Local Life - Wigan West - Feb/Mar 2013

Wigan West Edition

Mar/Apr 2013

Jack’s Tracks

visits Billinge & Orrell

Shhh, it’s the

Clandestine Cake Club

Keeping Bees Stylish

Splashbacks

W in!

a Spa Day for two! www.locallife247.co.uk

Oakwood Meadows

Vicarage Lane, off Gathhurst Lane, Shevington, WN6 8HP 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes from £155,995 now*

5%

deposit

is all you need

Reserve the 3 bedroom Rivington home before the end of March and we’ll pay your Stamp Duty and give you fitted carpets throughout!

Get your foot on the ladder with Taylor Wimpey...

With our FirstBuy scheme you could buy this 3 bedroom home worth £194,995 for just £155,995 now, and you only need a £9,750 deposit!*

To book an appointment Call 01257 447 049 or visit taylorwimpey.co.uk Visit our Sales information centre and showhomes open 7 days a week 11am - 5pm * Eligible applicants will be offered an equity loan of up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value) Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings and any deposit where required. For the first five years there is no fee charged on the equity loan component. At the start of year six a fee is collected of 1.75% of the market value of the property at the time the loan is entered into multiplied by the outstanding percentage under the equity loan, the annual fee of 1.75% will be multiplied by RPI+ 1% p.a. The equity loan is provided by the HCA and Taylor Wimpey and held as a joint second charge. Terms and conditions apply and full details will be provided on request. This offer is subject and only available on selected developments and properties in England only. It is not offered with any other promotion. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. Prices correct at time of going to press. Images show a typical Taylor Wimpey home.

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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

ÂŁ172,500

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@sandcrossgardens.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

3

Isn’t it time you swit Move on with your life - Call us now

Average Selling Time

30 32 37 49 51 WEEKS

WEEKS

WEEKS

WEEKS

WEEKS

BorronShaw Orrell

Alan Batt Wigan

Regan & Hallworth Wigan

Winnard & Brown Wigan

Reeds Rains Pemberton

*Average Selling Time relates to figures supplied from www.rightmove.co.uk.

This is the average time the estate agents above take to sell a property in postcode sectors WN5 and WN8 from 13th January 2013 to 9th February 2013

Mill Lane, Up Holland

Edge Hall Road, Orrell

Willard Avenue, Billinge

Derwent Road, Orrell Post

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

£187,500

£132,000

£125,000

£147,500

2 Sefton Road, Orrell

01695 632123 4

www.facebook.com/borronshaworrell www.twitter.com/borronshaw www.borronshaw.co.uk

tched to BorronShaw? on 01695 632123 for a free valuation

Due to a fantastic start to the year we desperately need properties in the Orrell, Billinge and Up Holland areas.

We have buyers waiting to move in, so don’t delay and call today for a free valuation on your property.

Upholland Road, Billinge

Upholland Road, Billinge

Moor Road, Orrell

Watermede, Billinge

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

£125,000

£118,000

£120,000

£217,500

95%

Mortgages are back! etails

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for d Call us now

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Safe & Happy in a Harvey Home View our select and secure development to see family living at its finest Just 4 properties available!

Three storey detached homes 4 bedrooms Luxury master bedroom with ensuite Electric security gates Parking to front Gardens to rear Gas CH UPVC double glazing

www.harveyhomeswigan.com For full details or to organise a viewing please contact;

Located on Moor Road in Orrell

From only ÂŁ185,000 6

01695 632123 www.borronshaw.co.uk

Come and visit our newly-opened

Superb Showhome

Old Station Court, Church Street, Orrell A prestigious development of two, three and five bedroom homes

For more information or to receive a brochure contact

01942 603222

www.lowtondevelopments.co.uk

Designed to match classic elegance and contemporary style; craftsman built to an extremely high specification using carefully sourced materials; and finished with meticulous attention to detail, each superb detached property is full of character and has its own, unique charm including our innovative renovation of a local hostelry.

Tumbled bricks, stone sills, leaded windows, underfloor heating and many other design features as standard add to the sense of quality that these spacious, stylish homes exude.

For further information on this beautiful development contact: www.borronshaw.co.uk

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Orrell Office 2 Sefton Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 8UP Telephone: 01695 632 123 Facsimile: 01695 625 741

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

info@locallife247.co.uk

W www.locallife247.co.uk

Sales & Editorial: Chris Pearce Nicola Gray sales@locallife247.co.uk Design & Production: Peter Bretherton design@locallife247.co.uk Accounts & Distribution: Sally Boon accounts@locallife247.co.uk The April issue of Local Life will be published on Thursday 28th March. The copy deadline is Thursday 14th March.

Local Life is published every month. The magazine is 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.

Some years ago, when books were made of paper, I read one called Fast Food Nation, by Eric Schlosser. It was an expose of the methodology of the fast food industry and was quite horrifying. One of the most disturbing aspects of the narrative was the use of chemicals to make burgers taste like burgers, no matter what was actually in the burger.

These days I visit these outlets maybe once a year, if that, and always under sufferance; it’s just a trust issue. I don’t trust any company that puts short term profit margins above the health of its customers.

Fast forward ten years and we now have yet another food scandal. None of the parties involved come out of it well, but the common denominator is the relentless pursuit of increased profit with little regard for the ‘little people’ at the end of the food chain.

There’s a huge difference between giving fast food outlets a swerve and permanently boycotting supermarkets. You could spend all day every day trying to source everything your typical supermarket sells, and even then you would probably fall short.

Shift_10% is a campaign to rethink the way we spend our money – trying to convince people to shift just 10% of the money they would normally spend with multinationals to local independent shops. The exact value is unimportant really, it’s just the principle of thinking how you can divert your money to the local economy, with all the benefits that brings to the local community.

To start you off; just make it a habit to call in at just one local shop on the way to the supermarket, maybe the butcher’s or the local farm shop. When ‘little people’ stand together, we really can make a difference!

Enjoy this bumper issue – see you next time!

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.

In this issue

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, including pictures, 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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22 28 36 40 54 56 58 61 65 66 67 68 74 78 81 86

Splashback Style Watch out for the Clandestine Cake Club!

Cruising Ahead from Liverpool Keeping Bees Recipe – Spicy Mexican Chopped Salad Win a Spa Day for two!

What’s On Jack’s Tracks visits Orrell & Billinge Puzzle Corner Angie’s Garden Diary Win Lawn Treatments for a Year!

Grow Yer Own feature Caring for your Car with ChipsAway Your Pets Home Services Green & Clean’s Useful Numbers

Beer Festival You might just be in time to check out the 26th Wigan Beer Festival which is now on until Saturday 2nd March at the Robin Park Sports Centre, opposite the DW Stadium.

This event is run by the Wigan CAMRA group and will feature over sixty real ales, 35 ciders/perries and also an extensive foreign beer bar. Live entertainment will again be provided. Run out the Guns, Young Once and Albino Gorilla will play out the Saturday sessions. Entry is free for CAMRA members at all times, and admission charges for non-CAMRA members range from £1 to £3.

For more details about the festival, visit the group’s website www.wigancamra.org.uk

Choir Performs Wigan Community Choir will be performing at the Wigan Music Society Concert being held on Saturday 16th March. The concert will start at 7.30pm at the Trinity United Reformed Church which is located on Milton Grove in Wigan (WN1 2PG). For tickets and more details, please call 01942 238520.

Get a mention If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to

Fabulous range of occasion wear

editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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!

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07786 530570

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Classes now in your area – call Loraine on or email westlancs@babysensory.co.uk

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721 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, WN5 8AQ Free parking at rear of shop

Call - 01942 212 520 Closed Wednesday

9

Take a Break!

If you’re at a loose end on Monday mornings, then pop up to Bispham Methodist Church Hall on the corner of Crank Road in Billinge and take in a Take a Break! These Take-a-Break sessions are held on a fortnightly basis at the church hall and consist of informal chit chat, along with coffee, tea and teacakes too. A good selection of second-hand books and magazines are always available to buy and exchange. Take-a-Break is on the second and fourth Monday in the month at 10.30 am till 12 noon in the Church Hall (next to the Church). Everyone of all ages is welcome to come along.

Comedy & Curry And now for something completely different! Get suited and booted for a Comedy and Curry Night being held at St Aidans Social Club, Highfield Grange Road in Winstanley.

The event takes place on Saturday 6th April and the acts on the night include Frankie Allen, Micky Finn and Mark Langley. Tickets are priced at £15, which includes the curry, are available to purchase from Baguette Fraiche, St Pauls Avenue in Worsley Mesnes, or call 07982 996423.

Zap that frizz

Hair Studio

uni ex s

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More Housing for Orrell?

Rumours abound in the Orrell area regarding the future of the playing fields currently used by Upholland High School and it is widely believed that the playing fields will be sold to housing developers at some point in the future.

The playing fields, which are owned by Lancashire County Council despite being just in the Wigan Council boundary, back onto existing housing in parts of St James Road and Sandbrook Road.

If plans go ahead, it is believed that agricultural land at the back of Upholland High School will be purchased to be developed into a new, and much improved, sports facility for the school. The school had no comment to make at the time we went to press.

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• physiotherapy • acupuncture • reflexology • specialist treatment of CFS/ME

physiotherapy clinic

18 Bridgeman Terrace, Wigan, WN1 1TD

T 01942 321235

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Health Centre Update Dalton Developments, owners of the old Farmoor Care Home on Church Street in Orrell, have confirmed that they are now not in a position to develop the derelict site. Alternative local sites have been considered for the new health centre, including the Rose and Crown and the Sandbrook Arms.

Syd Cottle, the Associate Director of Estates & Facilities Management at Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Trust, confirmed to Local Life that ‘alternative options for the potential development of the Orrell Heath Centre are to be discussed with the successor bodies of the Primary Care Trusts and Strategic Health Authority. Various options have been collated and will be provided to the newly formed Clinical Commissioning Groups and the NHS Commissioning Boards. These new organisations formally operate as of the 1st April 2013 and will have decision making roles to play in a development’.

Yvonne Fovargue MP for Makerfield, which includes the Orrell area, commented: ‘It is good to see that the NHS are being proactive in considering alternative options for a Health Centre in Orrell, especially given the changes to the NHS infrastructure that are happening nationally and that Dalton Developments are now unable to develop.’

Spring Fayre Next Saturday (9th March) sees the annual Spring Fayre at Orrell Methodist Church on Chuch Drive in Orrell. The fayre runs from 10am-1pm and everyone is welcome to come along. Attractions include the usual stalls plus fancy goods, flowers, cakes and crafts. Refreshments and lunches will also be served.

The closest you’ll get to the perfect garage door

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 Winstanley Rd, Orrell, WN5 7XA

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W 68 mm x D 115 mm Advert - SeceuroGlide (additional logos).indd19/07/2012 1 11:1

New Lease for Library Site?

Local Life hears that talks to lease the entire old Orrell Library site to a charity called Book-Cycle are ongoing.

When the previous library closed in 2010, Wigan Council refurbished the building at a cost of ÂŁ62,000 and moved a subsidiary company Metrofresh into the building. A council contact has confirmed to Local Life that Metrofresh are scheduled to move out of the building in May this year, leaving the building vacant.

The main base of Book-Cycle is in Exeter, but the charity took over the former Beech Hill Library in January 2012 and the site is now a thriving library, with lots of

community activities, run solely by volunteers. The BookCycle charity encourages learning and helps communities in developing countries in the third world by donating free books and educational resources.

Local Life understands that newly-elected Orrell councillor Kelly Ready, who pledged before she was elected to return the library building to community use, has been heavily involved in the negotiations between Book-Cycle and Wigan Council. We will carry more details and the latest news on this initiative in the May issue of Local Life.

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Give the gift of beauty!

We have everything you need to let your Mum know you love her this Mother’s Day!

Choose 4 free treats & a gorgeous beauty bag!

When you buy 2 or more recommended Clarins products (one product to be skincare – offer available throughout March 2013)

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Gift vouchers also available to purchase Follow us on Twitter

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13

Wife After Death

League Appeal

The mood turns darker as the players at Wigan Little Theatre leave their pantomime performances behind them and continue their season with the dark comedy, Wife After Death. Written by Eric Chappell, the production tells the tale of the aftermath of the death of a hugely successful television comedian, Dave Thursby.

If helping others was one of your New Year’s resolutions, but you haven’t yet managed to get round to it, then you might want to consider a plea from the Wrightington Hospital League of Friends. This small charitable group, which was formed over 50 years ago for the sole benefit of patients of Wrightington Hospital, are looking for volunteers to help run the popular Tea Bar at the hospital. If anyone can spare a few hours a week to help run the Tea Bar, please will they contact the hospital’s Help Desk on 01257 256210 and leave their details for the attention of Barbara Lambert.

As family and friends gather to give Dave a fitting send-off, it turns out they know rather less about him than they’d imagined and a series of revelations uncover some home truths about the much-loved comedy legend. Choking back the tears and protesting their love for Dave, the mourners set about exploiting his comic legacy for all its worth.

Wife After Death is now on until 9th March. Bookings can be made by telephoning the box office on 01942 242561, in person at the box office or you can book online at www. wiganlittletheatre.co.uk.

Party e!

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Strawberry/chocolate face mask Face paint with glitter and jewels Nail art - pictures of Hello Kitty, One Direction & more!

Hair glitter/hair gems Princess wings Party food and party bags all included

£12 per child Minimum: 6 children & over

Party has sole use of salon for up to 2 hours

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Spring Fayre The Sue Ryder Residential Home at Birchley Hall will be hosting a Spring Fayre on Saturday 23rd March, so if you’re looking for some family fun go along and show your support. The fayre will take place from 11am onwards and entry is free. On the day there will be craft stalls, cakes, burgers, face painting, dancers, jewellery and lots more entertainment – all the proceeds will go towards funding activities for the residents of Birchley Hall. Organiser Karen Bradbury is on the lookout for anyone wanting to set up their own stalls - if you would like to sell books, plants or crafts on the day please contact Karen on 01744 894893.

Zumba Zumba is a great way to shed those unwanted pounds and have fun whilst you’re doing it and the best news is there is a new class right on your doorstep. The new session runs every Monday evening from 6pm-7pm at Wesley Methodist Church on Main Street, Billinge.

The session is for 14-24 year olds and is free to attend.

For more information please contact Mark Jennings on 01744 675405.

Stay and Play If you live in the Up Holland or Orrell area and you’re at home with young children (0-5), then you’ll be pleased to hear of the Up Holland Stay and Play, which takes place every Tuesday afternoon at the Methodist Church Hall on Alma Hill in Up Holland. The sessions run from 1.15-2.45pm and include drinks and snacks too. For more information about the sessions, contact Siobhan on 07779 052 921, Nicola on 07906 234 596 or visit their Facebook page – UphollandstayandPlay.

Townswomen’s Invite The Orrell Townswomen’s Guild is looking for new members to join their friendly group. The group meets on the first Monday of every month at St Luke’s Church Hall in Lodge Road in Orrell, starting at 7.30pm. At the meeting they have a regular programme of guest speakers on all manner of interesting subjects, but still have time for a cuppa and a chat. The group also has a small walking group, a bowls group and they also enjoy lunches and day trips as a group. The next meeting is this Monday (4th March). For more information you can contact the secretary Margaret Cass on 01942 701716.

Group Events The local support group for the National Osteoporosis Society have announced their programme of events for 2013. The group, which offers support to people suffering with osteoporosis, their families and their carers, will meet on Friday 15th March, 24th May, 16th August and 15th November. The meetings will all take place from 2pm 3.30pm at Wigan and Leigh Carers Centre on Frederick Street in Hindley. If you’re suffering from osteoporosis and you’d like to speak to specialist nurse advisers, then call 0845 450 0230, or visit the website at www.nos.org.uk/

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Blinds at 2003 Prices!

Harmony Blinds are celebrating their 10th anniversary at their premises in Pemberton with a brilliant blinds bonanza: all blinds ordered in March or April will be reduced to their 2003 price!

Winstanley couple Shelley and Gary Parrish have been selling blinds in the Wigan area for over 20 years, but it was in 2003 that the couple moved into their Pemberton showroom.

Working seven days a week and up to 9pm at night, the couple have seen the business grow and grow. The company now has five full time staff and three vans on the road.

Harmony offers the widest range of window products in Wigan. So confident about the quality of their blinds, Harmony offers an unbeatable 5 year guarantee – in an industry where the average guarantee is just 12 months.

The choice of window fashions is almost endless at Harmony – different types of blinds such as venetians, Romans, verticals, rollers and pleated, and, for the traditional-style room, a range of exquisite handmade curtains too.

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of their Pemberton showroom and to thank their customers for their support over the past decade, Shelly and Gary are offering their entire range of blinds at 2003 prices or 10% off – whichever price is lowest.

This fantastic offer is available on all blinds ordered before 30th April 2013 – so pop into the showroom on Ormskirk Road in Pemberton or call 01942 743203 for a home visit.

The company have introduced Perfect Fit® blinds to the Wigan area – stylish and innovative blinds that clip to window frames to free up space, increase your privacy and keep you warm. Perfect Fit® blinds have proved amazingly popular with home owners, particularly those with conservatories.

Brand new this year at Harmony is a range of quality wooden shutters – a perfect blend of aesthetics and function for the more discerning householder, and also Vision blinds, which allow you light control without losing privacy

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www.harmonyofwigan.co.uk 17

Grange Grab Volunteers and community groups using the Grange Community Centre in Marus Bridge face being left in limbo by a proposal by Hope Special School to take over the main building within the community complex to help develop their educational facilities for the 19-25 age group.

The Grange Community Centre, which is now in its seventh year, is used by 2,700 people a week; dozens of groups meet there and it is an extremely popular focal point for activities within the local community.

The Grange, which is run as a charity by trustees and volunteers, has been self-sustaining since opening, and is open seven days a week. All the profits from the centre are ploughed back into new facilities at the centre and funding community activities such as family activity days, the ice rink, carols around the tree and the community fayre.

In a joint statement Cllrs Paul Kenny and Clive Morgan have confirmed that they are aware that discussions have taken place between the trustees of the Grange Community Network, the Headteacher and Chair of the Governing Body of Hope Special School and Wigan Council on the provision of a new lease.

Cllrs Kenny and Morgan said: “We are not aware of the detail of those negotiations but will be requesting as soon as is practicable written details from both the Trustees of the Grange and the Governing Body on their aspirations for the future use of the premises.”

Volunteers Needed If you’ve got three hours to spare and you would like to volunteer to look after disabled people then the West Lancs Disability Helpline would like to hear from you.

It doesn’t matter if you have no previous experience, training will be given and all your expenses will be covered too.

WE CURRENTLY HAVE 7 DAY AND 5 DAY VACANCIES FOR 2013 No Entrance Fee for 5 day membership 5 day membership equates to just £59 per month!

Discounted Entrance fees for Family/Group membership Discounted rates for 18-30 year olds 120 seating function room available for hire

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You can call the Helpline on 0800 220 676, or call into their offices at Whelmar House on Southway in Skelmersdale on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday, or on Wednesday or Friday mornings.

For more details about the West Lancs Disability Helpline, visit www.wldh.org.uk.

Brass in Orrell

Are you a Carer?

St Luke’s Church is the venue for a brass band concert being held next Friday (8th March) at 7.30pm. Wigan Youth Brass Band and Wigan Schools Intermediate Brass Band will be performing at the concert. Tickets are priced at £5; to reserve your tickets call 01942 223466.

Are you a full or part-time carer? If you look after someone in any capacity you’ll know just how hard it can be at times.

Pyjama Party Your toddler/s will love the Pyjama Party being held at the Hope Library in the Grange Community Centre on Monday 11th March from 5.15-6.30pm. Fun includes songs, games, arts and crafts. The cost is £1.50 per family and places are limited, so book a place now on 01942 777545.

Get a mention If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

If you’re looking for some good company and a bit of ‘me time’, then why not join the Billinge and Garswood Carers Support Group for a much needed chat. The group meets at the Foresters Arms on Main Street on the first Tuesday of every month from 1pm. For more information please contact Steve at the St Helens Carers Centre on 01744 675618.

Art Plus If art is your thing and you’d like to browse exhibits from local artists, then head down to the Standish Arts Group’s next exhibition which is being held at The Galleries Shopping Centre in Wigan.

Art will be of various styles and media, and most is available to buy. The exhibition will take place from March 4th-March 27th at the Wigan Plus shop, which is on Standish Gallery, and admission is free.

Christening Events

Let us take care of your special celebration Packages available from £299 Holiday Inn Haydock M6, Jct23 To book call: 01942 868 330 or visit www.hihaydockm6j23hotel.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

19

the vegetables and fruit areas, and also take care of hens and bees. All volunteers will be able to take home a fair share of the produce too.

The group are also working on various sites across Wigan and West Lancashire carrying out tasks such as tree planting, habitat management, access improvements, establishing wildlife gardens in schools and lots more. You don’t need any prior experience on conservation and the environment, just some enthusiasm and a love of the outdoors!

Conservation Volunteers The Conservation Volunteers have appealed to Local Life readers for help on a couple of projects they are working on at the moment.

The group, which have been established since 1959, are currently working on a community allotment in Worsley Hall. They need volunteers to come and help look after

The Conservation Volunteers also run workshops and courses in all sorts of topics from veggie growing to straw bale building – see their website for more information at www.wiganallotmentnetwork.org.uk or contact Hannah Morris on 07739 447949.

Get a mention If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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70

UP TO

%

OFF

bespoke fused glass design

morpheus glass

Open Studio Sale on: Saturday 23 rd & Sunday 24 th March

At our open studio sale weekend there will be a wide range of pieces on show & many items will have up to 70% off plus all orders placed on the weekend will receive 30% off the normal RRP. All our work is handmade by glass designer Stephanie Bowen at the studio & pieces can be made to order to suit any space including splashbacks. So come & join us on the 23rd & 24th of March 2013 open from 10 - 4 both days.

Unit 11, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB t/f 01695 624182 w www.morpheusglass.co.uk e info@morpheusglass.co.uk splashbacks | panels | coasters | jewellery | hangings | sculptures | bowls

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into

Splash Spring

Transforming your home this Spring with exciting design features has never been easier. Local Life checks out a relatively new dimension in dramatic style statements – splashbacks!

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The practical benefits are clear – glass splashbacks will protect your kitchen walls from the daily assault of splashes of fat and food while cooking. They are the ideal option in this area, as they provide a hygienic and flush, easy-to-clean surface that doesn’t harbour bacteria or grow mould. Whilst the tiles in your kitchen may look clean, the grout used will yellow with age and will harbour bacteria. Unlike kitchen tiles, splashbacks have no joints - just a clean, unbroken and seamless finish.

Glass splashbacks can open up your kitchen or bathroom, adding bold colours and concepts to create a truly contemporary feel. They can be made to suit any style of home from the more traditional to the ultra-modern. The reflective surface can make a kitchen look bigger and brighter, you can replicate the colour of your appliances and accessories, or you can choose a contrasting colour to add even more impact.

Although splashbacks are traditionally used in the kitchen or bathroom, they can be used as a focal point in any room in your home for a dramatic style statement. Strong, stylish and very versatile; splashbacks are a great way to personalise your space, remaining bold and beautiful for many years to come. They are a great method of enhancing your home and a sure way to impress any friends that pop in for a visit!

You can find out more about glass splashbacks at Morpheus Glass, who are based on the Hewitt Business Park, off Winstanley Road in Orrell. Designer Stephanie Bowen uses advanced glass fusing techniques to create each and every splashback by hand. Customers can choose from the range of splashbacks on offer at Morpheus, or you can even place a bespoke order for that truly individual enhancement with a personal touch. Morpheus Glass are open six days a week; see their website www. morpheusglass.co.uk for more details.

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Give 2013 a Positive Start!

Sunset Learning delivers quality non vocational courses & learning packages on self-help and positive psychology • Courses written & delivered by a qualified psychologist • Discover positive techniques for coping with the world • Courses delivered by post & followed up with group sessions • Simple & clear learning materials • Realistic outcome based assessment • Evaluation & follow up service • Reasonable pricing For more information or to request a prospectus please contact Steve on: 07807 271423 or e-mail: stevie_p@blueyonder.co.uk

Sunset Learning 24

Siblings Head South Two of Winstanley’s finest will be pulling on their trainers next month and heading south to take part in this year’s London Marathon. Brother and sister duo Steve Hammill and Jayne Jackson (pictured), who were brought up in Winstanley and are both ex-students at Hawkley Hall High School, are running the 26 mile route to support the NSPCC and have set themselves a £2,000 target.

Jayne, who works as a Ladies Development Officer for Bolton Wanderers, has tackled the London Marathon before in 2009. She told Local Life “We’ll be running the London Marathon to raise money for the NSPCC, a wonderful charity that helps and protects vulnerable children. We want to help raise money to ensure they

can reach every child that needs their help. We have a massive target so please help with whatever you can.”

Steve, a Recruitment Consultant for 360 in St Helens, adds, “We both feel NSPCC is a very worthy charity and we want to raise as much money as possible for this cause. My sister has run the London marathon once previously and I have run various half marathons, including four consecutive Great North Runs and have raised a lot of money for Marie Curie and for the British Red Cross”.

The charitable duo are hoping that local residents and businesses will come forward, support their worthy cause and help them reach their target by the day of the race – Sunday 21st April. If you can help, please visit www. justgiving.com/Jayne-Jackson1. As Local Life went to press, the dynamic duo had already raised £630, and now just need a further £1,370 to reach their £2,000 target.

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25

Blitz the ! m o o r h t a B

There is nothing more satisfying then having a squeaky clean bathroom! A new bathroom may well be at the bottom of your to-do list along with tidying the kids’ rooms and the dreaded spring clean! Spring however is a great time to get all those odd jobs done – and what if we told you that you can have a gleaming new bathroom without having to rip out the old one?

Total Bathroom Restorations are experts in restoring baths and shower cubicles to their former glory and all at a price that will keep your bank account happy.

Owner Ian Read believes that your bathroom doesn’t have to be the enemy – and that any bathroom can be saved from the clutches of unsightly mould and mildew that occur naturally over time. So whether its mouldy silicone, cloudy shower screens or grout failures that make you shudder, Total Bathrooms can put the gleam back into your bathroom.

Ian and his team have bathroom restoration down to a fine art; cloudy shower screens are returned to crystal clear, tiles are polished to perfection and there will be no more scrubbing at mouldy silicone. You can be back in your bathroom in no time at all – and most importantly the work won’t cause you any added disruption.

Don’t let a dull and lacklustre bathroom give you a case of March madness, give it the wow factor with a Total Bathroom mini-makeover. Think ice-white silicone & grout, perfect tiles and a bathroom to be proud of.

Book now to give your Bathroom a new lease of life by calling the team on 01942 375201 or 0800 998 7778 or for more details visit the website at www. totalbathroomrestoration.co.uk

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Jobs Fair Wigan Council’s careers and skills fair is on the road and heading for the DW stadium in March. Due to its fantastic success in Leigh, jobseekers of all ages in Wigan are being given another chance to receive a helping hand with employment and course opportunities.

The free drop-in event will bring together a host of businesses and service providers who will be on hand to provide local people with opportunities to sign up to courses and boost their knowledge and skills, receive support with job searches and meet local employers looking for fresh, talented recruits to expand their teams.

A selection of businesses will also be holding interactive demonstrations and giving attendees the chance to try their hand at a range of skilled professions from hair and beauty activities to bricklaying sessions. So come along and have a go.

Tickets for a Wigan rugby match of your choice will also be up for grabs for all attendees.

For more information and updates on who will be attending the careers and skills fair in Leigh, visit www. facebook.com/wiganandleighcareers

wiganandleighcareers

LOOKING FOR CAREER AND SKILLS HELP? A Career and Skills Fair is taking place in Wigan, so come along and see what new career opportunities, free courses and apprenticeships are available to you in 2013.

Friday 15th March DW Stadium 11am - 3pm

Scan this code to add to your iPhone diary

www.locallife247.co.uk

27

Let Them Eat

Cake!

There has never been a better time to find your inner Nigella! Forget book clubs and coffee mornings - they are so last season! We would like to introduce you to a rather exclusive club that has members meeting in secret locations, and promises to let you have your cake and eat it. If you’re not feeling particularly peckish now, I can guarantee you will be after reading this! Let me introduce, the Clandestine Cake Club!

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“I also wanted people to think beyond the everyday flavours of cake and use their imaginations; and we’ve seen some amazing cake ingredients at the meetings from chilli and chocolate to parsnip and ginger.”

Members can turn up to the meetings with guests and the events aren’t just for women – so any men that want to show off their baking prowess; this is the group for you!

At the end of each meeting you divide up what’s left and take it home to share with your loved ones (or perhaps for your own midnight feast!).Thanks to Lynn there are now more than 157 clubs in the UK that meet weekly or monthly to share some of the most delicious cakes imaginable and you’ll be pleased to know there’s a club just opened in Wigan.

The first meeting will take place the Wednesday (6th March). So if you want a slice (!) of the action, please contact Alex Fisher on alex@cakeandcupcakes.co.uk or on Twitter @afisher82.

The Clandestine Cake Club was cooked up by founder Lynn Hill in 2010; the first event was held in Leeds with 11 people and six cakes. Lynn told Local Life, “We had our first cake disaster that night when one of the bakers dropped her cake on the way to the event; her recipe is now in the CCC Cook Book aptly titled Chocolate Orange Disaster cake.”

Feeling hungry?

Lynn’s reason behind starting the club was to bring people together and have them share their own baked cakes with strangers. As well as giving an opportunity to try lots of cake, many members see the gatherings as a great way to meet new people and an excuse to bake a cake and not have to eat it all themselves. Lynn added, “It works as a catalyst for bringing people together over something they love doing – baking. I loved the idea of bringing people together and seeing them chatting and making new friends.”

The first rule of the Clandestine Cake Club is that you don’t talk about the Clandestine Cake Club – simply because the venue of each meeting is only revealed at the last moment – via email or Twitter.

The second is you must love cake; that’s easy, we’re all up for a bit of cake aren’t we?

The third rule is a little more stringent; no cupcakes allowed.

Lynn said, “As wonderful as they are, cupcakes are everywhere and you can’t share a cupcake a muffin or a brownie. I wanted the club to be all about cake!”

www.locallife247.co.uk

The Clandestine cake Club Cookbook is available to buy from Amazon, WH Smiths and Waterstones – RRP £20

29

Freecycle Event Due to a shed load of snow the previous night, the Freecycle event planned by the Billinge & Orrell Transition Group and scheduled for Saturday 26th January had to be postponed.

But, fear not; the event has been re-scheduled for Saturday 23rd March 2013 at Bispham Methodist Church Hall, which is on the corner of Crank Road, and runs from 10am-noon.

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This is something a bit new! The benefit of Freecycle is that stuff goes to people who have a need for it. You take along an item or two to donate to the event, stuff that you no longer have any use for, have a wander round and pick up a couple of things that you will use. It’s like going to a car boot sale only you won’t spend a penny and you don’t end up with muddy shoes!

Virtually anything is included – tools, clothes, computers, books, DVD’s, small furniture and so on. Admission is free and tea, coffee and home-made cakes will also be on sale at the event. Everyone is welcome, except traders or car boot sellers. For further information, please visit the group’s website www.billingeorrelltransition.org.uk

Mini Movers Dancing and singing lessons for toddlers are up for grabs at The Grange Community Centre in Marus Bridge. Children up to the age of 5 years can meet up on Tuesdays from 11am-12 noon at the centre, and participate in classes designed to develop their balance, co-ordination, confidence, speech and imagination. For more details just drop in.

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Dalton Dinkies Pre-school children and babies are all invited to come along and join in the fun and games at Dalton St Michael’s School on Wednesday mornings. The Dalton Dinkies sessions run from 9.30-11am during term time.

For more details, call the school on 01257 462082.

Tots for All If your bundles of joy could do with letting off some steam why not take them along to the Tots for All group at the John Eddleston Centre on Main Street. The group meets every Monday morning from 9am-11am for some early learning, craft work, painting and artwork. You can meet a friendly mum or dad for a bit of grown-up conversation and grandparents are welcome too. Tea, coffee, juice and biscuits are provided so for further details please call Jean Overend on 01744 892210.

Books Required Hope Community Library – based at the Grange Community Centre in Marus Bridge – are seeking book donations from local residents. In particular, they are looking for very good quality non-fiction books less than ten years old. For more details, pop into the library or call them on 01942 777545.

Get a mention If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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33

Parbold Ramblers

Wigan 10K

If you fancy exploring the surrounding Lancashire countryside this year in the company of like-minded people who enjoy open air and nice scenery, then do get in touch with Parbold & District Ramblers. The group, who have been established for 15 years, get together for a walk on the first Sunday of the month. The walks are over a variety of terrains and areas and are usually no more than eight miles long. For more detailed information contact Jimmy Kelly on 01257 463057 or Liz Foulds on 01257 462121, or just email parboldramblers@talktalk.net

Joining Jack, the Wigan based charity that is raising money towards research into Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, recently announced that the first Wigan 10k road run will take place in September.

Wedding Fair If you’re walking down the aisle in 2013 or 2014, don’t miss the wedding fair at Ashfield House in Standish this Sunday (3rd March). The show starts at 12 noon, runs until 4pm and the catwalk show begins at 2pm. Aubergine Ladies Wear from Pemberton will be exhibiting their range of their Mothers of the Bride/Groom fashions, and a range of wedding dresses will be displayed by Brides of Leigh. Entrance is just £1, and you’ll receive a Lancashire Weddings magazine worth £3 free!

The charity has joined forces with WLCT and Wigan Council to host the event which will take place on Sunday 8th September, starting at 10am. Organisers are hoping to attract 2,000 runners for the race, which will start at Market Street, wind down Woodhouse Lane turn left at Beech Hill crossroads into Scot Lane to the DW stadium, before following roughly the same route back into the town centre.

Though Joining Jack will be the main beneficiary of the race, other charities involved includes the Wigan & Leigh Pensioners Link, Joseph’s Goal, Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Wigan Rotary Club and Wigan Youth Zone, or runners can raise money for a charity of their choice. Runners need to register for the race at www.wigan10k.co.uk. The entry fee for adult non-UK Athletic members is £19.50, whilst members get a £2 discount off that price.

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35

Cruising There are exciting times ahead in 2013 as Liverpool’s cruise facilities have been upgraded. Billinge based Marken Travel has got together with specialist cruise operator, Cruise and Maritime Voyages to bring you a selection of cruises leaving the city in 2013/2014.

All the cruises listed depart Liverpool in the newly-refurbished Discovery. This intimate 700 passenger ship offers a traditional style of cruising, and has eight passenger decks and is stabilised and air conditioned. Facilities include two restaurants, three lounges (including one for floor shows and other entertainment), a shopping gallery, internet centre, card room and library.

Be pampered with a massage or sauna, enjoy the hair and beauty facilities or push yourself with a work out in the gym. On her extensive deck areas, Discovery can boast two swimming pools, two whirlpools and a pool bar.

When you’re watching the world sail by after another wonderful day ashore, you can enjoy the friendly service, stylish entertainment and delicious cuisine! Life doesn’t get much better than this!

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9 night British Isles Discovery Cruise sails from Liverpool on Sunday 28th April 2013.

This is a wonderful opportunity to explore offshore islands, historic castles and so much more. On this voyage around the British Isles, you will visit some of the most remote corners of the UK. Delightful offshore islands, full of charm, are just waiting to be discovered.

Stops include Dublin, Jersey, the Scilly Isles, Honfleur, Cornwall, Scotland and Orkney.

Prices start from £599

9 night Fjordland Spectacular Cruise sails from Liverpool on 7/5/2013, 14/6/14 & 24/8/14 View the calm serenity of still blue waters and look up past green slopes and forests to towering snow-tipped mountain peaks. Contrast this spectacular scenery with pretty Norwegian towns and villages plus Scotland’s Shetland Islands and Oban and you have a voyage to remember.

Prices start from £749

6 night Celtic Explorer Cruise sails from Liverpool on 16/5/2013 & 2/9/2014 From maritime Cobh, opt to discover Cork, Ireland’s second city or famous Blarney Castle. Then, in the remote Isles of Scilly, explore tiny Hugh Town on St. Mary’s and delightful scenic Guernsey. Finally, Falmouth is your gateway to Cornwall with the chance to visit the spectacular Eden Project.

Prices start from £349

Ahead 10 night Iceland and Northern Isles Cruise sails from Liverpool on Wednesday 4th June 2014

6 night Scottish Islands and Faroes Cruise sails from Liverpool on Saturday 28th June 2014

This cruise to the legendary ‘Land of Ice and Fire’ and the rarely visited Northern Isles is a voyage of discovery traversing the Arctic Circle and circumnavigating Iceland. Explore this fascinating island of vast ice caps, geothermal pools and bubbling hot springs, steaming geysers and active volcanoes.

Get away from it all on this unique cruise itinerary which makes a truly delightful summer break. Sail to remote Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, the Faroes and Isle of Skye to discover dramatic scenery, pre-historic standing stones, bountiful wildlife and striking cultures.

Prices start from £869

5 night Midsummer Retreat Cruise sails from Liverpool on Monday 23rd June 2014 This delightful summertime cruise will take you to Ireland, the Isles of Scilly and Guernsey in one superb retreat, incorporating some beautiful scenery, pretty harbours and beaches and fascinating history and culture.

Prices start from £429

Prices start from £499

15 night Azores and Madeira Cruise sails from Liverpool on 6th September 2014 Escape the crowds on this voyage to some beautiful Atlantic isles. Discover the unspoilt Azores with their volcanic craters, tranquil lakes, sheer cliffs and lush valleys. Add to this the ‘garden isle’ of Madeira, Lisbon and Oporto and you have a Portuguese cornucopia.

Prices start from £1179

Cruise & Maritime Voyages are offered for sale in the UK by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise & Maritime Voyages. ABTA V9945. Gratuities at £5 per person per night debited to your on board account. Prices are per person based on two adults sharing a twin cabin, subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply. Offers apply to new bookings only.

Durations, ports of call may vary on departure dates.

For further details on these or any other cruises from Liverpool, visit Marken Travel at 200 Main Street, Billinge WN5 7PE or call 01744 893291.

Cruise and Maritime Voyages are hosting a Cruise Open Night at Marken Travel on Tuesday 19th March. You will have a chance to speak with representatives from the company and staff at Marken Travel about your cruise options.

Refreshments will be provided and the evening starts at 6:30pm. Numbers are limited; please call Marken Travel on 01744 893291 as soon as possible to reserve your place/s.

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37

Flint Street Nativity

Willy Wonka’s Raceday

Pilkington Musical Theatre Company will have you rolling in the aisles with the hilarious comedy, Flint Street Nativity. This performance will take you into the world of the school nativity play; meeting two girls fighting over the role of Mary, a screamingly funny innkeeper and the boy who has a unique method of judging women’s ages!

The classroom antics backstage at Flint Street Primary School’s nativity play are awash with jealousies, teasing, blackmail, unrequited love and of course, Christmas carols as only children know how. The performance will take place from Tuesday 26th to Thursday 28th March at St Mary’s Catholic Club on Trent Road in Billinge. Tickets are available from £6 and can be bought by calling 01744 630748.

Easter Saturday will be an action-packed day at Haydock Racecourse as they host their fabulous family fun raceday. The Willy Wonka themed day takes place on Saturday 30th March and will offer a fantastic day of racing, and loads of free children’s activities.

Bowlers Appeal

My Family

The Hinds Head Bowling Club on Mossy Lea Road in Wrightington are on the lookout for new bowlers to join their ranks in time for the new season that starts in April.

Anybody that is interested can contact Mr Butler on 01257 252285.

Join the team for a sweetastic fun-filled day of chocolate wonders with face painting, Charlie Bucket’s craft workshop, funfair rides, Willy Wonka balloon entertainment and much more! You can also book into Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory restaurant where kids eat free from the Wonkatastic kids’ buffet! The family day starts at 2pm and tickets are available from £13 – for more information or to book your tickets please call the ticket office on 01942 402624 Up Holland Library are hosting a drop in session for those residents who would like to find out more about tracing their ancestors. The ‘Start your Family Tree’ session is being held this Monday (4th March) between 10.30am12pm at the library in Hall Green.

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Fairy Glen Walk Walkers looking for an organised walk to participate in this month should pop along to Fairy Glen in Appley Bridge on Sunday 17 March at 10am. West Lancashire Rangers will lead a six mile-circular walk of Fairy Glen and the Appley Bridge area. The walk goes through Fairy Glen and out into the surrounding countryside. The meeting point is the lay-by opposite the entrance to Fairy Glen on the A5209. People coming along should wear sturdy footwear and suitable clothing for the weather, and bring a packed lunch.

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39

Get a Buzz out of Beekeeping Keeping bees can be a fantastically satisfying hobby and one that can have serious rewards for our environment – but how do you know if you are up to the challenge?

More and more people are becoming beekeepers; some take up the hobby to sell honey or to help pollinate their gardens, whilst others get involved to stop the decline of bees altogether. Bees are a vital part of our food chain and are indirectly responsible for one third of the food we eat – according to Albert Einstein if the bee disappeared off the surface of the globe then man would only have four years of life left!

If you would like to share in the hidden world of beekeepers and their honey bees why not contact the Ormskirk Beekeepers – they currently have 220 members who welcome new and existing keepers to their meetings.

In the winter months taster days are held at Edge Hill University in Ormskirk and during the summer they hold their monthly meeting at Fir Tree Farm in Kings Moss, St Helens. For further information please contact Penny Oakley on 08445 867841 or e-mail secretary@ ormskirkbeekeepers.co.uk

Fun Bee Facts: • In the UK about 70 different types of crops are dependent on, or benefit from, visits from bees • Honey Bees sleep and can often be found catching a snooze on a flower • A Bee will visit between 50-1000 flowers during one trip • A Queen Bee can lay up to 2,00 0 eggs per day • The Honey Bee is under attack from the varroa mite and it is only the treatment and care provided by beekeepers that is keeping colon ies alive

If you would like to keep the bees buzzing from your own home then why not contact local company Hire a Hive you can enjoy all the benefits without any of the up keep.

Steve Forshaw, MD of Hire a Hive can supply you with a hive and a colony of bees plus some much needed advice if you want to try things for yourself. Hire a Hive’s details can be found on their advert on the opposite page.

Equipment Needed: In order to keep Bees you will need some specialist equipment which will not only protect you but keep your new tenants happy too: • A Hive in which to house your Bees

• Hive Tool to help you move frames • Smoker to help you calm the Bees Bee Friendly Flowers: • Roses – including Crab Apple, Hawthorn & Potentilla • Tubular shaped flowers such as Foxglove, Snapdragons & Heathers

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Photo © Peter Bretherton

• Bee Suit with Veil for protection • Gloves to protect you and the Bees

Street Dancing

Team Pie Rules!

New Street Dancing classes for 3-5 year olds have started at Chapel End Labour Club in Billinge on Thursdays. The successful classes, which are run by the Billinge Residents Association in conjunction with St Helens Sport Development, have been running for a number of years for the 6-17 year olds, and are now open to the younger age group. Sessions cost £2.50 per child and places are limited, so if you want to book your child onto the 3-5 class or you’d like to register an interest in the classes for 6-17 year olds, then please call Anne on 01744 893260 or Janet on 01744 603210, or simply turn up on Thursday from 5-9pm.

The winner of Local Life’s very first Twitter competition was @ teampie1, who correctly identified the whereabouts of the Puzzle Corner picture located on page 65 of this month’s issue and won a super Local Life mug!

Car Boot The Billinge Residents Association are holding their next Car Boot Sale on Easter Bank Holiday Monday (1st April) between 9am-1pm at the car park for Birchley St Marys Club on Trent Road in Billinge. Refreshments will be available and all proceeds go to the Residents Association. If you’d like to book a car onto this Car Boot, at a cost of £8, then please call 01744 893260 or 01744 603210.

Team Pie is a local cycling, running and triathlon group with about 20 members. Whilst the majority of clubs of this kind are serious and focus on competitions, Team Pie is a club for anyone who enjoys their respective sport and wants to train or exercise with a group. Team Pie welcomes all abilities and ages. They have a group of runners that do 10 miles on a Tuesday night with shorter routes available and a longer 50 - 85 mile bike ride on a weekend, although again shorter routes can be done depending on ability of the group.

Anyone interested should follow them on twitter @TeamPie1 for more details. If you’d like the chance to win prizes, receive local news updates, offers from advertisers and lots more, you need to follow @LocalLifeMedia on Twitter.

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Your Health Can you sleep your way to better health?

Much research shows that improving the quantity and quality of our sleep can vastly benefit both physical and psychological health and wellbeing.

If that New Year resolution to do a bit more exercise has all too predictably fallen by the wayside, you can take solace in the fact perhaps the most passive health activity you can undertake will do you a world of good.

That’s right, a lie-in is officially good for you, it’s not being lazy, it’s being healthy (do health tips get any better than this?).

Our psychological wellbeing is strongly influenced by our sleep patterns. Most of us are familiar with the lift in mood that follows a good night’s sleep, as well as the crankiness that results from a night of poor sleep. Several university studies have shown that sleep-deprived people are at an increased risk of suffering from depression, heightened anxiety and irritability. It’s encouraging to know that for some patients with depression, improved sleep can help with their depression also.

It’s no surprise that good levels of quality sleep enhance our ability to concentrate and perform well at tasks requiring mental agility. It seems that improved sleep makes us smarter as well as happier. Our immune systems, (and thus our ability to resist bugs and colds at this time of year) are boosted by healthy sleeping also.

Lastly, remember that some research indicates adequate sleep may improve your lifespan too.

So, now you know the benefits that sleep can bring, you’ll want to know how to improve the quality, if not the quantity of yours. There are many ideas relating to this, and it’s best to try them one at a time and see how they work for you.

Timing is the key, with most experts agreeing that it’s helpful to try to retire to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Everyone needs different amounts of sleep, but the common consensus is that around eight hours per night is a good goal. Aim to engage only in relaxing activities before bedtime, such as light reading, listening to classical music and even a little yoga! Avoid big meals, alcohol and heavy exercise in the hours leading up to bedtime. Temperature is important, and you may need to consider your central heating as well as the thickness of your duvet.

Enjoy your sleep!

Dr Mike Paull, Chiropractor

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Legends of the 80’s Haydock Park will be turning back the clock on Saturday 22nd June with their musical tribute to the 80’s. Guests will be entertained by four iconic artists; ABC, Marc Almond, Paul Young and local artist Rick Astley. Join the team for an evening of racing topped off with an open-air live concert to remember.

Tickets are £30 and are on sale now – to book your place please call 0844 579 3006 or visit the website at www.haydock-park.co.uk.

Over a Century of Local Family Tradition

EDWARDS Funeral Directors

www.edwardsfuneraldirectors.com

Holmwood, Dicconson Terrace, Wigan WN1 2AA T: 01942 821215 Stretton House, 23 Hall Green, Upholland, Wigan WN8 0PB T: 01695 622099

SUFFERING WITH MUSCLE, JOINT OR NERVE PAIN?

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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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Low back or neck pain? Visit our clinic WIGAN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

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Bring your Conservatory to life with Freedom!

If your conservatory is too cold we will make it warm and usable throughout the winter - saving you money on energy bills

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No planning or building regulations required All work is fully guaranteed for 5 years with deferred payment schemes available Order now for guaranteed fitting before Christmas!

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We offer deferred payment plans and accept all major credit & debit cards

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Our conversion will do away with that ugly plastic roof as well as giving you effective soundproofing.

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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

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

Are you an Investment or Retirement Orphan?

As a result of changes introduced by the Financial Services Authority on January 1st this year there has been a reduction in adviser numbers within the pensions and investment advice arena. Consequently, there are now even more “orphan” clients that are no longer receiving ongoing professional financial advice.

In many cases, investments such as Pensions, ISAs and Investment Bonds will contain an element of renewal or fund based commission which can be paying anything between 0.5% and 1.00%pa. This is paid to the adviser who originally sold you the Pension or Investment. In other words, an investment with a value of £150,000 may well be paying anything up to £1500 pa to your adviser and therefore in my opinion the following fundamental questions need to be answered.

So what do I mean by orphan clients?

How often do you receive detailed updates from them?

“Orphans” are those individuals that have invested capital into pensions and investments a number of years ago who are no longer receiving ongoing advice/guidance.

What fund changes have been made to your investments to reflect both your attitude to risk as well as the investment market conditions?

Typically this occurs for a number of reasons:

What tax planning has been carried out by your adviser to reduce/ mitigate income, capital gains or inheritance tax?

Your adviser may have retired or moved to another company.

As is the case with a lot of the banks at present, new regulation has meant that they have now withdrawn from giving financial advice.

Your previous adviser is now more focussed upon attracting new clients rather than looking after your own long term interests.

If any of these situations sounds familiar please read on…

When was the last time you saw your adviser?

If you can tick all of the above then it sounds like you are very much on the right track and have the “trusted adviser” relationship which is absolutely key to a successful outcome.

At Prosper we believe that regular contact, adequate portfolio management and a desire to build a longterm relationship with clients are a vital element that contributes to successful investing over the longer-term.

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

Whilst all clients that invest into the stock market should be prepared to take the longer term view (at least 5 years!),this just goes to show that market climbs and falls are never in straight lines. Quite often the bounce back from a fall can be just as aggressive as the fall itself. The old adage of “time in” the market and not “timing” the market remains a very good discipline for investors to follow.

Interestingly, I think that our industry is one of the few industries where people become increasingly tempted to buy once prices have risen?

As an example, those individuals who are now being tempted back into the markets having moved to cash in June of last year as a result of the political chaos in Greece have already missed a climb of 20% on the FTSE100 from its low point. Whilst nobody has a crystal ball, investors should remain focussed upon the longer term investment goals and not get too distracted by short term volatility which is just a normal part of stock market investing.

Should you want to review your existing investments or if you are looking to make new investments please do not hesitate to give us a call.

With investment markets showing signs of recovery, there has probably never been a better time to blow the dust off your old investment and pension policies to ensure that they remain fit for purpose.

At the time of writing the FTSE100 stands at 6277, a gain of broadly 6.4% from the market close at the end of December 2012. Dependent upon where you have your funds invested you may have seen returns well above or well below this figure over the same time line.

This article is for general information only and is not intended to be advice to any specific person. You are recommended to seek competent professional advice before taking or refraining from taking any action on the basis of this publication. Past performance is not a reliable guide to future performance. The value of your investments and the income from them can go down as well as up and you may not get back the value of your investment.

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

47

Twitchers Call If you’re looking for inspiration to get out into the great outdoors this Spring, then check out the twitchers at the local RSPB branch!

Birdwatching is a great hobby that’s open to all ages and helps you get in touch with local nature. The Wigan RSPB group has members of all levels; from beginners to experts, and they meet at St. Anne’s Parish Hall, Shevington at 7.45pm on the second Tuesday of each month from September to April for illustrated talks about birds and environmental issues.

The group also organises trips to local bird sites on the second Wednesday of each month and on selected Saturdays of each month they venture further afield. All trips are led by knowledgeable bird watchers who will assist beginners to identify birds and no prior experience is required.

For further details about the Wigan RSPB, visit the website at www.rspb.org.uk/groups/wigan or call Neil Martin on 01695 624860.

Photo © Peter Bretherton

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CMA Accountancy

Hands On Guide to Starting a Limited Company CMA Accountancy, based in Appley Bridge, is not your typical accountancy firm. We provide the usual services such as annual accounts, payroll services, help with your VAT return and of course the dreaded selfassessment tax returns.

One of the services that CMA provides is Limited Company Formations. Many of our clients have come to us as a start-up business and we have advised them on the best route to business. In many cases this has resulted in setting up a Limited Company. Some people are put off by the amount of red tape that is involved in running a company. We aim to take this hassle away from you.

Here are some of the advantages of a Limited Company compared to a Sole Trader 1 A company has more credibility than a non-limited business.

2 Incorporation normally provides limited liability to the shareholders 3 Directors and shareholders can be paid in dividends which are free of National Insurance and therefore your overall tax payments are lower.

4 Claim on a wider range of expenses such as travel, phones, use of home, equipment, pensions and fees.

5 A company is a separate entity which means it will exist beyond the life of its members as it can be sold or transferred to someone else, including family members.

6 A company can claim a wider selection of reliefs such as Entrepreneurs Relief which reduces the amount of tax due when the business is sold.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Tax Tips of the Month • Mechanics – Have you purchased tools for £1000 or more in the last 4 years? - If you have you could be eligible for a tax rebate. Please contact us so we can see if you are eligible.

These are just some of the benefits of setting up a Limited Company. Here at CMA we offer a free consultation to new and existing business, including sole traders who would like to explore the option of converting to a Limited Company.

SPECIAL OFFER If you contact CMA before 31 March and ask us to form a limited company you will receive a discount of 50% off our standard charge. To claim this discount just mention the article when you contact us.

If you would like to find out more about any of the issues discussed in this article 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.

Contact Details 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

49

Bank Accounts

by Martin Lewis

Does your bank make you growl? It’s a great British whinge to complain about our banks – and with good cause. Yet far too many sit on their hands complaining without acting, thinking there’s little option. That’s not true.

There is banking choice out there. Make the right move and you can gain hundreds of pounds, reclaim fees and get better service.

Here are 5 things you need to know.

Free £100 to switch to best customer service account.

If your bank doesn’t treat you right, consider Firstdirect. com. It’s smashed every customer service poll I’ve done; last time 91% rated it ‘great’. Right now it’s giving new switchers £100, though you need a minimum income of £23,500. If you don’t hit the earning criteria, or for other options see www.mse.me/bankaccounts

Get 3% bills cashback AND 3% on savings.

Alternatively, for rates, the Santander.co.uk/123 bank account uniquely pays 1%-3% cashback on water, council

tax, Santander mortgages, energy, phone, broadband and TV bills.Someone with typical bills would earn around £115 a year, but many with bigger bills can make £300, which easily offsets its £2-a-month fee. Better still, if you’ve savings and keep £3,000-£20,000 in there, you earn 3% interest, which smashes the best buy savings.

Avoid it if you’re overdrawn though, as its overdraft is costly.

Credit Unions Fed up with banks? Wigan has two credit unions; www. unifycu.org www.welcomecreditunion.co.uk. There’s the same £85,000 per person protection as banks, and the Government’s just given £38m extra funding.

Reclaim £100s of ‘packaged’ account fees.

Millions pay a monthly fee for their bank account, often sold on the basis of ‘free insurance’. While it can be a great deal, even the regulator says huge numbers of these policies are “useless”. So if you’ve got or had a premier or packaged bank account in the last 10 years, if it over-promised, told you it was compulsory, or gave you insurance that didn’t cover you when you came to claim (eg, travel insurance for the under 65s and you were 70), you could be due £100s or even £1,000s back. Full step-by-step help and template letters at www.mse.me/ reclaimpackagefees

Huge insurance benefits.

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

Martin Lewis Martin Lewis, Money Saving Expert, is an awardwinning 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.

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!

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Whilst lots of ‘packaged’ accounts are useless, done right they can be a good deal. The easy winner on this front is the highly rated Co-operativebank.co.uk Privilege at £9.50 a month (£114 a year). The main benefits are; cover for up to four smartphones (including iPhone 5s) in your family, family high-end worldwide travel insurance.

Buying all this separately would cost around £450. To assess whether these are right for your needs, I’ve a special Package Bank Account analyser tool at mse.me/ accountanalyser Please note that switching bank accounts is easier than it was. Banks’ switching services move direct debits and standing orders for you. All you have to do is tell your employer and anyone else who pays money into your account the new details. My tip is to keep your old account open for a few months, with minimal funds, just as a back-up.

Care Costs THE PROBLEM:IN THE LAST 5 YEARS OVER 100,000 PENSIONERS HAVE HAD TO SELL THE FAMILY HOME TO PAY CARE HOME FEES. (DAILY MAIL 13/10/2011) THE SOLUTION:CONTACT BESPOKE LEGAL SERVICES SO THAT YOU LEAVE YOUR HOME TO YOUR FAMILY NOT THE LOCAL AUTHORITY.

WHY BESPOKE LEGAL SERVICES? RECENTLY WE HAVE PROTECTED £58,500,000 OF CLIENTS ASSETS MAINLY THE FAMILY HOME AND MONIES HELD IN BANK AND BUILDING SOCIETY ACCOUNTS.

registered office: Suites 7-10, Observer Building, Rowbottom Square, Wigan WN1 1LN

www.locallife247.co.uk

51

Look Out Wiggo!

Wigan’s adoptive son, Sir Bradley Wiggins has enjoyed a marvellous twelve months, but if he looks over his shoulder he’ll see Orrell’s Matt Holmes coming up fast behind him!

19 year old Matt, who lives with his family in Bennett Drive, is just one of five Brits in the 14 strong Team Raleigh GAC, a professional cycling team that’s hoping to eventually emulate Team Sky. Matt first got interested in cycling at the age of 8 when he took part in one of British Cycling’s Go Ride sessions at Newfold School and did so well that he was invited to the Velodrome in Manchester for a taster session. Every Saturday morning from then on, he and his dad Roy, who himself still enjoys racing, would rise at the crack of dawn and spend hours cycling at the Velodrome.

As Matt progressed and joined a team and started to ride at the weekly leagues and learn how to race.

Once Matt moved into Junior Cycling (1618 year olds), he developed physically, began to get noticed and was invited to join Junior Team GB. By the time he was 17 he started thinking about making a career from cycling. After spending a year at Winstanley College, which according to Matt ‘gave him the motivation not to get a proper job’, Matt dropped out to focus on cycling and then turned professional in January 2012 when he joined Team Raleigh GAC. He has recently returned from a training camp in Majorca and, now the cycling season has started, is competing in France with Team Raleigh GAC. Matt now trains 15-20 hours a week and is hoping that Team Raleigh GAC can compete with Team Sky at the upper echelons of the sport within the next five years.

Good luck Matt!

You can follow the progress of Matt and the whole team at www.team-raleigh.co.uk

52

How Safe is your Property?

We cover all aspects of Locksmith services for domestic & commercial properties.

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COMPUTER PROBLEMS? Broadband broken, computer slow, printer packed up, virus/spyware or your keyboards gone kaput

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www.locallife247.co.uk

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�i�� � ��� m�n��

Spicy Mexican Chopped Salad

Ingredients • The juice of one lime • 60ml olive oil • 3/4 teaspoon cumin • 400g tin of black beans, rinsed and drained • 250g of frozen sweet corn, thawed

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (overnight marinade optional)

• 1/2 a red chilli, seeded and chopped into small pieces

Method

• 1 red pepper, seeded and chopped into chunks

In a large bowl, combine the lime juice and cumin. Whisk in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

• 1 plum tomato (or large tomato), seeded and chopped into chunks • 250g bag of baby spinach • 225g crab meat • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

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Serves 4

To the same bowl, add the beans, sweet corn, chilli, red pepper and tomato. Toss to combine. (You can let this mixture marinate overnight if preferred).

Before serving, toss the spinach with the veggie and dressing mixture. Divide evenly into four portions. Top each with the crab meat and plenty of freshly ground black pepper.

Serve with fresh crusty bread.

Why is it important to instruct a solicitor?

You have been involved in a road traffic accident, that wasn’t your fault. You call your insurance company to inform them of this and before the end of the day you have received several unsolicited calls from people seeking to assist you with your claim. Before the end of the next day you have received a call offering you a sum in settlement of a claim for injury if you will make a settlement now and not take the matter further.

Whether it is because of icy or wet roads, darker nights or drivers being more distracted you are more likely to be involved in a road traffic accident during the winter months.

If your repairs are delayed or carried out to a below average standard or insurance companies try to force you into their recommended garages – which may not even specialise in your vehicle make or model – without a solicitor you face following an internal complaints procedure, which may ultimately may not give you the end result that you are hoping for.

A solicitor on your side means that you have someone who will fight for your rights and compensation all of the way to a Court room if necessary and this means you are much more likely to get what you actually deserve as quickly as possible.

So why bother to instruct a solicitor or take this further if all it is going to mean is that you will be hassled by strangers and spend precious hours in your already busy day dealing with it?

The first and most important piece of advice is do not accept the offer made to you over the telephone without seeking legal advice. If you accept this offer you cannot go back and ask for more compensation, even if it later transpires that you have a permanent injury.

The next issue may be the repairs to your car. It is often the case that these are not done to a high standard, or an insurance company may claim that you can only have your repairs undertaken at their own recommended garages. This is just not correct or acceptable; however as an individual against a large corporate insurance company fighting just this sort of treatment you will be facing an uphill struggle.

How would a solicitor really help in this situation?

A solicitor would never advise you to settle an injury claim without obtaining a medical report. This is because the symptoms of whiplash type injuries (which are the most common in road traffic accidents) can vary and fluctuate. You may feel fine for a day or two after a collision only for pain to creep up on you in the week after the incident. These symptoms may then go on to be present intermittently for several months or even years.

If this is the case the early settlement of compensation will most definitely not be enough to adequately compensate an individual in these circumstances. It is only a doctor who can accurately predict how long symptoms will last for. Once a claim has been settled it cannot be re-opened as the compensation received was unfair or did not accurately reflect the symptoms suffered. This is why it is extremely important to obtain legal advice before settling any claim. Mistakes cannot be rectified at a later date.

www.locallife247.co.uk

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.

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

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

55

Win a Spa Day

Last year we ran a Win a Spa Day competition and it was so popular with our readers that we decided to do it again!

This time, we’re running the competition in conjunction with Radiant Living in Parbold to mark the opening of their brand new spa facility! Radiant Living is offering TWO of our readers the chance to win a Spa Day for Two, so each winner will be able to take along a companion of their choice.

It’s all about getting away from the trials and tribulations of everyday life. Yes, your loved ones are important to you, but there’s nothing like a Spa Day for indulging in a bit of ‘me’ time – after all, you know that you deserve it!

And the hand-picked team of therapists at Radiant Living in Parbold are there to make sure that you have a day to remember. From the minute you walk through the door to the second you depart, you’ll enjoy the experience of complete indulgence. Using award winning products and

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the latest treatments, Radiant Living will ensure that you and your companion have a wonderful day!

You’ll be able to pick two from the following five fantastic treatments; ESPA Mini Facial ESPA Essential Tension Massage Oriental Head Massage OPI Manicure OPI Pedicure After you and your friend have enjoyed lunch, along with a glass of wine, you’ll then try out Radiant Living’s new private spa facilities. You’ll love the rejuvenating benefits of the Steam Room, which will deep cleanse, soothe and hydrate your skin. And before you bring an end to a perfect day, you’ll indulge in a relaxing soak in the new outdoor hot tub, where any remaining stresses will float away with the bubbles!

for Two!

1

2

3 4 5 6

# Across EclipseCrossword.com

To win one of these excellent spa packages, simply complete the crossword on the right and return it to Local Life by Sunday 31st March or email your answers, along with your name, address and contact number to crossword@locallife247.co.uk.

1. Well known beauty brand used by Radiant Living 5. Troubles float away in the Hot _ 6. Enjoy a glass with lunch!

Down 2. Lancashire village - home of Radiant Living 3. How you’ll feel when you exit _ Living 4. Deep cleanse in the _ Room Name .............................................................................

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

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

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

The postal address for competition entries is; Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8 – Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB. Names and pictures of the winners will be published in the May issue of Local Life.

For more details about the treatments available, visit the website www.radiantliving.co.uk or call Radiant Living on 01257 463464.

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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What’s on in the North West...

Showing Now

Saturday 16th March

Disney’s The Lion King is showing at the Palace Theatre in Manchester until Saturday 20th April.

Ingeniously adapted from Disney’s classic film, this spectacular production explodes with glorious colours and stunning effects, all set to the enchanting rhythms of Africa. The Lion King uses breathtaking theatrical magic to tell the story of Simba’s epic journey to reclaim his kingdom. Disney recommends The Lion King for ages 6 and up, though children under the age of 3 will not be admitted into the theatre.

The UK’s greatest classical show is back by popular demand coming to Echo Arena in Liverpool. No other show presents such a magnificent combination of the very best in classical music and state of the art technology. Ranging from a flood of pure white light to electrifying multi-coloured laser displays, the dazzling special effects bring to life the scenes and moods evoked by each glorious piece, changing the way you experience classical music forever.

The Lion King

Cost: from £20 Time: 2.30pm, 3.30pm, 7.30pm & 8.30pm Call: 0844 871 7627 or visit www.atgtickets.com Sat Nav Ref: M1 6FT

Sunday 3rd March Castlefield Artisan Market

Manchester’s biggest eclectic city centre monthly Artisan Food, Craft & Vintage Market. At Castlefield, most of the food stall holders are award winning producers and everyone who has a stall either grows, rears or bakes the food that they sell. Many of the food stalls will have samples for people to try and there’s a wide range on offer. You can also shop for clothes, jewellery, handmade beauty products, antiques, craft, vintage goods and art.

Classical Spectacular

Cost: From £27.50 Time: 7.30pm Call: 0844 8000 400 or visit www.echoarena.com Sat Nav Ref: L3 4FP

Tuesday 19th March

The Chinese State Circus presents The incomparable Chinese State Circus proudly presents their UK premiere ‘Yin Yang’ at the Liverpool Empire Theatre. This unique extravaganza showcases only the best in entertainment; witness acrobats defying gravity as the ancient discipline ‘Icarian Games’ returns to centre stage. An act rarely seen in circus arts, steeped in tradition, this remarkable display of human juggling where the human body becomes catapult and catcher in an elaborate, explosive and highly choreographed presentation of power, poise and agility. Take a new look at the world’s greatest circus!

Cost: Free Time: 10am until 4pm Sat Nav Ref: M3 4NF

Cost: from £17 Time: 7.30pm Call: 0844 871 3017 or visit www.atgtickets.com or www. chinesestatecircus.com Sat Nav Ref: L1 1JE

Sunday 10th March

Saturday 23rd March

Join us at Cedar Farm Gallery near Mawdesley for our monthly Vintage, Antique and Handmade Fair. 40+ fantastic stalls of quality Vintage clothing and home wares. You can purchase Antiques and Handmade Crafts for your home. The fairs are held every second Sunday of the month. The £1 entry includes entry to a raffle to win a £25 voucher to spend at the fair.

Oulton Park in Tarporley, Cheshire celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and kicks off in appropriate style with the Masters Historic Raceday. Featuring a cavalcade of cars from the immediate post-war years, the event is highly popular with fans starved of action over the winter months. The event will see an eclectic mix of cars from a golden era.

Cost: £1 Time: 10am - 4pm Visit: www.cedarfarm.net Sat Nav Ref: L40 3SY

Cost: from £14 (Children under 12 free) Time: Gates open from 7am Contact: 0843 453 9000 or visit www.oultonpark.co.uk Sat Nav Ref: CW6 9BW

The Razzle Dazzle Travelling Vintage Fair

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Masters Historic Raceday

What’s on Guide events key Events & Festivals

Walks & Nature

Family

Special Interest

Saturday 23rd March

Sunday 31st March

At the open studio sale weekend there will be a wide range of pieces on show and many items will have up to 70% off, plus all orders placed on the weekend will receive 30% off the normal RRP. All their work is handmade by glass designer Stephanie Bowen at the studio and pieces can be made to order to suit any space including splashbacks. Also runs on Sunday 24th March.

Fun and games in the Orchard at Speke Hall near Liverpool. Complete the Easter trail to get a Cadbury’s Easter Egg reward. Also on Bank Holiday Monday 1st April.

Cost: Free Time: 10am – 4pm Call: 01695 624182 or visit www.morpheusglass.co.uk Sat Nav Ref: WN5 7XB

Sunday 31st March

Morpheus Glass Open Studio Sale Weekend

Sunday 24th March

The Southport Clothes Show Paris, Milan, New York, London and …Southport? The newly launched and upcoming Southport Clothes Show is being held at the Southport Theatre and Convention Centre. The day will include fashion shows from local, national and international established brands and showcase exciting work of new upcoming designers.

There will be a full Catwalk and Milan Style seating which will showcase the latest spring /summer collections.

Outstanding entertainment by the region’s finest talents and acts including stilt walkers, dancers & circus style entertainment and radio DJ’s.

Cost: £8.50 (children under 12 free) Time: 12pm – 6pm Call: 0844 871 7627 or visit www.atgtickets.com Sat Nav Ref: PR9 0DZ

Saturday 30th March Easter Country Shopping Fair

It is the first Bank Holiday weekend of the year, so make the most of it with a visit to Tatton Park, near Knutsford where there is something for everyone in the family.

The Easter Country Shopping Fair is again being held inside the huge Tenants Hall, a wing of the mansion house at the heart of Tatton’s parkland. The kids can be occupied by the animals on the farm and the adventure playground. Visitors to the fair are likely to be amazed by hundreds of gift ideas for the family and home. Runs until Monday 1st April.

Cost: Free event Entry - Tatton Park car entry £5 Time: 10.30am - 5pm Visit: www.countrywide-events.co.uk Sat Nav Ref: WA16 6QN

www.locallife247.co.uk

Cadbury’s Easter Egg Trail

Cost: Trail £1.50, Normal Admission applies, Free parking Time: 12pm - 4pm Call: 0151 427 7231 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ spekehall Sat Nav Ref: L24 1XD Easter Eggstravaganza Weekend Salmesbury Hall near Preston is the perfect family outing on the Bank Holiday weekend with entertainment from Punch and Judy and Merlin the Magician. There is also Face painting and lots more activities for both children and adults with a Food & Craft fair in the courtyard. Also on Bank Holiday Monday 1st April.

Cost: £4 Adult, £3 Child Time: 11am - 4pm Call: 01254 812010 or visit www.samlesburyhall.co.uk Sat Nav Ref: PR5 0UP

Sunday 31st March Craft and Gift Fair

Creative Crafts are holding their fair at the Haydock Park Racecourse with around 70 stalls at this very well established venue. The exhibition is situated over two large halls with ample parking and easy access. Also on Bank Holiday Monday 1st April.

Time: 10am - 4.30pm Contact: www.creativecrafts-online.co.uk Sat Nav Ref: WA12 0HQ

Monday 1st April

Easter Egg Rolling at Avenham Park Join us in the eggcellent egg rolling eggstravaganza and take part in one of Preston’s most unique and historic events! Rolling eggs down the grassy banks of Preston’s Avenham Park has been an Easter Monday tradition for generations of families. There is the Mass Egg Rolling on the hour every hour and an Easter Bonnet Competition.

Cost: Free Time: 10am – 5pm Call: 01772 253731 Sat Nav Ref: PR1 8JT

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March s! m r A s lt o H e h T @

Back by Popular Demand…

Pensioners Special Offer

Tuesday - Thursday 12:00 - 2:30pm A choice of two mains followed by dessert for only £4.50 (Add a tea or coffee for an extra £1)



Acoustic / Live Lounge Night Every Friday Night from 1st March @ 8:30pm



Ladies Who Lunch!

Tuesday - Friday 12:00 - 2:30pm Having lunch at the Holts?

Buy 2 large glasses of wine and get the rest of the bottle FREE!!

Real Ales Freshly Made Home Cooked Food Real Log Fires Warm Welcome Guaranteed Call in to take a look at our menu or keep an eye on our social pages for upcoming events Holts Arms (The Foot)

@HoltsArms

Holts Arms the

Crank Road, Billinge, WN5 7DT

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01695 628 006

www.holtsarms.co.uk

Holts Arms – Mountains Farm Park up at the picturesque Holt Arms pub on Crank Road in Billinge. When you exit the car park, turn right and head up the hill. Go straight past the entrance to Bispham Hall and the woods where the ghost of Nellie Bispham is reputed to roam. You’ll walk 700 yards and then you’ll need to turn right into Brownlow Lane. After 50 yards or so, turn right and head up the track towards Brownlow Farm.

Orrell & Billinge

On this month’s walk we return to Local Life’s home territory of Orrell and Billinge.

This walk is 6.8 miles long; you’ll quickly climb to the upper echelons of Billinge Hill and then gradually descend into Orrell and Pemberton, before starting the slow climb up into Billinge to the finishing point. The views over the West Lancashire plain are fabulous, and nature lovers will be delighted to visit Orrell Water Park. You’re welcome to park up at the picturesque Holts Arms (known as The Foot to locals), and if you get time then do pop in and sample their delicious food. Well behaved dogs are welcomed too!

Just before you reach the farm, turn left and head uphill along the track for 375 yards. As you get to the top of the track, turn right and hop over the wooden stile beside the metal bar gate. Head in the same direction straight across the field to the next stile, keeping to the right hand perimeter all the way. Hop across this one and carry on in the same direction. You’ll be going downhill at this point and the views are spectacular - Liverpool, Southport, Ormskirk and even Blackpool to your left and the Pennines to your right.

After walking in the same direction for 500 yards, you head down some stone steps, cross the track and head up some more stone steps on the other side. Carry on down that footpath staying on the right hand perimeter of the field and you’ll eventually come to the entrance to Mountains Farm. Turn left down a wide track and 100 yards later bear right.

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The official footpath cuts diagonally across the field in front of you, with crops on either side, although some walkers prefer to walk round the edge of the field. Either way, when you get to the bottom corner of that field, bear right through the trees and head up through the next field keeping to the left hand perimeter.

After about 400 yards, you’ll meet a wall of conifers and the path forks. Bear left and shortly afterwards you’ll arrive at the back of a small housing development called Newfold. Follow the tarmacked road between them and bear left downhill, following the fence of Upholland High School until you meet up with Oxhouse Road. Cross over and take the path that leads between the houses numbered 13 and 15.

Go over the crest of the hill and shortly afterwards you’ll reach a public footpath symbol. Turn left at this point, cross the brook and go straight on, and heading away from the brook. After 300 yards turn right and head downhill in the general direction of Winter Hill – that’s the

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This pathway bisects the playing fields of Newfold School and Upholland High School; follow the path for just over 200 yards. When you reach St James’s Road, turn left

and then cross over when it is safe to do so. You’ll walk past St James’s Primary School and Church, and once you have just passed the church’s graveyard, take a right turn up a path where the public footpath sign is. Follow this pathway, which runs parallel to the train line, to its conclusion opposite Orrell Railway Station.

A57

7

Duke’s Barn Farm

Orrell Railway Station – Winstanley Park

Winstanley Hall

If you’re feeling hungry or thirsty at this point, then the Megabites sandwich shop is directly on your right when you reach this junction.

Cross over the busy road, turn left for 20 yards and then take the first right down Edge Hall Road. You’ll pass the Community Stadium on the left, formerly the home of Orrell Rugby Union, as you walk down the road. After 300 yards the road becomes a path and bends round to the left as you reach Glovers Farm.

A5 7

1

Follow this path for 300 yards, passing a new housing estate on the left. Cross the bridge spanning the M58, known locally as the ‘Banana Bridge’, and when you reach the other side take the right turn that appears almost immediately.

Follow this path as it first winds downhill under a motorway bridge, and then uphill and over the footbridge that crosses the slip road to the motorway.

The path eventually emerges on Milton Grove. Turn right along the road and then take the first right turn, heading towards some playing fields. Just before the playing fields, turn left down the path which is sandwiched between the back of the houses and the playing fields.

When you come to the end of that path, carry on in the same direction for a further 30 yards. Once you get to Brook Lane, turn right. Majestic Gym should be on your

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63

left as you walk along Brook Lane, which soon turns into a dirt track heading downhill.

Follow this track for over 500 yards, passing Duke’s Barn Farm Dog Kennels on the right. Go up over the bridge and you’ll come to a fork in the track. Bear right and follow the track for 300 yards until you reach another fork. Once again, bear right, heading towards the busy M6 in the distance. On the left beyond the trees is the Winstanley Park estate, once home of the Winstanley family, the lords of the manor and residents of the now- dilapidated Winstanley Hall, one of only three Tudor buildings left standing in Wigan.

Winstanley Park – Holts Arms Take the footbridge under the M6 and then head uphill up Hall Lane. You’ll pass Winstanley Tennis Club on your left just before you emerge onto Winstanley Road; turn left and crossover the road. Straight after the house numbered 69, turn right up the public footpath and after the stone pillar at the top of the drive, turn right again down the clearly defined footpath.

Follow that path down the right hand perimeter of the field, passing Orrell Red Triangle Cricket Ground on your right, until you reach Orrell Water Park. Go past the playground and then turn left. Keep to the pathways on your left hand side for 550 yards. Once you reach the outermost boundary of Orrell Water Park, the path will curve to the right and you’ll see a wooden bridge. Cross the bridge and turn left.

Orrell Water Park Orrell Water Park was once the site of stonelined reservoirs, but in the early 80’s a major landscaping scheme converted the reservoirs into two shallower lakes. Both lakes are well stocked for fishing and open all year and the park has a good network of footpaths which are well used by local dog walkers.

Over 125 different birds have been recorded here, including ospreys, grey herons, marsh harriers, honey buzzards, Arctic skua, pied flycatchers, great-crested grebes, crossbills and lots of species of warblers. The reserve area containing the three ponds at the south end of the park have been renamed as Greenslate Water Meadows, and these three ponds are teeming with dragonflies, damselflies and butterflies throughout the summer months.

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Go through the wooden gate and a few yards later there is a gap in the wooden fence on the right, turn right here and follow the path. After 425 yards you’ll reach a wooden gate; go through the gate and turn right. Follow the path uphill – this can be muddy at times – for a further 325 yards. You’ll emerge onto Upholland Road, so turn right, cross over at the crossing and then take the first left turn up Crank Road. Head uphill for 150 yards back to the Holts Arms.

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.

Photo cour tesy of Wig an Haeritag http://wigan e Services images.wlc t.org/

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Design & Print Did you know that Local Life isn’t just about publishing great little magazines?

We also provide a design and print service; from 5000 single colour flyers to the design and production of a full colour glossy magazine;we can meet your needs.

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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.

Call her now for your free consultation!

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Not Mr Titchmarsh’s cup of tea ...

If you are thinking now about your spring and summer borders and feel there is something missing – it might be that you need to include some grasses in your planting plan.

March is a really good month for planting grasses as most of them prefer to be moved when they are actively in growth. They are brilliant plants for bringing movement to a garden and they come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. A word of caution though, some grasses spread by underground runners (Elymus arenarius ‘Blue Dune’ or Lyme Grass is one) which can soon take over your border so unless you have a garden the size of Tatton Park (oh I wish!) stick to clump formers. Here are some of my favourites: Stipa tenuissima – this is lovely because it is very soft and tactile and moves in the slightest of breezes

arching form and re-emerges each spring with fresh green growth Carex oshimensis hachijoensis ‘Evergold’ - quite a mouthful I know but a good grass for shade and is evergreen and very low maintenance - looks effective planted as a group in gravel.

For a detailed description and photos of any of these grasses just enter the Latin name in google.

The taller grasses look great with late flowering summer perennials like Rudbeckias, Echinaceas and Heleniums so if you have the space you could devote a whole border to this style of ‘prairie’ planting. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea (Hubby puts the kettle on at this point) – Mr T himself is not a fan, of the mind that prairie planting has had its day. But then gardening for me is not about fashion but what feels right and looks good in your own patch.

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’- this gets tall (around 2m or 6 feet in old money) and is upright – perfect for a sunny corner Miscanthus sinensis. ‘Kleine Fontane’- has gorgeous pinky purple seed heads in August and stands up well all through winter. Looks wonderful when winter sun hits the frosted seed heads Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ - I love this one because it looks stunning planted with Acers, it has a graceful

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The days are getting a little longer, green shoots are starting to appear and we’re all just itching to get out in the garden now. Just one problem - it’s still likely to be blooming cold!

It’s at this time of year that having some undercover growing space is a real benefit - not least because it’s so much more of a pleasure working in a protected environment, basking in the glory of those few rays of sun, than it is feeling a gale force wind that seems as it if’s come straight from the arctic! If you don’t have a greenhouse, polytunnel or cold frames then why not think about investing in one now? Get it built in March and you can get a head start on many plants for the season to come.

If space is limited then a cold frame, may be a good option and greenhouses can offer lots of benefits but are generally not a great idea if your garden is also the kids play area. Most people opt for a polytunnel; they are very reasonable in price, but remember polytunnels can become very hot in the summer so ensure that there is adequate ventilation available.

So, now that you have this great new space what can you plant in it? Early tomatoes can be started off in pots and if you plant some summer cabbages now you can get them established and benefit from a crop by late spring or early summer.

Council Run Allotments (Wigan): Wigan residents can contact the Council by e-mail at parks@wlct.org.

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• • • •

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Warrington Road – Newtown – 9 plots - WLCT Lawns Avenue – Up Holland – 17 plots – Up Holland Parish Council Back Wigan Road – Bryn – 13 plots - WLCT Downhall Green Road – Bryn – 5 plots - WLCT

Cucumbers, beetroot, leeks and lettuces can also be sown indoors and if you want to try something a little more exotic why not plant some peppers, aubergines or even a melon?

This is also a good month to think about soft fruit.

Most fruit bushes, trees and canes need time to get established before you start to get a good yield and it is easy to overlook them in favour of crops that give a quicker return. You could plant raspberry canes this month, or incorporate a gooseberry or blackcurrant bush into your border.

If you have pot grown strawberries that have spent the winter indoors then place them outside as they will only flower after exposure to cold weather.

A bit of time and money invested now in a polytunnel or greenhouse will give you benefits for years to come.

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Tasks for March: Whilst you are waiting for the weather to take a turn for the be tter we have a few little jobs you can be doing around the vegetable patch in the month of March.

• Erect a cold frame, polytunnel or greenhouse • Clean & weed seed beds • Plant out garlic, sha llots & onion sets • Add manure or fertilis er in final soil preparation • Sow early celery, pe as, broad beans & spinach • Plant soft fruit bushe s

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71

BIG STEP Toyota’s Auris is a lot more of a competitive family hatchback proposition than you might think. Jonathan Crouch tries the second generation 1.3-litre VVT-i petrol model.

With sharper styling, keener driving dynamics, more equipment and extremely aggressive pricing, the Mk2 Toyota Auris is a big step forward. The interior might not be everyone’s thing, but as an all-round proposition it’s a lot more compelling than you’d give it credit for. Factor in a five year, 100,000 mile warranty and it becomes a real contender in the family hatchback class. We buy cars for all sorts of reasons, some sensible and others rather more hedonistic, but there’s still a lot to be said for cars that work and work well in the real world.

The first Auris made some respectable numbers for Toyota but never really won many popularity contests in the UK. So what of this second generation car? Stung by criticism that the old Auris was a bit dull, Toyota has sharpened the styling, focused the driving dynamics and priced it very keenly. Introduced at the start of 2013, it needs to be right on its mettle to compete in the hotly contested family hatchback market but it’s got versatility on its side. And a decent entry-level 98bhp 1.33-litre petrol engine, the one on test here. Let’s check it out.

With the old Auris you could pretty much skip over this driving experience section. With this MK2 model it’s different. It doesn’t take too long a drive to realise that the chassis has been developed by people who really know what they’re doing.

72

The rear suspension is an expensive multi-link arrangement that’s usually reserved for plusher hatches like the Volkswagen Golf. It means that the Auris not only rides well but corners decently too. Combine decent body control with accurate electrically assisted power steering and you have a car that can be hustled through a set of bends with some poise.

While it’s probably not my job to tell you whether a car is good looking or not, I can’t help but think Toyota’s designers have done a decent job with this latest Auris.

Although the wheelbase is the same as before, overall length has increased by 30mm but some 55mm has been shaved off the height of the car. That sounds as if there’s less occupant room inside than before but Toyota has boxed clever here with some ingenious ideas. There’s 20mm more rear legroom and there’s more space in the boot - 360 litres with the rear seats in place.

Recognising that the rivals from this car are priced more aggressively than ever, Toyota has sensible kept prices reasonable. You can drive away a 1.33 petrol model for less than £15,000 and discounts may be available to private buyers who are a bit handy at haggling. As it stands, the entry-level models come with electric front windows, air conditioning, heated door mirrors and a stereo with USB and AUX-in connections that can play MP3 files off a disc.

The Toyota Touch multimedia system on all but the entrylevel cars can be upgraded to Touch & Go, introducing satellite navigation and more sophisticated on-board connectivity and Bluetooth functions. Then there’s a

FORWARD Skyview panoramic roof, measuring 2,340 by 1,280mm and leather upholstery - two options that you can add to the range-topping model.

To test drive the new Auris, contact H W Moon Toyota at Challenge Way in Martland Park, Wigan. WN5 0LD. Telephone 01942 219999 or visit the website

The Auris is as well endowed with safety gear as you’d imagine, with all models getting seven airbags, anti lock brakes and brake assist; and (switchable) Vehicle Stability Control with traction control.

www.hwmoon.toyota.co.uk

Despite Toyota’s best efforts, it’s likely that most UK buyers won’t appreciate how much the latest Auris has improved.

But then family hatchback buyers tend not to be adventurous - they stick to the tried and tested. But the second generation Auris is competitive against the best in class and its reliability record will probably ace all of the aforementioned usual suspects, despite the cheaper price.

But despite making the bean counters happy, the Auris is seriously good fun to drive. It’s sharp looking and seriously well equipped. It still faces an uphill battle to get British buyers to place orders but those who do will be rewarded with a solid car that is - on the quiet - more fun than you’d ever give it credit for.

Toyota has thought long and hard about the latest Auris, priced it at little more than the Korean opposition and engineered it in a way that’s thoroughly Toyota. It’s made of the right stuff and it deserves your attention.

Consider it rehabilitated.

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Caring for your Car With the daylight hours gradually lengthening and Spring just round the corner, it’s about this time that people start to think about getting back out in their gardens, but before you pull your wellies on don’t forget to spend a bit of time caring for something that has carried you reliably through the depth of winter – your trusty car!

they undertake most of the repairs at the Car Care Centre in Orrell. It’s quick and easy; the vast majority of repairs are fixed within a day, which is so convenient, and they will even collect your car and drop it off once the repairs are complete!

The past few winters have proved to be some of the worst on record, causing an unprecedented amount of potholes, accidents and damage to the nation’s cars. A spokesman from What Car comments: “Winter exposes your car to particularly harsh conditions and places unique demands on drivers, making it more important than ever that you keep your car in the best possible condition.”

Unsurprising then that recent research has confirmed that the majority of the 34 million vehicles in the UK are in need of attention to their paintwork and that most drivers would love to find a quick, cost-effective and convenient way of repairing their minor paintwork damage. After all, nobody wants the expense and inconvenience of booking their car into a body shop if it isn’t necessary.

This is exactly where Simon Pickles and ChipsAway can help. Using their unique system, ChipsAway can offer a faster, more convenient way of repairing damage to automotive paintwork – and at a radically reduced cost – up to 50% less than a body shop! ChipsAway is the UK’s leading brand in minor automotive paintwork repairs, fixing damage such as scratches, bumper scuffs and kerbed alloys within a matter of hours and at a fraction of the cost of traditional body shop repair methods.

Simon comments: “The winter months can cause chaos for motorists. The weather, road salt and pot holes mean damage to our car’s paintwork is almost inevitable. It certainly pays to repair even small scratches and scuffs quickly, as these can often turn into larger problems, which will cost more if left untreated.”

The local branch of ChipsAway is virtually on your doorstep – it’s based on the Hewitt Business Park just off Winstanley Road in Orrell (WN5 7XB). Whilst Simon and his team do offer a mobile service and can carry out minor cosmetic repairs at your home or place of work,

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Your car is probably the second most expensive purchase you make in your life, so it makes good sense to give your car paintwork and alloys a facelift after the harsh winter weather - any small nicks can quickly become larger and potentially develop into rust, ruining the look of your car and costing you more money! For a free, no obligation estimate call ChipsAway on 0800 028 7878, visit www.chipsaway.co.uk or call in and see Simon at the ChipsAway base on Hewitt Business Park.

ChipsAway Unit 20 – Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road Orrell WN5 7XB

Call - 0800 028 7878 www.chipsaway.co.uk

H W MOON TOYOTA WIGAN HWMOON.TOYOTA.CO.UK

FIX ED SER PR FRO VICINICE M£ G

99

99

Model

Intermediate

Full

Full+

AYGO

£99

£179

£239

iQ, Yaris, Yaris Verso, Verso-S

£119

£189

£249

Auris, Corolla, Urban Cruiser

£129

£199

£269

Avensis, Avensis Verso, Verso, Picnic, Previa

£159

£229

£349

Hybrid (Auris & Prius)

£119

£189

£249 £279

MR2, Celica

£129

£209

RAV4

£139

£229

£299

Land Cruiser (except V8)

£179

£259

£369

Amazon, Land Cruiser V8

£259

£449

£529

Get the right service at the right price.

With Toyota Fixed Price Servicing there is a service just right for your Toyota.

The price is the price.

H W Moon 3 Challenge Way, Martland Park, Wigan WN5 0LD Tel: 01942 219999 Email: im@hw-moon.toyota.co.uk hwmoon.toyota.co.uk

Your Centre will recommend the correct service for your vehicle based on the age, mileage and service history. All prices include parts, oil, labour and VAT (20%). Fixed Price Servicing is applicable to Toyota passenger vehicles only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Additional items may be required on some services. Only at participating official Toyota Service Centres. Prices apply to vehicles up to 10 years or 100,000 miles. Prices correct at January 2012.

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L

L L ANDERTON S�ho�� � Mot���n� Xmas & Birthday gift vouchers now available Lessons from just £12.50 per hour Professional, friendly driving tuition

Call Fergal on: 01942 204036 or 07963 380298 www.fastpass-driving-school.co.uk

Tel: 07748 653 800

Rainford Service and MOT Centre

Driving School • Friendly & Professional • DSA Approved Instructor • Lesson Diagrams on iPad • Based in Orrell

“Call now, Drive tomorrow”

Billinge &

FastPass

£5 off

Free pick up and drop off service available

Offer valid on production of this voucher Any make or model welcome



Interim service and MOT from £95 inc VAT

when you have a service and MOT at our garages

Full service and MOT from £130 inc VAT MOT - £34.95 MOT Class 7 - £38.95 84 Rainford Road, Billinge, WN5 7PG and Sandwash Close, Rainford, WA11 8LY

Call - 01744 895 333 or 01744 886 720 Mobile - 07918 138 231

Billinge &

Rainford Service and MOT Centre

check out our reviews on www.goodgaragescheme.co.uk

Save £££s now on servicing costs for your German car!

Experienced ex-Mercedes and Volkswagen Audi Group technicians will service your car at a fraction of main dealer costs!

We even pick up and drop off your motor free!

All repairs, exhausts, tyres, clutches, diagnostics, MOT work.

NOW AT: Unit 19, Tatton Court, Kingsland Grange, Warrington, WA1 4RR

01925 818 180 or 07918 138 231 84 Rainford Road, Billinge, WN5 7PG

01744 895 333 or 07918 138 231

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check out our reviews on www.goodgaragescheme.co.uk

�n���r�

The photograph is of Widecross Road (now College Road) in Up Holland

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your pets Does it make sense to neuter a male dog?

Long before male puppies begin to approach puberty, many will already have started to display various reproductive behaviours, which are unproductive and undesired for a pet dog.

Performing mock sexual activity on other dogs or the legs of humans is often the start of the process. The sexually driven territorial instinct of the growing male dog can also manifests itself in gradually increasing aggressive responses to other dogs, and to humans in some cases.

A male dog can sense the scent of a bitch in season even when far away from sight and earshot, and the relentless pursuit of the bitch in question lands many dogs into trouble.

The scant yellow green pus like secretion normally seen at the prepucial orifice of the young dog continues to increase gradually over the years. The excessive enlargement of the prostate gland in some older dogs leads to continual dribbling of urine or difficulty passing urine or motions. The prostate gland becomes prone to infection, inflammation and development of prostatic cysts and tumours, the latter can prove to be fatal. Furthermore, male dogs are prone to certain type of tumours and hernia formation around the anus. The incredible thing is this: all the above described problems are the repercussions of the male sex hormone; testosterone!

The simple, most reliable and least expensive solution to controlling all of the above described problems and to eliminate the possibility of testicular tumours is to have a dog castrated.

Most of those who have previously had their dogs castrated will generally make this decision for their new young dog without any problem. But first time dog owners sometimes struggle to reach this decision – taking note of various myths about castration.

One of the profound but unfounded concerns is that the castration may change a dog’s behaviour. Yes, it does but for the better. It does not change a dog’s personality, if we can call it so. A castrated dog is a calm, composed and perhaps a little more thoughtful dog, rather than the one which is always hyper excitable and impulsive. If a dog is aggressive to humans, castration is less likely to change that especially if the castration is left for too late.

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It is true that a castrated dog is likely to put on more weight. This is not purely because of castration but more so due to the dog not spending too much energy on unproductive behaviours.

Some may say that castration predisposes a male dog to other uncommon clinical conditions, but a dog that has not been castrated is more likely to succumb to many of the above outlined testosterone dependent diseases compared to a castrated dog developing any uncommon condition.

The ideal time to castrate a puppy is when they attain the age puberty, usually by around 7 – 9 months, but large breed dogs may be ready much earlier. However, it is never too late to castrate, as the procedure becomes rather inevitable when prostatic problems emerge which usually happen in older dogs.

The surgical procedure of castration is performed under general anaesthesia and is essentially simple, but different vets perform the procedure slightly differently.

Some vets prefer to remove the scrotal sac, but at ‘Sunrise’ we perform the procedure in the least invasive way, through a small incision, which is closed without any visible sutures. Thanks to our modern anaesthetic protocols and equipment, most dogs are up on their feet within 10-15 minutes of completing the surgical procedure and usually ready to go home within a couple of hours.

Since we opened doors for service over three years ago, we have never needed to keep a patient in overnight after surgery – minor or major.

If you need more information or wish to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your dog, please give me a ring on 01257 463 142 and I will try my level best to help.

Dr Shams Mir BVSc&AH,MVSc,DrMedVet,MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon

Sunrise Veterinary Surgery 6 The Common Parbold WN8 7DA Tel: 01257 463 142 www.sunrisevets.co.uk

Professional Qualified Dog Groomer Collection & Drop off available Very flexible appointment times

10% off with this advert

One to one treatments for dogs of all sizes

Call: 07596 046 816 Standish Based

www.barkingbubblesgroomers.co.uk

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Bespoke Carpentry & Construction Services Loft Conversions Handcrafted Furniture Built in Storage Solutions French Polishing Plastering & Tiling Plumbing Kitchen Build & Design Fully Qualified Technicians For your free quotation please call:

07776 365 746

Oaks

Carpentry & Construction

Why move, when you can improve?

We offer you a complete solution to your building needs!

• • • • • • • •

Extensions Conservatories Garage conversions Full refurbishments Kitchen and Bathrooms Plans drawn and submitted Windows and doors Full plumbing and electrical services available

d & guaranteed All work fully insure References available ificates provided Gas & electrical cert

Wirral Drive, Winstanley Call - 01942 216735 or 07725 909 257 80

All electrical work undertaken • Rewire specialists • Extra sockets & lights fitted • Mains board upgrades

Free quotations www.locallife247.co.uk

A.J.S.

BAILEYS ELECTRICAL

01942 215 769 07739 709 005

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Great Value Bathrooms!

Full Bathrooms & En-Suites Showers, Trays & Cubicles Relocation of Bathroom Suites

Fix my conservatory!

• Misted/broken panels replaced • Leaks solved and sealed • Roof panels replaced or upgraded • Insurance work welcomed Call Mark now for a free quote

25 years bathroom experience

01942 737381 (day) 07763 151720 (evening)

Call Chris now for a free quotation

C L Bathrooms

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

e-mail: conservatoryrepairs@googlemail.com

www.fixmyconservatory.com

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

C &D

Plumbing and Heating

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

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

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

Awarded winner of the Good trader scheme, for consistently high standards of customer feedback 2011

Telephone:

01257 421 660 Registration No.

88604

TEL:

MOB:

01942 504 429 07931 766 684

www.fgwelch.co.uk 82

Peter Pennington

Painter & Decorator 30 years experience City & Guilds qualified Call: 01942 226 408 or 07746 463 073

Lady Decorator

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

Just Imagine

Decorating - Interior Design - Soft Furnishings

Need a new look for your home?

Skilled interior and exterior work undertaken at reasonable prices!

Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator

01942 518126 or 07545 065119 Orrell based business

www.locallife247.co.uk

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Trust us with all your building needs Extensions - General Maintenance Barn Conversions - New Builds PVC Windows & Conservatories

Paul Darbyshire Construction Tel: 01744 895 792 Mob: 07790 654 608 E-mail: pauldarbyshireconstruction@live.co.uk

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

Advertise here

Advertise your business in this section for ÂŁ37 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

we make it our business to help yours

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Did you know?

All advertisers in our Home Services section have been vetted

by Trading Standards?

• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985

Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair • Fascia & soffit installation • Guttering and felting services Call us now for a free estimate

01695 633173 Colin: 07958 302 166 Brian: 07760 160 988 www.wilson-bros.co.uk

Local. Valued. Trusted.

First Class Workmanship • All types of re-roofs • Strip & re-slate or re-tile • Built up felt/flat roofs, dormers etc.

• Insurance work undertaken • Roofline uPVC fascias, soffits & guttering

Newman ROOFING & REPAIRS

01257 255 758

MOBILE: 07774 943 837 17 BEECH TREE AVENUE APPLEY BRIDGE

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Established Over 30 Years

www.locallife247.co.uk

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. The job offers flexible hours to suit your lifestyle and good rates of pay for the right candidate. For details call Stephen on 0800 043 0722 or 01942 203442.

Distributors Required Local Life requires distributors (13+) for the Shirewell Road/Naburn Drive area of Orrell. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every 8 weeks, delivering the magazine and associated leaflets in their own neighbourhoods. You must be fit, enthusiastic and reliable, Please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk.

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Useful Numbers

...sponsored by Green & Clean

Medical Pemberton PCT Clinic Concourse Walk-in Centre Bradshaw Sreet Surgery Church Sreet Surgery Hall Green Surgery Holmes House Avenue Surgery Hall Green Clinic Orrell Clinic Matthew Ryder Clinic Wigan Family Chiropractic Clinic Wigan Infirmary Ormskirk Hospital NHS Direct

01942 775 820 01695 588 640 01942 222 336 01695 622 982 01695 622 268 01942 483 213 01695 622 781 01942 775 750 01695 624 042 01942 498 480 01942 244 000 01695 577 111 08 454 647

Dentists Moor Road Dentist Church Sreet Dentist Tower Hill Dentist Hall Green Dentist St Raphael’s Dentist Emergency Dental Repairs

01942 215 091 01695 625 565 01695 622 410 01695 622 066 01695 627 617 01695 623 334

Local Life magazine

01695 627 999

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Police, Councils and Councillors Greater Manchester Police 101 GMP Local Policing Team 0161 856 7188 Wigan Council 01942 244 991 Wigan Council (Out of Hours) 01942 404 040 Cllr Ready (Orrell & Billinge) 01942 487 675 Cllr Arrowsmith (Orrell & Billinge) 01942 486 859 Cllr Murphy (Orrell and Billinge) 01942 487 688 Cllr Kenny (Winstanley) 01942 487 677 Cllr Morgan (Winstanley) 01942 486 880 Cllr Winkworth (Winstanley) 01942 766 229 Skelmersdale Police Station Up Holland Police Team West Lancashire District Council Cllr Moran (Up Holland) Cllr Owen (Up Holland) Cllr Fillis (Up Holland) County Cllr Evans (Up Holland)

01695 566 134 0845 1253 545 01695 577 177 01695 550 256 07908 800 550 07811 388 153 01695 624 683

Other Useful Numbers Hope Community Library Lamberhead Green Library Up Holland Library

01942 777 545 01942 705 060 01695 622 368

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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