Local Life - Wigan North - Jun/Jul 2013

Wigan North Edition

Jun/Jul 2013

First & Last Derek Acorah Effortless Cycling Jack’s Tracks visits Martin

Photo © Chris Pearce

Win tickets to Farmer Ted’s

www.locallife247.co.uk

S

uzanna’s Pub and Restaurant is a beautiful restaurant and pub (formerly known as Gallaghers) only five minutes drive from the A49 at Standish. After a full and sympathetic refurbishment, Suzanna’s opened for business in September 2011, and has already gained a regular clientele from both near and far.

The pub is open every day and food is served every day except Monday. A single menu ranges from pub classics such as fish and chips, burgers and sandwiches to full three-course à la carte dining. Vegetarian options are a specialty, as is our Sunday afternoon Roast. Real ale beer and a range of lagers are available, as well as an extensive wine list. Happy Hour (heavily reduced drink prices) runs every afternoon.

Suzanna’s is also available for private functions and conferences, with a complete range of set menus and buffets and full audio-visual facilities. We also run special evening events from time to time, for example a Royal Ascot Ladies Day on the afternoon of Thursday 20th June. Full details of this and all our events and functions are listed on our website.

opening hours Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Pub Hours 15:00 - 23:00 12:00 - 23:00 12:00 - 23:00 12:00 - 23:00 12:00 - 01:00 12:00 - 01:00 12:00 - 23:00

Food Service Closed 12:00 - 20:00 12:00 - 20:00 12:00 - 22:00 12:00 - 22:00 12:00 - 22:00 12:00 - 20:00

Happy Hour 16:00 - 23:00 16:00 - 19:00 16:00 - 19:00 16:00 - 19:00 16:00 - 19:00 16:00 - 19:00 16:00 - 22:00

38 Little Scotland Blackrod Bolton BL6 5LW 01942 832639

at Little

Scotland

Pub & Restaurant

reservations@suzannas.com www.suzannas.com suzrest @suzrest

2

Local. Valued. Trusted.

Heinz Surprise

In this issue

To paraphrase Forrest Gump, a life watching Latics is like having a ‘Heinz Surprise’ for your tea – you never know what you’re going to get!

22 Too Good to be True?

34 Effortless Fun! 50 What’s On 52 Puzzle Corner 54 First & Last – Derek Acorah 57 Your Pets 60 Jack Track’s visit Martin 64 Garden Diary 67 Recipe of the Month – Bailey’s Ice Cream 68 Win Family Tickets to Farmer Ted’s 70 Test Drive – The Ford Eco 72 Saving Money with Martin Lewis 73 Motoring 74 Good Traders Section 76 Useful Numbers

I’m sat here on the morning after the Arsenal match wondering where it all went wrong, but let’s face it, it’s been a hell of a rise for Wigan Athletic, which culminated in that unbelievable FA Cup Final win against City! Every neutral supporter in the land was supporting Wigan that day and Latics did the town proud!

The pundits will rightly point out that the team’s inconsistency was the reason why Wigan were relegated, but that’s history now. Relegation isn’t the end of the story, just a blip in the history of the club that, let’s not forget, were in the Northern Premier League just 35 years ago, playing the likes of Runcorn and Buxton. Their biggest challenges lie ahead and we wish them all the very best for next season.

Anyway, we got really excited earlier this month when we realised that Local Life was about to turn five years old, but even that news was eclipsed when we found out that the first Local Life baby was on the way! Residents of Wigan Road in Standish beware - because if this baby’s got a pair of lungs anything like his mum, then your sleep patterns are going to be severely disrupted from October for some time to come! Seriously though, best wishes to our resident journalist, Nicola Gray and her husband Ben on their fantastic news!

Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB T 01695 627 999

@

info@locallife247.co.uk W www.locallife247.co.uk

Sales & Editorial: Chris Pearce, Nicola Gray Design & Production: Peter Bretherton Accounts & Distribution: Sally Boon

sales@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk accounts@locallife247.co.uk

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 12,500 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 12,500 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.

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

Local Life is also published in the West Lancashire and St Helens areas.

Next issue - July

Advertising deadline - Thursday 6 June Published - Thursday 20 June Local Life Media

@locallifemedia

www.locallife247.co.uk

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.

No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

When you receive the new edition of Local Life - remember to recycle the old one.

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TWO P RE STIGIOUS D E VE LOPM E NTS

Last chance to buy!

EX P AV CH AR AI A T LA NG BL E E

BRADLEY GARDENS STANDISH

FINAL 2 PLOTS

Plot 3 The Nelson (ex-Showhome) 4 bedroom detached family home with integral single garage

£199,950

Photographs show the Nelson ex-showhome at Bradley Gardens

Bradley Gardens

Bradley Lane, Standish, Wigan WN6 0XF Bradley Gardens is an extremely popular select development of just fifteen stylish properties comprising 3 and 4 bedroom family homes. Located in the desirable village of Standish, within close proximity to junction 27 of the M6 motorway, this development is a fantastic opportunity to secure an ideal home in an ideal location.

complete with landscaped gardens, flooring throughout, curtains and light fittings Plot 13 The Jenner 4 bedroom semi detached family home

£169,950

complete with flooring throughout

Prices from £169,950

For further information contact the Sales & Marketing Suite open Thursday to Monday inclusive 10.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.

call 01257 427616

www.wainhomes.net

Tuesday & Wednesday please contact Head Office on 01925 859650 for more information.

Prices correct at time of going to press. Photographs for illustrative purposes only.

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The Symbol of Quality

“Pride in the Job Award” Winner

O NE AWAR D -W INNI NG HOUSEBUIL D ER

Not to be missed!

3 O RE P NL M LO Y AI T NI S NG

BROOKFIELDS STANDISH

Photographs show typical apartment interiors at Brookfields

Last few spacious 2 bedroom apartments in Standish

• Viewing essential • Stunning Show Apartment now available to buy!

• Fantastic investment opportunity in the popular village of Standish • Excellent transport links

Brookfields

off Almond Brook Road, Standish WN6 0RL Brookfields is an established development set in a semi rural location within walking distance from the fantastic amenities of Standish Village Centre. The success of this development is especially due to its prime location, appealing to both commuters and investors being in such close proximity to the North West motorway links. The lower ground floor apartments are also ideal for retirement homes.

www.wainhomes.net

Prices from £104,950

For further information please contact our friendly Sales Executive at the nearby Bradley Gardens development Bradley Lane WN6 0XF open Thursday to Monday inclusive 10.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.

call 01257 427616

Tuesday & Wednesday please contact Head Office on 01925 859650 for more information.

The Symbol of Quality

“Pride in the Job Award” Winner

like us on

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Prices correct at time of going to press. Photographs for illustrative purposes only.

www.locallife247.co.uk

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No12 Local life Wigan (288 x 193) w\c 6\5\13

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• YA R W O O D WAY •

Family Living at its Finest Yarwood Way is a new select and secure gated development of just fourteen contemporary 3 & 4 bedroom homes in Orrell.

Designed by our architects with the modern family in mind, this flexible living space boasts the highest standard of design and build

Prices start from just

£172,500

Yarwood Way is located directly opposite our sister development, Sandcross Gardens.For more information, visit our sales office in Sandcross Gardens, Sandbrook Road, Orrell WN5 7AL

Call

0844 774 4460

or email us at info@yarwoodway.co.uk

www.yarwoodway.co.uk 8

• SANDCROSS GARDENS •

Prestigious 6 bedroomed family home • Large corner plot at head of a secure gated development • Luxury fitted kitchen with fitted Bosch appliances • Energy efficient heating system including underfloor heating • Wireless Sonos sound system • Oak interior doors with chrome handles and a solid oak front door • Bi-folding patio doors leading to landscaped rear and front gardens • Pre-installed solar panels to reduce energy bills • UPVC windows and facias throughout • Security alarm pre-installed Many other outstanding design features

Just one home remaining!

£349,950

Call now to arrange a viewing Sandcross Gardens, Sandbrook Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7AL E-mail: info@sandcrossgardens.co.uk

Te l e p h o n e : 0 8 4 4 7 7 4 4 4 6 0 w w w. s a n d c r o s s g a r d e n s . c o . u k

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Celidh For a night out with a difference, come along to the Celidh being held on Monday 24th June at St Teresa’s Church Hall in College Road in Up Holland. The event is being held by members of the Thistle Society, which is a local Scottish Country Dancing Group.

You can look forward to music and singing, displays of Highland and Scottish dancing and you’ll also be able to shake a leg on the dance floor as well! Bring a bowl of food for the table and join with others for supper. There is a bar at the venue. The cost is £2 for adults and £1 for children and payment can be made on the door.

Brass Band Concert On Sunday 7th July, at 2pm, Pemberton Old Wigan DW Band is holding a concert at The Rose Club, Atherton Road in Hindley. The concert will comprise of performances from all three Pemberton Old Wigan DW bands. The Youth band, conducted by John DonDuncan, will start off events, followed by the ‘B’ Band, conducted by Peter Ashley. The concert will conclude with a performance from the Senior Band, who currently play in the National Championship section.

If you would like to come along to the event, tickets will cost £8 for adults, £6 over 60’s and £3 for children under 16. Visit the website at www.pembertonoldwigan.co.uk for details.

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Petition Plea Wigan MP Lisa Nandy has waded into the row about the Planning Inspector’s decision to allow further housing development in the Rectory Lane area of Standish, where plans are in place for an additional 1,000 homes.

Criticising the decision of the Inspector, Ms Nandy has backed a petition – Save Standish Greenbelt - started

by George Davies which currently has approximately 400 signatures of people who oppose the development.

A similar petition – Save Standish – was initiated by Gareth Fairhurst and has a similar number of people opposed to the plans. To sign the two petitions online, visit www.ipetitions.com and search the term ‘Standish’.

Choir Call

Glorious Gathurst

St. John the Divine Church in Pemberton is looking for anyone who is interested in joining the Church Choir.

The church is looking for Sopranos, Tenors and Bass singers, and also for anyone who can sing Alto (male or female). They would also like to hear from boys and girls over the age of 11 years. You do not need to be a trained singer and you will have help with reading the music.

If you’re a regular visitor to Manchester or Southport by rail, then the chances are that you’re familiar with the positive changes being made to Gathurst Station.

For the past 12 months, the volunteers at Shevington & District in Bloom have been working to improve the Southport-bound platform at Gathurst Railway Station.

The Choir sing at the 10 am Sunday Eucharist every week and are required to sing at special services throughout the Church’s Calendar. The Choir also sing at baptisms on the first Sunday of the month at 11.15am. If you’re interested, then do come along to choir practice which starts at 7.30pm every Thursday at the church, which is based on Church Street in Pemberton or call Anne or David on 01942 621701.

www.locallife247.co.uk

The In Bloom group would like to start a Friends of Gathurst Station group to continue the work there and maintain the work already completed. A meeting will be held at 3pm on Friday 14th June in Shevington Library to assess the interest in forming a Friends of Gathurst Station group, and the meeting will hear from Sheila Davidson from Friends of Hindley Station, who will detail how they began their Hindley group and the progress they have made since. For a sneak preview of the efforts made by Friends of Hindley Station visit http://fohs.sharepoint.com/.

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Family Fun Day A family fun day in aid of charity will take place this Sunday (26th May) at the New Inn and The Crown in Bentinck Street, Goose Green. The fun day starts at 1pm and the event is in aid of the Neuroblastoma Alliance UK, on behalf of Braiden-Lee Prescott, a 3 year old Wigan boy suffering from cancer.

Activities on the day include a mobile party bus, live music, a bouncy castle, face painting, stocks and a waxathon! There will also be an auction and a raffle to raise money for the charity and the prizes and lots on offer include a VIP day with the Red Arrows, VIP tickets to Bliss, tickets to Chester Races, tickets to Blackpool Pleasure Beach, a signed Wigan Athletic shirt, and a signed Wigan Warriors rugby ball. Entry is free and refreshments will also be available.

Don’t miss it!

Brunch

Come and join us every Sunday 11.30am ‘til 1.30pm

£9.95

Holiday Inn Haydock (M6, Jct23) Lodge Lane, WA12 0JG E-mail: haydock@ihg.com www.hihaydockm6j23hotel.co.uk

01942 868 200

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www.locallife247.co.uk

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Summer Fair

Flower Club

Fun for all the family is promised at Newfold School in Orrell when the Friends of Newfold hold their annual Summer Fair on Sunday June 23rd. There’s all the traditional favourites on offer such as tombolas, a craft stall, lucky dips, a coconut shy, the hook a duck stall, face painting and tattoos. There will be a 2nd hand uniform stall, a rock shop and a fossil hunt.

Put a bit of colour into your life and visit the Parbold & District Flower Club who meet at Parbold Village Hall on the second Wednesday afternoon of every month (except August, December & January). The meetings start at 1.30pm and finish as approximately 4pm. The next meeting is on Wednesday 12th June and the guest will be Diane Fair from Chester who will be doing a demonstration called ‘Solace of the Sun’.

In addition though, there are a range of activities that are guaranteed to wear out the most active of kids; an assault course, a bungee run, a bouncy castle, the crossbar challenge and zorbs – the most fun you can have without taking your clothes off! DJ Danny will provide the entertainment, and there will also be a wide range of refreshments including a cake stall, a barbeque and a bar. The event runs from 11am-2pm on Saturday June 23rd – Don’t miss it!

T FROM

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DIR ER

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E TH MA

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New members and visitors are welcome.

So come along and visit the club, it’s an opportunity to make new friends, have a friendly chat and a cup of tea or coffee during the break. Should you like to learn more, the club also runs optional member workshops to encourage the art of flower arranging. If you would like to know more about the club please call Eileen Martin 01704 893124.

Join in the fun at Baby Sensory!

Award-winning exciting activity classes for your baby‛s early learning and development.

Perfect for babies from birth-13 months

First class free!

Classes now in your area – call Loraine on

07786 530570

or email westlancs@babysensory.co.uk

www.babysensory.com West-Lancs-Baby-Sensory

Summer Fayre The folks of the Parent Teacher Association at Marus Bridge Primary School are holding their annual Summer Fayre at the school in Kelvin Grove on Saturday 22nd June from 11am to 2pm, and what an event it’s going to be! In addition to the usual stalls, there will be fairground rides, a bouncy slide and donkey rides too.

In attendance on the day will be a fire engine and the police. There will be a BBQ for those feeling a bit peckish and lots of fabulous prizes to be won in the raffle and the tombola.

The Fayre runs from 11am-2pm, so do come along and bring the family too! Admission is just 30p per person.

Any donations of prizes from businesses or individuals for raffle prizes will be welcomed, however small and regardless of value. If you’re willing to donate to this event in anyway please contact either Victoria Borrett on 07730 507769 or Sharon Damary on 07985 130518.

Tracks & Poles Curtains & blinds Motorised systems Pelmets, tassels, spares In-house design advice Measuring & fitting

Bay window specialists The Old Windmill, Mill Lane, Parbold, Lancashire, WN8 7NW www.tracksandpoles.com

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01257 462787 15

Irish Festival

Volunteers Required

Wigan’s Mega Irish Festival is taking place this weekend (24th, 25th, 26th May) at The Orwell in Wigan. The weekend consists of three days of Irish entertainment starting on Friday night and is organised by The Ryans, a top Irish Band voted Best Duo by the Irish Music Association. The festival will include singing, dancing, and a Gaelic football exhibition match. Stalls will sell CD’s DVD’s, jewellery and Irish foods. For more details visit www.theryansirishband.co.uk.

The WRVS at Wigan Infirmary is in desperate need of volunteers (male or female) to man the shop at this busy hospital. If you can spare 4 hours a week between the hours of 7.30am-8pm on weekdays or between 12.30pm-4.30pm at weekends and you enjoy meeting people and making a difference, then the WRVS would love to hear from you. All travel expenses will be paid. If you can help, please call the WRVS on 01942 822453.

Musicians Wanted If you are interested in learning to play a brass instrument, or already an established player, then Pemberton Old Wigan DW Band could be the place for you. The organisation is currently looking to recruit players across the three bands. The Senior band who play in the National Championship section, ‘B’ Band playing in the 2nd Section and also a youth band, comprising of around 30 children.

Don’t worry if you do not own an instrument, the band are able to provide free use from their own supply. If you are interested, please visit the website at www. pembertonoldwigan.co.uk.

Spring Fair The Standish Royal British Legion is holding their Spring Fair at Standish Community Centre on Church Street in Standish this Saturday (25th May). This table top sale runs from 10am-2pm, so do pop in and pick up a bargain! Admission is free and refreshments are available too.

20% off all colours!

Quote ‘Local Life offer’ when booking

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Call: 01257 795150

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Wedding & Prom Hair Up Specialist

Call - 01257 424353

Daddy’s Duck Race A four year old Wigan boy is planning a charity duck race in aid of Wigan and Leigh Hospice two years after his father passed away. The event will be held along the Leeds Liverpool Canal at the Wigan Investment Centre, to generate funds for the hospice, where little Corey Coggins receives support and guidance. The charity event, which will take place on Sunday 30th June, will also aim to raise awareness of Bowel Cancer, the illness that claimed the life of Corey’s dad, Ric Coggins, when Corey was just two years old. The toddler suggested the fundraising idea to his mum, Carrie Coggins, whilst watching a duck race on one of his favourite TV shows, Mr Tumble.

Ric, a local PR executive, was diagnosed at 32 and lost his fight just ten months later. Corey is appealing to individuals and businesses to purchase a duck to take part in one of two races throughout the event.

The ducks cost just £2 each for the family races, whilst ducks for the corporate race can be purchased by local businesses for only £25.

The races will take place between 12pm and 4pm, there will also be plenty of family fun on offer with fairground style events, charity stalls, a range of refreshments, music and much more. There will be 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes for each race which Corey hopes will be donated by local businesses.

Carrie said: “From the day he was diagnosed Ric wanted to raise awareness of the disease in order to prevent others going through what he had to. By fulfilling Corey’s fantastic idea of a duck race, we hope to raise as much awareness of bowel cancer as possible and honour Ric by carrying out one of his last wishes and keeping his memory alive.

All funds raised from the event will be donated to Wigan and Leigh Hospice. Wigan and Leigh Hospice provides specialist care, for those who are living with a life-limiting illness, to over 1000 people every year. It is a registered charity in its Pearl Anniversary year, that has to raise over £4,500 daily from charitable sources.

The ducks are now on sale and are available to purchase online at www.daddysduckrace.co.uk To keep up to date with the event and find out more about what will be happening on the day please follow @ DaddysDuckRace on Twitter or like www.facebook. com/riccogginscharityball on Facebook.

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To say ‘Thank You’ to our customers on our 10th anniversary, we are offering half price treatments on Mondays only in June & July!

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Car Boot

Pub Walk

A Car Boot is being held this Saturday (25th May) at St Bernadette’s School on Church Lane in Shevington. The event runs from 9am-12 noon and will be inside the school if the weather is wet. Proceeds go to parish funds and local charities. If you fancy having a clear out then pre-booking is £7 per car and an ‘on the day’ booking will set you back £8. For details, please call 01257 425347.

Now that the weather’s a bit warmer, local walking group Wigan Walkers have renewed their popular Pub Walks series. The next walk leaves from the Robin Hood pub on Sandy Lane in Orrell on Tuesday 11th June, when the group will completes a 2 hour evening walk in the Orrell area. The group complete a pub walk every Tuesday in summer; see the website www. wiganwalkers.com for details.

Kindermusik Playdate

Wigan Walkers also take part in coach rambles, and the ramble this month is on Sunday the 30th June when the group visits Keswick in beautiful Borrowdale in the Lake District. There will be a choice of 3 different walks for you to choose from.

Bring the children along to Parbold Library on Friday 31st May and join in with the Kindermusik Playdate.

The kids can discover their favourite stories come to life through music, singing and dance. The playdate will take place from 10.30am-11.15am and is suitable for 0-5 year olds.

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For details of all the groups walks and social events, contact the secretary, Jill Shilladay 01257 421926 or email Jill.shilladay@btinternet.com.

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Formula Fun For fun on wheels for all the family, check out the Formula Fun event being held at the Three Sisters Race Circuit on Monday 10th June between 3pm-8pm. Cars and motorbikes are not allowed to this special event – it’s just bikes, bikes and more bikes!

Family Day The Independent Living Family Day will take place at Pennington Flash in Leigh on Saturday 29th June.

The day will highlight the resources available for disabled people living in Wigan Borough. Although the organisers will be addressing some very serious issues, they promise that the day will be a fun way to obtain lots of advice - a fun-filled informative day for all families in the local community and a great day out.

Entertainment includes singers, wrestlers, children’s fairground, school choirs, birds of prey and lots more.

There will be refreshments and a beer tent available, and Wish FM will be presenting on the day. The event is free of charge and runs from 11am-4pm.

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At the Three Sisters Race Circuit you can take a spin on the race track on your pushbikes and time your lap, visit the Bike Clinic and get some handy tips, try the bike agility course and get cycle tuition for your children. At the Three Sisters Recreation area next door, you can try the mapped cycle trail, go on a ride with others or have a go at the fun Run Challenge session. There’s also a two hour intensive Learn to Ride session – but you will need to book this particular session.

For more information call 01942 488481 or visit the website www.getactivewiganandleigh.co.uk.

Outfits for All

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21

Great Offer!

Too Good to be True?

Just imagine that someone stopped you in the street and offered to replace the old banger you’ve been driving around in with a new Mercedes. After checking you weren’t expected to swallow drugfilled condoms and drive the car through the nearest customs point, you’d snatch their hand off wouldn’t you? After all, it sounds too good to be true.

But there are exceptions to every rule and, boy oh boy, there is a new Government scheme called ECO which drives a boiler-sized hole through that theory! Not only can those who qualify get a brand spanking new Worcester Bosch boiler with a seven year guarantee, but they can also get loft insulation, solid wall insulation and other improvements free too!

So what’s this ECO scheme all about?

The ECO scheme is part of the Green Deal initiative and it’s all to do with reducing carbon emissions from the UK’s housing stock. The Government has to reduce the UK’s total carbon emissions and are working with the big energy companies to make homes more energy efficient.

ECO helps low income households living in areas of higher fuel poverty to become more energy efficient and lower their heating bills. And even if you don't qualify for a 100% boiler grant, ECO can provide a loan, as an alternative, enabling you to carry out energy efficient home improvements at no upfront cost.

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Let’s look at the benefits of ECO; • • • • •

Free energy saving measures for those who qualify Warmer home Cheaper fuel bills Peace of mind Increase in house value

And let’s look at the negatives • •

You have to get the boiler serviced every year (which you should do anyway) Erm…that’s it.

Check the list below to see if you qualify for free energy saving measures; Are you receiving state pension credit?

Are you receiving income related benefits, with a child and a household income of less than £15,860?

Are you receiving disability benefits, with a household income of less than £15,860?

You must live in your own home or be a private tenant (Not Housing Association), or you must be the Landlord of someone who meets the qualifying criteria.

If you have ticked any of the above boxes, you are eligible for free energy saving measures, though your boiler must be 8+years old (or G rated) to qualify for a free replacement boiler. Other energy saving measures available to you include cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and boiler repairs.

If you’re not eligible yourself, then have a think about your friends and family – could they benefit from ECO? You’d be doing them a massive favour by alerting them to the scheme as soon as possible. If you remember, the Government has got a track record with this kind of stuff. Extremely generous ‘feed-in’ tariffs were on for those householders who installed solar panels, until the take up rate went through the stratosphere and they cut the tariff for new applicants to the scheme because it was costing the country too much.

So you need to act now to take advantage of this offer; One of the best known local companies involved in the ECO scheme is Shevington-based F.G. Welch Ltd. Established in 1985, FG Welch Ltd has brought warmth to thousands of Wigan homes and has a reputation

that’s second to none in the local area. A couple of years ago, the company had the accolade of being awarded the top prize in the Wigan Good Trader Scheme, based on consistently high standards of feedback from their customers.

Though there are other accredited installers, FG Welch will be using the finest boilers from Worcester Bosch for ECO customers. Worcester Bosch Group boilers were recently voted the best Gas boiler brand by readers of Which magazine, and their boilers will be covered by a 7 year guarantee.

Here’s what to do; 1. Call FG Welch on 01257 421 660.

2. A Certified Advisor will visit and check your home and details 3. Once your eligibility is verified, FG Welch will be in touch to arrange a fitting date.

There are no charges involved in the process. Let me repeat, there are no charges involved. Not for the improvements, or for fitting, or for the Advisor.

Does this offer still sound too good to be true?

Yes it does, doesn’t it? Nevertheless, it is true, but you need to take action now before the goalposts move again. The best time to replace your boiler is obviously in the warmer summer months, so please call FG Welch as soon as possible on 01257 421 660.

www.locallife247.co.uk

If you need a new heating system or replacement boiler, call the installation specialists now for a free quote!

Our friendly family company has been serving the Lancashire area for over 25 years. For more details on our services please visit www.fgwelch.co.uk Our other services include; i Annual servicing i Landlord Gas safety checks i Home efficiency upgrades i System power flushing i All general plumbing

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23

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Branches: Coppull 01257 793880, Bryn 01942 271392 Standish 01257 422011, Scholes 01942 820526, Leigh 01942 261415, Beech Hill 01942 829200, Tyldesley 01942 887312

Head Office: Halliwell House, 758/768 Ormskirk Rd

Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8BB www.rbanksandson.co.uk

T: 01942 222156

Medieval Fayre For a summer fayre with a difference, do come along to the Medieval Fayre being held in the grounds and church of St Thomas the Martyr in Up Holland on Saturday July 6th from 1.00-4.00pm. Step back in time to the Medieval Era where there will be wandering minstrels, a local produce market and a wide variety of other interesting stalls.

There will be a host of attractions for children including a ballon race, court jester and archery, and the Fayre includes a barbecue and refreshing drinks.

Enjoy the stunning sounds of the Tapestry of Music and a host of other entertainments all free of charge.

History & Hotpot Come along to Mesnes Park in Wigan for a history event that includes a hotpot! You’ll be taken on a short history walk around the park and you’ll be able to find out all about the restoration of this handsome Victorian legacy.

The walk will be followed by a hot pot lunch in the Pavilion.

If you have any mementos of the park, then please bring them along and share them with others. The event runs from 10am-12pm on Wednesday 29th May, and the cost is £4 which includes the hotpot lunch. Booking for this event is essential – please call 01942 487098.

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We’ll give you a helping hand so that you can stay happy in your own home.

We give you;

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25

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If you want the crowds to come along to your next community group event, school fair or charity fundraiser, email the details to Local Life. Not only can we publish the event free in our three magazines in Wigan, St Helens and West Lancashire, but we can also tweet about your event to our many hundreds of followers on Twitter!

Email us the details of the event (what, where, when, why, who for, how much) along with a name and contact number and anything else you want to tell our readers. The earlier you can provide the information, the better the job we can do, so don’t delay – email us today editorial@locallife247.co.uk.

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CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Orrell, Wigan WiganWN5 WN5 7XB 7XB t: 01942 01942 738347 738347 w: w:www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk

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The plotline for The Audience is based around Queen Elizabeth and the weekly meetings she holds with successive Prime Ministers; the story imagines a series of pivotal meetings between the Downing Street incumbents and their Queen, and charts the arc of the second Elizabethan Age. Admission cost is £12.50 and the show starts at 7pm.

Lunch Club The Audience National Theatre Live is a ground-breaking project to broadcast the best of British theatre live from the London stage to cinemas around the world. Each live broadcast is filmed in front of a live audience in the theatre and cameras are carefully positioned throughout the theatre to ensure that cinema audiences enjoy the best possible experience every time.

The Parbold Picture House is part of this project and the next production is screened on Thursday 13th June at the Village Hall in Parbold. The production which is broadcast live from London’s Gielgud Theatre is The Audience, starring Helen Mirren. The show recently made headlines when Ms Mirren stepped out of character, and out of the cinema itself, to admonish drummers on the street for making too much noise.

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Did you know that Age UK hold a lunch club in the Appley Bridge area every fortnight? The Appley Bridge Lunch Club is held every second Thursday between 11.45am-2pm at the Appley Bridge Village Hall on Appley Lane North. For just £3, pensioners can enjoy a 2 course hot meal and drinks, and the session also has the occasional speaker and various activities. For more details call Age UK on 0300 303 1234.

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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

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30

(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)

Shevington

Trekkers Walk Coming up shortly is the annual fundraiser for Wigan and Leigh Hospice – Star Trekkers. Each year around 600 people take part in this special evening under the stars and raise approximately £40,000 for the Hospice in the process. This year’s walk takes place on Saturday 8th June and there’s a choice of an 8-mile route or a 5-mile route for those who want something a little less strenuous. Everyone who makes it back is welcomed with a medal.

The Hospice, who have just received £510,000 from the Department of Health towards their new £1.5m new outreach facility, is also looking for volunteers to help make the evening run more smoothly - people to work as marshals, man stalls, distribute items to walkers and help us with the pit stop. For more information about

the Trekkers Walk please contact the fundraising team on 01942 525566 or apply to join the Star Trekkers walk online at www.wlh.org.uk/trekkers.

Summer Fair Mark Saturday 29th June in your diary folks, because that’s when Wood Fold Primary School is holding their annual Summer Fair! The event takes place at the school on Green Lane in Standish and runs from 2pm-4pm.

Entry is free and stalls include a Play your Cards Right stall, a Fizzy Wheel stall, a Can Hoopla and an Alcoholic Hoopla. Forget your usual Sunday roast too because refreshments, including a BBQ, are available at the event and other attractions include a bouncy castle, a tombola, a raffle and face painting.

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Showroom open: Monday –Saturday 10am-5pm 63-65 High Street (next to Chadwick’s) Standish WN6 0HD

01257 425600 www.inspiredsolutionsstandish.co.uk

Summer Ball Dressing up, having lots of fun and raising money for a worthwhile charity. Sounds like a great night out doesn’t it? Then don’t miss the ChildLine Midsummer Ball which is taking place on Saturday 15th June 2013 in the Lion of Vienna Suite at the De Vere Whites Hotel in Horwich. Tickets for the Ball will cost £49, which includes a Champagne and Pimms reception and a four course dinner. Music and dancing will be provided by the fabulous Stephen Bayliss and Janette Monroe.

There will also be an auction, raffle and casino tables on the night.

ChildLine was launched in 1986 as the first national helpline for children in the world and since that launch, ChildLine has counselled over one million children.

In 2006, the charity became part of the NSPCC. All proceeds from the event will be used locally to support

the ChildLine Schools Service in the Wigan area. To book your tickets, call Dave Stewart on 07743 843 422 or Julie Cheetham on 07884 498 549 or visit www.childlineball. org.uk to buy tickets online.

Ladies Night A charity night in aid of the British Heart Foundation will take place at the Pemberton Central Labour Club in Enfield Street, Pemberton on Friday 21st June, starting at 7pm. The main highlight will be a fashion show from

by Kat Lou Chelle Online Boutique, and clothing from the boutique will be available on the night. Also in attendance will be numerous stalls including a Halsa Healing stall, a bag stall, cup cake stall, jewellery stall, handmade card stall and more. Tickets are £5 and includes a buffet. To buy your ticket contact Kate or Michelle on 07716 255055.

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33

Get Active – by Peter Bretherton

Effortless Fun Wouldn’t it be great if you could jump on a bike and enjoy long lazy summer days exploring local places of interest and the beauty of West Lancashire, without getting all hot, sweaty and out of breath?

With an e-bike you can do exactly this, so here I am on a sunny Wednesday morning outside UCYCLE2 at Heskin Old Hall Farm, off Half Penny Lane in Heskin.

I’m here with my work mate Sally to take two of UCYCLE2’s electric bikes out for the day and give you a taste of e-biking.

I’ve been cycling regularly for twenty five years and in addition to cycling to work most days, I also go on 60 mile rides most weekends. In complete contrast, Sally hasn’t been on a bike for years.

Instant Smiles We are given a quick explanation of the controls and within no time at all we’re off, heading towards Croston.

A mile into the ride and I’ve still got the bike set at 3 out of a possible 6 levels of assist, whilst Sally has upped her bike to level 5 and she’s whizzing along!. After a quick stop to take some photos in Croston we’re off again and soon on a quiet back road that winds its way past Bretherton and into the little hamlet of Sollom.

From Sollom we take the A59 south, at which point Sally decides to try out assist level 6. This doesn’t require any peddling at all and before I know it there’s a gap of about 40 metres between us and I’m struggling like crazy to keep up! We make short work of the 2 miles to Rufford Old Hall, reaching the dizzy speed of 17 mph!

Here we lock the bikes up next to the car park attendant’s hut and take a look around. Now this place is well worth a visit and meandering around the outside of the Hall gives you chance to stretch your legs. If you’re feeling a little parched at this point you can take advantage of the excellent tearoom and there are toilets there too.

Back at the bikes I check the battery level on the display and it’s still almost full, whilst Sally has only used a little more. The bikes have a range of around 20 to 25 miles on a full charge, without the need to peddle at all; great for commuting, going to the shops or just exploring the countryside. And if the battery does run out you still have a good range of gears to ride back home in at your own pace.

From Rufford Old Hall we continued on to our planned lunch stop at The Owd Barn Farm Café to enjoy some great food and

34

We were greeted by Sue at UCYCLE2, who remarked that everyone returns with a big smile on their face …and she’s not kidding. I’ve never been paid to have so much fun before, and both Sally and I are really impressed with the e-bikes and what they have to offer; all the benefits of cycling without the sweat and shortness of breath.

I rode the Batribike Granite and Sally rode the Batribike Diamond. If you’d like more information about e-bikes then do contact UCYCLE2.

lovely hospitality. To our delight there are cycle parking hoops there too, so you can lock the bikes up safely. 30 minutes later we’re fully refuelled and heading towards Parbold. We took the long way round though, taking a quiet back road through Hoscar and Newburgh.

Entering Parbold we head for the old windmill to take a look at the Mill House Gallery. After a quick tour we’re off again, this time heading towards Mawdesley and Cedar Farm. It doesn’t matter if you’re 17 or 70, going uphill on assist level 6 is a piece of cake…which is exactly what we enjoyed when we got to the café at Cedar Farm. Again, there are cycle parking hoops available to lock up the bikes whilst you’re browsing.

We are on the last leg of the journey and there’s now just 1½ miles back to UCYCLE2. After winding our way along more quiet lanes we soon arrive back at Heskin Old Hall Farm.

UCYCLE2 Electric Bikes Sales & Hire Location: Heskin Old Hall Farm

Halfpenny Lane, Heskin Lancashire

PR7 5PR Contact: 01257 253936 or 07867 422642 info@ucycle2.co.uk Details:

www.locallife247.co.uk

www.ucycle2.co.uk

35

Ride Directions Leaving UCYCLE2 take a right out of the farm and head down to the bottom of Tannersmith Lane. Go left, then immediately right into Sid Brook Lane. Entering Croston go left on reaching the A581. Where the road takes a sharp left, go straight on into Station Road and up to mini roundabout, turning left onto the B5249. Before reaching the village of Bretherton turn left into Back Lane. At Sollom turn left onto the A59 and after about 2 miles turn left into Rufford Old Hall.

Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear whilst cycling. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the ride 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.

Back Lane

9

A581

Sid

Croston Parish Church

Eccleston

Bro ane

ok L

B5246

Rufford Old Hall

UCYCLE2

Rufford

Ha

lf P en

ny L

9 A5

Cedar Farm

Owd Barn Cafe e

246

B5

Hoscar

ain

Heskin Green

an

sL

M

n

B5250

Mawdesley

e

an

sL

36

Croston A581

an

Burscough

Sollom

De

Head over the railway crossings and Mere Brow up The Common until reaching and turning left onto the B5246. Follow this up the hill and left into Robin Lane, then after about 100 metres turn right into Grimshaw Green Lane. At the end of the lane turn left onto Maltkiln Lane, following the road down to the Eagle & Child pub on the right. Take a right turn just after the pub into Back Lane, following this until arriving at Cedar Farm on your right. Leaving Cedar Farm turn right out of the car park and follow the lane until taking a right into Moody Lane and then left into Back Lane. On reaching Riley Lane go left and then right into Salt Pit Lane, before taking another right into Hall Green Lane. This brings you to the junction of Tannersmith Lane and Half Penny Lane where you started the ride.

B525

3

Bretherton

A5

From Rufford Old Hall turn left onto the A59, then take another left into Church Road (B5246) following the road until you reach the Owd Barn Farm. Leaving Owd Barn Farm, go left out onto the B5246 towards Parbold.

After about half a mile turn right into Mains Lane. Just before reaching the village of Hoscar turn left into Dean Lane; following this over the railway line, under the canal and up onto Back Lane. Go left here and on into Newburgh.

At the mini roundabout keep left 9 A5 and follow the A5209 going left Bank Hall again at the next mini roundabout until turning left into Mill Lane at Red Bridge Parbold.

B5209

Parbold Mill House Gallery

B5209

Wrightington

www.locallife247.co.uk

37

Singing Workshop If you can hold a tune with the best of them and you’d like to develop your singing voice further, then you’ll be interested in an open day workshop which is being held in June by the Wigan Community Choir. This fabulous whole day open workshop is being led by singers from the Glaswegian folk singing group Muldoon’s Picnic who sing a cappella style.

Participants will have the opportunity to develop their ability to sing this catchy style of music with confidence and to improve their

general singing and performance skills. Muldoon’s Picnic will perform a range of folk music during the day and the workshop will conclude with a short concert, by participants for family and friends.

The cost is just £6 per person (£4 concessions), but prior booking is essential as places are strictly limited. The event will be held on Saturday 8th June between 10am- 4pm at Sacred Heart Primary School on Springfield Road in Wigan. There are no requirements to be a member of a choir or to be able to read music. For more details about the day please contact Jo Hunt on 01942 824923 or email wigancommunitychoir@hotmail.com.

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Art Exhibition The Standish Art Group is holding an exhibition at the Great House Information Centre in Rivington Lane in Horwich from June 30th to August 3rd. The paintings displayed will be of various styles and media with most of the artwork for sale. Entrance is free. For opening times, call 01204 691549.

Summer Fayre Appley Bridge Pensioners Social Club is having a Summer Fayre on Wednesday 12th June at 2pm in the village hall, which is located on Appley Lane North in Appley Bridge. There will be many stalls, selling cakes, plants, gifts and more. Refreshments will be available and there will also be a tombola. Admission is free. For details, contact Mrs Clare Melling on 01257 255108.

Summer Concert Wigan Choral Society, a mixed choir, will perform a Summer Concert of madrigals and part-songs, instrumental solos and duets on Saturday 8th June from 7:30pm. The concert takes place at Trinity United Reformed Church in Milton Grove in Wigan. Tickets are £8, concessionaries pay £7 and children are admitted for £3 – to buy your tickets please call 01942 830766.

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39

Your Health - by Dr Mike Paull Chiropractor

Laughter

surprise you to learn that there are many charities whose professional clowns regularly visit hospitals to entertain children in cancer wards.

As you will be aware, I always take the health of both readers of this column and my patients very seriously. That said, I believe in finding light hearted, even, fun ways to improve one’s health. With this in mind, I’d like you to have a look at how good laughter is for your general health and well being.

Laughter is a profound tonic and restorative for our psychological and emotional well-being. It’s easy to appreciate that whilst you are laughing, it is difficult to be afflicted by the more negative emotions such as anxiety, worry, stress and sadness. Laughter is a natural way to relieve stress and tension. It is not for nothing that we laugh at those situations in life which can be difficult to face.

I think that we all are intuitively aware of how good laughter is for us. We are all familiar (I hope) with how good we feel after hearing an amusing tale or watching our favourite stand-up comic. I believe that it’s a very basic human need to laugh and smile and I certainly encourage this with my patients (though how funny they would say I am is another matter entirely).

As a treatment for physical pain, laughter is second to none. Groucho Marx is famously reputed to have said “A clown is like an aspirin except that it works twice as fast.”

It is well known that laughter releases endorphins, which are the body’s own rather powerful yet natural painkillers.

These endorphins exert pain relieving effects on the parts of our brain which perceive pain.

Even in serious ill health such as cancer, laughter still has a role to play alongside conventional medicine. It may

The prevention of ill health can also be achieved with the use of laughter, with many studies showing that it (even in a laboratory setting would you believe!) boosts immunity via the activity of certain chemicals in your body which fight disease such as infection.

So how do we best receive our dose(s) of laughter? I think most of us instinctively know that any joke is much funnier when shared with someone else, and so I would say try to make sure that someone else is quite literally infected with your laughter!

Your prescription might include watching or visiting a comedy show, doing a childish activity with your kids (they know how to laugh), or watching some comedy. Go with whatever tickles you!

Keep laughing and keep healthy, Dr Mike Paull, Chiropractor

Home visits also available in: Southport, West Lancs & surrounding areas

40

SUFFERING WITH MUSCLE, JOINT OR NERVE PAIN?

A

t Wigan Family Chiropractic Clinic, our team of Chiropractors and therapists can help to relieve most types of muscle, joint and nerve pain.

What sorts of problem can you help me with? We can relieve pain that is caused by a variety of muscle, joint and nerve problems. This includes both new and old pain resulting from your job, sports, poor posture, accidents and some types of arthritis or wear & tear.

We specialise in treating neck and back pain as well as pulled muscles, stiff joints and trapped nerves.

How can you help me? We always start off with a 45 minute consultation and examination to find the underlying causes of your problem. We then use gentle, safe hands-on treatments to relieve your pain.

How soon can you help me?

We are open six days a week and offer appointments the same or the next day.

We are open Monday-Friday 8am-7pm, Saturdays 8am-4pm.

Why do we offer gentle treatments?

Because we treat young children and senior citizens, we know that people prefer gentle, painless treatments.

Don’t suffer with muscle, joint or nerve pain!

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Why do you have a digital x-ray department? We have our own digital x-ray department at the clinic so that we can take and show you your pictures within 24 hours.

This helps us to show you the underlying causes of your problem, allowing us to start treatment quickly and get you out of pain.

• Consultation & Examination £62 • Digital X-ray pictures (per area) £62 • Treatment sessions (each) £36

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41

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Ashton Showroom: 367, Bryn Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, WN4 8BS

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With our system these is no need to remove the roof – but we can achieve stunning external results with our top of the range slating options Freedom did our porch and conservatory and we now have balanced heat throughout the downstairs and I am saving £15.00 per week alone on Gas. The fitting team were brilliant and had it all done in 3 days. Our best room in the house is now our conservatory, which before Freedom came along, was unused - Mrs Gillbanks from Poolstock

Wigan Showroom: JGB Investment Park, Stephens Way, Goose Green, Wigan, WN3 6PG

Call 08456 860 542 | 07761 966 024 www.locallife247.co.uk

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Money & Investments - by David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP)

Avoiding Investment Mistakes In Retirement Do you manage your own investments and have you been happy with their performance? Whilst investors have endured a roller coaster ride over the last few years the investment fundamentals have remained unchanged. There are a number of common errors that investors make and therefore I thought it useful to familiarise Local Life readers with just a few of the mistakes that investors often make when attempting to manage their money.

Investment Objectives and Portfolio Strategy

Time Horizons

Overlooking Unintended Risk Factors

How long do you think you will live? Usually investors are far too conservative which can be a problem when planning their futures. With medical treatment becoming far more effective most people are now living far longer than they imagine they will. Clearly the danger is that funds will be depleted before their lives are over. It is important to have a sound financial strategy that will provide stability and provide income needs throughout ones life.

Managing a diversified portfolio of assets can be fraught with hidden risks.

Too often portfolios are overexposed to certain risk factors that were never properly recognised. Unintended concentration produces excess risk. This exposes a portfolio to larger fluctuations and the possibility of accelerated losses. Factors such as sector, country, currency all play a roll in a sensibly

Aligning your objectives with your portfolio strategy is critical to determining your long term investment success. A common error is misjudging risk .Generally, the longer the investment time horizon, the more risk one is able to take on. Too many investors focus on short term volatility rather than long term probabilities of achieving their objectives. Those with a short time horizon objective that overly expose themselves to risk can create a real danger of asset loss during a short term period of volatility which can put their entire financial future in jeopardy.

Brought to you by David Barton of Prosper Independent Financial Advisers who is a Chartered Financial Planner specialising in investment and pensions advice to the over 50s.

David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP)

Telephone: 01257 423 800

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Call Prosper today on 01257 423 800 to arrange your no obligation initial consultation. www.prosper-ifa.co.uk

diversified portfolio. Quite often two different securities that “on the face of it” appear different can have similar correlation and consequently market factors such as interest rate movements or commodity price changes can affect both holdings in the same way. Too high a concentration of any of these can expose your assets to risks you never intended Ignoring Global Markets As a result of globalisation there are a significant number of investment opportunities to take advantage of. Try not to make the common mistake of sticking to the domestic market. If you suffer from a home country bias (even with diversification across different sectors) the returns are still in part linked to the overall economic performance and political climate of the

your assets. Investing abroad can help strengthen your portfolio by creating a larger pool of opportunities from which to find worthy investments.

Over Confidence It is only natural to experience emotional fluctuations as you watch the ups and downs of the market each day, after all it’s your financial future. This can cloud judgement and hamper the ability to make rational decisions. Many investors focus on their successes and forget the mistakes they have made. Creating these barriers that block mistakes and over exaggerate success can build an air of over confidence. This may lead to taking on excessive portfolio risk. That is why it is vital to create an environment that is detached from emotion, one that relies on data and impartial analysis to make the right decisions for your financial future.

Have you made any of these mistakes?

It is very difficult to avoid all of the investment pitfalls – even for the most experienced of investors.

Many investors simply do not have the time or resource to process the vast amount of data available and then to apply it to their personal investment requirement.

If you need help please do not hesitate to give us a call.

home country. Geographical diversification is a key part to building a well constructed portfolio that will grow

The value of investment and the income from them can fluctuate which may result in clients receiving less than initially invested. Past performance should not be seen as an indication to future returns

Choosing a financial partner maybe the most important decision you’ll ever make.

• Investment and Pension Reviews • Portfolio Management • Annuity Advice • Inheritance Tax/Estate Planning Advice • Trustee Investment Guidance

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

www.locallife247.co.uk

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Competition Winners The lucky winners of our competition to win family tickets for Gulliver’s World were Tracey Lloyd from Heyes Street in Appley Bridge (pictured with daughter Poppie Jayne), Mr Groombridge from Dowling Close in Standish Lower Ground, Cyril Barnett from Whitley Crescent in Wigan and Vicki Loftus from Harswell Close in Orrell.

Well done to all the winners!

You can win a family ticket to Farmer Ted’s, the children’s activity park near Ormskirk, in this month’s competition; check out the details on pages 68 and 69 of this magazine.

Social Night All Saint’s Church in Appley Bridge is holding a Social Night in June to raise money for church funds. The night takes place on Friday 14th June at the school hall of All Saints School on Finch Lane. Running from 7pm10pm, the evening will involve a talent show, a quiz, a sandwich supper and a raffle. Tickets are priced at £5 for adults and £1 for children and you’ll need to bring your own drinks for the event. For more information on the evening, please visit the church’s website at www. allsaintschurch.co.uk.

Call Andrea on: 07827 774471 Email: areid@bookkeepingsolutions.org.uk

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Accountancy - by Chris Alcock ACMA

Hands-on Guide to the Budget This month we are reviewing the recent budget and looking at how this will impact you.

1 Personal Allowances increase to £9,440 for everyone from 6th April 2013. It is important to check that you have the correct tax code on your wage slip. From April 2014 this will rise to £10,000!

2 Child benefit to be partly removed – There are important rule changed from 06 January 2013 that will affect you. Where at least one person earns over £50,000 you could end up having to pay back some of the money you have received.

3 Changes to Child Tax Credits – Payments depend on your circumstances and the thresholds have changed.

If you are unsure about how these changes may affect your please contact us for advice.

4 Company Car Drivers – The tax paid on the benefit of having a company car will increase. There are incentives for choosing a car with low CO2 emissions and these should be looked at when selecting your next car.

5 Business Capital Allowances - The amount of money a business can spend on capital equipment has increased to £250,000 per year. This is a very important area for tax planning if you are a small business and can save you £000’s if implemented correctly.

6 VAT – The main rate of VAT remains at 20%. If you are a business, the threshold for registering for VAT has increased to £79,000. If you run a business and need

any advice on VAT please contact us as we can advise you on what is the best scheme for your business.

If you’d 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. If you would like to see how we can help please get in touch.

Tax Tips of the Month Are you a business and employ staff?

Real Time Information (RTI) will require all employers to report PAYE/NI deductions to HMRC on a real time basis. In order to meet the requirements of RTI most businesses will need to review their software to make sure it is up to date. CMA can provide an outsourced payroll system.

SPECIAL OFFER If you contact CMA before 30 June and ask us for advice you will receive a discount of 25% off our standard charge. To claim this discount just mention the article when you contact us.

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

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Village Festival Parbold’s Village Festival takes place this year on Saturday 13th July at the playing fields off Alder Lane between 1-5pm. Prizes are up for grabs in the following sections; Flowers, Fruit and Vegetables, Domestic (Food), Handicrafts, Art and Photography. There are also 24 different classes for children’s efforts too. If you’re interested in entering an exhibit, please pick up a Festival Schedule from the DIY Centre on The Common or from Parbold Library.

full coaching is available. You can pop down and meet the team and join in their outdoor nets session every Saturday morning.

They can be found from 10.30am-12.30pm at the Newburgh Sports Club on Cobbs Brow Lane - for more information please contact Andy Coomber on 07846 172328.

• Re-upholstery • Repair • Large range of materials to choose from • Domestic & Commercial work undertaken

Newburgh Cricket Club Would your child like to play cricket for Newburgh Cricket Club? They are looking for boys and girls from Year 4 and upwards to join their friendly club. It doesn’t matter if your son or daughter hasn’t played before as

Master Upholsterer with over 30 years experience

Call - 01942 238 427 email: ken@oldfieldupholstery.co.uk

The place to be for authentic Thai food!

THE TAVERN Bar & Thai Restaurant 2 course special lunch £6.95 2 course all days fixed price £10.95

not available Friday & Saturday after 6:30pm

À la Carte menu also available Food served all day at Tavern bar ground floor

Restaurant Opening Hours Monday 5 - 11pm Tueday - Sunday Lunch 12 - 3 pm Dinner 5 - 11pm www.thaitavernhouse.com

Tel 01942 375 413

37 Mesnes Street, Wigan, WN1 1QP

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Not available on Saturday after 7pm Only one voucher per booking Voucher does not include drinks.

Valid until 30 June 2013

Making a claim and your “No Claims Bonus” Often after being involved in a road traffic accident people are concerned that pursuing a claim for injury and vehicle repair may mean their insurance premiums are increased when renewal time comes around.

Insurance is not optional, and with the cost of the same increasing with every year it is important that you do all that you can to keep this cost as low as possible.

If you choose to instruct us to help you with your personal injury claim we guarantee that your claim will only be dealt with by an experienced member of staff who will listen to your concerns and deal with your claim as quickly and efficiently as possible. We act on a “no win no fee” basis.

If you have been involved in an accident call us on 01942 211670 to discuss any potential claim with our local, experienced team.

If the fault for your accident clearly lies with the other vehicle then your insurance company may not even need to be involved. You do have an obligation to report any accident you are involved in to your insurance company, but you do not need to use their recommended garage, or panel solicitor to pursue your claim for losses.

As you are not relying upon your insurance company, your No Claims Bonus will remain intact. If the other vehicle is disputing responsibility for the accident your insurance premiums may well be affected. This does not mean that you should resign yourself to a permanent hike in the cost of insurance. If a claim is pursued against you it is important that you co-operate fully with your insurance company. Give them a very detailed response to all questions asked, and ensure that you get your version of events across to your insurance company.

It may be that your premiums are altered while a disputed claim is resolved, but when a case has been resolved in your favour, any increase in premiums will be reduced again. Another problem you may face after an accident is that the person who was responsible for the accident was not insured.

At Craig and Co we specialise in personal injury claims of all types. We guarantee that your claim will only be dealt with by an experienced member of staff who will listen to your concerns and deal with your claim as quickly and efficiently as possible.

We act on a “no win no fee” basis and you will keep 100% of your compensation.

If you have been involved in an accident call us on 01942 211670 to discuss any potential claim with our local, experienced team.

This means that there is no insurance company to pursue for your losses and ultimately this will affect your insurance premiums, even though the accident is not your fault. It is therefore advisable to take out a cover with your policy to protect your premiums from an accident with an uninsured driver in order to protect your no claims bonus.

The best way to protect your no claims bonus is to always co-operate fully with your insurance company, and get independent legal advice if you are ever unsure or want a second opinion. At Craig and Co we specialise in personal injury claims of all types, and can help you with any queries you may have about any aspect of making a claim.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Call - 01942 211670 19 Queens Court, Wardley Street, Wigan WN5 8BF

victoria@craigandcolaw.co.uk www.craigandcolaw.co.uk

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What’s On in the North West Southport Food & Drink Festival

Summer Pops 2013

The Southport Food and Drink Festival at Victoria Park has an abundance of fresh produce, a wealth of local restaurants, plenty of drink, plus a selection of the region’s finest chefs demonstrating their kitchen skills.

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra performs at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. The James Bond Night is on Wednesday 12th June and Last Night of the Summer Pops is on Tuesday 25th June. Concessions and group discounts available.

Friday 31st May – Sunday 2nd June (11am – 6pm, Fri 12pm-6pm) Cost: Free Details: 01704 533333 Where: PR8 2BZ When:

Southport Country Fair This popular family event moves to a new home at the Leisure Lakes at Mere Brow. In previous years, attractions and displays have included: alpacas, archery, paintballing range, bug house, dedicated dog arena with shows and agility demonstrations, donkey show and rides, falconry, ferrets, gun dog displays, gymnastics, homing pigeons, honey bees, horse logging and much more.

Wednesday 12th June & Tuesday 25th June (7.30pm Start) Cost: £6 Details: 0151 709 3789 / www.liverpoolphil.com Where: L1 9BP When:

The Northern Home Show

Friday 31st May - Sunday 2nd June (10am-5.30pm) Cost: Adults £5, Child £1 Details: 01704 212734 / www.garden-festivals.com Where: PR4 6JX When:

Chorley Carnival After 20 years Chorley Carnival is back for 2013 at Astley Park with a fun filled weekend for the whole family.

There will be a carnival procession, arena entertainment, marching bands, Morris Dancers, a dog show; also it’s a Knockout, a Fun Fair, a Craft Fair and so much more. Great laughs for all!

When: Friday 7th June - Sunday 9th June Details: www.chorleycarnival.com Where: PR7 1NP

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If you’re interested in inspirational design ideas and the latest products and services for the home then look no further than the Northern Home Show at EventCity near the Trafford Centre. The Show features free seminars, live demonstrations and advice from the experts.

Friday 14th June - Sunday 16th June (10am - 5pm) Cost: £8 per person (Under 16 free) Details: www.northernhomeshow.co.uk Where: M41 7TB When:

Leyland Festival Leyland Festival 2013 at Worden Park will have a USA theme. It will offer a good value day out for all the family, celebrating local people, businesses and community groups who pull together to make sure the festival continues to go from strength to strength.

When: Saturday 15th June Details: 01772 625441 / www.visitleyland.co.uk Where: PR25 3DH

Cheshire County Show

Classic American Car Show

Cheshire County Show celebrates its 175th anniversary with another action-packed event. With its rural theme, the main focus of the show will once again be livestock, horses and dogs in competition. There will be a Countryside Experience Area where the public will pursuits such as falconry and ferreting. Visitors will also be able to sample to culinary delights and see demos at the Food Hall.

One of the UK’s premier Classic American car shows is at Tatton Park Gasp in awe at the Wild West Shoot-out, the Wall of Death, cheerleaders, live bands and lots more!! This event has a very busy trade area with stands selling all things American plus general trade stalls. There’s a beer tent, food bars and refreshments. National Trust parking charge £5 per car.

When: Tue 18th June - Wed 19th June (8am-6pm) Cost: Adult £17, OAP £14, Children £8 Details: 01565 650200 www.cheshirecountyshow.org.uk Where: WA16 0HJ

When: Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th July Cost: Adults £7.50, U/15 £5, U/10 free Details: 01565 723863 / 07915 221737 www.cheshireautopromotions.co.uk Where: WA16 6QN

Wigan Festival of Transport

Green Fayre

This new festival, which is held at the DW Stadium site in Wigan, will include a range of vehicles on static display, including classic, vintage and commercial vehicles, fire engines, military trucks, and a variety of specialist car clubs and trade stalls. There’s also a craft fair, a traditional fun fair, and a model engineers’ tent too.

The Green Fayre, which is held at the Beacon Country Park, is West Lancashire Borough Council’s premier countryside event, celebrating the great outdoors and countryside life.

Don’t miss demonstrations in a variety of woodland crafts including, chainsaw carving, willow weaving, basket making and hooping. The show arena will also include sheepdog trials, Viking battles and birds of prey displays. There will even be a music marquee housing a variety of folk and traditional music performers.

When: Cost: Details: Where:

Sat 20th July & Sun 21st July (11am-5pm) Free 01695 622794 WN8 7RU

RHS Flower Show

When: Cost: Details: Where:

Saturday 22nd June - Sunday 23rd June Adult £4, Children £2 01942 496855 / www.festivaloftransport.co.uk WN5 0UH

The North’s greatest garden party returns to Tatton Park with lots of fresh ideas for visitors who enjoy growing their own fruit and veg. See them at the Great British Allotment area, or if ornamental plants are more your thing, head to the Floral Marquee to find a huge choice from some of the UK’s top nurseries.

The Secret Garden What lies behind the mysterious door in the garden wall?

Classic children’s tale by Frances Hodgson Burnett, retold

by The Bookworm Players, Liverpool’s premier children’s theatre company. Outdoor theatre on the iconic North Lawn at Speke Hall. Please wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear, don’t forget your picnic! Gates open 6pm, performance starts 7pm, booking is essential.

When: Saturday 29th June Cost: Adult £10, Child £5 Details: 0151 427 7231 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/spekehall Where: L24 1XD

www.locallife247.co.uk

Don’t miss our Galaxy Gardens, which look set to create some fascinating show garden designs. And there’s more than a touch of glamour thanks to Ladies Day, which returns by popular demand on Friday 26th July.

When: Cost: Details: Where:

Thursday 25th July – Sunday 28th July £23.50 www.rhs.org.uk WA16 6QN

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Wordsearch Sudoku

Puzzle Corner

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Guess where?

Photo courtesy of Wigan Heritage Services http://wiganimages.wlct.org/ Answers are on page 80 of this magazine airport beach bistro break cafe camping caravan coast cottage cruise ferry fishing flight haven hiking

holiday hotel jet ski journey lodge museum outing packing park play pool reading resort rest sailing

sand sea suitcases sunbathe tour

Fun Weekend The Late May Bank Holiday is set to be Burscough Wharf’s biggest fun day yet with a host of family entertainment planned including; music, dance, face painting, stocks, locally produced beers, BBQ and displays from local dance schools. For budding singers there will also be an open mic opportunity organized by Adam Christopher’s School of Musical Excellence.

From 12pm on Saturday 25th, Sunday 26th and Monday 27th May, taste buds are set to be tickled as a host of locally produced ciders, beers and sausages will be on sale along with a hog roast prepared by the Blue Mallard. There will be live music and family entertainment throughout the afternoons and evenings.

On Sunday 27th May the return of the hugely popular Burscough Wharf Raft Race will take place as teams of local groups, businesses and friends compete to stay afloat. Donations for entry will be given to the Alfie Lund Fund; forms can be collected from M.Bar.K. For those who don’t want to risk getting wet, there’s a drier option of taking part in the duck race. Ducks can be purchased for £5 and all proceeds go to the Alfie Lund Fund. Admission is FREE so pop down and join in the fun!

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First & Last - by Nicola Gray

co rah Acorah

Derek

Derek Acorah was born in 1950 in Bootle, Liverpool – born as Derek Johnson he later changed his surname to his grandmother’s maiden name. His early career was playing football under the legendary Bill Shankly at Liverpool FC. After leaving Liverpool he played for clubs such as Stockport and Wrexham before leaving the UK to join the Australian team USC Lions.

Derek is a now a professional medium; he is best known for his work on Most Haunted, broadcast on Living TV, and recently presented the series Derek Acorah on Sky Real Lives. Derek’s first supernatural experience happened when he was a child and the spirit of his late Grandfather visited him.

He currently lives in Scarisbrick with his wife Gwen and their two dogs Jack and Penny. Derek is a keen fish-keeper and also enjoys looking after his flock of chickens and ducks.

First Memory My first memory is living at my grandmother’s house in Bootle where my family stayed whilst my father was away at sea – we had a great time!

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First School

The first school that I attended was Holy Ghost Infant School in Bootle. I enjoyed it very much and my lasting memory was the kindness of the teachers.

First Job My first job was as an apprentice professional footballer with Liverpool Football Club. I felt privileged to be there with the great Bill Shankly as manager. I was paid £10 per week plus bonuses. There were always high jinks going on with the players and us apprentices!

First Car The first car I ever bought was a Triumph Courier Estate.

I bought it for £25 and sold it 12 months later for £100.

I remember it with fondness as it was the only time I ever made money on a car.

First House The first house I ever bought cost £2,800 when I was married to my first wife Joan. We had many happy memories there even though our residence was brief as we travelled to live in Australia after I left Liverpool FC for Australian premier side USC Lion.

First Pub or Club The first pub I ever visited was the Sefton Arms Pub in Aintree, not too far from the racecourse. It had a warm and sociable atmosphere and was visited by many of the people I knew from home. The first club I ever visited was called The Beachcomber on Seel Street in Liverpool city centre. It was a place where all the Liverpool and Everton football players used to congregate on a Saturday night if we were playing at home. It was considered to be the place to go in the late sixties!

First Record

Last Disagreement

The first record I ever purchased was Hard Day’s Night by The Beatles and I bought it from NEM’s in Whitechapel, Liverpool. NEM’s was the place where everybody bought their records in those days; it was almost a social occasion going along there to listen to your records in one of the booths. I enjoyed listening to all the Mersey Beat but I have a particular soft spot for Gerry Marsden and his music.

I don’t recall having a disagreement over anything in particular, unless of course it was with my wife over the TV controls!

First Friend My first friend was Frank Dowd who lived on the same housing estate as our family. Frank still lives in Liverpool and I still speak to him sometimes.

First Kiss My first kiss was with a girl who I had a big crush on at the time; her name was Linda Nixon and she lived in the Old Roan area of Liverpool. It was just one kiss and I have no idea where she is now.

Last Restaurant The last restaurant I visited was an Italian restaurant in South Sea whilst I was on tour. The only place I would visit to eat whilst at home is Master McGraths in Scarisbrick; I travel all over the country and eaten in some wonderful places but none of them compare with the food and the service you receive at Master McGraths. Top marks to Jim and Trudy Simes!

Last Shopping Trip My last shopping trip was a couple of weeks ago when I went to Southport to buy some clothes. I do enjoy strolling around the shops and often visit either Southport or Ormskirk. Liverpool One is also a good place to go if you want more choice but I prefer somewhere closer to home.

Last Holiday We are fortunate enough to own a property in the South Costa Blanca, and we tend to spend our holiday breaks there. It’s a wonderful place to go because it is out in the Spanish countryside and well away from the tourist areas; we are completely cut off from our working life, its bliss!

Last Sporting Event This was my favourite game – football! We went to watch a match at Anfield, I really enjoy it there. I also enjoy watching rugby and boxing, although I have never been to a boxing match.

Last DIY Task My wife bought me a dozen chickens for my birthday in 2012; so the last DIY task that I completed was building a chicken coop prior to their arrival. I think it was reasonably successful; I don’t normally enjoy DIY at all. I’d much rather watch somebody else do it!

Last Film To be honest I don’t visit the cinemas at all; if ever I watch a film it is at home on the television.

www.locallife247.co.uk

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The Green Thing Whilst taking the weekly shop through the tills at the local superstore, it was suggested to a customer by the young cashier that she should bring her own grocery bags in future because plastic bags weren’t good for the environment. The customer explained, ‘We didn’t have this green thing back in my earlier days’ and the cashier replied, ‘that’s our problem today; your generation did not care enough to save our environment for future generations’.

So was she right?

Back then, we returned bottles to the shop or to the ‘pop man’, who returned them to the plant to be washed and sterilised and refilled, so it could use the same bottles over and over. We carried our own plates to the chippy every Friday for our tea. We didn’t climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go up the road.

Back then, we washed the baby’s nappies because we didn’t have disposable nappies. We dried clothes on a line using wind and solar power, not by throwing them in an energy gobbling machine. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not throwaway clothing from Primark.

When we were thirsty we drank corporation pop from a tap instead of opening a plastic bottle and we refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen.

Back then, we had one TV in the house – not one in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief, not a screen the size of a small football pitch. In the kitchen, we blended and stirred by hand because

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we didn’t have electric machines to do everything for us.

Back then, we didn’t fire up an engine and burn petrol just to cut the lawn. We used to push a mower that ran on human power. We exercised by working, so we didn’t need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity.

Back then, kids walked or rode their bikes when they went to school or visited their friends, instead of turning their parents into a 24-hour taxi service. We had one electrical socket in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And we didn’t need a computerised gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest pub.

But isn’t it sad that the current generation laments how wasteful we old folks were just because we didn’t have the green thing back then? If only they knew…..

Despite our best efforts, the author of this article remains unknown.

High Society Orrell Musical & Dramatic Society are due to perform the bright and breezy musical High Society from Wednesday 24th to Saturday 27th July at St Michael’s Parish Hall in Shaw Street, Swinley. Adapted from the 1956 film High Society fizzes with a selection of Cole Porter songs including ‘True Love’, ‘Who Wants To Be a Millionaire’ and ‘Well, Did You Evah?’ The story follows wealthy socialite Tracy Lord as she plans a lavish summer wedding to George Kitteridge. However, when ex-husband, Dexter Haven and then charming reporter Mike Connor arrive on the scene the audience is left guessing which groom the bride will choose. Tickets are priced at £7.50 (concessions available for £6.50 on Wednesday and Thursday) and are available from Carol on 01695 622713.

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telephone

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Stuart Calland • Plastering & Coving • Bathrooms & Tiling • Decorating & Plumbing • Insurance Work undertaken • Full House Refurbishments

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Wirral Drive, Winstanley Call - 01942 216735 or 07725 909 257 www.locallife247.co.uk

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Jack’s Tracks

Martin The scarcely populated area north west of Burscough was traditionally known as Martin, or Marton, and this name is survived only in place names such as Martin Mere, Martin Hall and the Martin Inn. Generally the more hills a walk has, the more interesting it is, but this six mile walk is completely on flat terrain and yet has lots of points of interest. Do take a camera or binoculars with you; there are a few hides on the section of the walk that passes by Martin Mere and it’s worth pausing there for a few minutes.

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to refreshments on the walk – you’ll pass 5 pubs, two tea shops and an ice cream parlour en route!

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The Farm – Martin Mere Park up at The Farm, on Martin Lane in Burscough (L40 0RT). If you fancy an early start to hear the dawn chorus round Martin Mere, then this place is a 4 star B&B and has a campsite too. Whilst I can’t testify how comfortable The Farm is, I can tell you that the breakfasts are legendary!

Exit the car park and turn left and carry on down the track. Within a couple of minutes, the track forks near some greenhouses on the left; go straight on and then about 50 yards later turn right where the footpath symbol is.

Head down that track for 500 yards until you reach the railway crossing. Taking great care, negotiate the gate or the stile and cross the railway line. Please close the gates behind you too. Once you have safely crossed the line, carry straight on down the track for another 250 yards. If you look over to the right you can see the hides at Martin Mere and in the distance in the left is the Windmill at the Windmill Animal Farm.

Martin Mere - Burscough Once you reach the decrepit green tin shed, turn right and head towards Martin Mere. In the distance you’ll see some wooden gates. Go through the gates and turn right. The path bears left following the boundaries of Martin Mere. Have a peek through the hide at the Long Horn Cattle grazing in the next field. Once you’ve passed by a couple of ponds on the right, you’ll come to a wooden gate; turn left at this point, cross over the brook and turn left again through wooden gate and then take a direct right turn down the track.

Once you’ve reached Fish Lane, cross over and turn right. Follow the main road for 500 yards through the hamlet of Tarlscough, and past Marsh Moss Lane and Brandreth Barn Tea Rooms. Once you reach the public footpath sign just after the Tea Rooms, turn right and go through the farm yard. Head toward the opening between the last farm building (look for the small footpath sign) and a fishing pond and turn left after the pond down a track. You should see Burscough in the distance.

Heading up this track, the waters of Martin Mere are on your left hand side and you will see a couple of hides up ahead. Take a few minutes breather in the hides and you’ll see some wonderful sights! Once you’ve reached the end of the track, go through the wooden gate and you’ll have a multitude of paths to choose from. Take the path directly ahead which runs parallel with the metal fence – the fence should be on your left as you walk down this path.

You follow this track in the same direction for ½ mile, following the signs towards the Burscough Bridge Interchange. Just after you’ve passed a bench on the right hand side, you’ll come to another set of signposts on a bend. Follow the sign in the direction of Moss Nook and cross the field until you reach Moss Nook.

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Follow Moss Nook up to the T-junction and then turn right onto Red Cat Lane. Follow Red Cat Lane to the T-junction with Liverpool Road and then turn right.

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Cross the railway bridge and head through Burscough village.

Burscough – The Farm Cross over at the pedestrian crossing and then turn left into Lord Street, taking an immediate right into Burscough Wharf. If you’re flagging a bit at this point, there are seats at the Wharf and toilets too, and you could also stop for a cheeky pint or an ice cream!

Head out of the wharf towards the canal, and turn right along the canal for the last leg of the walk. ¾ of a mile further on you’ll see the Slipway Pub on the other side of the canal. Cross Crabtree Lane and carry on in the same direction down the canal towpath. After 450 yards you’ll reach New Lane and the recently refurbished Farmers Arms, which is again on the other side of the canal. Cross New Lane and carry on in the same direction down the canal towpath. Watch out for the hen and turkey which will chase you down the towpath!

Follow the towpath for almost a mile until you reach Martin Lane Bridge (Bridge 29) - go under the bridge and then turn directly right up to the main road, turn left away of the bridge and carry straight on down Martin Lane. 300 yards further on, you’ll reach the Martin Inn, cross over and carry on in the same direction down Martin Lane for a further 250 yards and you’re back at The Farm.

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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Garden Diary - by Angie Barker

Give it some kerb appeal!

Award Winner

A front garden is an opportunity to show your property off to its best, make a statement and be a welcoming site, for visitors and for people coming home at the end of a long day. It can be tricky to get it right but the following ideas may be helpful.

Plant a cheerful climber near your front door in a container. Few climbers do well in pots however there are some compact varieties of Clematis which do.

Clematis ‘Cezanne’ (blue flowers) and ’Chantilly’ (pale pink flowers) are two.

Height is important in a front garden. Try and incorporate at least one half standard (Lollipop tree).

Laurus nobilis (Bay) is popular although be aware it does not tolerate cold, shade or wind. Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’ is a much tougher option plus you get the added bonus of scented flowers in winter. They are also brilliant with Christmas fairy lights wrapped around them Consider the amount of maintenance your design and planting will need. If you’re like me I prefer to do my pottering in the privacy of my back garden so keep your front garden simple, that way it will only need a tidy up every now and then.

Scent is important in a front garden and is really welcoming. For a shady spot try Sarcococca confusa.

A smallish evergreen shrub, which produces the most wonderfully scented white flowers in winter and if your front garden is sunny, well you can’t beat English

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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Lavender. Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’ is lovely.

Large pots are a great way of brightening up the front garden – used to frame a front door is a classic statement. Use large ones and half fill with gravel – the plants will get good drainage and the pots are less likely to go walkies!

Evergreen structure is important too, so that the garden looks good in all seasons. Buxus sempervirens (Box) is brilliant for this and tolerates shade well. Buxus sempervirens spheres look stylish and contemporary.

(Just had to explain to Hubby that’s Box balls to him!)

And just think - when you’ve got your front garden right, you’ll look forward to going out – and to coming home again!

Call her 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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Broken Mower?

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ditioned mowers We also sell re-con prices (with 3 at up to 75% off new d) & free blade regrin months warranty

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1

Recipe of the month

Bailey’s Ice Cream

Serves: 6-8 Preparation: 5 minutes Cooking: 30 minutes Chilling time: Over night + freezing time (30 minutes- 3 hours)

Method Pour the milk into a medium size, heavy bottomed saucepan. Add 100g of the sugar. Place over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture registers 77C on a cooking thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer the milk should be just bearable to dip your finger into…be careful!

In a crock or stainless steel medium-size bowl, whisk together the 4 egg yolks and remaining 50g of sugar until foamy and slightly thick. Very slowly add half of the hot milk to the eggs, whisking continuously. Pour this egg mixture back into the sauce pan with the remaining hot milk and return to the stove top on a lowmedium heat. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or heatproof rubber spatula until the mixture reaches 85C on the thermometer or if you have no thermometer is thick enough to coat the back of the spoon or spatula.

Take care to make sure the mixture does not boil.

Remove from the heat. If it’s not completely smooth whisk it well before proceeding.

Pour the double cream into a clean, large stainlesssteel or glass mixing bowl set over an ice bath. Pour the heated custard mixture through a fine mesh sieve or strainer into the cold cream. Add the vanilla extract and stir until fully incorporated. Stir occasionally until the mixture has fully cooled. This should take about 1/2 hour. Remove the mixing bowl from the ice bath, dry off the bottom of the bowl if necessary, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. Stir in the Baileys. Pour this chilled mixture into the ice-cream maker follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you have no ice cream maker, don’t worry, you can still make ice cream though it will take a little longer.

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Pour the chilled mixture into a large container. Pop it in the fast-freeze section of your freezer. Check it after 45 minutes. It will have begun to crystallize around the edges. Use a hand whisk, wooden spoon or electric hand whisk to break the crystals up and incorporate them into the mixture, then refreeze. Keep checking and beating the mixture every 30-40 minutes and within 3 hours you will have ice cream.

Enjoy.

NB. Alcohol lowers the freezing temperature of ice cream so this ice cream will be quite soft. Don’t be tempted to add more Bailey’s otherwise it might never set!

Ingredients • 480ml whole milk • 150g granulated sugar • 4 large egg yolks • 240ml double cream • 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 4 tbsp Bailey’s Irish Cream liqueur

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Competition

Win a Family Pass to

Farmer Ted’s!

Are you looking to keep your little ones entertained? A day out at the award-winning Farmer Ted’s Farm Park is a must this summer!

Farmer Ted's is an interactive children's activity park, sited on a working farm in the huge grounds of Worrall House Farm, within the beautiful Lancashire countryside. The family-run attraction is celebrating its tenth birthday this year and is so popular, it has been recognized with a number of local and national awards, picking up the 2009/2010 award for Best Small Visitor Attraction for Lancashire and National Farm Attraction 2009. The Farm has also received numerous award for its ‘Farmaggedon’ Halloween interactive haunted experience from Blackpool and Lancashire Tourist Board.

We’ve got THREE family day passes to Farmer Ted’s to be won in our fabulous competition. Simply fill in the crossword on the opposite page and return it by 30th June to; Local Life 247 Ltd Unit 8 – Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road Orrell Wigan WN5 7XB Or simply email your answers, along with your name, address, postcode and contact number to crossword@ locallife247.co.uk. The closing date for the competition is Tuesday 30th June 2013 and the details of the winners will be published in the Aug/Sep issue of Local Life.

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During the summer, Farm Ted’s provides fun for the whole family. Take a journey round the farm and meet Larry the Llama and Molly the Shire horse, not to mention plenty of cows, sheep, hens, Shetland ponies and you can even spot a pair of water buffalo splashing about! A huge animal barn is home to pigs, goats, lambs, chicks, ferrets and guinea pigs and the farm is also developing a Mini Beast Centre where you can get up close and personal to lots of creepy crawlies from a boa constrictor, tarantula and scorpions to giant snails and Madagascan hissing cockroaches!

You can explore the fields by tractor, and hop on the 100ft long quad barrel-train ride. There’s also a 400m long field trail where you can learn more about nature.

Farmer Ted's also specialises in providing educational day trips for the North West's schools teaching the children about farming, animals and food.

Afterwards your kids can let off steam in the adventure play area. Set in a two-acre field, there’s swings, pedal go-karts, a huge spider’s web to get tangled up in and Charlie the Combine climbing frame.

It’s a great attraction for kids, whatever the weather, as Farmer Ted’s boasts huge farm sheds providing indoor play areas to explore including an undercover sandpit.

Meanwhile, parents can relax and enjoy a cuppa and some delicious home cooking at Farmer Ted’s Grill where all the food is freshly prepared. Farmer Ted’s Grill was recently accredited with Recipe 4 Health status by West Lancashire District Council for providing a healthy and balanced menu and has a five star hygiene rating.

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 The Farm caters for children’s birthday parties and holds exciting events throughout the year. Check the website at www.farmerteds.com for more details.

Farmer Ted’s Farm Park Location:

Details:

Worrall House Farm Flatmans Lane Downholland Ormskirk L39 7HW 0151 526 0002 www.farmerteds.com

Across 1. Location of Farmer Ted’s, _ Lane 2. Name of the Llama 5. Type of Ponies at Farmer Ted’s Down 1. Name of Farmer Ted’s Halloween attraction 3. Name of climbing frame - Charlie the _ 4. Name of the Shire Horse Name ..............................................................................................................................

Address ........................................................................................................................... .............................................................................. Post Code ........................................

Phone .............................................................................................................................

Email ..............................................................................................................................

Crossword Competition Rules 1. Only one entry per household 2. Entrants must be over 16 years of age 3. The winners will be notified within 14 days of the closing date.

4. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that are delayed or damaged in the post.

5. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate relatives are not eligible to enter this competition.

Local Life 247 Ltd is registered under the Data Protection Act and abides by the guidelines of the act. We will never sell or pass your data to any third party company. However, we would like to contact you occasionally by email with news of great local offers and also to check our magazine distribution in your area.

If this is acceptable to you, please tick this box.

www.locallife247.co.uk

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Motoring - by Andy Enright

ECO

FRIENDLY

As Ford's Kuga SUV has become bigger and more expensive, there's room for something else to slot in beneath it. Say hello to the EcoSport.

The Ford EcoSport uses tried and tested Fiesta mechanicals to offer UK buyers a front-wheel drive car with added ride height and chunky good looks. It sounds like a simple recipe but sometimes simple works just fine.

Ford has had a distinctly patchy record with SUVs in this country, only finally hitting form with the Kuga in 2008. The vehicle that Ford has deemed correct to slip in beneath it here in Britain is the EcoSport, a Fiesta-based model already sold in developing markets like India and Brazil. It doesn't sound like an ideal recipe, but if there's one thing we've learned, it's that the car-buying public is more tolerant of an oddball affordable car than an oddball expensive one.

The EcoSport is offered with Ford's innovative 125 PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, claimant of the 2012 International Engine of the Year award. Plus there's a 110 PS 1.5-litre petrol unit. For those that prefer to go diesel, there's a 90 PS 1.5-litre diesel powerplant. It also offers a comprehensive package of driver assistance technologies, including Electronic Stability Program and Hill Launch Assist.

The chunky looks and high ground clearance suggest a small 4x4 but wriggle under the EcoSport and you'll find a singular lack of rear driveshafts. It is, in effect, a Fiesta on stilts but many drivers find the raised driving position more desirable than the requirement for any actual all-wheel drive capability.

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Once you've got over quite how bluff-fronted the EcoSport is, it's actually quite an accomplished piece of design work. The almost Aston Martin-style front grille that debuted on the Fiesta makes its way over to the EcoSport and although the side profile looks a bit pinched, Ford have been very clever with the way they've managed to make a short, tall vehicle look so interesting. The glasshouse is elegant, the headlights and wheel arch treatment is very deft and the stance of the car is better than it has any right to be.

Ford claims that the EcoSport has been designed to cope with terrible third-world road conditions, so it'll be right at home in the UK. Potholes, busted water pipes and rough roads are its bread and butter and a 200mm ground clearance coupled with a 550mm water wading ability should be able to see off most wet weekends in the North West. The side-hinged tailgate opens to allow access to a load space that Ford reckons is big enough to swallow a 560-litre washing machine - once the 60/40 split rear seats are folded, that is.

The compact SUV will be one of the first Ford vehicles in Europe to offer Ford SYNC AppLink, which enables customers to voice-control smartphone apps from the driver's seat. Ford SYNC with Emergency Assistance directly connects the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident, in the correct language for the region using information from the vehicle's on-board GPS unit and mobile network to pinpoint the accident location.

The Ford EcoSport doesn't at first seem the most promising of recipes. For one thing, it's an SUV from another very different market that's now being sold into ours. For another, it's 'Fiesta-on-stilts' approach seems the same as that used by the less than fondly remembered Ford Fusion. Even so, despite these ill portents, we're quietly optimistic about the EcoSport.

For a start, it looks the part. That may sound superficial it is - but it's a big part of why people buy cars.

If Ford can get the pricing right, the EcoSport could be a hit. Although it might seem odd that after a spell of bad winters an SUV without all-wheel drive might be popular, a run of snowy weather seems to have taught British drivers that a front-wheel drive car on snow tyres can get almost anywhere other than the toughest rural roads.

There's also the fact that this time round we're getting a modern chassis and state of the art engines, not some ill-suited hand-me-downs. The EcoSport might not feature al-wheel drive and it won't go round corners with quite the poise of a Fiesta but don't rule out the attractions of pert good looks and an elevated driving position. Keep an eye on the Ford EcoSport. This one's going to be interesting, if nothing else.

www.locallife247.co.uk

71

Money Saving - by Martin Lewis

Motoring The cost of running a new car, not counting the purchase price, is nearly £4,000 a year – and older cars aren’t too far behind. It’s easily the second biggest cost in your life after the mortgage or the rent.

Here are my 10 tricks to save motorists, bikers and van driver’s big bucks.

1. Private parking firms can’t fine you Tickets at supermarkets or private car parks may be disguised to look like fines. But, in reality, they’re just invoices, a claim you broke a contract with the landowner. Like any invoice, if it’s genuinely unfair, explain why and tell them you won’t be paying. The only way they can enforce it is by going to court. If that does happen (often it doesn’t), then a judge can decide.

Full help and template letters at www.mse.me/ privateparking.

2. Get 3% cashback at petrol stations The Santander 123 credit card pays 3% back on petrol spending (max £9 a month back), 2% in department stores and 1% in supermarkets. It has a £2/month fee, but that’s easily covered for heavy drivers. Yet only do it if you’ll set up a direct debit to repay it in full each month.

3. Insurance Comparisons First combine comparison sites, as different sites search

different insurers. To get the most quotes in the least time, use a few at once (do in multiple windows). For most people, www.moneysupermarket.com and www. tescocompare.com should do the trick. Then add www. aviva.co.uk and www.directline.com, two major players they miss. If you’ve more than one car, add Admiral Multicar (www.admiral.com).

4. Named Drivers Young drivers can pay astronomical rates. Adding a safe second driver can slash price. As one 20-year-old tweeted me: “£1,600+ on my own, £550 with two named drivers.” If that’s still too costly, you can get incar ‘black box’ tracking from the likes of coverbox.co.uk, co-operativeinsurance.co.uk and ikubeinsurance.com.

With these, you either pay per mile or based on how and when you drive. Full help at www.mse.me/youngcar.

5. Third party or Fully Comp?

Most who want dirt cheap insurance choose third party.

Counter-logically, comprehensive can be cheaper for some, as opting for it can statistically indicate to insurers you’re a lower risk, and that can outweigh the fact it’s better cover. There’s no hard and fast rule, so do check both.

6. Has your licence photo expired?

Photo-card driving licences started in 1998, and while the licence itself may be valid, the photo needs renewing every 10 years. Those driving on expired cards risk a £1,000 fine - the update costs £20. Urgently check the end date (section 4b) and if expired, sort it.

Each month, Martin will be writing a feature for Local Life - advising our readers how to save thousands of pounds every year! Don’t miss it!

Martin Lewis, Money Saving Expert, is an award-winning campaigning TV & radio presenter, newspaper columnist and a best-selling author. An ultra-specialised journalist, focusing on cutting bills without cutting back, he runs and founded the UK’s biggest money site, www.moneysavingexpert.com with 13 million monthly users.

Get Martin’s FREE tips and money-off vouchers emailed directly to you each week by signing up to www.moneysavingexpert.com/tips

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Lady Decorator

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Ian Martland

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Puzzle Corner - Solutions

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Solar Thermal & Solar PV

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Wind Turbines Heat Pumps

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

LED Lighting

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

For more information call

NG SERVICI

...and general Energy Savings

VAN CAR & motorcycles too es E ...and Lash Tan X y your FREE Spra H ils home survey eds A Sunb & GeTl Na Health Check ic Car U rton Acryl Y n and Brethe S Crosto 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

01695 627 999

FREE Dennis Goulding

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and we’ll provide you with a detailed report showing the returns available from your own solar panels

return) dio residents me!

R Stu T @ for all7PG me until you needCheck E e WN5Keep S Health Visit our showroom at , Billing 400 FREE Car on - 6PM Road S 4 619 your ford ay 10AM now Book Cricket : 0781 A5209

Shevington

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01772

REPAIR

603923

DING & WEL

Street Business Park

Slash your electricity and water heating bill

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

Call us now

0843 224 9555 07595 420237 or

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

we make it our business to help yours

Jobs Domestic Cleaners Required – All Areas Growing company requires cleaning staff for immediate start. You must be honest and reliable, and all references supplied will be checked. Flexible hours to suit your lifestyle and good rates of pay for the right candidate. For details call Stephen or Joanne on 0800 043 0722 or 01942 203442.

Distributors Required Local Life requires distributors (aged 13+) for the following areas; Abbeydale/Mill Lane/Millbank area in Appley Bridge, the Park Hey Drive/Newgate Avenue area of Appley Bridge, the Trevore Drive/ Chorley Road area of Standish and the Spencer Road/ Whitley Crescent area of Whitley. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every 8 weeks, delivering in their own neighbourhoods. You must be fit, enthusiastic and reliable. Please e-mail your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@ locallife247.co.uk

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For Roofing & Roofline we’ve got it covered!

Roofing Emergency repairs General maintenance Full re-roofs Strip and re-slate Flat/pitched roof conversions Installation of Velux windows Roofline Fascias Soffits Cladding Gutters including Seamless Aluminium Gutters

Domestic & commercial work undertaken Flat roof problem?

Don’t felt it, GRP it!

This new flat roof treatment will last 30+ years!

Protec Roofing is a long established roofing company that serves domestic and commercial customers throughout the North West. Whatever your roofing requirements are, from emergency roofing repairs to new roofs to roofline, Protec Roofing are there to help you.

We promise our customers; • No emergency call out fees • Emergency repairs done asap • Free consultation & estimates • Day and evening appointments • Free advice from experienced roofers • A 10 year insurance-backed guarantee If you’re thinking of improving the appearance of your property by installing new roofline, please give us a call. We can supply and fit a huge range of quality products including our revolutionary new aluminium seamless gutters.

Because when it comes to roofs, we’ve got it all covered!

CALL TODAY TO GET A FREE QUOTE

01942 514 788 0774 876 7845

or 01942 665 270 or 0770 221 8867 www.protecroofingnw.co.uk

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Restore your bathroyo! m to its former glor At a fraction of the price of a new bathroom After

Before

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Useful Numbers

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www.TotalBathroomRestoration.co.uk

sponsored by Total Bathroom Restoration

Medical Boston House Concourse Walk-in Centre Linacre Centre Ormskirk Hospital Parbold Surgery Shevington Clinic Shevington Surgery Standish Clinic Standish Medical Practice Beech Hill Medical Practice Wigan Infirmary NHS Direct Emergency Dental Repairs

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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

01257 463769 01257 252618 01257 400496

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01942 375 201 0800 988 7778

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 Kean (Parbold) Cllr Baybutt (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) Cllr Evans (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge)

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Local Life Magazine Advertising & Editorial Accounts & Distribution

01257 498329 01695 627999

WINDOWS • DOORS • ORANGERIES

CONSERVATORIES • HOME EXTENSIONS

*see website for terms.

SHOWROOM: 95 Newton Rd, Billinge, St Helens WN5 7LB

www.locallife247.co.uk

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