Wigan North Edition
Feb/Mar 2014
Where Are They Now? -Martin Offiah The Life of Brian -Mr Wigan World Designing the Perfect Garden Jack’s Tracks visits Garswood
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StandiSh Branch now open We are delighted to announce the opening of our brand new office at Number One, High Street, Standish. If you are considering moving we would love the opportunity to provide you with a free no obligation valuation. Please call us on 01257 422228 to find out about our special opening offers and one of our resident partners will be only too happy to come out and see you.
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No Love Lost…
In this issue
I don’t know whether I’m getting more cynical as the years go by, but I’m now struggling to see the real point of Valentine’s Day. Once Christmas is done, the card shops – not content with charging an arm and a leg for gaudy cards – start stocking all sorts of fluffy teddy bears, schmaltzy mugs and other pieces of dubious tat.
18 26 36 44 48 51 55 56 60 62 68 70 72 81 82
Ok, ok, I know I sound a bit harsh but why focus on an arbitary date pushed by marketing people? The most interesting place to be on Valentine’s Day is, by far, a restaurant. I did it once a few years ago and never again. The place was heaving but the atmosphere was as flat as a pancake. The reason is because it was stuffed full of anxious couples all eyeballing each other, wondering which bloke would be the first to get down on one knee in front of everyone else to propose to his squeeze. Once the coffee started being served one exhibitionist did the Hollywood turn. Of course, all the ladies in the room melted, before fixing their own dates with a stare as if to say ‘Why didn’t you do that?’ All the men rolled their eyeballs before looking longingly at the exit door. It was worth it for the entertainment alone! But here’s a thought; instead of placing all your romance chips on just one day, why not just do it periodically throughout the year? Perhaps surprise your other half with some ‘me’ vouchers which they can redeem for a back rub or a romantic meal cooked by you? After all, if you really need marketing bods to coerce you into being romantic for just one day towards your loved one, it’s not going to be solved with just a oneoff box of chocolates…. chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB T 01695 627 999
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Sales: Chris Pearce Design & Production: Peter Bretherton Accounts & Distribution: Sally Boon Editorial: David Sudworth
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Local Life is published every month. The magazine will be distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis. The Wigan West edition is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and parts of Pemberton. The Wigan North edition is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Parbold, Newburgh, Wrightington and Hilldale. You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan. Local Life is also published in the West Lancashire, St Helens and Chorley areas.
Next issue - March
Advertising deadline - Friday 7 February Published - Thursday 27 February Local Life Media
Where are They Now? – Martin Offiah Planning Ahead Fighting Talk Class from the Past – Woodfield School The Life of Brian Puzzle Corner Recipe – Syrup, Fruit & Nut Cookies Jack’s Tracks visits Garswood Your Pets Test Drive - Fiat 500 Trekking Garden Services Garden Design for Life Home Services Puzzle Corner Solutions Total Bathroom’s Useful Numbers
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When you receive the new edition of Local Life - remember to recycle the old one.
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Hamper Winners Well done to Kath and David Turner, of Naylor Farm Avenue, Shevington, and Leonora Anson, of Bentham Place, Standish, who had a great start to 2014 thanks to Local Life. They were the lucky winners of our festive hamper competition and received their prizes just before Christmas. Remember, for more brilliant competitions and offers, it certainly pays to keep your eyes peeled for Local Life!
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Flower Power
Pram Club
If you are looking for a new interest and an opportunity to make new friends, then Parbold & District Flower Club may be just for you. Members have monthly afternoon demonstrations at Parbold Village Hall, The Green. New members and visitors are welcome. Subscriptions cost £34 per year and the visitors’ fee is £6 per meeting, including refreshments. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month (except during August, December and January) at 1.30pm and finish around 4pm.
New parents are promised a friendly welcome at Standish Pram Club. It is aimed at those with babies and toddlers up to 12 months old, and is an opportunity to meet and chat to other parents. The club meets on Wednesdays, 11am-noon, at Standish Library on Cross Street. Entry is free and no booking is required.
The next meetings are on Wednesday, February 12, with a demonstration from Karen Schofield and on Wednesday, March 12, with a demonstration from Eleanor Griffiths. If you would like to know more about the club please call Eileen Martin 01704 893124 or just go along.
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Plans Taking Root
Sew Tempting‌
The Shevington In Bloom team is getting ready to go onto the national stage for the very first time. To mark its entry into the Britain in Bloom contest, which is a direct result of its success in the North West competition, an official launch and Mini Spring Fete will be held at Shevington Methodist Church, Gathurst Lane, on Saturday, April 12. It will be opened at 1pm by the Mayor Cllr Billy Rotherham and includes games, stalls, refreshments and plant sales.
A Knit/Crochet and Natter group is held on Fridays at Standish Library, on Cross Street, from 2pm-3pm. All welcome, everyone from beginners to those with more experience. For more information, call Anne on 01257 427089.
In other In Bloom news, the team is pleased to announce it now has a trophy cabinet at Shevington Library, also on Gathurst Lane, where the public can see the various awards for the area. If you would like to volunteer with the In Bloom team, please text 07914 901916 with your contact details or email shevingtoninbloom@gmail.com
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Netting New Players Newburgh Cricket Club extends a warm welcome to new players of any standard. The club has thriving junior and senior sections with teams playing in the Southport and District Amateur Cricket League. Junior nets take place on Saturdays from 10.30am to 12.30pm during the season. Contact Andy Coomber via email bilco1979@googlemail.com or call 07846 172328 for more information.
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What a Relief! Wiganers are being urged to limber up ahead of the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile. The town is set to host its fifth such event on Sunday, March 23, and organisers are inviting local people to enter now at www.sportrelief.com Carol Southern, from Wigan’s leisure team, said: “Last time, Wigan events had 634 participants taking part and raised more than £11,200. This year we want to make the day even bigger and better – but we need your help to do that.” The Sport Relief event is being held at Robin Park Arena. Entrants don’t have to be sporty to take part, and can choose to complete one, three or six miles. For more information contact Emma Martin, Specialist Activity Officer at WLCT, on 01942 828572 or at emma.martin@wlct.org
Charity Volunteers The Ring a Rainbow charity is looking for volunteers at its shop at 4b High Street, Standish. If you have any free time and want to help out, call 07936 005634 or email ringarainbow@yahoo.co.uk
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Funding Offer
No Soft Soaping!
Villages In Partnership is offering grants of up to £500 to West Lancashire-based community groups and organisations for good causes. VIP can only fund certain projects such as equipment purchase or hire or projects/activities that promote health and wellbeing, aim to improve the quality of life and that make a positive contribution to a local community. Among the items which are not eligible include day to day running costs such as utility bills, council tax and insurance and salaries, applications from schools or projects/activities that have already taken place.
Members of Newburgh Women’s Institute will be given a talk on the History of Soap on Monday, February 17, at 7.30pm at Newburgh School on Back Lane. The WI meets on the third Monday of the month for interesting talks on a wide range of subjects, followed by refreshments and chat. Outings are also arranged to theatres, concerts, stately homes and gardens. Contact Mavis Sudworth on 01257 463242 or Jackie Kindon on 01257 463848 for more information.
Further details and an application form can be obtained from: Villages in Partnership, 265 The Green, Eccleston, PR7 5TF, telephone 01257 452698 or email vip@ villagesinpartnership.org.uk. The closing date is noon on Thursday, February 6.
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Baby Massage A six week course on baby massage is being offered at Shevington Children’s Centre on Miles Lane. The course is held on Tuesdays from 10.30am-11.30am. Contact Lisa Kelley on 01257 252859.
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Eat, Drink and Be Merry! Wigan Food and Drink Festival is back between Thursday, February 27, and Sunday, March 9. A number of events have been organised for this annual event, which is now in its seventh year, including the following: • Friday, February 28, from 2pm-3pm: Free kneading and baking demonstration at Standish Library, Cross Street.
Pianist Returns Douglas Music Parbold welcomes pianist Sunwook Kim back to the village on Saturday, February 8, at 7.45pm. The South Korean musician will be playing music by Bach, Scriabin and Schubert at the Village Hall on The Green. Admission is £15 for adults and £5 for a young person/ student. To contact the box office log onto www. parbolddouglasmusic.org or call 01257 498452/462382.
Hilldale Coffee Coffee mornings are held at Parbold Evangelical Church, Chorley Road, Hilldale, on the first Tuesday of each month, from 10.30am to noon. All welcome. For more information, call 01257 464347 or 07720 062211.
• Tuesday, March 4, at 2pm: A talk at Shevington Library on The Story of Uncle Joe by joint owner John Winnard. • Wednesday, March 5, to Saturday, March 8, from 9am5pm: Food and drink market on Standishgate. • Friday, March 7, from 4pm-midnight: Wigan Wine Festival at Haigh Hall, featuring music and also cheeses by Sean Wilson (aka Martin Platt from Coronation Street). £2 advanced booking, £2.50 on the door. Call 01942 828271. • Saturday, March 8, from 11am-noon: Let Them Eat Cake! at Wigan Library. Find out more about the Wigan branch of the Clandestine Cake Club. Free entry, call 01942 827621. • Saturday, March 8, 2pm: Free live music from The Lancashire Hotpots in Market Place, Wigan. To find out more information and other events at this year’s festival, visit www.wlct.org/foodanddrink
Shoes Handbags Accessories www.barbarasofstandish.com 01257 426 073
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Distributors Wanted
King Chris
Local Life requires distributors (must be aged 13 and above) for this Wigan North edition of our magazine. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every 8 weeks. The areas where we currently require distributors are as follows:
The King is heading to Wigan… in the form of tribute artist Chris Connor. He’ll be appearing at The Rose Club (formerly the Monaco) on Atherton Road, Hindley, on Saturday, February 8, at 7pm.
• Shevington – Gathurst Lane, Vicarage Lane, Edgewood, Runshaw Avenue and Hullet Close. • Whitley – Spencer Road, Whitley Crescent, St Clements Road and Westfield Grove. If you are interested, please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@ locallife247.co.uk
2014 Meetings Shevington Parish Council’s full council meetings for this year have been announced. They are as follows: February 27, March 27, April 24, June 26, August 28, September 25, October 30, November 27 and December 18. All the meetings are on Thursdays, starting at 7pm apart from the May 22 meeting, which is an annual meeting of the council starting at 7pm followed by full council at 7.15pm. All meetings take place at Shevington Library on Gathurst Lane. Members of the public are welcome to attend.
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Chris burst on to the UK Elvis scene in early 2009 and within 12 months was performing at venues such as the Manchester Apollo. Last year, he appeared in front of a full audience at the world famous London Palladium. Tickets are £12.50 and can be bought by calling 01934 256903.
Birthday Cake Whisper it quietly but we can reveal Wigan Clandestine Cake Club is celebrating its first birthday soon! The local group was set up by Alex Fisher last March to get people swapping recipes and sampling gorgeous gateaux. To mark the occasion there’s going to be a celebratory event at a secret location (what else?) on Monday, March 17, at 7.30pm. For more information or to book a place at this event, email Alex Fisher on alexandrafisher82@gmail.com or call 07825 512989.
‘I FEEL FITTER, HEALTHIER & HAPPIER THAN I’VE EVER BEEN’ “It’s brilliant. You start with small steps, eating better and more healthily, getting a little bit fitter and a lot more energetic. I can’t believe something this good for you is so much fun.” Nina Williams-Kemp, fab at 42, 3st lighter, much, much happier
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STANDISH St Marie’s Parish Hall Almond Brook Road, WN6 0TB Thursday 10:00 - 11:30 am WINSTANLEY St Aiden’s Social Club Highfield Grange Avenue, WN3 6TB Monday 09:30 - 11:00 am
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Comedy Play
Hive of Activity
Absent Friends by playwright Alan Ayckbourn is on at Wigan Little Theatre from Wednesday, February 19, until Saturday, March 1.
If you’re looking for something to do in Standish, why not head down to the Community Centre on Moody Street? It is open every day with lots of activities going on from Karate to Slimming World, and art groups to bingo. To find out what’s going on, locals are invited to pop in for coffee every morning 10am-noon or to call Alison on 01257 421048.
The play revolves around desperately devoted wife Diana who invites old friends round for tea to attempt to cheer up recently bereaved Colin. As the cracks begin to show in the relationships around him, Colin seems quite happy with his memories. Tea and sympathy transforms into trauma as characters are revealed as shopaholics, hypochondriacs and serial adulterers in this cutting comedy of embarrassment. The play is directed by Andrew Blake and the cast includes Lesley Kellet, Stacey Vernon, Bridget Patmore, A.J. Makin, Paul Leffler and Martin Green. Tickets can be obtained www.wiganlittletheatre.co.uk/ absent-friends.html
Self Help A self-help group for the blind and partially sighted, called The Optimists, meet at Hallgate House, Wigan, every other Wednesday of the month from 1pm-3pm. During the year, they organise a variety of functions including speakers, outings, quizzes and other leisure activities. For further information, call Dave on 01942 239396 or Edna on 832586.
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Half Price* Consultation Step forward for a podiatry consultation at our Podiatry Chiropody Clinic and save £14! Normal price £28 – offer price £14! Offer limited to Local Life readers – please mention the magazine when booking. *Offer limited to new clients first consultation - ends 31/03/2014
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17
Where Are They Now? - by David Sudworth
Martin ‘Chariots’
© Eddie Whitham
Offiah Wigan RLFC (1992-1996)
It’s five days into 1992 and Martin Offiah is sat in the home dressing room at Central Park. An expectant crowd gathers on the terraces outside to witness the debut of their new recordbreaking signing from Widnes. Offiah had not played all season due to a contract dispute at Widnes, but was raring to go. Hopes were high but coach John Monie sounded a stern note of caution by telling his players: “Don’t expect Martin to win it for you – you’ve all got your part to play.” In the dressing room that day was Shaun Edwards, who told Offiah that Monie’s warning caused a ripple of amusement among the players. “They were all apparently thinking ‘We’ve just paid £440,000 for this guy and he’s not going to win it for us? What a waste of money!’ I think by the time I left a few years later, I proved they got a good deal,” Martin laughs. Offiah is in high spirits when Local Life caught up with him. Now aged 48 and living in Ealing, West London, the father-of-two is happy to wax lyrical about his time in Wigan. Born in Hackney, London, on December 29, 1966, a young Offiah first played rugby union for Rosslyn Park in West London. He was spotted by Widnes coach Doug Laughton playing in the Middlesex Sevens and signed
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to play League for the 1987-88 season. It was at Widnes where he forged a fearsome reputation on the wing, scoring 181 tries in 145 games. There was talk of him signing for St Helens but it’s said the board of directors refused as they regarded him as an ‘uncoordinated clown’. Arch rivals Wigan were waiting in the wings and duly snapped him up. Offiah admits there was a certain amount of expectation placed on his young shoulders at Wigan. However, given his star performances for Widnes, he felt he had nothing to prove: “There were some big personalities and egos in the Wigan dressing room but as John Monie said, one person can’t win it for a team, everyone plays their part. I made some good friends, especially with Shaun Edwards, Sean Long and Wes Cotton. The four of us would hang around together and we still see each other now.”
He admits coming north was a bit of a culture shock, especially when it came to some of the local delicacies: “I just couldn’t get my head around the way some people would put a pie in a barm cake and eat it as a sandwich. I thought it was bizarre! But the fans were great, they made me feel welcome. Some of them still like to get in touch with me on my Twitter account @martinoffiah “I’d lived away at boarding school near Ipswich when I was younger so was used to being away from home. “When I was at Widnes, I was living in the town as well and I commuted to Wigan for about a year. But given I was now playing for Wigan, I soon realised it probably wasn’t the best idea ever so decided to move to the ‘neutral’ Manchester.” Offiah also remembers how John Monie’s coaching style was a lot different to that of Widnes coach Laughton: “Doug was like a father figure and he pretty much left me to do what I wanted. John was a lot more demanding but probably as a result got a lot more out of me.”
No look at Offiah’s Wigan career is complete without mentioning his amazing Challenge Cup Final try against Leeds in 1994. Just 12 minutes on the clock with the score at 0-0, he picked up the ball a few yards from the Wigan try line, blitzed past the majority of the Leeds team to score a 90 metre solo try. Although it has gone down as one of the finest tries ever witnessed on Wembley’s hallowed turf (65,500 You Tube video ‘hits’ and counting), Offiah says he scored a similarly impressive try later on in the game which regularly gets overlooked. Nevertheless, his heroics ensured Wigan lifted the cup and that he personally secured the Lance Todd Man of the Match Trophy. As the man himself says: “I loved scoring tries, that’s what I did. It was my thing and I was pretty good at it.” The Great Britain international left Central Park in 1996 having notched up 159 appearances and averaging more than one try per game. Offiah finally hung up his boots in 2002 following spells at London Broncos, Salford and London Wasps. He’s widely recognised as one of the greatest try scorers the modern game has seen, and even penned a book on the subject entitled ’50 of The Best’. Ellery Hanley, lauded Offiah’s ability at “creating havoc” with opposing defences while former team mate Phil Clarke declared him as “by far the greatest finisher of the 1980s and 1990s.” Since leaving Wigan, the ex-winger has been keeping busy. Not only did he star in the first series of BBC 1’s Strictly Come Dancing but he’s also picked up an MBE for services to rugby. And in January, he starred in the ITV reality diving competition Splash. Although he concedes it was initially difficult to make the transition from sportsman to media personality, he is now loving every minute of it. “When I retired there was no real blueprint for what rugby players should do next, so I suppose I’ve set the mould. I’ve loved doing different stuff and am into DJing as well. But most importantly I’m a dad to two great sons Tyler, who is seven, and Phoenix who is four. Tyler likes playing rugby for Ealing Juniors down here, so he’s following in his dad’s footsteps. “I had a very proud moment last year when I was inducted into the Rugby League Hall of Fame, joining the likes of Billy Boston. As I said at the time, I suppose I’ve not done too badly for an ‘uncoordinated clown’.”
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19
12 Grand Gestures!
Men Only!
Generous Wiganers dug deep to the tune of £12,000 for Rotary good causes. The annual collection made by members of Wigan Rotary Club in the company of Father Christmas took place during most days and evenings throughout December right up until Christmas Eve.
Appley Bridge Men’s Association meets on the second Monday of each month until March at the Old Station House, off Appley Lane North, at 8pm, and welcomes speakers on a wide variety of subjects.
Special thanks have been given to all the helper volunteers and local businesses which supported the club, including Local Life, Westwood Van Hire, K & M Acoustics and The Hampson Partnership. Wigan Rotary President Terry Hogan said: ”We are delighted and amazed to have raised over £12,000 this year. This money will not only enable Wigan Rotary Club to support local charities, but also national and international ones to which we are committed. We are extremely grateful to everyone who felt able to support us.” Wigan Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursdays at 12.30 pm at The Owls, Rectory Lane, Standish. If you are interested in joining or would like more information, please contact Colin Wilkinson on 01942 742692 or go to www.wiganrotaryclub.org.uk
The Association would like to offer a very warm welcome to anyone who would like to go along to a meeting and then possibly become a member. For more details, please contact secretary Steve Hooley on 01257 400075.
One Direction Do you want to become a better driver and save money on car insurance? The Bolton & Wigan Group of Advanced Motorists runs four courses a year, beginning in February, May, August and November. Each course provides one to one guidance in all aspects of driving. Further details can be obtained from Annette Gamble on 0161 797 1084 or by accessing the website at www. boltoniam.org.uk
Improve your home in 2014 Vale of Wigan can replace or modernise your existing staircase with a traditional oak staircase with wooden spindles, a more contemporary staircase with glass and chrome or a bespoke design of your choice. Call Vale of Wigan now for a free no-obligation survey. • Add instant value to your home • A typical install takes 2/3 days • Fully guaranteed for 10 years • Family run business est.1998 Rear Mill, Wood Street, off Chapel Lane Wigan WN3 4HL
Call - 01942 246 553 or email - info@valeofwigan.co.uk
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Aqua Tots Parent and child swimming lessons are available at St Wilfrid’s Academy on Rectory Lane, Standish, on Mondays and Tuesdays. The Aqua Tots sessions are for children up to four years old and there are different time slots available. A seven week block costs £21. For more information, call Mrs Flynn on 01257 423992.
Parbold Ramblers
Appley Bridge WI
Parbold Ramblers are welcoming new members to their club. They meet on the first Sunday of each month and membership is £16 per year. Alternatively, you can ‘try before you buy’ with a Day Membership offer of £1.25. For more details, call Jimmy on 01257 463057 or Liz on 01257 462121.
Do you live in Appley Bridge and want to make new friends? Appley Bridge Women’s Institute welcomes new members at its meetings, which are every second Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm in the village hall on Appley Lane North. For more information, call Jean on 01257 252954 or June on 01257 254256.
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Travel Evening
Coffee Morning
Want some inspiration for your holidays this year? A free Travel Evening is being held at Briars Hall Hotel on Briars Lane, Lathom, on Thursday, February 27. Hosted by Wigan-based Sheila Cooper, of community travel agent Designer Travel, there will be representatives there from companies such as Silversea cruises, Titan travel and Classic Collection.
St Andrew’s Church is holding a breakfast coffee morning on Friday, February 28, to raise money for WaterAid.
Sheila said: “I’m looking forward to welcoming people to this free event. The aim of it is to give people some good ideas and inspiration for their future travel plans.” The evening starts at 6.30pm for 7pm. For further information, contact Sheila on 01257 251104 or 07944 589469. Alternatively, email sheila@designertravel.co.uk
Wedding Fayre Sunday 23rd February 2014 12pm - 4pm Holiday Inn Haydock M6, Jct23 Lodge Lane, WA12 0JG 01942 868 330 meetings-haydock@ihg.com www.hihaydockm6j23hotel.co.uk
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It starts at 10am and is held in the Parish Centre at 120 Woodhouse Lane, Springfield. Attractions include a raffle, chocolate tombola, assorted handcrafted cards, plants, jams and cakes. All welcome.
Stroke Support Help is at hand for stroke victims and their families in the area. The Wigan & Leigh Stroke Support Group holds various social activities and events throughout the year. For more information contact Susan Lewis, the chairman, on 01942 514647 or the Wigan Stroke Association office on 01942 775826.
Free Admission Complimentary Parking Catwalk at 2pm
Hop To It! Wigan will soon be pulling in real ale, cider and perry lovers from across the area once again. The annual Beer Festival is taking place across three days from Thursday, February 27, to Saturday, March 1, at the Robin Park Sports Centre, on Loire Drive, opposite the DW Stadium. There’s also a free shuttle bus for thirsty punters between the Anvil pub on Dorning Street in Wigan town centre (just round the corner from the bus station) to the festival. Opening times and entry fees are as follows: Thursday, February 27, from 5.30pm-11pm (£2); Friday, February 28, from noon-6pm (£1) and 6pm-11pm (£3); and Saturday, March 1, from 11.30am-11pm (£2). For more details, visit www.wigancamra.org.uk
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Ale Awards Wigan’s Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) group has announced which local hostelries have won its coveted awards for 2014. The Pub of the Year Award goes to Crooke Hall Inn, on Crooke Road, Standish Lower Ground. The runners up were The Anvil, on Dorning Street, and The Raven Hotel on Wallgate, both in Wigan town centre. Crooke Hall Inn also scooped the Community Pub of the Year Award while the title of Club of the Year went to Standish Unity Club on Cross Street. The Masons Arms on Carr Mill Road, Billinge, was voted Cider Pub of the Year and the award for Best New Cask Outlet of the Year went to the Bird I’th Hand on Wigan Road, Hindley.
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Want t o in 2014cruise /15? D
on’t m is Evenin s our Travel g at Br Hotel in iars Hall Lathom 6.30 pm , Thurs da 27th F ebruar y y
For the finer things in life... Be prepared to be dazzled by Silversea cruises at our informal Designer Travel evening at Briars Hall. Silversea Cruises offer; • 6 star cruising with uncompromising service levels • All-suite accommodation offering maximum comfort • The chance to visit smaller ports where the larger ships can’t dock • Exquisite gourmet dining and a carefree all-inclusive philosophy Speak to our Silverseas Representative during the evening and hear all about the latest offers.
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Please feel free to come along and meet me and my expert travel partners, to discuss your future cruising, OR any other holiday plans. Please secure your place by phone or email, as soon as possible (see contact details below).
01257 251104 07944 589469
sheila@designertravel.co.uk
ABTA no. L318x
www.designertravel.co.uk
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Planning Ahead
reference GPD/14/00057). The deadline for consultation responses is February 6.
Newburgh
Wigan Central
Springside, Culvert Lane: Two storey rear extension (application reference 2013/1375/FUL). The deadline for consultation responses is February 4. 11 Clovelly Drive: Single storey extension to side (application reference 2013/1372/FUL). The deadline for consultation responses is February 5.
Parbold The Sheepbarn, Parbold Hill: Listed Building Consent is sought for the conversion of two apartments into a single dwelling, including fenestration alterations to front and rear elevations and internal works (application reference 2014/0020/LBC). The deadline for consultation responses is February 12.
Standish 10 Rudyard Avenue: Proposal to erect a detached garage to the side together with widening of the existing driveway and laying of hardstanding (application reference A/14/78915). The deadline for consultation responses is February 6. 269 Preston Road: Single storey extension to rear with a projection of four metres, height to the eaves 2.4 metres and height to the ridge three metres following demolition of existing rear extension (application
Land to the rear Of 41-47 Wigan Lane: Erection of two semi-detached dwellings together with access (application reference A/14/78900). The deadline for consultation responses is February 2. The Kenyon Rooms, 7 Kenyon Road: Proposals to extend the dwellinghouse, orangery to rear (application reference A/14/78910). The deadline for consultation responses is February 6. 14 Kingsdown Crescent: Proposals to extend dwellinghouse - first floor to side and single storey to rear (application reference A/14/78919). The deadline for consultation responses is February 9.
Wrightington Hesketh House Farm, Toogood Lane: Retention of two storage containers on agricultural land (application reference 2014/0035/FUL). The deadline for consultation responses is February 11. For more information on applications relating to Shevington with Lower Ground amd Standish with Langtree wards, visit www.wigan.gov.uk. For Newburgh, Wrightington and Parbold wards, visit www.westlancs.gov.uk
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Deadly Dinner
WI Members
There’s murder in the air around Wrightington in February… and locals are invited to find out ‘who dunnit’. The St James Players are staging Murder Mystery: Dastardly Doings at the Deadly Dinner Party in the Church Hall, Church Lane, on Thursday, February 20; Friday, February 21, and Saturday, February 22.
Aspull & Haigh Women’s Institute is looking for new members. It meets on every second Monday of the month at St Elizabeth’s Church Hall on Bolton Road, Aspull. Members are entertained by a speaker every month and refreshments. Visitors are welcome and start times are 7.30pm.
The audience will be able to enjoy a hot pot and apple pie supper while they gather clues to solve the mystery. It’s a ‘bring your own drinks’ affair so don’t forget your own bottles and glasses.
For more information, contact 01942 831413.
Tickets are £9 per person, £8 for concessions and you can book tables for up to eight people. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Call Christine Grey on 01257 452027.
‘Just Hostas’ with Ken Green is the next talk on the agenda of Parbold, Newburgh & District Garden Society. The talk takes place at Parbold WI Hall on The Common, on Wednesday, February 15, at 8pm. For more information, contact David Pennington on 01704 821984.
Airport Transfers and local taxi service Manchester & Liverpool Airports from just £65 Reliable and punctual drivers - guaranteed Clean, comfortable executive transport with air-con Variety of vehicles available – suitable for all occasions We do weddings, functions, hospital appointments & other taxi work too – call David today for more details. Based in Up Holland
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Green Talk
Wildlife Quiz A winter quiz night and hot pot supper is being held by Parbold Wildlife Group on Friday, February 28, at the Women’s Institute Hall on The Common. It begins at 7.30pm with the quiz starting at 8pm. Tickets are £7.50 but you must take your own drinks. For more information, call 01257 462909 or email abelchris@ talktalk.net
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Reunion Planned
Deutsches Requiem
Are you a past pupil of Up Holland Grammar School? A reunion is being organised by former students Alan Swift and David Robinson on Saturday, March 15, at St James’ Social Club, St James Road, Orrell, Wigan. Tickets are £10 each including buffet supper. To buy tickets, contact David on 07904 593540 or email davidrobinson7@blueyonder.co.uk. Alan can also be contacted on 07989 151312.
Wigan Choral Society will be performing ‘Ein Deutsches Requiem’ by Brahms, and Magnificats and Nunc Dimitti, by Stanford, on Saturday, April 12, at Trinity United Reformed Church, Milton Grove, Wigan. The concert will start at 7.30pm and finish at 9.30pm. The conductor for the evening is Paul Chamberlain and he will be joined by organists Carol Wareing and Richard Lea. Tickets are available on the door and priced at £8 for adults, £7 for concessions and £3 for children.
Mums & Tots Little Saints Mum and Tots Group meets every Thursday during term time from 9am-11 am at All Saints Church, Finch Lane, Appley Bridge. The cost is £1 per family including tea and toast. Contact Shelley Spence on 07779 933309 for more details.
Standish WI Standish Women’s Institute meets at The Globe pub, High Street, twice a month from 7.30pm to 9pm. To become a member, call Ann on 01257 424251 or Hazel on 01257 425473.
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Choir Appeal Men of all ages in the Wigan area are being invited to join Parkside Colliery Male Voice Choir. There are no auditions and the choir is very active in holding concerts to raise money for local good causes. The choir meets every Monday from 7.30pm in the Congregational Church Hall (next to the YMCA), on Hilton Street, Ashton.
at The Crown at Worthington, Platt Lane, Standish. The meeting starts at 10.30am, although members like to arrive earlier for a chat, and it ends by noon. The club has speakers on a wide range of subjects and holds lunches at midsummer and Christmas. Annual membership currently stands at £15. Further information can be obtained by contacting the secretary on 01257 424994.
For further details, contact the secretary, Kevin Grimshaw, on 01942 749755 or visit www. parksidecollierymvc.co.uk
At The Races
Men Meeting The Probus Club of Standish is currently looking for new members. The membership is made up of retired and semi-retired men and women who meet on the second Tuesday of each month throughout the year
You don’t have to go to Cheltenham to enjoy the horse racing on Wednesday, March 12 – you can soak up the atmosphere much closer to home! Shaw Hill Golf Club on Preston Road, Chorley, is holding a ladies’ day in aid of Breast Cancer Research. The fun starts at 11.30am and tickets are £25, which includes lunch, live entertainment, stands, raffles prizes and watching coverage of the races. Call 01257 269221 to book.
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Are you looking for a new independent financial adviser? Due to changes introduced by the Financial Services Authority there has been a reduction in investment and pension advisers. Consequently, there are now even more “orphan” clients than ever that need to seek out a financial adviser that they can trust to look after them over the long term.
Orphan clients? “Orphans” are those investors that have invested capital into pensions and investments a number of years ago who are no longer receiving ongoing advice/guidance.
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Legal Advice - by Platt & Fishwick
For Better, For Worse...? The breakdown of any relationship is a difficult and traumatic process. Every year more than 100,000 marriages in England and Wales end in divorce. There are many reasons for relationship breakdown, it could be as a result of an abusive relationship or, as in many cases, where you have drifted apart from your spouse and are no longer happy. But what do you do if you are considering a separation or want to formally bring your marriage to an end? Let’s consider your options and what we, at Platt & Fishwick, can do to help. Following any relationship breakdown, there are many different issues to be addressed such as financial support, the family home and parenting of any children. When a marriage breaks down, many couples informally separate and live apart. Most people go on to regulate matters between them in a legal context, the most common of which being Divorce, but there are other legal options which would regulate your separation. What would be the best option for you? If you have made the decision that your marriage has irretrievably broken down, you may consider Divorce as the appropriate way forward. Divorce permanently brings your marriage to an end and within those proceedings we can sever any financial claims and responsibilities you may have against your spouse and vice versa. A petition for a divorce can only be issued where the parties have been married for one year or more. Judicial Separation does not formally end a marriage; you remain married but it removes the obligation to
live together. The implications of a Decree of Judicial Separation are that you do not have the right to remarry or enter into a Civil Partnership. Many people choose Judicial Separation proceedings for religious reasons, however, a Judicial Separation petition can be issued during the first twelve months of the marriage. Once Judicial Separation proceedings have been issued, the Court has the power to resolve financial matters, as it would on Divorce. Many couples prefer to reach an agreement about financial matters arising out of their separation without involving the Court at all. This can be achieved by a written document being prepared (a Separation Agreement) which incorporates the agreement you have reached in relation to maintenance or property issues. Such a document, in most circumstances, will be contractually binding upon you and your spouse and will be taken into account in any subsequent divorce proceedings. Platt & Fishwick have been offering specialist legal advice in the local area for 100 years. We pride ourselves on offering face to face legal services. We have specialised family lawyers available to help and guide you through what can be difficult and emotional times. We offer a range of fixed fee services, including an initial 30 minute consultation with one of our qualified lawyers from just ÂŁ36.00. We can discuss your individual circumstances and help you to decide which option is right for you.
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Fighting Talk Brutality and bawdiness can be found at one Wigan artist’s latest exhibition. David Sudworth reports… Sat in a room above the Museum of Wigan Life, Anna FC Smith clutches a mug with both hands and chats happily with staff. The ex-Winstanley College student is in fine form, and looking forward to her latest exhibition. Purring – Sport of the People has gained a fair amount of media coverage thanks to its subject matter, the largely forgotten art of clog fighting. We wonder whether a modern-day equivalent might be witnessed on King Street on a weekend night, albeit without the chivalry and clogs. “It was probably more like Fight Club,” says Anna. “I believe it was quite underground with its own rules and codes. Probably a bit like gypsy and traveller fighting you might get today.” The concept of making art out of this brutal pastime came from Anna, who in turn approached the museum. Considering her last solo exhibition concentrated on cult TV show Harry Hill’s TV Burp, it’s a bit of leap. But
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the Swinley resident sees it as a natural progression: “I’m interested in history and entertainment. I’d never watched Harry Hill but when someone mentioned to me and I saw it I could see elements of carnival and pantomime in it. People find it entertaining, as they did with purring.” Anna, 30, can trace her love of art back to her grandad Ron Smith, who was a sign painter from Leigh. As a young girl, Anna lived in Leigh, and attended Leigh Central and Bedford High schools. While at school, her passion for art was harnessed by visiting art tutor Rachel Coulthard, who is now the headteacher at St George’s Primary in Atherton. “It’s thanks to Rachel that I developed my interest in art further… and it’s her fault I’m now poor!” she laughs. At 16, Anna started studying medieval history, politics, philosophy and religion and fine art at Winstanley College. She eventually went on to complete a Critical Fine Art Practice degree at the University of Brighton. Art is a notoriously difficult profession to make a living from and that meant, for Anna, a period on the dole and working as a shop assistant followed. She readily
admits though that her heart wasn’t in conventional employment: “I also tried to get office admin jobs but my CV got chucked back so many times. I suppose they could sense a mile off that my heart wasn’t in it.” In 2012, she went into being a self-employed, full-time artist having had her work exhibited in places such as America, Romania, Finland, India and Hong Kong. Anna is keen on exploring more of the ritualistic elements of society, something which led her to examine clog fighting. During her research, she unearthed a world in which colliers would engage in man on man combat, kicking unprotected shins with their wooden and metal soled clogs. “I was talking to a friend because I was interested initially in doing something about clog dancing and it came from that. However, there wasn’t a lot out there about clog fighting, apart from a pamphlet published in 1910, so I had to dig a bit deeper. The most interesting thing was interviewing people about the rules of purring, its rituals and how it all went on without the police noticing.” The exhibition aims to reassesses this working class sport, in the context of the era, as a self-regulated sport played with a bawdy good humour and strong vein of chivalry. However, Anna revealed the subject matter did throw up some lighter moments: “For one of the films I’ve made, I had to recreate the sound of shins being kicked. So one day, my boyfriend and I went down Coppull Lane with a stick and piece of pork to get an authentic sound, or as near as possible. I must admit it did create a bit of interest with a gang of scally kids as well as a few dog walkers. But we got it sorted so in the end it was worth it!”
The exhibition is on until Saturday, April 26, at the Museum of Wigan Life in Library Street. To find out more, call the museum on 01942 828122 or see details of specific events at www.wlct.org/whatson
www.locallife247.co.uk
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Valentines Weekend Tasting & Sharing Menu Friday 14th & Saturday 15th February To Start - Hors d’oeuvres Melon wedges wrapped in Parma ham, chicken liver pate, mixed marinated olives, red pepper and tomato soup and sautéed king prawns served with chutney, dipping breads and oils Main Course - 14oz Chateaubriand Prime fillet of tender beef cooked to your liking presented with cherry vine tomatoes, mushrooms, sautéed red onions served with chunky hand cut chips, hand tied vegetables and a side of three peppercorn sauce and Diane sauce Dessert - Honeymoon in Paradise A selection of delightful sweet treats including vanilla crème brulee, raspberry Eton mess, chocolate orange mousse, citrus tart served with strawberries, short cake and pouring cream To Finish - Coffee and heart shaped chocolates
£59 per couple 5pm - 9pm - Red rose for the ladies
Sunday 16th February 11am till 4pm “Come and see our stunning venue and meet the best local wedding experts”
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Business Review
Making the Grade Getting private tuition now can help give your child the edge at exam time. David Sudworth reports… In an increasingly competitive world where jobs are harder to come by, children are now under more pressure than ever to perform in exams. Worryingly though, it appears exams are starting to get tougher. Last year, there was a reported drop in top GCSE grades. According to the Joint Council for Qualifications, there was also a rise in pupils having to undertake re-sits. It was much the same story for A-level students, with the amount of A* of A grades falling year on year. As a result, more parents are now considering ‘topping up’ their children’s education with private tuition to give them that competitive edge. At one time, private tuition was seen out of the financial reach of most people, but now there’s high quality help at hand at the right price for you. Local Tutor
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Doctor owners Dominic and Hilary Stone specialise in delivering one-to-one assistance to bring out the best in children across the area. And they have the experience to back it up. Dominic has worked at one of the highestachieving primary schools in the country while Hilary has been responsible for over 300 pupils’ academic, social and all round development in a secondary school. Dominic said: “For many students, the most effective form of private tuition is a face-to-face lesson in the comfort of their own home. The steps we take help to ensure that this opportunity to learn is optimised to the benefit of the student. We cover all ages, subjects and abilities, including primary, SATs, 11+, common entrance, languages, gifted and able and learning difficulties, GCSE, AS/A2 level and degree subjects. We’ve had success with everyone from Oxbridge students to those with acute special needs.”
Hilary added: “We are proud of our work as it fills in missing bricks of academic structure, consolidates current requirements, and then moves the student ahead of expectations. Most importantly, our tutors are matched by expertise, personality and aptitude to the student they tutor. We ensure the match is perfect from the outset by meeting the family Business Owners Dominic & Hilary Stone and assessing their expectations from our tutors.” Dominic and Hilary stress that with exams looming, the time to act is now: “Time is of the essence for those who have children sitting exams this summer. We have tutors ready and waiting to help your child get the best results possible, so call us today on 0800 612 5028.” Here’s what our satisfied clients (and their parents) have to say…. Just delighted. Everything went well from start to finish! Mrs W, Standish. Totally tailored to the individual’s needs. Would definitely recommend to everyone. Completely satisfied. Mrs B, Blackburn An individual approach to our son’s personality, development and learning style resulting in ideal selection of the right tutor. A great choice! A Broughton, West Lancs. Rachael has been a huge support to our son. He is really ready to tackle his SATS. Thank you, Tutor Doctor! Mr C, Newton Le Willows S is now reading brilliantly, thank you! Mrs D, Chorley Thanks for the A level support so far. The chemistry tutor has been a revelation. Mrs K, Wigan Dominic, just to let you know the first ICT tuition lesson was brilliant and she is looking forward to the next. Mrs M, Atherton
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Reclaim Your Being able to look out at your garden on a Sunday morning whilst you relax with the papers and a cup of tea is one of life’s pleasures, but at this time of year, your conservatory lets you down by hosting temperatures more suitable for penguins than us human beings! We all bought into the home improvement revolution, seeing a conservatory as a costeffective way of adding space and value to a home. Sadly though, research shows that in the UK, a conservatory is unlikely to provide more than two hours of comfortable temperatures per day, which usually happen when we’re all out at work. Conservatories overheat in summer and they resemble a see-through fridge in winter. Our hard-earned cash has been invested into conservatories which, for many of us, have become, quite literally, white elephants. But now, with the help of long-established local company Freedom Conservatory Roof Conversions, you can re-claim your dream conservatory and the sunshine lifestyle to go with it. With their innovative celling modifications, they can make your conservatory up to 95% warmer in winter and up to 75% cooler in summer. Not only that, but you’ll even save money on those ever-rising energy bills!
before
The conversion work transforms the internal appearance of your after conservatory roof and you’ll be left with a clean, crisp new plastered and painted ceiling with modern spot lighting inside instead of an ugly plastic roof. Customers can even opt to have a slated roof built on top of their old roof, so that the external view of the conservatory is transformed too! The owner of Freedom Conservatory Roof Conversions, Paul Stubbs, says “The conversion process takes around five days and there will be minimal disruption to your home. In addition to the roof conversion, there are all sorts of extra options available; we can convert your conservatory into a cinema room, or even an
Well done Freedom for the best idea I have seen since double glazing! I now have a 7 metre lounge with Freedom doing a full makeover and that new ceiling looks amazing in the conservatory, especially with the new lighting system that was fitted. Thanks - Mr Dale from Winstanley
www.freedomconservatoryroofs.co.uk 42
Space!
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10 Year insurance-backed guarantee extra bedroom. We will manage the process from start to finish, using skilled tradesmen to ensure that you’re absolutely delighted with the results”. So when you’re writing out your New Year’s resolutions, make sure the pledge at the very top of the list is to convert your conservatory roof in 2014, so that you can get use of your conservatory 365 days a year. For more details of the conversion process, call Freedom Conservatory Roof Solutions on 01942 465000 or call Paul’s mobile 07761 966 024.
Alternatively, you can view Freedom’s conversion work at the Hot Tub Outlet, at Unit 1 - JGB Investment Park, Stephens Way, Goose Green, Wigan WN3 6PG.
no deposit required prior to completion of work
Showroom: Hot Tub Outlet, Unit 1 - JGB Investment Park, Stephens Way, Goose Green, Wigan, WN3 6PG
Call 01942 465 000 | 07761 966 024 www.locallife247.co.uk
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Class from the Past - Woodfield Infants School, Wigan Lane
This month’s Class from the Past is from Woodfield Infants School - 1965. Viewing photo from left to right. Front row; David Ward, Neil Worthington, Mark Clements, Peter Bretherton. 2nd row; Hilary Cunliffe, Janice Carey, Phyllis Jackson, Valerie Winter, Linda Walmsley, Pamela Knowles, Yvonne Hughes, Janet Hooten, Deborah Flemming, Vivien Schrager. 3rd row; George Murray, Michael Crook, Mark Smalley, Valerie Yates, Lynne Gordon, Stephen Austin,
Peter Marsden, Ian Lea. Back row; Gary Crossley, Geoffrey Lee, Timothy Kendrick, Peter Brown, Andrew Alexanda, David Stokes. Timothy Downes, Ian Bradburn, David Tabbiner, Philip Winstanley, Andrew Maiden, Neil Roach. Mrs Carney. Apologies if any of the spellings are wrong. Don’t forget we’re always on the lookout for old class photos, so if you have one you’d be willing to share, please email editorial@locallife247.co.uk
theballoonshop.co.uk A One-Stop Party Shop! Balloons Balloon Gas Fancy Dress Party Goods Face Paints Tableware Wigs & Accessories Venue Dressing Bouncy Castle Hire For all your party goods! 21 Market Street (Old Methodist Church), Adlington, PR7 4HE
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Money & Investments - by David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP)
My Wish List... Firstly, happy New Year! Let’s hope you will all ‘Prosper’ throughout 2014! 2013 has been an excellent year for our investors. With the FTSE 100 and Dow Jones registering YTD gains of 11.1% and 23.8% respectively at the time of writing it is little wonder that portfolios have done well (past performance of course is no guarantee to future returns and the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise). Investors now need to decide whether the strong performances registered by most equity markets will continue throughout 2014. I see three main drivers that are likely to determine market performance. U.S Tapering - In other words if Quantitative Easing (QE) is tapered, can equity markets continue to deliver gains for investors? Euro Crisis - The majority of the peripheral European countries have not registered any meaningful recovery and debt ratios remain stubbornly high. China Slowdown - Can China smoothly adjust to a slower rate of growth and move towards a more consumption led economy. Whilst there are lots of things for investors to mull over there is a great deal of economic confidence in developed economies. The evidence suggests that the global economy is in a stronger position to improve growth and fight off the deflationary pressures that still exist. So what should investors do? If your list of New Year’s resolutions doesn’t mention an
investment health check, then perhaps you need to add this to your list, because January is a great time to take stock. Is David K Barton your portfolio performing as APFS Cert CII(MP) well as it should be? Are your finances as tax efficient as they could be? A recent new client to Prosper was having a bit of a moan about the amount of paperwork he received from his previous IFA. “Everything was all over the place” he stated, and he didn’t have any up to date valuations on how his investments and pensions had been performing. When I asked him what he wanted from an IFA, this was his ‘wish list’; • I want full control of my investments rather than getting swamped with paperwork. • I want ‘peace of mind’ knowing that an expert was also keeping an eye on my investments. • I want to invest in a wide choice of leading companies without being tied in to a single company or fund • I want to deal with ‘one firm’ for all my investments rather than having to speak to different firms for my various funds • I want to easily access a ‘bird’s eye’ view of my entire portfolio rather than trying to piece together different statements If your IFA is struggling to keep up with the demands on your wish list, please get in touch with us - we will offer you an initial consultation at our expense without any obligation.
Entrust your financial future to Wigan’s only Chartered Financial Planners. Call us today to arrange a consultation with one of our friendly experts…
01257 423 800
Prosper IFA are the FIRST firm of financial advisers in Wigan to be awarded the prestigious Chartered Financial Planners Status.
Prosper Independent Financial Advisers Ltd. Prosper House, 99a High Street, Standish, WN6 0HD
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www.prosper-ifa.co.uk
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Accountancy - by Chris Alcock ACMA
Your Guide to Business Planning Hello and welcome to the latest article from CMA, a proactive accountancy firm based in Appley Bridge. At the start of each year it is time to reflect on the past 12 months, and look at what was successful, what we have learned, and what might have been. All indications are that the UK economy seems to be bouncing back from recession and people have more confidence and are starting to spend again. Good news if you run you own business. To make 2014 the year you want it to be it is vital to PLAN. Unless you take time to make a plan, events, and other people will decide how you will spend your time. It is a good idea to look at what is important to you, such as visiting family, planning a holiday or changing jobs, and then putting these plans into action. If you are a business owner it is a good idea to spend time working out in detail what you want your business to be doing this year. Financial and business planning can seem tricky, so it is really helpful to have someone to bounce ideas off. Here at CMA, as well as making sure your businesses finances are in the best shape we are also experienced business advisers and provide assistance to help you grow. We like to go the extra mile and work with you to discover your business goals, so that you can devise a plan to make sure you achieve them.
Here are some useful steps to take to build a great business: • Assess where you are today – make an assessment of your business and look at your strengths and weaknesses and what you need to build on. • Failure to plan is plan for failure – Set targets and think about any new products or services you can offer your customers. • Look at your business key performance indicators and start to measure them – What gets measured gets managed! It’s your business, your future – so make sure you plan to make the most of 2014! We are happy to talk to anyone about their plans for the next year and look at ways to help you grow your business. Tax Tips of the Month – How Much Tax Could You Save • If you run a business, now is a good time to look at recruiting staff. From April 2014 all employers will receive a £2,000 Employment Allowance that may be offset against employer’s NICs (ER’s NICs), so reducing the cost of employing staff. If you would like to find out more about any of the issues discussed above, CMA offers a free initial consultation, either at our office or yours, at a time to suit you.
To see how we can help you please get in touch:
CMA is a proactive accountancy firm based in Appley Bridge. We provide the usual services such as accounts and payroll services. We can also help you with your bookkeeping if you hate doing this!!
www.locallife247.co.uk
Chris Alcock ACMA CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR Tel: 01257 255521 Email info@handsonaccounting.co.uk www.handsonaccounting.co.uk
47
The Life of Brian…
David Sudworth meets the man behind popular local history website Wigan World
Brian Elsey isn’t one to blow his own trumpet. The last interview he gave was to BBC local radio around a decade ago. When we meet at his offices, Brian is welcoming yet remains perplexed by the local fame and interest which Wigan World has sparked. To be fair to Brian, he doesn’t need to court publicity as his site does the talking for him. Started 13 years ago, Wigan World is now widely seen as ‘the place to go’ on the web to reminisce about Wigan’s past. With archive photos galore of street scenes and family occasions, as well as vibrant messageboards where people swap stories about local characters, events and places, it’s a delightful way to while away the hours. Born in 1968, Brian grew up in Ince and Spring View, attending Britannia Bridge Primary, Ince Central and Park High schools. As a teenager, he was given a Commodore Vic 20 computer for Christmas which sparked his interest in programming and coding. “It came with a book which had all these codes which you’d input into the computer and they’d make different sounds. So I then started to look at what would happen if you changed certain bits of the coding, like making a louder or different noise, and it all started from there I guess.” After leaving education, Brian went onto a YTS scheme and got offered a job with computer programming company Metcom, which had an office on Mesnes Road. After leaving Metcom, he worked with other computer companies in Preston, Northwich and Ramsbottom – working largely with retailing systems. Around 2001, he was offered a role working from home, but it meant he had to learn a new skill; coding websites. Although
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initially reluctant, he threw himself into the challenge and that’s when he first started to seriously think about creating his own site. “The internet was beginning to become more and more available in people’s own homes by then, so I didn’t have to work from an office anymore. By having to learn the language of how to create websites, I looked into having my own site. I did think though that if I was to have my own site, then it had to be something I was interested in so I chose local history. One of the main reasons, apart from enjoying it, is the fact it’s not going to date. My friend, Ron Hunt, has 700 postcards of old Wigan so we decided to scan them in to get us started.” Armed with a brew and the TV on in the background, Brian spent hours populating his new site. Gradually, he started getting the odd email from people saying how much they enjoyed Wigan World and they started making suggestions for new features. “I remember looking at the statistics for the first month and it said we’d had 25 visitors. I was honestly flattered!” laughs Brian, 45. But from little acorns, a giant tree started to take root. Over the next five years, Brian introduced new features, such as allowing people to upload their own photos directly to the site. Brian also went about photographing Wigan streets as they are today.
Although such an archive may now seem largely redundant following Google Street View, Brian actually was unwittingly creating his own archive as some of the streets are no longer there. For instance, in June 2003 he took some pictures of Station Road, where the Ritz Cinema stood. That area has since been completely developed and the Grand Arcade shopping centre now stands in its place. Wigan World is now arguably the largest and most popular Wigan history photo archive in the world, getting around 4,500 unique visitors a day (well over 16 million ‘hits’ per year). To put it in perspective, many local council and news websites around the country would give their right arm for such a healthy audience. Yet Brian still doesn’t quite believe Wigan World as big as he’s told by its army of avid readers. Instead of basking in the limelight, Brian prefers family life. He’s been married to Jane for 22 years, and has two children; Thomas, 18, and Judith, 14. They live near the Cherry Gardens and Brian runs his own digital agency, Lamp Media, based in smart new offices off Little Lane in Goose Green. Brian spends around half an hour a week now checking over the site and is keen to keep it looking its best: “I’m proud of Wigan World but I don’t go round boasting about it. It’s great that some of the photos you see on the site can be viewed by so many people around the world, rather than just gathering dust in an old shoebox. However, I do like the fact I can walk down the street and nobody knows who I am.”
Gus staff at Rylands Mill in the early 1970s Men signing on at Wigan Labour Exchange in 1939 Photos courtesy of Ron Hunt and Brian Elsey A postcard of Standish Hall
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R. BANKS
& SON (FUNERALS) LTD. Brian Halliwell Dip F.D M.B.I.E.
Independent Funeral Directors Monumental Masons
A local family run business, R. Banks & Son are one of the largest independent funeral directors in the Wigan Area
‘Safe Haven’
Over a Century of Local Family Tradition
EDWARDS Funeral Directors
Pre Arrangement Funeral Plans and Memorial Plans available
24 hour service • Caring family firm
Branches: Coppull 01257 793880, Beech Hill 01942 829200, Standish 01257 422011, Scholes 01942 820526, Leigh 01942 261415, Bryn 01942 271392, Tyldesley 01942 887312, Upholland 01695 622099
Head Office: Halliwell House, 758/768 Ormskirk Rd
Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8BB www.rbanksandson.co.uk
T: 01942 222156
Holmwood, Dicconson Terrace, Wigan WN1 2AA
T: 01942 821215 www.edwardsfuneraldirectors.com
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or
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Wordsearch Sudoku
Puzzle Corner
Guess where? Photo courtesy of Wigan World www.wiganworld.co.uk Answers are on page 81 of this magazine
S p r i ngt i m e
I H E A R T Y L F R E T T U B S H O W E R S H E S O U N P N D B M A L S C H I C K O F U E
Tulip Sunshine Blossom Lamb Butterfly Chick
Tadpole Showers Daffodil Bud Hatch Nest
Cleaning Umbrella Windy Bunny Puddles Snowdrops
T L I N U G S N O W O C U D T
N D W I R D T L H H T W H S N I E B F E P I O I R S I T F I A N N T L L O S F D S D P R S
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C Tadp Show Daff
T B S I M T D E E V T E R L Y G N I G B A U B H A T A N E E
N A U I L O N S T P S N C E H
Find all the words associated with ’Springtime’ in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase.
T Suns Blos La
M U E D A F F O D I L L H D S
E I N N A E G O I U R Y E M N
H N Clea Umbr Wi Bu Pud Snowd
L E Y M B E R M L B I F E E U C X I S T S S P O R D W O N S
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Business Review
Dennis Goulding
! t c a s s a l ag
As he celebrates 30 years in business, Wigan glazing expert Dennis Goulding shares the secrets of his success with David Sudworth… Dennis Goulding always knew he wanted to work with people. He’s a natural at it. Sitting down with him over a cuppa at his Wrightington premises, the conversation flows easily as he looks back over the last three decades in business. “My wife Kathleen says I’ll talk to anyone, and it’s true!” laughs Dennis, who lives in Standish. “I’ll strike up a conversation with anyone, which is perfect for my line of work.”
Dennis explains: “In my first job I was a welder at Wagon Works in Ince. But the doctor told me I’d have to give it up when I got welder’s flash, which affects the eyes, so I went into butchery. I really enjoyed that job as it gave me the chance to meet people. I suppose that’s when I realised I wanted to work with people.” Originally from Higher Ince, Dennis went to Rose Bridge School. He married Kathleen in 1969 and he later went to work for supermarket giants Asda in Newtown and Golborne. However, he wanted something closer to home so secured employment with H.W. Glass in Caroline Street, Wigan. He worked his way up to become manager of the glazing section. “After about 13 years, I started getting a bit restless and was thinking that it was something I could do by myself. My wife knew a local glazer called Tommy Tickle. Tommy had the contract for local schools’ call outs at the time but he was retiring and was asked to recommend someone to replace him. He asked Kathleen whether I wanted to do it, she mentioned it to me and the rest is history, as they say!”
And it’s in the field of double glazing that Dennis has made his name. The company, based at Ainscough Business Park on Mossy Lea Road, is FENSA registered and makes its own sealed double-glazed units. It also offers a ‘while you wait’ service for glass cutting, making it an all-round customer focused business. But the company itself very nearly didn’t happen.
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Armed with a Bedford CF250 van (complete with holes in the floor), one tin of black paint and a garden shed at his Heather Grove home in Pemberton, which doubled up as a state of the art glass cutting workshop, stock room, office and showroom, Dennis Goulding Ltd was born. Dennis recalls: “It was exciting but the first 12 months weren’t easy as I was only working half days. I was used to going out at 7.30am, coming back at 5.30pm and doing jobs in the evenings and weekends, so it wasn’t easy sitting by the phone and waiting for it to ring.”
However, after 12 months, he’d got enough money to buy a new van which looked more the part. Work was also picking up and since then the business has grown into the success it is today. Dennis’s son, Stuart, went to work for the company nine years ago. Along with Kathleen, his wife of 45 years, on the payroll, it’s a real family firm. Although Dennis is 66 years old now and a grandfather to four children through his two children, Stuart and Joanne, he’s no plans to completely retire anytime soon. “I think I’ll always keep my hand in, because I enjoy it so much. I couldn’t see myself not being involved. Even now I find Sundays hard going if there’s nothing to do. “I’m proud of our business. We still trade on the core principles of quality, value and service. We’ve kept up with all the various changes and regulations and offer our customers the very best products in the marketplace. It’s at this time of year where people start thinking about home improvements and, with 30 years’ experience behind us, people know where to come for a quality service.” To ensure your home looks great for summer, call Dennis Goulding Ltd today on 01257 427000 or visit www.dglwindows.co.uk
What Their Customers Say… “The quality of worksmanship was exceptional and the professionalism of tradesmen was first class – with our special thanks to Dave the joiner. We had peace of mind when we handed over the keys to our house, knowing our property and contents were in safe hands. We would certainly have no hesitation in recommending your company to others.” – Marc & Elaine, Tarleton “We are very pleased with our new windows. The fitter did a smashing job and they look lovely. Our condensation problem was improved and the traffic noise greatly reduced. We would not hesitate to use your firm again.” – Renee and Ian, Wrightington.
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Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working 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
Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily... Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced B5250
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, WN6 9RS
Dennis Goulding A49
Mossy Lea Road A5209
Telephone: 01257 427 000 Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon
www.dglwindows.co.uk
J27 Standish
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(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
Shevington
Recipe of the month
Syrup, fruit and nut cookies Ingredients • 340g self raising flour • 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda • 200g soft margarine • 200g Demerara sugar • 200g golden syrup • 50g sultanas • 50g chopped nuts • 50g chopped cherries
Equipment Flat tray covered with baking parchment
Oven Gas Mark 4-5, 190c
Method Place margarine, syrup and sugar in a bowl and mix together. Pour in the rest of the ingredients and mix thoroughly to form a dough Place the dough in the fridge for an hour, for best results place in fridge overnight. When cold divide into 20 balls and press them lightly onto the baking tray. Place in the oven for 10 to 15mins until golden. Leave to cool on a wire rack.
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Jack’s Tracks
Garswood At just over 5 ½ miles long and typical of the gentle undulating landscapes of South Lancashire, this makes for a lovely walk at any time of the year. Listen out for the contrast in noise on this walk; the peace and quiet of Skitters Wood is soon
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superseded by the mighty never-ending rumble of motorway traffic, which in turn is followed by the absolute still of the glorious countryside, before that motorway traffic returns again at the tail end of the walk.
Woodedge -Downall Green Turn off Liverpool Road at the junction with Woodedge in Ashton and park up near the Scout Hut. Walk up Woodedge and once you are opposite number 25, turn right and take the path where the public footpath sign is. Go down the steps into Skitters Wood, turn left and then turn immediate left, walking away from the stream. Walk up a slight incline, you will come across a lovely pebble mosaic (made by local children in conjunction with the Friends of Ashton group); keep to the left when you pass this mosaic. The path forks a little way ahead, take the left hand fork and carry on down that path which runs pretty much parallel to the line of houses on Woodedge. Just when you come to the point when it looks like the pathway is coming out of the woods, it plunges downhill again. When you exit the woods, you’ll reach a little T junction in the path, turn left and head upward toward the motorway bridge.
Rectory Nurseries You might be forgiven for thinking that the Rectory Nurseries was indeed just a garden centre but owner and creator Kevin Duffy is a self-taught artist and has spent the last thirty five years building his own Tudor Village in a quiet corner of North Ashton. The Tudor Village is laid out as if part of a village square and the collection of around ten houses, clock towers, statues and his very own tea room create an unusual setting.
Once you’ve crossed the bridge, you’ll follow a path that runs parallel to the M6. That path will take you past about four houses, one dating back to the early 1600’s, and eventually you’ll go up a slight incline and arrive at a secluded lay-by called Skitters Grove. Bear left at this point and 80 yards later you’ll come to Low Bank Road. Turn right and walk for 150 yards. Just before you get to another motorway bridge, cross over Low Bank Road and take the opening to the right hand side of the seven bar metal gate. Downhill you go and then uphill too; following that path that runs parallel to the M6. It’s a bit muddy in parts down this path but you can hold on to the fence at the side and skirt round the edges of the mud without too much difficulty.
Also on site is a small chapel, with an alter constructed from old railway sleepers and kitchen cabinets. The chapel is well received by visitors who light candles and donate to the collection tin that Kevin then shares out between various charities. The work is for the most part a façade-based installation; very few of the structures have an interior. The facades are constructed using reclaimed interior doors and pretty much anything Kevin can get his hands on. Rectory Nurseries is situated on Rectory Road and is open between 9.30 - 4.00pm every day.
The path bears left and you’ll soon arrive at a footbridge which takes you over the Wigan to Liverpool railway line. Once you’re over the bridge, you’ll see Mill Farm straight ahead. Follow the path uphill that takes you to the left of the farm. Once you have reached the crest of the hill you will see straight ahead in the distance a
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yellow public footpath sign. You’ll go through two gates in quick succession, and then head downhill keeping to the right hand perimeter of the field. At the bottom of that field there is a wooden gate, go through and follow the little path up to Downall Green Road.
Downall Green – Newton Road Once you reach the roadside, turn left, cross the bridge and then cross over the road heading for the corner shop on the corner of Rectory Road. Turn right up Rectory Road, and head up hill. 350 yards up the road you’ll come across a real curio of a place called Rectory Nurseries (see feature). Once you get to the top of Rectory Road, follow the road round to the left, you are now on Leyland Green Road. Follow that road for a full 750 yards right out into the countryside. Once you reach the T junction, turn right into Winstanley Road and you’ll see a foot path sign on the left 30 yards on. Carefully cross the road and take this footpath. Follow the right hand perimeter of a field, which subsequently opens up and becomes the bank of a small lake. Once you reach the edge of the field, cross over a very small wooden bridge and turn left at the yellow footpath sign. Follow the path around the left hand perimeter of the field for 350 yards, going uphill most of the way. You’ll come to a 4ft high stone pillar by two trees and a very visible national grid gas pipeline sign; at this point you need to turn left and head towards the black and white chevron road sign in the distance. You will come out on Newton Road.
Newton Road - Woodedge Turn right and follow this road for 400 yards, going past Rowan Cottage and Billinge Lane Farm, and take the next public footpath sign on your left. You will go through a modern metal gate and walk down a wide track; on the right you’ll see the outskirts of Billinge. Follow the track past a 3 storey stone house, stay to the left hand side and you’ll need to veer onto a field for 20 yards before you come back on to the footpath. Once you reach the farm track just ahead, turn left, and about 50 yards further on you will follow a right hand bend. Follow this straight path for 350 yards and when you reach the end of the path by a couple of gas pipeline notices, it splits into a staggered junction. Bear left at this point and go up a bit of a bump and you’ll find yourself on another field. Follow the left hand perimeter of that field going downhill all the way. Once you reach the bottom of the slope by the trees, the path splits; turn left at this point. You’ll cross a stream into another field; turn left again and walk up the left hand perimeter of a field parallel to the stream. After 250 yards, the stream and trees bend round to the left but you need to carry on uphill over the open field. As you’re walking up the hill, you’ll see Billinge Beacon with the masts behind it, and once you’ve reached the top, take a minute to take in the wonderful views around you. Walk down the hill for 500 yards or so and you’ll come to a six bar gate. Behind that gate is Garswood Road. Cross that road and go down Station
ley
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Start/Finish
History Road. Carry on for 700 yards down that road, which changes into Strange Road passing Garswood Station on the way, until you go under a railway bridge. Walk on a further 250 yards and you’ll arrive at T junction. Turn right and look out for a public footpath sign about 50 yards ahead on the left hand side. Cross the road carefully, go through the metal gate on the footpath and follow the footpath around the right hand perimeter of the field. Follow that path for 550 yards, go through the metal gate, and you are now on Liverpool Road. Turn left and walk up the hill towards the motorway bridge. Cross the bridge and walk a further 375 yards; turn left into Woodedge and you are back where you started. Well done! 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.
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This area is steeped in local history. Liverpool Road in Ashton was formerly known as Dock Lane, and the picture illustrated above is of Dock Lane House. Across the road from Dock Lane House (which stood where the British Military Vehicles site now is) is Garswood Park, now the home of Ashton Golf Club. The estate was bought by Lord Gerard in the eighteenth century and during the First World War, the Hall became a Voluntary Aid Detachment hospital, run by the Matron and benefactor Lady Gerard. In World War 2 Garswood Park became Camp 50 – a prisoner of war camp for up to 800 Italian and, later on, German soldiers. Prisoners would be shipped off each morning to work at farms throughout the area. The camp closed in 1948. By the end of the war Lord Gerard, who had by then moved to Hertfordshire, sold 60 acres of Garswood Park for the sum of £5000 to Ashton Golf Club. In the early 60s the estate was cut in two by the M6 motorway, and the eastern part of the Estate eventually became schools and housing.
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Your Pets - by Dr Shams Mir
BVSc&AH,MVSc,DrMedVet,MRCVS
There is more to bad breath than what meets the nose On New Year’s Eve evening last year, a worried client called ‘Sunrise’ for help, as their lovely Golden Retriever, Basil, had been retching lately and was getting worse. After asking a few questions it became clear to me that there was something more sinister to the symptoms displayed. On the physical examination, nothing remarkable was found. So I decided to take an x-ray view of his digestive tract, and the problem became evident instantly.
to be moved to a farther specialist emergency centre for immediate veterinary attention. His owner deemed it worthwhile to take up the option of waiting. Obviously, due thought was given to potential consequences of delaying the intervention!
He had a foreign body stuck across the food pipe further down the throat. It transpired that he had recently feasted on turkey left overs from the Christmas lunch. Obviously, a bone he had swallowed had got stuck.
The dog was sent home after receiving appropriate medication to keep him comfortable, calm, and safe, and to be kept under close observation.
Apparently, it should have been easy to remove the foreign body by retrieving it using appropriate equipment. But, it was critically important to assess the potential risks associated with attempting to retrieve the sharp ended bone, for example it could slip off and lodge itself further down in a more difficult to reach area of gullet in the neck or chest, or it could lacerate the gullet and lead to bleeding, or tear the gullet wall leading to leakage of food and fluids from the gullet, the consequences of which would be worse than the original problem.
Clearly, first thing needed was to re-take Basil’s x-rays. Instead of giving him general anaesthesia for x-raying, endoscopy and possibly surgery, I decided to take the x-rays under sedation only.
It was decided that the best means would be to remove the bone by endoscopy. However, should the bone be tightly lodged in gullet and not possible to dislodge safely, a surgical intervention to repair the gullet if a tear developed or to altogether remove the bone by surgical means had to be contemplated. All-encompassing preparation and arrangements were essential before any actual attempt to deal with the problem. Such elaborate arrangements would best be achieved in the normal working hours. Else, the dog had
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Before Basil arrived at the surgery in the morning, everything was ready including the endoscopes and surgical kits, and not to forget to mention another senior veterinary surgeon ready to help.
Guess what, the bone had disappeared, nowhere to be seen over the whole gastrointestinal tract! Surely, Basil will have no more turkey bones this Christmas! Dr Shams Mir BVSc&AH,MVSc,DrMedVet,MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon Sunrise Veterinary Surgery 6 The Common Parbold WN8 7DA Tel: 01257 463 142 www.sunrisevets.co.uk
Does your dog need day care? D We have a fun & safe environment for your dog to play & exercise D Part-day or full day – it’s up to you! D Pick up/drop off service available – call for details
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Test Drive - by Tim Barnes-Clay
Fiat 500L Trekking 1.6 MultiJet 105hp The Fiat 500L Trekking combines a fashionable look with special grip gadgetry called Traction+, which helps the car handle difficult and dicey surfaces.
upright look. This is because the Italian automaker has raised the car’s suspension to enable it to drive over rough ground more effectively.
Under conditions of low or zero traction, the system detects slip, making it easy to maintain directional stability and control. The car is slow and cumbersome to begin with, but the technology certainly inspires confidence during bad driving conditions.
Features on the 500L includes a touchscreen radio with Bluetooth, six airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), cruise control, leather gearknob and steering wheel, dual zone climate control, side mouldings, parking sensors, electric windows, automatic lights with rain sensors, front fog lights and rear armrest. The Fiat also has high-tech fabric seat upholstery with eco-leather inserts.
The fresh model offers the same functional and practical qualities of the standard Fiat 500L, but has a more
To be honest, all that the 500LTrekking lacks is a built in sat-nav as standard. Other than that, my flagship
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test model came loaded with kit including 17” alloy wheels which were fitted with mud and snow tyres. To emphasise its outdoor disposition, the Fiat also has specific front and rear bumpers, a skid-plate and fog lights which help give it a rugged look. If you’re concerned about the wellbeing of you and your passengers then the Fiat will certainly tick your box. It’s one of the safest motors on the road today, as demonstrated by its prestigious Euro NCAP 5-star rating. In fact the 500L Trekking is the first car in the Fiat range to provide City Brake Control as standard. This system is designed to reduce the effects of low-speed collision in traffic. It’s clever stuff. Overall, the big Fiat is a robust motor and will appeal to style conscious families who need the space for five people combined with functionality and practicality. Just don’t expect awesome acceleration and certainly allow yourself lots of time to overtake. With a 0-62mph
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pace of 12 seconds, life can get a little frustrating behind the sluggish, albeit inoffensive wheel of the Fiat 500L 1.6 MultiJet 105hp Trekking.
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© M93 / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0 (DE)
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Garden Diary - by Angie Barker
Love it or hate it decking is here to stay Remember that gardening makeover programme that Alan Titchmarsh did back in the day – Ground Force? He and Tommy Walsh are probably responsible for decking over half the country’s gardens and whilst it did become a fad for a while it has lost favour in recent years.
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to your indoor living space. The beauty of installing a deck is that it can be designed to suit your lifestyle and your individual garden. It is fantastic for dealing with awkward levels and is relatively quick and easy to install, if using softwood it can be cheaper than most other hard landscaping materials and can be a quick fix for covering up unsightly slabs or concrete. I would advise against staining or painting a deck unless you don’t mind doing it every year. If you want to treat a new deck best to use decking oil which will soak into the wood. If you are still not convinced there is a very useful website at www.tda.org.uk (Timber Decking Association) which gives some good practical information concerning decking, construction and maintenance.
This is probably because decking really only works in open sunny spaces otherwise it can become slippery. If your garden is north facing, build your deck at the bottom of the garden where it catches the sun. If your garden is south facing you can run a deck at the same height as a conservatory door or French doors opening into the garden, then it feels like an extension 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.
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Please don’t be tempted to simply plonk a square deck at the back of the house and surround it with spindles. Decking offers the opportunity to create really interesting shapes which can link into the rest of your garden. Planting holes can be incorporated to soften the look and raised beds made of tanalised timber work particularly well in association with decking. For the ultimate in decking, if your budget allows, go for hardwood. The photo is the hard wood deck in my garden – yes I managed to persuade hubby to shell out last year and he has since admitted it is worth every penny. Well, that is after he had recovered from the shock of paying the bill! Call Angie now for your free consultation! Author: 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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A Design for Life Expert Angie Barker shares her secrets on how you can get your dream garden now Whisper it quietly, but summer and outdoor living are not far away– so now is the time to get planning! I personally think there’s nothing better than sitting out on a warm evening with a glass of chilled wine in a beautifully landscaped garden. It provides the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the day’s events. So if your garden is lacking that elegant finish you’ve always dreamt of, now is definitely the time to act. Garden design is one of the most important but often overlooked aspects of home improvement. Some will pay thousands on interior décor, only to leave the outside untouched. Yet when it comes to property value, the garden can actually be the key as to whether your house is worth more or less than you originally thought. In these days of limited space, the best gardens work as an extension of the home, giving you the outdoor living we all pine for during these winter months. Planning the design of your garden is key; you’ll want a space which is good to look at and will make you want to use it all year round. The secret is bringing those two together - the garden space has to work for you by matching your desires with the constraints of your plot, such as size, aspect, soil type and so on. These are the things you can’t change. One of the other challenges is that gardens need to fulfil a number of needs – planting to give texture and colour and to soften hard landscaping;
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space for relaxation, entertaining and cooking; room for children’s play and more often these days, space for growing some vegetables. My five top design principles are: • Use texture to create interest, both in planting and hard landscaping • Incorporate a lawn whenever possible. A lawn gives a wonderful foil for planting, it is safe for children to play on, environmentally sound, good for wildlife and is easy to maintain • Use focal points around the garden and in borders to draw the eye and make your garden unique • Include ore than one seating area wherever space allows. This will give you the option of viewing the garden from a different aspect and at different times of the day • Above all, the garden must meet the needs of the family and work for them
I recently helped a couple in Billinge who had moved into their newly built estate home complete with a garden which was a blank canvass. The brief was to create a space which would be relaxing and, due to work commitments, not too high in maintenance. This couple enjoy pottering in the garden and the planting had to include lots of texture with long seasonal interest as well as being beneficial to wildlife. Space for a water feature and a medium sized shed also had to be factored in. I proposed that sweeping curves should be used to create a calming, before meandering feel. Planting with lots of contrasting textural qualities was incorporated with flowers that attract butterflies and bees. The main seating area was deliberately placed to necessitate a journey around the garden to reach it, with a smaller seating area near the house to catch the morning sun. A pergola brings height and
allows scented climbers to scramble over it. A raised bed around the seating area lifts the planting and provides impromptu seating when entertaining. Hard landscaping of natural stone, gravel and slate chippings brings more textural qualities. after
And the verdict? They told me: “The garden looks absolutely wonderful, just the effect we wanted but didn’t know how to translate into a garden. It’s lovely looking out through the windows and seeing all the different colours and textures … we absolutely love it!” I was delighted at the reaction and it demonstrates what can be done with a bit of forward planning. This couple now have a beautiful garden in which to enjoy this year, and by acting now you will be able to have the same. If you’d like help to transform your garden in 2014, please give me a call on the number below.
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.
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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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Puzzle Corner - Solutions Wordsearch Phrase “I hear the sounds of melting snow outside every night and with the first faint scent of spring, I remember life exists” John Geddes
The picture is of Swinley Road, Wigan
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Police Greater Manchester Police Wigan Policing Team Lancashire Police West Lancs Local Team
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Libraries Parbold Library Shevington Library Standish Library
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Councils and Councillors (Wigan) Wigan Council Wigan Council (out of hours) Cllr Collins (Shevington) Cllr Crosby (Shevington) Cllr Edwardson (Shevington) Cllr Gareth Fairhurst (Standish) Cllr George Fairhurst (Standish) Cllr McGurrin (Standish) Cllr Davies (Wigan Central) Cllr Hunt (Wigan Central) Cllr McLoughlin (Wigan Central)
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Councils and Councillors (West Lancs) West Lancs Council Cllr Pope (Newburgh) Cllr Blake (Parbold) Cllr Whittington (Parbold) Cllr Baybutt (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) Cllr Evans (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge)
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