re-modelling advice and manufacturing.

Their jewellery range is extensive from antique and vintage to modern and one-off bespoke luxury pieces, set with diamonds and precious stones. They also boast an impressive range of engagement and wedding rings as well as pre-owned luxury watches.

Repairs & Alterations Rhodium Plating Cleaning & Polishing Design & Manufacturing Engagement & Wedding Ring Specialists

Look for cost-saving memberships (£1) Membership cards like Kids Pass offer substantial discounts on family experiences. You can get up to 40% off cinema tickets for example, as well as money off days out to safari parks, theme parks, zoos, trampoline parks and so on, plus discounts on restaurants.

A Kids Pass membership from www. kidspass.co.uk costs £2.99 a month, but you can get a thirty-day trial for just £1.

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Cash for Culture Recovery Arts at the Mill CIC has been awarded £945,621 as part of the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund (CRF) to help face the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and to ensure that the organisation has a sustainable future, the Culture Secretary announced recently.

Arts at the Mill are one of 1,385 cultural and creative organisations across the country receiving urgently needed support. £257 million of investment has been announced as part of the very first round of the Culture Recovery Fund grants programme being administered by Arts Council England.

Further rounds of funding in the cultural and heritage sector are due to be announced over the coming weeks.

The Arts at the Mill Marketing & Communications Director, Rebecca Davenport said: “We feel lucky and extremely grateful to have been awarded this grant. We had to make the difficult decision to close our doors in March 2020 due to the Coronavirus

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pandemic so this money will go a long way in covering losses incurred in the organisation due to closure”.

Rebecca continued “We now broadcast live performances, workshops, tutorials, seminars, vlogs and more several times per week to continue to provide creative output and to maintain cultural engagement for all. Doing this has meant we’ve been able to continue offering paid work in a time when opportunities for artists have become extremely limited”.

She added “In addition, we’ve thankfully been able to maintain employment for all our staff members with a number of them continuing to work and some, having been furloughed, using their time to volunteer for the Covid-19 Community Response Team. We can’t thank DCMS and Arts Council England enough for giving us this incredible lifeline.”

For more inforation about The Old Courts and the role they play in the local arts scene, visit their website at www.theoldcourts.com.

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Competition Winners The winners of our Rainbow Glass Art competition in the October issue of Local Life were recently announced.

Selina Winnard (main picture) from Appley Lane North in Appley Bridge won the main prize, which was a Rainbow Arch, Joan Berry from Pepper Lane in Standish was the first runner up and won a Rainbow Heart and Rachel Phillips (pictured) from The Coverts in Wigan won the 3rd prize, a Rainbow Bee. The pieces are just part of the collection of rainbow glass art designed by Morpheus Glass designer Stephanie O’Brien and available at the Love It Gallery, which is based on Winstanley Road in Billinge.

The Love It Gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday. For more details visit the Facebook page @loveitgalleryltd.

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Funding for Ideas Youngsters aged 8-19 looking for funding for big ideas are being advised to apply to Wigan and Leigh Youth Cabinet.

Wigan and Leigh Youth Cabinet are a group of young people who help to represent young people’s views and influence decisions that affect young people locally, regionally and nationally.

They have £5,000 to spend on young people’s ideas and they are looking for interesting, imaginative ideas that will help young people in the area.

Whether you want to get a new kit for your sports group, to run some training or a workshop for other young people, get some publicity materials or put on a play with a positive message, you can apply for funding of up to £500.

You can apply online from www.wigan.gov.uk/LINC2/ index.aspx, just click on ‘Have a Say’ and then on ‘Youth Inspiration Fund’.

Or you can also apply by post if you’d prefer (this may be easier for you if you would like to use pictures as well as

words in your application). To do this simply download the application form on the site, then apply via post to: Youth Inspiration Fund, Targeted Youth Support Services, Wigan Council, Hindley Town Hall, Cross Street, Hindley, WN2 3AX. After your application has been reviewed, the Youth Cabinet will decide whether or not you will be invited to attend the Youth Cabinet’s board meeting to present your ideas and a decision will be made at that meeting whether funding will be granted and the amount.

Virtual Sewing The Old Courts will be holding their monthly online Stitch ‘n’ Bitch session on Wednesday 16th December from 7.30pm.

This free zoom workshop is a laid-back stitch session run by artist Lucy Sharkey of House of Sharkey. Lucy will be on hand to offer and advice you need and a few tips and tricks. To join in, visit www.theoldcourts.com/whatson.

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24

Gifted

Inspiration There’s something special about a beauty gift set. Here’s some of the best sets this Christmas.

Bobbi Brown’s gift sets are always a treat and this year’s are no exception. Top of my list is the Must Have Essentials set. You get a makeup bag, full-size Pot Rouge Blusher and five minis, including a Luxe Lip Color in Neutral Rose and a Smokey Eye Mascara. Together, they’re worth £82, so the set is an absolute steal at £36.50; see www.bobbibrown.co.uk.

Buying for a teenager? Organic Young’s My Skin Goals set is likely to be well-received. It features the Clear Skin Foaming Face Wash, Purifying Serum and Cleansing Moisturiser. Each product has been specifically designed with teen skin concerns in mind. Together, they help to tackle acne, soothe inflammation and keep skin healthy.

Plus, each purchase supports the Born Free Foundation. The set is £30 from www.greenpeople.co.uk.

Know someone who could do with a better night’s sleep? Treat them to Neal’s Yard Remedies’ Beauty Sleep Collection. It features the Beauty Sleep Foaming Bath Gel, Shower Oil, Body Lotion and Concentrate Serum,

all of which smell heavenly and are designed to aid relaxation. It’s £40 from www.nealsyardremedies.com.

It can be tricky to find the perfect gift set, so a few brands now allow you to create your own. British brand Noble Isle is one of them.

Select three or four products from its extensive range, and they’ll be popped into a gift box and posted out. And what a range to choose from… Personally, I love the spicy Fireside Bath & Shower Gel and the subtly floral Willow Song Body Lotion. The bespoke Trio set is £20 from www.nobleisle.com.

Liz Earle (www.lizearle.co.uk ) has outdone itself with its gift range this year. The packaging is lush and many of the sets come with festive tins or reusable bags. It’s hard to pick a favourite to be honest. If you’re looking for a stocking filler, The Joy Cleanse and Polish set (£12) is ideal. Buying for a man? You can’t go wrong with the Shower and Shave Collection (£30). And I’m personally

lusting after the Together We Shine Haircare Set (£33).

I think we all deserve a bit of relaxation this Christmas. Open the Puressentiel Time to Unwind travel bag and you’ll find a Rest & Relax Air Spray, a Rest & Relax Massage Oil and a Stress Roll-on. Together, they use the power of essential oils to promote a feeling of calm, ease stress and tension, and aid relaxation. Bliss, at £20 from www. uk.puressentiel.com.

If you’re looking for a gift with the wow factor, try Rituals’ The Ritual of Ayurveda Rebalancing Collection.

All four products (Foaming Shower Gel, Body Scrub, Body Cream and Mini Fragrance Sticks) smell amazing. They’re perfect for creating an at-home spa experience on Boxing Day and beyond. And as they come with a gift box and tag, you don’t even need to wrap them.

It’s £39.90 from www.boots.co.uk.

25

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26

Cranberry,

orange and nut loaf

READY

in 1hr 45mins plus cooling Makes 8-10

This simple cake makes a delicious alternative to a classic Christmas cake.

Add the icing and fresh cranberry topping on the day of serving.

Ingredients 175g unsalted butter, softened 175g golden caster sugar 225g self-raising flour 2 tsp ground mixed spice ½ tsp baking powder 3 large eggs 75g sweetened dried cranberries 50g walnuts & 50g hazelnuts, chopped Zest of 1 orange 1 tbsp orange juice FROSTING

Method 1 Preheat the oven to 170C, 150C fan, gas mark 3. Grease a 900g loaf tin and line the base and up two long sides of the tin with baking parchment.

2 Place the butter, sugar, flour, spice, baking powder and eggs in a large bowl and beat with an electric whisk for 2-3 minutes until thoroughly combined. Fold in the dried cranberries, nuts and orange zest and juice.

3 Spoon the mixture into the tin and level the surface. Bake for 1hr-1 hr 15 minutes or until risen and golden and a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

4 Spread the royal icing over the top of the cake. Scatter over the sugar sprinkles and fresh cranberries, plus the fresh mint sprigs if using. Leave in a cool place until set. Serve sliced.

Half of a 400g tub ready-made royal icing 2 tsp snowflake sugar sprinkles 75g fresh cranberries Fresh mint sprigs, to decorate (optional) Icing sugar, for dusting

TIP: Instead of the fresh cranberries you could scatter over more festivethemed sugar sprinkles and add a dusting of edible gold spray for a really sparkly finish.

27

READY

in 1 hour

plus cooling Makes 20

Cinnamon stars Perfect for a festive sweet treat or a lovely edible Christmas gift, these cookies can be kept in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Ingredients 2 medium egg whites 175g icing sugar 250g finely ground roasted hazelnuts 50g mixed peel, finely chopped 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Method 1 Using an electric handheld mixer, whisk the egg whites in a clean, grease-free bowl until holding stiff peaks. Stir in the icing sugar until thoroughly combined then continue to whisk until thick and glossy.

2 Remove 40g of this mixture and set aside. Fold the hazelnuts, mixed peel and cinnamon into the remaining mixture to make a very stiff dough. Chill in the fridge for 1 hour.

3 Preheat the oven to 140C, 120C fan, gas mark 1. Line 2 baking sheets with baking paper. Roll the dough out on a surface heavily dusted with icing sugar to a 1cm thickness.

4 Using a 5cm star-shaped cookie cutter stamp out about 20 stars, rerolling the dough as needed until it is all used up. Place the stars on the baking sheet, well-spaced apart. Spread a little of the reserved egg white and icing sugar mixture on top of each star.

TIP: Dust the cookie cutter with icing sugar frequently to prevent the mixture sticking.

5 Bake for 25 minutes or until the cookies are still white and crisp on top but slightly soft underneath. Turn off the oven, open the oven door and leave the cookies to dry out for 15 minutes then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

28

READY

in 30 mins plus chilling Serves 6

Potted

smoked salmon This is the perfect starter for the lunch on the big day – the recipe will easily double up if you are feeding a crowd at Christmas!

Ingredients 275g honey roast salmon flakes 250g smoked salmon slices, chopped 100g unsalted butter, softened 125g full-fat soft cheese 2 tsp creamed horseradish 1 tbsp lemon juice Salt and freshly ground black pepper Fresh dill sprigs and green peppercorns, to garnish

Method 1 Reserve about 25g of the salmon flakes for garnish (cover and chill in the fridge until required).

2 Place the rest of the salmon flakes in a food processor with the smoked salmon, butter, soft cheese, horseradish and lemon juice. Process until smooth and creamy. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper and process for a further few seconds.

3 Divide the mixture between 6 small ramekin dishes and level the surface. Cover and chill in the fridge until required. Garnish with the rest of the salmon flakes, dill sprigs and green peppercorns. Serve with toasted brown or granary bread.

Slices of toasted brown or granary bread, to serve

TIP: Most supermarkets sell packs of ready-flaked honey roast salmon but if unavailable just buy ready-cooked smoked salmon fillets and roughly flake the fish, discarding any skin and fine bones.

29

30

Win a hamper for your lockdown hero!

Rather than offer the hamper as a competition prize as we have done in the past, this year we’ve decided to ask you to nominate a deserving recipient of this luxury Christmas hamper.

This year has brought out the very best in so many people and, as devastating as the pandemic has been, many of us have stronger ties and better relationships with our neighbours and others in the local community as a result.

Who has stepped up to help you this year?

You can nominate a member of your family, a friend or neighbour, a medical professional or someone else in

your local community who has gone above and beyond to help others through the pandemic.

To put forward your nominee for the draw to win a luxury Christmas hamper, simply visit our website, www.locallife247.co.uk, click on ‘free stuff’ and then on ‘competitions’. Simply nominate the name of the person you wish to receive the hamper in the ‘answer’ box.

The expiry date for the competition is midnight on Thursday 17th December 2020 and the winner will be notified within 48 hours. Entrants must be over 16 years of age. Only one entry per household – multiple entries will be voided. 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.

Good luck, and a very merry Christmas from all at LocalLife

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WN6 Property Review 2020 It’s been a bumpy year for the country, but a bumper year for local house values. Here’s a few of the highlights and lowlights of the property market in 2020.

The Boris Bounce A flurry of activity between the December election and Christmas 2019, was just a taster for the eruption of activity that took off in the New Year and carried on unabated until mid-March. In this period, Wigan agents saw an amazing sales period, fuelled by the release of pent up demand for people wanting to move on from the Brexit uncertainty of 2018/9.

increased homeworking in place after coronavirus has been suppressed. it is gradually becoming clear that priorities for homeowners have shifted – widespread homeworking means that the need to locate in or around city centres is decreasing and buyers are looking for more spacious properties further afield.

The Recovery The Stamp Duty Holiday, saving buyers thousands of pounds of tax if they moved before the end of March 2021, all added fuel to a fiery-hot local property market.

The increased demand for a new home in the WN6 area meant properties on the market in early summer were snapped up in days for 100% asking price or more.

The Delays

Panic Hits When the pandemic hit in mid-March, the property market was put on ice for nearly three months. Panicstricken economists predicted house price drops in the order of 10% in the best-case scenario and 25% in the worst for 2020. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The New Normal During the spring lockdown, homeowners re-evaluated their homes and their lives. The ability to work comfortably from home became more important. It was no longer as vital to live as close to major cities. Village locations with good motorway links, larger gardens and closer proximity to green spaces became more desirable.

According to a survey run by the Institute of Directors, three-quarters of British businesses say they will keep

On the downside though, house completions have significantly been delayed for several reasons. Some solicitors, banks and surveyors are struggling to cope with the demand for their services following the end of the first lockdown. Many have furloughed staff and others have staff working from home, and this different way of working has impacted on the time taken between offer and completion.

What’s Next?

Normally when the UK GDP drops like a stone, the property market follows. But that has not been the case this year. However, despite all the scary predictions earlier in the year, property values in WN6 are set at an astonishing 4.1% higher compared to a year ago. This would appear to be a quite remarkable outcome given the current economic framework – long may it continue!

What is a WN6 property worth today?

Average Overall Value Now

Average Price Paid in the last year

WN6 Detached

£312,700

£305,970

WN6 Semi-Detached

£169,420

£166,920

WN6 Town House / Terraced

£115,240

£124,180

WN6 Apartments/ Flats

£143,750

£120,230

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.

Alan Batt

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

www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Wigan Office • 78 Market Street, Wigan WN1 1HX • 01942 233 999 www.alanbatt.co.uk

34

Artisan Market Haigh’s popular Artisan Market takes place this Sunday (6th December) from 10am-4pm at Haigh Hall Woodland Park (WN2 1PE). The market is run by The Market Co, which is known for delivering artisan markets in Wilmslow, Northwich, Urmston and other venues in the North West.

In addition to running the artisan markets, the company also has a shopping platform for many talented artisans, small business producers and creators who display at their markets. This was launched earlier this year to help the NW’s artisan micro-businesses survive the pandemic.

You can shop for a huge range of goods (including food, drink, art, crafts, bodycare, homeware and clothing) online at their impressive site www.themarketco.co.uk.

The site also hosts micro-sites for each individual artisan.

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Apple Cast in Newburgh are running a family Christmas event from Saturday 19th to Wednesday 23rd December.

The precise attractions had not been confirmed at the time we went to press but are expected to include a Christmas market, live music, children’s activities, food, a bar and a carol service.

The event will run from 10am-2pm at the venue, which is based on Cobbs Brow Lane (WN8 7SF). For more details, visit @CastNorth West UK on Facebook.

Heskin Markets Heskin Hall are hosting two Christmas events in December. The Christmas market will run from Wednesday 2nd through to Sunday 6th December, and the Christmas market incorporating the Steampunk market will take place on the weekend of 12th and 13th December.

Visitors can browse through artisan and makers stalls, and enjoy seasonal food and drink including bratwurst sausages and mulled wine. Live music is scheduled for 4th and 5th December, and there will be an entertainer on 6th December. There will be children’s rides on site and a selection of birds of prey too.

Santa will be visiting on the 5th and 6th and you will be able to make these socially distanced appointments on Facebook (@HeskinHall) prior to visiting the market.

Heskin Hall is located on Wood Lane in Heskin (PR7 5PA) and entrance to the market is free.

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38

Hometown

Brushstrokes

by Nicola Gray They say a picture paints a thousand words and if this is to be believed, then Parbold-born artist David Barrow would never run out of things to say about how truly inspired he is by his hometown. Throughout his decades long career, David has skilfully captured the Wigan way-of-life in some iconic scenes including the memorable Wigan Casino, Tiffany’s nightclub, the beautiful Parbold countryside and Wigan walking days.

David was born in Parbold and spent his formative years there, before moving to the Springfield area of Wigan when he was eight years old. David said, “I have very fond memories of growing up in Parbold, surrounded by the countryside and nature. I have 3 brothers and to this day we still reminisce about the happy times we spent there.

After we relocated to Wigan, we still frequently visited Parbold to call in on my Grandad, so truth be known, we never really left!”

David continued, “The first school I attended was Parbold C of E School on Lancaster Lane (now Parbold Douglas Academy), I eventually attended The Blue Coat School after the move to Wigan, before moving on to Gidlow Middle and then Whitley High School. Parbold though, brings back lots of nostalgic childhood memories. The landscape and quaintness of the village is beautiful, I have always loved to capture its beauty and the stillness of the countryside.”

David began painting seriously when he was 19 years old, but his artistic achievements started much earlier on in life, as he tells me, “I have always enjoyed drawing from a young age, my first artistic triumph came when I was just 5 years old. I won the 1st prize for a TSB Bank art competition; the prize was a £1 postal order and that inspired me greatly. I have had an interest in drawing and painting for as long as I can remember.”

David’s deep affection for the village is very apparent and can be seen in the striking and colourful series he has produced featuring Parbold landmarks. Looking at the vibrant paintings it is easy to pick out such scenes as the canal running through the centre of the village, Parbold Hill, and the Stocks Pub. David added, “I am always drawn to Parbold Hill, I like to walk from the village centre up to the school as I did each day with my brothers.”

He tells me that he never really had a dream job growing up he just knew that it wasn’t his first job at a hairdressers, “Yes, my first job was working in a hairdressers and it just wasn’t for me, I feel I achieved my dream job when I became a full-time artist. I’m doing what I love, and it has taken me in many different directions, including passing on my love of art by occasionally teaching a few lessons.”

39 David’s first official sale came in 1986 when his paintings of the Market Hall and Wigan Pier were bought by Wigan MBC to be added to the Town’s collection.

And this was another winner for him both personally and professionally as the painting of the Market Hall won another local competition. David added, “I had the painting turned into prints and it was remarkably successful, so I produced some more of Wigan Pier and Central Park, which proved very popular.

The affinity people have with their hometown is enormously powerful” David continued, “Alongside creating my own artwork, I am deeply passionate about both Art History and contemporary Fine Artists. In my spare time I am constantly researching different Artists and Art styles. I am creative person and as well as art, I have always been very much into music and I enjoy playing classical guitar when I get the chance. I also really enjoy getting out and about for family walks in Haigh Hall and Mesnes Park with our dog.”

Some of David’s most iconic work features well-known Wigan scenes and in contrast to Parbold, David says,

“Wigan is a much busier landscape and I like to capture the hustle and bustle of town life and to see how this changes the outcome of my work. Growing up, I used to love going to Wigan Casino nights and Northern Soul has really motivated me in the past.”

40

David’s portfolio of work and his representation of Northern Soul culture has won him world-wide acclaim, especially his painting of the Wigan Casino. As a teenager he was a fanatical regular at Wigan Casino, after being introduced to the music by his older brother and hearing it around the home. David was known to frequent soul nights at Blackpool Mecca, the Ritz in Manchester and even an all-nighter in Burscough.

The Northern Soul genre led to a new direction for David and he has never looked back, all the pictures in the exhibition sold and they have become extremely popular.

So popular in fact that they have been collected by enthusiasts from around the world. Examples of David’s work are now owned by recognisable names such as, Paul Weller, Ocean Colour Scene, and institutions such as the world-famous Tamla Motown Museum in Detroit.

In recent years David explains that he has developed a different style of working from his traditional oil paintings and atmospheric club scenes. In his most recent series of paintings, David brings to life Wigan walking days. He adds, “My favourite style to paint in is the ‘naive’ style, as I like to experiment with textures and repetition of shapes and figures. I like to produce paintings of places that are personal to me, particularly when I was growing up. The ‘naïve’ style allows lots of excuses for me to show times and places from my life, with an added touch of fun.”

In addition to his Walking Day series, David is developing other works based around some familiar local places including Wigan Baths, Wigan Pier, and the market.

The recent and most current lockdowns have been a period of planning and research for David and he has capitalised on this time. David continued, “I have been producing and planning different collections as a story board featuring more places and memories from both Wigan and Parbold. I am in the process of creating a book featuring paintings that celebrate the traditional walking days in Wigan.”

He added, “I am working in collaboration with a writer, together we are combining Wigan speak or ‘Wiganese’ as poems to describe the walking day marches. This project is going to be produced as an illustrated book, it will feature different collections, such as my walks from Parbold village, walking days,

41 tractor rides from the Plantation Gates to Haigh Hall and all of this will be combined with Wigan speak as poems.”

David’s hope is that the bespoke Wigan dialect will narrate and compliment the paintings, telling the story of his most favourite childhood memories.

David’s work has really travelled, and he is proud to be exhibited in places from the Manchester Academy of Fine Arts and the Royal Scottish Academy to the O2 Arena London and the Turn Pike Gallery. David’s paintings have been featured five times in the summer exhibition at London’s prestigious Royal Academy; with one of David’s portrait paintings also being exhibited at the Royal Society of portrait painters. David credits one of his proudest moments as walking up the staircase in the gallery at the Royal Academy

Summer show, he continues, “When I exhibited in London for the first time in 1990, I felt like I was following in the steps of other great artists and I can’t really put that feeling into words. I am also hugely proud to be a member of the Manchester Royal Academy, it’s great to be acknowledged for doing something that brings you great joy and for other people to enjoy it as well.”

With such an extensive list of accolades what could possibly be left on David’s bucket list? When I put this to him, it is obvious that he isn’t about to rest on his laurels when it comes to his passion. He tells me, “Well when it comes to my bucket list, my main aim is to further develop my career as an Artist and see where that can take me. I would also like to travel, once the lockdowns are lifted and create some artwork featuring the countries and experiences I have, in the places I visit. The main aim is to be able to continue what I am doing, having my collections shown in exhibitions plus I would love more involvement in the London mall galleries.”

www.davidbarrowart.artweb.com @Davidbarrowart

42

Christmas Tech Your

Checklist

Many of the gifts we give or get at Christmas are gadgets, and that means Santa has a few things to think about in the days before the big day. For example, if the kids have asked him for a games console it’s highly likely that the console will need to download a big software update before it can play online; the worst possible time to do that download is on Christmas morning when everybody else in your street is trying to do the same. If you can, connect any new console to the internet in advance so there’s no delay before the kids can play.

Another good idea is to prepare a bit of paper with your Wi-Fi details and password on it: from Amazon Echo speakers to Apple iPads and even many kids’ toys, a Wi-Fi connection is needed for them to work. Digging out the details in advance will speed things up considerably on the day.

The top big-ticket Christmas gifts 2020 APPLE WATCH The Apple Watch is the best smartwatch ever made. There are now three watches to choose from, starting at £199 for the Series 3 and rising to £399 for the Series 6. £199, Apple.com

OCULUS QUEST 2 This is very geeky, we know, but the Facebook-owned Oculus Quest delivers an incredible virtual reality experience without wires or the need for a computer. £299, Oculus.com

FITBIT SENSE If you or your loved one is a fitness fan, the new Fitbit Versa adds clever new features to its tried-and-tested fitness tracking, including EKG, temperature sensing and even stress sensing.

It’s worth looking out any USB-ready charger plugs (such as from iPhones or Kindle Fire tablets), because to help reduce electronic waste many USB-powered devices will come with a cable but not the plug it connects to.

And of course, it’s a very good idea to check what batteries any gadgets, toys or remote controllers are going to need. If you don’t already have one, a battery charger with a couple of sets of AA and AAA rechargeable batteries will come in very handy in the next few days.

Last but not least, we’d recommend having a multi-tool or a screwdriver set and some really good scissors handy. We’ve found that many kids’ toys come screwed to the packaging or require very small crosshead screwdrivers to open their battery compartments, and others come in extremely strong clear plastic that’s very hard to open.

£299, Fitbit.com

PLAYSTATION 5 The next-generation PlayStation is big, beautiful and it isn’t quite as expensive as we feared: the standard version is £449 and the disk-free digital version is £359. £449, Very.co.uk DYSON SUPERSONIC If your time is money, then Dyson’s high-tech hairdryer will pay for itself very quickly: not only does it make your hair look amazing, but it does it in an amazingly short time too. £299, Boots.com

43

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Top Christmas Apps Help your child or children discover the magic of Christmas by using these popular Christmas apps.

These apps are now available on both Apple or Android platforms and are either free or modestly priced.

Portable North Pole Through the Portable North Pole (PNP) app and website, parents can send their kids personalised videos direct from the North Pole. Video messages are free, but for an additional fee parents can buy their child more detailed personalisations, views of Santa’s village and news of the naughty or nice list this year.

NORAD For more than 60 years, the North American Aerospace Defense Command has been tracking Santa’s whereabouts on Christmas Eve using satellites and jet fighters. The 2020 NORAD Tracks Santa website and app each offer a Christmas countdown, games and other activities, in addition to NORAD’s iconic reports on Santa’s travels come December 24.

Message From Santa Parents who download the Message from Santa app get unlimited personalised calls from Santa and can surprise their child with video messages straight from the North Pole. Kids can also leave Santa special voicemail messages or hold a text conversation with him.

Elf Yourself You can star in a series of personalised videos featuring your face on dancing elves. Upload up to five photos of friends and family from Facebook or your camera. Then select a dance and the app automatically generates your custom video you can share to social media.

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You could get a frEE (or heavily subsided) boiler via the ECO3 scheme.

What is the ECO3 Scheme?

This is a UK government energy efficiency scheme where energy suppliers fund the installation of energy efficiency measures, such as boilers, for homeowners in receipt of benefits and tax credits.

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46

2021 Concerts Despite the effect that the current health crisis is having on the arts and entertainment industry, Jockey Club Live are busy lining up race night events for the 2021 season at Haydock Park and Aintree racecourses. The Jockey Club Live events are renowned for combining a fun-filled evening at the races with a spectacular evening concert in the informal

and relaxed open-air setting of the hallowed turf.

Confirmed events at Haydock so far are Tom Jones (19th June) and Olly Murs (17th July), and the confirmed event at Aintree so far is Nile Rodgers & Chic (11th June). Jockey Club Live events are also held at Newmarket, Sandown and Carlisle racecourses.

Tickets for all the events are now available at www. thejockeyclublive.co.uk and the Jockey Club Live offer a money back guarantee if cancelled.

Keep your eyes peeled for Local Life issues early in 2021 when we will be running a couple of ticket giveaways for these events.

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The Gift of a

Great Book

Books to give, add to your wish list or just treat yourself to…

The Thursday Murder Club

The Boy Who Grew Dragons

Richard Osman

Andy Shepherd

Retirees Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron have a unique set of skills that they put to good use solving old murder cases. So when a real murder takes place rather close to home, the four are well placed to find the killer. Funny, warm and with a twist every minute, The Thursday Murder Club will keep readers guessing right until the end. Best of all, a sequel is already in the pipeline.

Looking for a book for a seven to nine year old? The Boy Who Grew Dragons is likely to be appeal to even reluctant readers. Tomas discovers a plant when he’s helping out in his grandparents’ garden. It turns out to be a dragon fruit tree and the fruit is about to hatch. Before long, Tomas is learning all about his new pet, from the fact it loves broccoli to the unfortunate fact that dragon poo is highly explosive.

Oliver’s Britain

Flavour

Oliver Hellowell

Yotam Ottolenghi and Ixta Belfrage

From roadside poppies and native wildlife to lochs, lakes and waterfalls, the photos that grace the pages of this coffee table book are a sight to behold. Oliver has Down’s Syndrome and a natural gift for spotting the perfect shot. Alongside the photos are quotes from Oliver and some of his many fans. A great present for people who enjoy a good ramble through the British countryside.

If you’re buying for someone who loves nothing more than spending a couple of hours in the kitchen cooking up a storm, this is the gift for them. It is not, however, a cookery book for beginners or those wanting to whip up a quick and easy dish. The ingredients aren’t always easy to come by and most of the recipes are experimental to say the least. The dishes are not always vegetarian, but fruit, vegetables or fungi are the star ingredients, and often used in rather surprising ways.

Lime and Coconut Potato Gratin anyone?

Word Perfect: Etymological Entertainment for Every Day of the Year Susie Dent Ever wondered who the original Jack the lad was? Or where a phrase like ‘turn a blind eye’ came from? Susie Dent has been a regular expert on Countdown for twentyfive years. In Word Perfect, she reveals the story behind some well-known words and phrases and introduces the reader to a whole load of new ones. (Personally, I might start calling a hankie by its Victorian slang name – a snottinger.)

My Garden World Monty Don Wildlife fans will adore My Garden World, which is basically Monty Don’s personal homage to the birds, insects and other creatures that share his garden. The book is packed with interesting nuggets of information about British wildlife and is a real pleasure to read (particularly when sat in the garden with a cuppa). If you want to really earn some brownie points, team it with a few packets of wildflower seeds and a pair of binoculars.

49

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50

Is Inheritance Tax

Voluntary?

It was the late Lord Jenkins that said, “Inheritance Tax is a voluntary tax paid by people who distrust their beneficiaries more than they dislike the Inland Revenue”.

Inheritance tax was always considered to be a tax on the rich, but it really isn’t!

from when the transfer is made for the gift to fall outside your estate. During the 7 year period the amount of tax payable reduces each year. This is known as Taper Relief.

However, this relief only applies to the part of a gift which is in excess of the nil rate band (£325,000).

Levied at a fixed rate of 40 per cent, it is possible to become a higher rate taxpayer after you die. If you are single or divorced, UK legislation allows the first £325,000 (2020/21 tax year) of your estate to be free from Inheritance Tax. If you are married, or in a civil partnership or widowed, this amount could rise to £650,000. In addition to this, the resident’s nil rate band will enable the nil rate band to be uplifted further if you are living in your own property and will be passing your estate on to direct descendants.

Trusts

Inheritance tax can cost your loved ones hundreds of thousands in the event of your death, yet it’s possible to legally avoid huge swathes of it, or possibly pay none at all. How do you manage this? Just by sensible planning.

• Are you happy to waive your right to income and capital from the trust?

The main exemptions • Most transfers between spouses and civil partners.

• The first £3,000 of lifetime transfers in any tax year plus any unused balance from previous year.

• Gifts of up to but not exceeding £250 p.a. to any number of persons.

• Gifts in consideration of marriage or civil partnership of: up to £5,000 by a parent, up to £2,500 by a grandparent or great grandparent, or up to £1,000 by any other person.

• Gifts made out of income that form part of normal expenditure and do not reduce the standard of living.

• Gifts to charities, whether made during lifetime or on death.

This method allows for the placement of monies out of your estate into a suitable investment which is then wrapped within a trust. You as trustee remain in control of the investments on behalf of the beneficiaries and can decide when and if any capital will be paid out in part or in full.

There are a wide variety of trust options available and therefore careful consideration needs to be given to ensure that the trust is suitable.

• Would you prefer to receive a regular income from the trust?

• Would you like access to capital from the trust?

Clearly, one size does not fit all and therefore further advice should be taken.

Inheritance Tax is quite a technical area and therefore before embarking on a course of action I would strongly recommend that you seek professional advice. We have advisers with advanced qualifications within the taxation and trusts arena who if need be will be more than happy to guide you.

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.

Making Gifts In most cases, any direct gift either made direct or into an absolute trust by any one person over the exempt gift allowances, is a Potentially Exempt Transfer (PET).

This means that you as the donor, need to live 7 years,

David Barton APFS Cert CII (MP)

Chief Executive Officer

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

52

Covid Support

for Businesses by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy It goes without saying that it has been an extremely difficult year for all of us and particularly those that run a small business. This article will outline the updated measures that have been taken by the government to support business over the next 6 months.

EXTENSION TO THE CORONAVIRUS JOB RETENTION SCHEME This scheme has now been extended to the end of March 2021. Employees will receive 80% of their usual salary for hours not worked and can be used for any amount of time worked.

Employers have until the 14th of the following month to make their claim. HMRC will review the rates at the end of January.

JOB RETENTION BONUS The £1,000 JRB due on 31st January 2021 has been postponed and will be re-issued at the appropriate time, presumably after the CJRS has stopped.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES Businesses that have been forced to close will receive grants of up to £3,000 per month. This should cover monthly rent and is based on the business properties’ rateable value:• For properties with a rateable value of £15k or under, grants will be available of up to £1,334 per month or £667 per two weeks • For properties with a rateable value of between £15k and £51k, grants will be available of up to £2,000 per month or £1,000 per two weeks

TAX CUTS AND DEFERRALS The temporary reduction of VAT to 5% for the tourism and hospitality sectors has been extended to March 2021.

Businesses that deferred their VAT payment earlier this year can now apply to pay this back in 11 interest free instalments from April 2021 rather than in full in March 2021.

Self-assessment taxpayers will also be able to apply from a separate 12-month extension meaning payments deferred from July 2020 will now not need to be paid until January 2022.

FLEXIBILITY TO PAY BACK LOANS Businesses who took out a Bounce Back Loan can use a Pay as You Grow flexible repayment system to ease the burden of repayments.

All the schemes introduced have had tremendous impact on businesses and in many cases have allowed them to retain staff and manage the obvious impact that the lockdown has brought.

• For properties with a rateable value of £51k or over, grants will be available of up to £3,000 per month or £1,500 per two weeks

And finally, I just wanted to mention the benefits of cloud accounting packages. This has proved invaluable over the past few months as we have been able to offer hands on support, using up to information, to help clients track their cashflow, apply for loans and discuss payments plans with HMRC.

Businesses in the hospitality, leisure and accommodation sectors that suffered from reduced demand (due to local restrictions introduced between 1 August 2020 and 5 November 2020) will also receive help. Backdated grants at 70% of closed business grants, will be available. Grants will be up to a maximum of £2,100 per month for this period.

If you’re looking to consoli and gro your business in 2021, then we have a range of solutions to assist businesses of all sizes, starting with our Essentials package for start-ups and sole traders, the Growth package to help you take control of your accounts and the Premier package designed to help you drive your business forward.

Applications for discretionary Local Authority grants will be also be available. We recommend you contact your Local Authority now as limited funds are available for the discretionary grants.

SELF EMPLOYED INCOME SUPPORT SCHEME – SEISS This grant for the self-employed has been extended for the period from Nov 2020 to Apr 2021. Grants will be paid in two lump sums, each covering a 3 month period, Nov 2020 to Jan 2021 and Feb 2021 to Apr 2021 and will now be worth up to 80% of their average monthly trading profit, capped at £7,500 per claim.

Self Employed workers must pay close attention to the deadline for making these claims once they are published.

If you’d like a free initial consultation on how CMA can help your business in 2021, please get in touch. We can meet in our COVID-safe office or over a Zoom call to discuss your requirements.

Chris Alcock ACMA - CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR 01257 255521 info@handsonaccounting.co.uk www.handsonaccounting.co.uk

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Digestive problems

and how to overcome them

Bloating, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation and diarrhoea. These are all common digestive problems that we all experience and usually they can be treated with ‘over the counter’ medicines. Some conditions might be as a result of overindulging or eating the wrong food, but with Christmas round the corner, what can we do to avoid them?

With more of us working from home, it’s all too easy to eat a rushed sandwich in front of the computer, skip lunch altogether or grab a snack while preparing the kids’ tea.

How you eat is a major consideration, as eating too quickly and not swallowing food properly can lead to digestive problems.

As Roberta Baldo, nutritional therapist from Baldo & Mason says “Eat slowly. This allows time for the signals from the senses to get to the brain and stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, muscular contractions and other processes necessary for digestion, before the food arrives.”

Chewing food properly also helps with digestion. As Roberta says, “If food is not chewed properly, digestion is impeded and may take much longer because the food does not have sufficient

surface area exposed to the digestive juices for digestion to occur efficiently.”

Taking your time over a meal is also important. At Christmas, we’ll all have plenty of time to linger over a meal, but Roberta advises to eat mindfully and “focus on your meal rather than eat whilst doing other things. How we eat is as important as what we eat.”

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Digestive problems often settle down by themselves, but sometimes symptoms persist that could indicate other conditions, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). According to The IBS Network, this affects over twelve million people in the UK. Classic symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, change in bowel habits, diarrhoea and constipation. Alison Reid, CEO, The IBS Network, says “It is a very individual condition and symptoms will vary for each person. Other symptoms can include lethargy, nausea and backache. There is no specific cause for IBS but the most common risk factors are a gastroenteritis attack, a traumatic or upsetting event and courses of powerful antibiotics.”

What causes IBS to flare up? Contributory factors include the food that we eat and the stress in our lives.

Self-management is the key to living well with IBS, says Alison. “Once you have a better understanding of what is happening in your body you will be able to explore what treatments work best for you. These include dietary and lifestyle changes, psychological therapies and medications – see your GP or pharmacist for advice. These may be used together or on their own depending on the possible cause and severity of the condition.”

Managing general lifestyle and diet is vitally important when dealing with IBS, says Dr Simon Smale, consultant gastroenterologist and clinical director, Manchester University NHS Trust. “Small meals eaten often rather than one big meal at the end of the day,” he says. “Ensure you don’t drink too much caffeine and alcohol as they can have dire effects. If the condition is primarily diarrhoea, avoid

57 the following foods – cauliflower, sprouts (yes even at Christmas), onions, garlic, chewing gum and diet drinks. For constipation sufferers, ensure you have enough fluid and eat enough fruit and vegetables.”

In terms of lifestyle, Dr Smale advises adequate sleep and regular exercise – at least 150 minutes of vigorous exercise a week, such as brisk walking.

Additional advice from The IBS Network includes: reducing the consumption of highfat, processed and reheated foods such as chocolate, butter, cream, cheese, fried foods, cakes, pizza and burgers; limiting high fibre food such as wholemeal bread, whole-wheat cereals, brown rice and pasta; and limiting fruit to three portions a day.

The festive season approaches so how can IBS sufferers ensure they can enjoy Christmas dinner and reduce the risk of an IBS flare up? Dr Smale says “Take things in moderation. Have a drink, followed by an alcohol-free drink. Similarly with coffee – have a caffeinated one followed by a decaff. Be mindful. When you’re having your meal, stop when you feel full.”

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The IBS Network suggests identifying your triggers (foods that lead to a flare up), choosing food and alcohol carefully, managing stress levels over Christmas and exercising.

With some careful forward planning you will really be able to enjoy Christmas mealtimes. Happy Christmas!

For Further Information www.baldoandmason.com www.theibsnetwork.org

58

Puzzle Pages

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DOWN

1. Shirt fastener (6) 2. ___ Warne, former Australian cricketer (5) 3. Sword (7) 5. Steep high face of rock (5) 6. Country, capital Minsk (7) 7. Star sign (6) 8. Curved section of seats in a theatre or opera

house (5,6)

14. Reproduction (7) 15. One-horned beast of legend (7) 16. Position of a person in society (6) 17. Channel between England and the Isle

of Wight (6)

19. Mark (~) placed over the letter ‘n’ in Spanish (5) 21. Deviating from the truth (5)

ACROSS

1. Cut in two (6)

12. Crocus stigmas used in flavouring

22. Judicial proceedings in a court

4. Item applied to a sprain in

food (7)

of law (5)

13. Rapid and intense programme of

23. Resembling a lion (7)

9. Betrayer of one’s country (7)

24. Placed at intervals (6)

10. Major religion of the world (5)

18. Betting adviser (7)

11. Last letter of the Greek alphabet (5)

20. Inuit dwelling (5)

order to reduce swelling (3,3)

training (5,6)

25. Chivalrous nobleman (6)

WORDWHEEL Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns.

Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.

TARGET EXCELLENT: 39 or more words GOOD: 33 words FAIR: 25 words

E G

H E

R A

C

R

59

WORDSEARCH

SUDOKU

Advent

Cupid

Jolly

Tinsel

Angels

Dancer

Myrrh

Toys

Camel

Elves

Party

Turkey

Candles

Family

Prancer

Vixen

Card

Gift

Sleigh

Winter

Child

Gold

Stable

Wreath

Comet

Holly

Star

Yuletide

Crib

Ivy

NUMBER BLOCK The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right. The numbers in each column add up to the totals along the bottom.

27

The diagonal lines also add up the totals to the right.

4 9

WIGGLE WORDS CLUE: in the same difficult situation as someone else Trace a path through all the letters to find the word or phrase that fits the clue.

T A O B

A A M E

L S E H

L I N T

1 2 3

4 6

15 17 11 24

16 6 21 24 13 All the puzzle solutions can be found on page 67 of this magazine

60

Six health

conditions drivers must

declare to the DVLA The DVLA requires drivers to inform it of certain illnesses – and they aren’t always obvious.

If you suffer from illnesses that could affect your ability to drive, you’re required by the DVLA to inform them.

However, while some might be quite obvious, the DVLA has a list of health conditions that you might be surprised to learn put you at risk of a £1,000 fine if you don’t declare them.

Car hire comparison site StressFreeCarRental has scoured the full list of conditions to find the less obvious ones you should know about…

Diabetes If you have diabetes that is treated by insulin, and the insulin treatments last more than three months, you must inform the DVLA. This also applies to gestational diabetes, or if you are at risk of low blood sugar, known as hypoglycaemia.

Heart palpitations This condition results in the sufferer becoming more aware of their heartbeat, which may feel like it’s pounding or fluttering, or perhaps beating irregularly. While the NHS says they are usually not a sign of something serious, the DVLA requires you to declare if you regularly suffer from them.

Vertigo While most people associate vertigo with being at height, this is specifically known as ‘height vertigo’. Regular vertigo sufferers can get attacks anywhere, making it feel like the world around them is spinning. If you suffer from sudden, disabling, or recurrent vertigo you must tell the DVLA.

Déjà vu This is something mostly written off as an odd feeling that you’ve been somewhere before, but it can be much more serious. The DVLA must be informed if you suffer from seizures or epilepsy that causes déjà vu.

Sleep apnoea Obstructive sleep apnoea is a condition that causes the throat to relax and narrow during sleep, which can cause difficulty breathing. It’s one of a number of sleeping disorders that the DVLA must be told about, including narcolepsy and cataplexy.

Labyrinthitis Labyrinthitis has nothing to do with mazes – it’s actually an inner ear condition that causes dizziness, nausea and loss of hearing. Since all of these things could affect your ability to drive, you must inform the DVLA if you have it.

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62 The ideal walk at this time of year comprises of a short route that is crowded with views, with nature and is mostly firm underfoot. This three-mile circular walk certainly ticks all those boxes, and it is a perfect winter walk for all the family.

Look out for the variety of birds and squirrels by the Dam.

Carr Mill

by Chris Pearce Distance: 3 miles Difficulty: Easy

Park up in the vicinity of the Masons Arms on Carr Mill Road in Billinge (WN5 7TY). This is a proper old-fashioned country pub with a roaring fire in winter, a good selection of real ales and is also dog friendly.

Head to the bottom of Carr Mill Road and take a right turn at a large stone cottage and go down the signposted bridle path. Follow this path for almost ½ mile, passing Otter’s Swift Farm and a couple of other footpaths on the left. Once you pass the layby on the right, take the left turn into Carr Mill and you will immediately spot the viaduct on the left.

Do not cross the viaduct, instead follow the path around the right-hand side of the Dam. The Dam is Merseyside’s largest inland body of water and it used to be a mill pond built to power Carr’s Corn Mill, part of Lord Gerard’s estate. It was hugely expanded in the 1750’s to provide water to the Sankey Canal, located about a mile away.

Carr Mill was used an entertainment complex in the late fifties/early sixties, complete with castle and fairground, but is now used by walkers, anglers, and water sports enthusiasts.

Once you reach the pub at the far end of the Dam, bear left round the banks and follow the rough surfaces of Garswood Old Road, which follows the perimeter of

63 the dam for 375 yards until you reach the entrance to The Boathouse, home to Lancashire Powerboat Racing Club.

Bear right when you reach the entrance, and then go through the gates on the immediate left.

Follow this path, running parallel to the railway, for a further 375 yards and then turn right through the tunnel.

The path skirts the woodland and eventually meets a concrete path.

Carry on in the same direction for almost ½ a mile, then turn left over the railway bridge.

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.

Goyt Hey Wood

Chadwick Green

Otter’s Swift

yt Go

Carr Mill Road

e Th

Brown Health Nook

Hollin Hey Farm

Caleb’s Wood Car rM ill R oad

Caleb’s Rough

Hollin Hey House

Crock Hey Wood

Carr Mill

Carr Mill Road

Once you pass the assorted homes of Hollin Hey, the road downgrades to a path. When you reach the wooded area, bear left downhill and cross The Goyt.

Follow the path for 150 yards, bear right and then take an immediate left 50 yards later and head for the housing area in the distance. Turn

left when you emerge onto Carr Mill Road and you’ll see the Masons Arms.

Carr Mill Wood

Carr Mill Dam

For those with the OS Maps app on your desktop, mobile or tablet, this walk is named: JT-Carr-Mill

East Lancashire Road

64

Making Life

Better

by Angie Barker

Award Winner

I have met so many people this year who now have an appreciation of their outside space, no matter how small or challenging their outside space may be. So much of what I have read and heard reinforces my feeling that we are designed to be close to nature.

The countryside, parks and gardens have meant so much to people and the benefits of being outside in the fresh air are now well documented. These are benefits not only in terms of physical well being but more importantly, in these days of dealing with the pandemic, mental well being also.

a place where young families want to be together to grow food and flowers for the house. You don’t have to be an expert in gardening, it is not about knowing the Latin names of plants but simply enjoying what you have created in your own space. Doing the most simple of gardening tasks can transport you away from your worries, even if it is only for a short while, and that makes you feel better. Monty Don, the presenter of Gardeners World, said recently “gardening is not an exam – it is about making a lovely place and making your life better for it”.

If there is one good thing that comes out of these challenging times it will be an appreciation of nature; plants, and wildlife, that we seem to have lost over recent decades. Gardening is now ‘on trend’, the new rock and roll, fashionable, cool or as my grand daughter would say, “sick”. (I’ll just explain that one to Hubby). The demand for allotments has soared and local councils report that waiting lists are long. Once thought to be the place where grandad did a spot of veg growing, an allotment is now

So let’s all look forward to enjoying our gardens next spring and start thinking about Snowdrops, Daffodils, blossom trees and other early flowering perennials like Hellebores, Aquilegias and Forget Me Nots. Suddenly life seems a bit better and more hopeful.

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

In the meantime, very best wishes for Christmas from Hubby and myself. Look after yourselves and I’ll see you in the new year.

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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b

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al • Earwax Remov

sa Ask u

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78

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79

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