Local Life - Wigan West - Sep/Oct 2014

Wigan West Edition

Sep/Oct 2014

Soil & Toil Greenslate Farm Where Are They Now? Russell Beardsmore Jack’s Tracks visits Bamfurlong

Photo by David Sudworth

Class From The Past St Mark’s, Newtown

www.locallife247.co.uk

Open Event*

Wednesday 27 August 2014, 4pm-8pm Runshaw Adult College, Euxton Lane, Chorley, PR7 6AQ

In partnership with

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HE local life full page 140x193 8 Aug Edition.indd 1

11/08/2014 12:09

New Beginnings...

In this issue

When you’re a parent, autumn is always a time for new beginnings. The annual pattern of new schools, new uniforms, new teachers and new friends is seemingly endless, but nothing lasts forever, as I’m about to find out.

30 56 60 64 66 70 74 74 77 78 80 81 84 85 93 94

Pretty soon, the boy will fly the nest for the first (and possibly the last) time, off to uni to begin a new and exciting chapter of his life. No longer will I fall over his ever-present rucksack and/or size 11s when I come through the front door, and my days of driving him and his mates to football and the pub are over. Living away from home is scary, especially when you’re 18 and have only just discovered what a washing machine is.

But it’s hard to switch off being a parent though, isn’t it? I know, when the time comes, I’ll want to be making sure he has everything he needs, so backing off and letting him sort himself out won’t come easy, and nor will saying goodbye. Because then I’ll know, as he walks away for his new life, that I’ll have done my job and that he’ll never need me in the same way anymore.

So, for the boy and for all other students who are leaving home for the first time, a quote from A.A. Milne in Winnie the Pooh: “There is something you must always remember - you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart… I’ll always be with you.”

See you next time

Where Are They Now? Planning Matters Soil & Toil - Greenslate Farm What’s On Class From The Past - St Mark’s, Newtown Jack’s Tracks visits Bamfurlong Test Drive - Alfa Romeo MiTo Motoring Services Puzzle Corner Meet The A-Team Garden Diary Garden Services Recipe Of The Month Home Services Puzzle Solutions Useful Numbers

Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB T 01695 627 999 @ info@locallife247.co.uk W www.locallife247.co.uk

Sales : Chris Pearce, Nicola Gray Editorial: David Sudworth Design & Production: Peter Bretherton

sales@locallife247.co.uk editorial@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk

Distribution: Sally Boon

sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

Accounts: Sam Garrahan

accounts@locallife247.co.uk

Local Life is published every month. The magazine will be distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis.

The Wigan West edition is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and parts of Pemberton.

The Wigan North edition is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Parbold, Newburgh, Wrightington and Hilldale.

You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan.

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

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

Published - Thursday 18 September

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.

Local Life Media

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

Next issue - October.

Advertising deadline - Friday 5 September @locallifemedia

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

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Gathurst Road, Orrell

Bispham Court, Billinge

Brooklands Rd, Up Holland

Smethurst Road, Billinge

£450,000

£325,000

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Hunters Chase, Billinge

Tennyson Drive, Billinge

Tracks Lane, Billinge

Church Street, Orrell

£229,950

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Sandy Lane, Orrell

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4 bed detached

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Are Houses Selling?

We think so.

Our summer sales continue. ÂŁ10 million pounds worth of houses have been bought from the Borron Shaw (Orrell) ofďŹ ce.

Borron Shaw have been selling properties to the local community since 1979.

2 Sefton Road, Orrell

01695 632123 Want to advertise in Local Life?

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

...call us now on 01695 627 999

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Want to advertise in Local Life?

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OAKWOOD MEADOWS Vicarage Lane, off Gathurst Lane, Shevington, WN6 8HP 3 & 4 bedroom homes from £204,995

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This image may include optional upgrades available at the time at additional cost.

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Both properties are also available with Part Exchange*, so if you have a home to sell we could become your cash buyer in only 48 hours!

*Offer is only available on selected developments and properties. Terms and conditions apply.

Full details are available from your local Taylor Wimpey office. Prices correct at time of going to press.The image on this page shows a typical Taylor Wimpey home and include optional upgrades at additional costs.

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Sales information centre and showhomes open Thursday - Monday 11am – 5pm

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The final phase of six homes are built with the modern family in mind, offering flexible living space and the finest contemporary finishes.

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New Chapter A Billinge mum has penned her first novel. Primary school teacher Diane Norburn, who goes under her maiden name of Melling for the book, created Lizzie’s List as a feel-good, chick-lit style book which can make you both laugh and cry.

Ex St James and Up Holland High pupil Diane, 37, of Coppice Drive, has already won the support of Billinge actress Carly Stenson, who has received a copy of the book and told her Twitter followers that she was looking forward to reading it.

Diane, who is married to Ian and has two children, said: “It’s very exciting. A lot of local businesses, including Windy Arbour Farm Shop, Billinge Garden Centre and Longshaw Post Office, are stocking it and I’m hoping it will also be available for Kindle soon.”

Billinge’s Diane Norburn with her book

Sales Rentals Commercial

The book is priced £4.99 and for further details, visit www.dianemelling.co.uk

Christie Ball The Christie is holding its black tie autumn ball in the DWSF Lounge at the DW Stadium, Loire Drive, Robin Park, Wigan, on Friday, October 10. It starts at 7.30pm and the ticket price is £38. For more information, please contact Amanda on 01942 209405.

FROZEN parties now available £13.95 per child

Appearance from Elsa, Frozen glitter tattoos, themed party bay, games and party bags for every child.

professional & personal property agents 5A Library Street, Wigan, WN1 1NN

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Birthday child goes FREE with this voucher Minimum 12 children.

From Monday 1st of September. £2 entry after 3.30pm or £5* (meal deal). *Includes: children’s entry after 3.30pm, children’s meal from the meal deal menu and a cup of juice

wigan@lloydspropertyagents.com 2 Millingford Grove, Ashton in Makerfield, WN4 9BA

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Play • Party • Great Food & Coffee!

Abbey Lakes, Orrell Road, Orrell, WN5 8RD 01695 229 923 www.pipsqueaksplaycafe.co.uk

Diamond Event

Bop ‘Til You Drop!

St John’s Church in Pemberton is holding an evening with top Neil Diamond tribute act James Norton in aid of their Raise The Roof appeal. The venue for this event, on Friday, September 12, at 7.15pm, is St John’s School Hall, Church Street. Tickets are £7 including a hot pot supper but please take your own drinks. Tickets can be obtained from England’s Butchers on Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, from the church or simply pay on the door.

A fundraiser in aid of Dr Naqvi’s Heartbeat Appeal and Macmillan nurses takes place in Orrell on Friday, October 17. Beat Extravaganza Number Five features Vince Reno and The Fabres, plus Alan Parkinson. It will be held at St James’ Club, St James’ Road, at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £10 and for more information, call Pauline on 01695 623427.

Floral Meetings

Jog On Jogging for beginners classes take place on Mondays from 5.15pm-6pm at The Grange Community Complex, Highfield Grange Avenue, Winstanley. The cost is £1 per session and is open to those above 16. For more details call 01942 488489 or email a.griffin@wlct.org

Wigan Floral Art Club meets every third Wednesday of the month at 7.15pm at St Michael’s church hall, Shaw Street, Wigan. Flower arrangements are done by qualified demonstrators, and a raffle is held with the lucky winners taking home a beautiful arrangement. All welcome to go along.

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In Memory of Tom A poignant fundraiser is being held on the birthday of a much-loved father from Orrell. Lifelong Latics fan Tom Rudduck, of Eton Way, worked at Ashworth Hospital in Maghull and after retirement was active in Victim and Witness Support in Wigan. Originally from Station Road in Parbold, he moved to Orrell when he got married. However, in later life he suffered mental health problems. In May 2012 at the age of 75, he tragically took his own life.

Over the weekend on August 30 and 31, on Tom’s birthday, his daughter Gillian Eyre, son Adam and a group of friends will be travelling from Liverpool to Leeds along the canal, raising money in aid of Mind, the mental health charity which aims to give people with mental health problems the support they need and respect they deserve.

Gillian, from Orrell, told Local Life: “August 31 is dad’s birthday and this event is in memory of him and the many who have been touched by the devastating effects of mental health problems. Dad was born and brought up on the banks of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.

His ancestors ploughed the waters as bargemen, so this journey is seen as a fitting tribute to him. We have participants from Shevington, Standish, Southport, Chester and Glasgow and will be travelling through the Wigan, Chorley and West Lancashire areas on August

30-31 so give us a wave if we pass you on the canal bank “Dad’s illness was short but with tragic results and the aim of this event is to raise money to allow Mind to offer support to others coping with mental health problems.”

To donate, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/ Leedsliverpoolmindchallenge

SHRINK EVERYTHING BUT YOUR SMILE LET THE MUSIC FREE YOUR BODY. THE ULTIMATE DANCE-FITNESS PARTY WILL GROOVE YOU INTO SHAPE

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MONDAY 19.00 - Upholland Methodist Church, Alma Hill TUESDAY 19.30 - St Matthews Parrish Rooms, Winstanley - Starts October WEDNESDAY 19.00 - West Lancashire College, Skelmersdale - Starts 10/9/2014 THURSDAY 19.00 - Bispham Club, Smethurst Rd, Billinge

Copyright © 2012 Zumba Fitness, LLC | Zumba®, Zumba Fitness® and the Zumba Fitness logos are trademarks of Zumba Fitness, LLC

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Bullseye!

Bowling Green

The Victoria pub on Ormskirk Road, Up Holland, is looking for women to join their Tuesday nights darts team. The new season is about to start, and anyone interested should pop into the pub for more details.

Up Holland locals are asked to note that the Community Bowling Green at Hall Green will only be open until Tuesday, September 30. After then, it is expected to close as normal until next spring. For casual users, the cost for a one hour session is ÂŁ2 per person. For more details, contact the parish council clerk, David Hughes, on 01257 251775.

Pemberton Festival The Pemberton Festival returns this year for a nineday extravaganza between Friday, October 10, and Sunday, October 19. A total of 14 events will be held at 10 different venues. Among the attractions will be school performances, a rock night, a brass band concert, dancing, open days, an art exhibition, an afternoon tea and much more.

For more information contact Stephen Southern on 01257 423801 or email pembertonfestival1@gmail.com

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Fitness For All An experienced weight management and fitness instructor is coming back with a bang!

Chris Whistlecroft was a Rosemary Conley franchisee for 12 years until the organisation went into administration earlier this year. She has now launched community weight management and exercise classes Fit2Gether4All. From September, she will have nine regular classes in the Wigan area. The classes are suitable for all whether you wish to just weigh in and/or exercise. Each offers individual weigh and consultation at the scales and a motivational group talk followed by a 45 minute exercise session offering a variety of exercise disciplines such as aerobics, dance fitness, FitSteps, Zumba, toning and circuits.

There will also be a new morning FitSteps exercise only session starting in Goose Green on September 10. Alongside these sessions Chris will be running five, six-week blocks of courses consisting of Kettlebell & High Intensity Interval Training programmes, which will be geared towards people who already have a level of fitness. However, she will also be offering a Kettleblast and Interval Levels 1 and 2 programme for those who haven’t tried this type of exercise before.

Chris said: “We are all highly trained in weight management and nutrition, and are fully qualified fitness instructors too. I like the fact I can help people

make a change to their lives for the better and become fitter, healthier and happier. Plus, I just love being with my members, they really are such a big part of my life!”

For more details, visit www.fit2gether4all.com, email info@fit2gether4all.com or call Chris on 07968 608861.

Final s y a D w Fe ! s e l a S f o

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Simply present this sale voucher upon payment.

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Pemberton Lighting 808 Ormskirk Rd, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8AX.

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FITNESS + NUTRITION + SUPPORT = SUCCESS www.fit2gether4all.com CALL 07968 608 861 info@fit2gether4all.com Get great classes, healthy eating tips, exercise programs and much more when you join us at Fit2gether4All.

CLASSES

Monday ST AIDAN’S SOCIAL CLUB Winstanley, WN3 6TB 9.30-11.00am BYRCHALL HIGH SCHOOL Ashton In Makerfield, WN4 9RQ 6.00-7.30pm Tuesday HIGHFIELD ST MATTHEW’S CE PRIMARY SCHOOL Highfield, WN3 6BL 5.45-7.15pm Wednesday *New Fitsteps Exercise Only Class – Starting 10th Sept** ST PAULS CHURCH HALL Goose Green, Wigan WN3 6SB 10.00-10.45am

Thursday RECTORY CE PRIMARY SCHOOL Garswood, WN4 OQF 5.45-7.00pm & 7.00-8.15pm* FITSTEPS®

PRICING

• FIRST CLASS FREE with this advert – must be prebooked.

• PAY £5 MEMBERSHIP and £6.50 weekly class fee weigh-in/workout.

• FREE MEMBERSHIP OFFER *Pre-Pay £24 for 1st 4 weeks’ consecutive classes. *Includes starter pack with nutrition guide, weekly weigh and exercise session.

• EXERCISE ONLY £4

COURSES

STARTING IN SEPTEMBER MONDAY BYRCHALL HIGH SCHOOL Ashton In Makerfield, WN4 9RQ KETTLERCISE 7.45-8.45pm 8th Sept – 13th Oct SATURDAY ST PAUL’S CHURCH HALL Goose Green, Wigan WN3 6SB INTERVAL BOOM! 8.30-9.15am 13th Sept – 18th Oct COURSES ARE 6 WEEKS.

PRICING

• 2 FREE EXTRA SESSIONS when you pre-pay £30. Use at any course that is running within the same period. Please note any sessions not used within the 6 weeks will be void • PAY AS YOU GO at £5 per session

More classes & courses in Standish, Shevington, Aspull & Hindley Green – Call for details

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15

Reunion Plan

Cut The Clutter

A former pupil at St Mark’s School in Newtown in the 1960s is hoping to get in touch with ex-classmates.

Stephen Corless wants to get enough people who went there in the 1960s together so he can hold a reunion. He has been handing out flyers in the area and also started a Facebook group.

Wigan and Leigh Hospice is urging people to clear out the clutter. The Hospice relies on donations of goods from local people to sell in 13 shops across the borough but stocks of good quality furniture are running low.

Stephen now hopes Local Life readers will be able to assist: “I’ve been handing out cards to everyone I know who went and intend to ask the local vicars to give out this message during notices. Once we have enough followers, we can then plan a reunion, rather than planning one and only six turn up!”

For more information, contact Stephen via www. facebook.com/groups/216039268478943/ or by calling 07981 976904.

Items which can be donated include tables and chairs, bedside tables, drawers, wall units, wardrobes, beds, chairs and suites with a fire retardant label. To donate furniture, call 01942 525566 to arrange a free collection.

Taster Evening Shevington Women’s Institute is holding a taster evening on Wednesday, September 24, at 7.30pm in the Methodist Church Hall on Gathurst Lane. There will also be a talk on Lancashire witches. For more information, call Mavis on 01257 472662.

Salem Church Hall, Church Street, Orrell Monday 5pm & 7pm Shevington Methodist Church, Gathurst Lane, Shevington Tuesday 3.30pm, 5pm & 7pm Barbara 01695 731343 Bispham Methodist Church Hall, Crank Road, Billinge Wednesday 8.30am & 10.30am Lamberhead Green Working Men’s Club, White Street, Pemberton Wednesday 5pm & 7pm Karen 01942 720747

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Air Ambulance Boost

Sing the Movies

The Local Life team were out in force to raise money for North West Air Ambulance. We attended the Rainford Show where kind-hearted folk took part in our lucky dip, raising £330.10 in the process. A big thank you to all those who took part, as well as the companies which supplied us with competition tickets. A full list of them can be found on page 58.

Orrell Musical & Dramatic Society is on the lookout for new members to the group in its next musical production, which is a concert based on songs from the movies.

Rehearsals will be held weekly commencing at 7.45pm on Wednesday, September 10, at Salem Church Hall, Church St, Orrell (opposite the Co-Op store). For further details contact Carol on 01695 622713.

Have A Try! Wigan St Jude’s are now recruiting for a new undersevens team. Training is on Wednesdays, 6pm-7pm, and Saturdays, 10.30am-11.30am, at Keats Avenue, Worsley Mesnes. For further details, contact Baz Gray on 07885 913800.

Wedding Outfits Occasionwear

Local Life’s Nicola Gray, Sally Boon, Chris Pearce and Sam Garrahan present a cheque for £330.10 to Paramedic Pup of North West Air Ambulance

Cruisewear Casualwear

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17

Having A Field Day!

discussing that aspect of their big day, the Winstanley Road couple decided to do something about it.

A newlywed couple who know 12 people whose lives have been touched, and in some cases cruelly ended, by cancer staged a fundraising event in their ‘back garden’... raising around £2,000 in the process! Former Holgate pupil Richard Alker, 36, and his 34-year-old bride Jennifer (nee Hornby), an ex-Abraham Guest pupil, got married on Friday, June 13, at Crank Chapel followed by a reception at West Tower, in Aughton. Among their guests were six people who were battling cancer, and sadly another six who couldn’t make it as they had succumbed to the disease. So after

Richard’s mum, Susan, also of Winstanley Road, Billinge, told Local Life: “A month after their wedding, it was my husband John’s birthday so they invited us round for a lovely meal. Both Richard and John are farmers and Richard had just combined a field of barley at the back of his house. As we sat outside we began talking about the wedding and just how many people there were battling with the dreaded disease.

“Jennifer looked at the field and she said she want to put something back. They worked out that we could do a 5km walk or run simply by circling the field, so they made it an event.

“Just beforehand, we heard the news of Eve Sculthorpe, the very sweet little daughter of Lindsey and Paul, who also had been a brave little warrior of a very rare cancer of the kidney. She had been fighting this for over a

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year and has won the battle, so what an honour it was when we asked her if she would cut the ribbon to start the race. It was not only touching, but something very special and an occasion to cheer.

“Just before the race Richard asked for a minute’s silence to remember those great people loved by so many that had lost the fight, and then three massive cheers for those there who were winning the battle.”

Around 150 people took part by either running or walking the field: “After much laughter and then hot dogs and strawberry scones, we found that more than £1,750 had been raised, and donations are still coming in so we are around the £2,000 mark now.”

The family have been so touched by the response that it is now set to become an annual event, with next year

having a focus on prostate cancer. If you would like to donate, please email jenniferhornby@ymail.com

Shoes Handbags Accessories www.barbarasofstandish.com 01257 426 073

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19

Cancellation Regret

Distributors Wanted

Organisers of the Marie Curie Table Top Sale and Tea Party, due to be held at St James’ Club in Orrell on June 21, have apologised for the fact it had to be cancelled at short notice. A spokesman for the Billinge & Orrell Marie Curie Fundraising Group said: “Please accept our sincere apologies for any inconvenience that this may have caused, especially to those who turned up on the day.

Thank you for your continued support.”

Local Life requires distributors aged 13 and above for this edition of our magazine. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every eight weeks. The areas we currently require distributors is as follows:

Dance Circle

If you are interested, please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@ locallife247.co.uk

Up Holland Circle Dance group meets most Thursday evenings from 7.30pm until 9pm at Up Holland Methodist Church on Alma Hill. The group welcomes new members and invite people to go along and try their first session for free. Ring Cindy or Adrian on 01925 733603.

Summer Offers!

£15 off ladies cut & blow £10 off mens cut & blow 25% off all other services All appointments are with our newly recruited & highly experienced senior stylist, Jade Gallagher

Highfield – Merton Road and Billinge Road Orrell – Gathurst Road and Spring Road Pemberton – Chapel Lane, Beaford Close and Brook Lane

Speakers’ Club Wigan & District Speakers’ Club would like to thank Local Life readers who showed an interest in the club at its Community Day on July 12, and those who came to its Open Night at Sunshine House on July 17. The first meeting of our the new session on Thursday, September 4, again at Sunshine House, Scholes, at 7.30pm, and those who weren’t able to attend the previous events are urged to go along.

A spokesman said: “We aim to help people to gain confidence in speaking in front of people. We do it in a fun and friendly way. Come and give us a try.”

Over a Century of Local Family Tradition

EDWARDS Funeral Directors

Expiry date 30 September 2014 16 Upper Dicconson Street Wigan WN1 2AD

01942 820 333 Holmwood, Dicconson Terrace, Wigan WN1 2AA

www.bijouhairsalon.co.uk

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T: 01942 821215 www.edwardsfuneraldirectors.com

Flying High!

Highfield Grange Hawks FC U10s are among the best dressed team in the town thanks to a £365 Brighter Borough Funding boost from Winstanley’s Cllr Marie Morgan. Team Coach Steve Wilkinson said: “We are grateful to Cllr Morgan and Wigan Council for the generous donation. The team will be very proud to wear the striking new kit with the council logo which will be seen by many parents and spectators on match days.”

Cllr Morgan said: “I was delighted to help the Hawks. Behind the scenes, mums and dads work hard to keep the club running smoothly so as a local councillor, Brighter Borough Funding is such an effective way for me to show my support for our local sports and community groups.”

Cllr Marie Morgan with Highfield Grange Hawks FC The club formed in June and will play in the Warrington league. New players are always welcome – call Gary Pennington, club chairman, on 07501 095281 for details.

Wedding Fayre Sunday 26th October 2014 12pm - 4pm

Free Admission Complimentary Parking Catwalk at 2pm

Holiday Inn Haydock M6, Jct23 Lodge Lane, WA12 0JG 01942 868 330 meetings-haydock@ihg.com www.hihaydockm6j23hotel.co.uk

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21

Joining Jack

• 3k for youngsters aged 13 and over; registration 11am-11.30am; race starts at noon.

Young people can once again take part in an exciting event to raise money for Wigan charity Joining Jack.

The Junior Joining Jack run, organised by leisure and culture provider WLCT, takes place at Robin Park Arena, Loire Drive, on Saturday, September 6. All proceeds from the event are donated to the charity which aims to raise awareness and funds research into developing a cure Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, one of the most common fatal genetic diseases in the world.

There’s also the option to run in fancy dress alongside JJ the Destroyer, the Joining Jack mascot. For more information about this event, please call 01942 404950.

Hugh’s Final Bow

• 1k for children aged under eight; registration 10am10.30am; race starts at 11am

Wigan Music Society presents a piano recital by Hugh Mather on Saturday, October 18, at Trinity United Reformed Church, Milton Grove, Wigan, starting at 7.30pm. Hugh Mather is president of Wigan Music Society and has given many memorable recitals in Wigan. This will be his final appearance for the society and the concert will feature popular works from the classical piano repertoire.

• 2k for youngsters aged nine-12; registration 10.30am11am; race starts at 11.30am

Tickets are £8 for members, £10 for visitors and £ 1 for students. All welcome.

Anyone wishing to take part in the event can register on the day and the entry fee is only £1.

The following distances are available:

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Karen Nixon, of Lawns Avenue, Tontine

Mildred Murray, of Ormskirk Road, Up Holland

Coming Up Roses!

Congratulations to these two lucky Local Life readers who won a trip to Southport Flower Show with us!

Mildred Murray, of Ormskirk Road, Up Holland, and Karen Nixon, of Lawns Avenue, Tontine, were among the local winners in our recent competition.

Other winners were Mrs M. Grady, of Main Street, Buckshaw, Pat Shaw, of Stanley Avenue, Rainford, and Sheila Singleton, of Ruskin Close, Tarleton.

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£175k Boost These Orrell mums and tots have helped raise a staggering £175,000 for premature babies.

Baby Sensory, which meets at Pipsqueaks, on Orrell Road, and at Rainford Parish Church hall, dressed up for the day as part of a country-wide push by the organisation, which has teamed up with Tommmy’s charity to raise funds for research into premature birth and miscarriages.

Class leader Lorraine MacArthur said: “Tommy’s wanted to raise £100,000 but we’ve managed to get to £175,000 which is fantastic. I’d

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like to say a big thank you and well done to everyone involved.”

Biggest Choir Bid Sing it loud and sing it proud! That’s the rallying cry from organisers who are inviting locals to help break the world record for the biggest choir... and it’s all set to take place here in Wigan.

It takes place on Saturday, September 6, at 1pm at Thompson House Equestrian Centre, Pepper Lane, Standish. Those assembled will be singing three songs to celebrate the launch of My Life CIC’sinclusive day time opportunities for people of all ages and abilities, and children’s holiday clubs.

If you want to be part of this musical challenge, attend the launch event, or are interested in joining the choir permanently please telephone 01257 252288 or email info@my-life.org.uk

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Try St Helens College

the cost of childcare, lunch, equipment, uniform and travel.

Further education students considering their next step are being urged to take a look at what St Helens College has to offer. The college boasts a wide range of full or part-time courses, from beginners’ classes and leisure courses to post-graduate degrees, so whether you are thinking about a change in career, want to learn something new or want to learn more about a subject you enjoy, the College has something for everyone.

The college has an reputation for providing outstanding vocational courses, apprenticeship programmes, higher education and professional qualifications and consistently receives the highest ratings of student satisfaction for higher education in the North West.

College bosses say you will enjoy a friendly and supportive learning environment where smaller class sizes means more focus on you as an individual, with the guidance of highly skilled and dedicated tutors.

From free breakfast to subsidised fees, St Helens College also has a range of financial support packages and additional benefits accessible to students. Depending on age and circumstances, there are also a range of loans and bursaries that can be accessed to help with

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A college spokesman said: “Choosing to study at St Helens College is a life changing experience which can open doors to new opportunities for those of any age and allow you to meet new people that could enrich your life.”

To find out more information about courses at St Helens College and how to apply just drop into enrolment, call 0800 99 66 99 or visit www.sthelens.ac.uk

‘Buy Me Now’ Day On Monday, September 15, from 9.30am–3pm, the volunteers at Shevington’s Wigan & Leigh Hospice Shop, on Gathurst Lane, are holding a ‘Buy Me Now Day’.

The volunteers will model the shop’s stock and if you wish to buy any item, they will take it off and sell it to you! There will also be a homemade cakes stall, a jewellery stall, a flower stall and appointments are being taken for our visiting hairdresser and beautician. All welcome.

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Edgar in Up Holland The singer of a 1960s psychedelic band is coming to Up Holland to help raise funds for Wigan homeless shelter The Brick. Edgar Broughton will be at St Thomas The Martyr Parish Church, on Church Street, on Friday, October 3.

Audition spots have already been held at The White Lion pub for the evening, which is called Our Daily Bread and features solo or duo acoustic acts.

The Edgar Broughton Band formed in 1968 in their hometown of Warwick. It broke up in 2010 and Edgar now performs solo.

Edgar, now 66, explained the concept for holding the fundraiser in such an unusual venue: “For the past three years, as well as performing solo public shows, I have been playing what I call A Fair Day’s Pay For A Fair Day’s Work shows in people’s homes or other venues of their choice. My fee is my supper, travel costs, a bed for the night and one day of their pay.

The first of these took place in the Wigan area and my host, John Bradshaw became my road manager.

“The gig in John’s house lead us both to thinking about a benefit gig in a church that could be put together by the local community to raise money for a local charity. In the UK today increasing numbers of people are having

to use food banks and many people are becoming homeless. Sometimes a community has to act in a unified way to achieve essential solutions that will not be achieved by any other means.

“So the main aim of this project is to provide funds to The Brick through a partnership with the Up Holland community and St Thomas the Martyr Parish Church, local agencies and individuals, supported by myself, my band members and local musicians.”

The gig starts at 7.30pm and tickets, priced at £15, are available from The White Lion on Church Street.

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OPEN DAY

Saturday 20th September 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The whole family are invited to the open morning, the Library will be open and there will be a variety of refreshments and activities available for all ages.

Prospective pupils can take part in a range of curriculum challenges on offer and enjoy a tour of the Academy.

There is no need to book, just turn up on the day.

ACADEMY AT WORK MORNINGS 22nd - 25th September 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

The Academy is in session as usual. Members of the core leadership team will show you around the different areas of the Academy.

The Principal will give a short talk and you will have the opportunity to ask questions.

There will be two sessions each morning with a maximum of 15 places per session. Booking is required, contact Mrs Finnigan on 01942 511987

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29

Where Are They Now? - by David Sudworth

Russell Beardsmore (Manchester United 1985-1993) The thought of a trophy-less season for Manchester United wasn’t particularly unusual in the 1980s. If anything, it was expected.

The once all-conquering kings of Europe were struggling. They hadn’t tasted league title success since 1967, and in that time had suffered the humiliation of being relegated. To make matters worse, their bitter rivals down the East Lancs Road, Liverpool, were demolishing everything in their path.

But by the latter part of that decade, there was a faint whiff of optimism in the air.

A new manager called Alex Ferguson had been brought in from north of the border, and he was hatching a plan to assemble a squad full of youthful talent. The press, always on the hunt for the next big thing, dubbed them Fergie’s Fledglings. Among them was Russell Beardsmore, a quiet teenager from Wigan.

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Born at Billinge Hospital on September 28, 1968, as the oldest son to Barbara, who grew up in Newtown, and Peter, who hails from Queen Street, Highfield, Russell spent his first two years at 82 Tunstall Lane, Pemberton, before the family moved to Old Road, Ashton-inMakerfield. His younger brother Leighton, now 40, still lives locally.

Russell (front row, far right) in the school team at RL Hughes

While at RL Hughes Primary and Byrchall High schools in Ashton, Russell discovered his footballing skills which led him to turn out for St Jude’s in Poolstock and Atherton Collieries. By his mid-teens, he’d signed on for Wigan schoolboys but while undertaking county trials at Robin Park, he was spotted by a Manchester United scout.

I catch up with Russell between training sessions at Championship club AFC Bournemouth, where he now works: “The scout was Harry McShane. He was actually the father of Ian McShane, who played Lovejoy in the BBC series, and had played for United in the 1950s.

Apparently, he’d been watching and afterwards I was called over to have a word with him. When I went back to the lads they were all asking me who it was and when I said ‘Manchester United’ they were amazed.

of England at the time and basically god, but if Robbo needed a rollicking then Sir Alex would do it. He had no favourites and players respected that.”

Having turned professional in September 1986, it was under Ferguson that Russell got his first team debut two years later, coming on as a substitute at home against West Ham. Alongside other youngsters such as Lee Martin and Mark Robbins, they started getting noticed. A rare 3-1 win over Liverpool at Old Trafford on New Year’s Day 1989 was cited as the start of a new era for United. And Russell did his own career prospects no harm at all by setting up goals for Brian McClair and Mark Hughes before finding the back of the net himself - all within the space of seven minutes.

“I then started going to The Cliff, the old training ground in Salford which George Best, Denis Law, Bobby Charlton and all those legends had practised on. I’d go on Mondays and Thursdays and the training was quite intense. To be fair though, it wasn’t that much different from Wigan, we’d be on the shale pitch and your knees would be cut to pieces but you just had to get on with it.”

In May 1985, Russell signed on as a 16-year-old apprentice and moved into digs overlooking The Cliff for the princely sum of £27.50 a week plus expenses.

The managerial hot seat was occupied by ‘Big’ Ron Atkinson at the time. Six months later though, Atkinson was handed his P45 after a disastrous run of results.

Ferguson was brought in to replace the perma-tanned one and the rest is history.

“I didn’t really see much of Ron Atkinson, he mostly concentrated on the first team,” says Russell. “I wouldn’t say it’s because he wasn’t bothered, I just think that’s what most managers did at the time.

“When Sir Alex came in, he was completely different.

The Alex Ferguson you see on TV is different to the one we saw. He’d be the first one in in the mornings, he’d be laughing and joking and he loved playing pranks on people.

“He was strict but very fair. He had faith in his players. If he shouted at you, it’s because he still believed in you, because he wanted you to be the best you can be. We used to say the time to worry is if he’s not having a go because he’s given up on you. I also admired the fact that it didn’t matter who you were, he’d treat everyone the same. We had Bryan Robson, who was the captain

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Russell in action for Manchester United I wondered whether at that moment, Russell felt as if he’d finally made it as a first team player? “I didn’t because, deep down, I knew how hard it was to stay in the team. That summer, I was in France and I’ll never forget opening up a newspaper and seeing that United had signed Paul Ince, Mike Phelan and Danny Wallace all midfielders. I knew then it would be tough keeping a place in the side.”

By the 1989/1990 season, Fergie was starting to deliver much-need silverware. United won the FA Cup after a replay against Crystal Palace, and although

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31

Russell played in some of the rounds, he didn’t play in the final himself: “In the replay, I was sat next to our goalkeeper Jim Leighton, who had played in the 3-3 draw but had been dropped. I couldn’t even look at him, he was distraught. I just felt so sad for him as Jim is a lovely guy but he knew he’d had a howler so Sir Alex replaced him with Les Sealey. Les was great fun, he’d turn up at the training ground in this battered old car and was a real Artful Dodgertype Cockney. He died about 11 years later of a heart attack which was a real shock.”

Struggling to keep a place in the first team, Russell went on a brief loan spell to Kenny Dalglish’s Blackburn Rovers.

He finally left United in 1993 after eight years at the club, and signed for Bournemouth.

A back injury in 1999 saw Russell having to call time on his playing career. He eventually came back north having been appointed assistant community officer for Bolton Wanderers, with added responsibility for coaching the Under 10s Academy side. During his spell at the Reebok Stadium, he lived on Gleneagles Drive in Euxton, but after two years found himself heading back to the south coast to Bournemouth where he now works as a coach. His two children, Millie, 17, and Taite, 10, also live down there.

He is however still involved at Old Trafford on matchdays and recently played for the club’s Legends team on a tour of Indonesia. Despite his career in topflight football being shorter than he might have wished, Russell says he feels immensely privileged: “Many people would die to play even half the games I played at United. I had the skills but maybe the fact I was light was a factor. I was only about 10 stone 2 pounds when I was playing for United. Nowadays, I’d have been put on some regime to build me up but it didn’t happen back then.

32

Russell today with Millie and Taite “I have good memories of my playing days. United has changed so much - I didn’t go back for about 19 years and I couldn’t believe it. The place has probably doubled in size and the pitch is 100 times better than it used to be. I remember it being dreadful, it would cut up and move underneath your feet. It’s mad because we’d train during the week on a pitch which was like a bowling green and then play on something which resembled a cabbage patch!”

However, Russell admits he does have one regret; that he never got the chance to play for his beloved Latics: “I was a Wigan Athletic fan and I’d go to matches home and away. I played for Wigan schoolboys and the manager at the time was Dave Crompton, who signed a number of youngsters up for Latics. Although I’m glad I chose United, I would have liked at some point to have played for my hometown club.”

apply • pay • review

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Macmillan Extravaganza

Can these three local ladies beat the £30,000 running total barrier at their latest cancer charity evening? Kath McGuire, Edith Berry and Anne Hurst are organising their annual Macmillan Extravaganza evening for Friday, September 27, at 7pm at St James’s Catholic Club, St James’ Road, Orrell.

There will be music by Old Hall Community Brass Band, a dancing display by The Chris Woolfenden School of Dance, Wigan Musical Theatre Group will be doing songs from the shows and as usual there will be a home grown fruit and veg stall, cakes, fancy goods, homemade cards and so on.

Last year’s extravaganza raised £6,200 - taking the total raised by the ladies since 2008 to a staggering £27,805.

This year’s event should push that to over £30,000.

Tickets are £5 available from Kath on 01695 721038, from Edith on 01695 623686 , from Anne on 01942 515409 or the club on 01695 623902.

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Plan Updates Plans to redevelop an Orrell pub have been granted. As reported in the last edition of Local Life, the proposal for the old Rose and Crown on Church Street is for four selfcontained flats, alterations to the elevations together with car parking and amenity space.

Wigan Council planners have granted the developers planning permission, subject to conditions. One of them is that the development must start within the next three years, otherwise fresh permission would need to be sought.

Meanwhile, a decision on plans for another old pub, the Sandbrook Arms on Sandbrook Road in Tontine, is still to be made by West Lancashire Borough Council, However, the proposal to build four new homes there have won backing from local residents. One wrote: “We wish to give our wholehearted support for the new

housing development. In our opinion the above site has long been an eyesore and a blight on our community.”

However, the resident has raised parking concerns with the council: “We would ask the council to restrict access to Lindley Avenue to the residents and their visitors only. This would stop indiscriminate parking.”

Dancing and Cabaret An evening of dancing and cabaret takes place at St James Social Centre, St James Road, Orrell, on Saturday, August 23, from 8pm to 11.15pm. The entertainment will be provided by John Bowdler, resident organist at Blackpool Tower Ballroom, and singer Gaynor Connor, formerly of Radio 2.

Tickets are £6 and proceeds go to The Christie Hospital.

They are available from the club on 01695 623902, from Marie on 01942 832902 or from Frank on 01744 309760.

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Blowing Hot & Cold Stop blowing hot and cold - make 2014 the year when you convert your conservatory into real living space!

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The company has recently been featured on the BBC’s Crime Scene Rescue and DIY SOS. HomeSafe Roof Solutions will replace your existing polycarbonate or glass conservatory roof with a fully insulated lightweight roof, that will keep the heat in during winter months and prevent the sun from overheating your conservatory during the summer months.

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Simply call HomeSafe Roof Solutions on 01942 522 283 and the owner John Jones will visit your home and give you a free, no obligation quotation for the job. There’s no hard sell, just honest and friendly advice on your conservatory roof replacement.

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Great Knit!

Brass Band Concert

Jireh Baptist Church, on Chapel Street, Orrell, hosts a knitting group on Tuesdays, from 1.30pm-3pm, during school term times only. The thriving group has been going for two years but new members are always welcome. There are free refreshments and the group knits for various charities as well as themselves.

For more information, contact Pam Thomas on 01942 218717.

St Aidan’s Church, on Main Street, Billinge, hosts a concert by Pemberton Old Wigan (DW) Junior Band on Friday, September 5, at 7.30 pm. The band will be conducted by Mr John Don-Duncan. Tickets will be £5 and there will be refreshments available at the half-time interval. A list of those requiring tickets will be placed at the back of church and will also be available from the Church Wardens on 01744 892613 or 01744 895914.

A Real Beacon!

Beacon Country Park in Up Holland has retained its Green Flag Award status. The judge met with staff and was given a tour of the site by the Head Ranger.

The judge also carried out a thorough assessment of the management plan and the various operational, conservation and amenity features in place. This is the eighth successive year Beacon Country Park has retained this prestigious status, co-ordinated by Keep Britain Tidy, which recognises and rewards the best green spaces in the country.

Proceeds from the concert will be split between the church and band.

Workshops Invite Orrell Eggcrafters are holding workshops this autumn.

New members are welcome to go along to the events at Salem United Reformed Church Hall, Church Street, on Saturday, October 4, and Saturday, November 1, from 10am-3pm. All materials and full tuition on the day. Anyone interested in craft is welcome to join in.

Call Wendy Dickinson on 01942 216552 or Sue Jones on 01942 518233 for further details.

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Infirmary Changes?

Wigan residents are being urged to have their say on possible changes to the town’s Royal Albert Edward Infirmary. A review is currently underway for the 10 main hospitals in the Greater Manchester area.

Proposals suggest making four or five of them ‘specialist’ hospitals which will treat the 6% of patients who are most ill and in need of the most senior doctors. The none-specialist hospitals will continue to treat 94% of patients as normal.

Health chiefs say no final decision has been taken on what Wigan Infirmary’s future status will be, but they have assured locals that whatever happens, the Accident and Emergency Department will remain open 24 hours a day. A number of events have also been planned where locals can find out more and have their say. Among them are the following: - Thursday, August 28: Unison Roadshow Bus in Wigan town centre (10am-4pm) - Thursday, September 4: Healthier Together Consultation, Ashton Library, Wigan Road, Ashton-inMakerfield (10am-3pm). No booking needed for this.

- Tuesday, September 9: Mercure Oak Hotel, Wigan, WN1 3SS (5.30pm) - Thursday, September 11: YMCA, Hilton Street, Ashtonin-Makerfield, WN4 8PD (12.30pm) - Thursday, September 18: Annual Public Meeting, Sports and Fitness Lounge, DW Stadium, Loire Drive, Wigan (6pm) To book a place on those apart from the September 4 event, ring 0800 073 1477 or email foundationtrust@ wwl.nhs.uk The consultation process finishes on September 28.

You can find out more at www.wiganboroughccg.nhs. uk, by calling Wigan Borough CCG on 01942 482711, or emailing talktous@wiganboroughccg.nhs.uk.

Convict Talk A talk on the transportation of convicts to Australia takes place at Up Holland Library, Hall Green, on Monday, September 15. It will be led by Colin Penny, the museum manager at Lancaster Castle, and started at 10.30am. Tickets are £2 and are available from the library. Call 0300 1236703 for more information.

Want to advertise in Local Life?

Healthcare in Greater Manchester is changing Changes are being proposed for all local hospitals in Greater Manchester.

Tell us what you think and help change the future of your local NHS For more information on the changes that are being proposed and to have your say, you can: Visit: www.healthiertogethergm.nhs.uk Call: 0800 888 6789 Email: healthier.together@nhs.net

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Get Cooking!

If you’re considering a new hobby or want to simply enhance your cookery skills, then Colours Cookery School at St Helens College has a wide range of short courses suitable for beginners to more advanced cooks.

Not enough hours in the day for you?

Want to spend quality time with the family?

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There is selection of short evening and weekend courses aimed at building skills, techniques and to broaden awareness of a range of cuisines. Exciting new courses starting from this September includes; Cake Decoration Made Easy, Cookery for the Beginner, Gourmet Cookery and A Taste of Italy.

The courses are delivered by experienced chefs and you can now book and pay for your course online www. sthelens.ac.uk/cookeryschool

• Regular hourly rate only £9.25 • Hours to suit you (minimum 2 hours per week) • Most domestic duties provided • Reliable, friendly staff are fully vetted by Maid2Clean • One off spring cleans available • Insurance for workers provided

Every working home deserves a Maid2Clean Perhaps you have an elderly relative or friend who could use some help around the home?

We can also clean your Office please phone for details

Call us now on 01942 203442 or 0800 043 0722 email - joanne.maid2clean@gmail.com website - www.maid2cleanwigan.co.uk Your friendly local family business

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

Are you looking for a new independent financial adviser?

Due to changes introduced by the Financial Services Authority there has been a reduction in investment and pension advisers.

Consequently, there are now even more “orphan” clients than ever that need to seek out a financial adviser that they can trust to look after them over the long term.

Orphan clients?

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

How can this happen?

We are based locally (on the High Street in Standish) and have been looking after the investment needs of local clients for over ten years.

Our business is designed around the long term interests of our clients and not the short term interest of our advisers.

As a result we now review in excess £75 million on behalf of 350 individual and corporate clients throughout the Wigan area and beyond.

Are our services suited to you?

• Your adviser has now retired and sold out resulting in you becoming a client of a much larger firm with typically no local presence.

• High Street Banks no longer offering financial advice • Advisers moving offshore i.e. Cyprus, to avoid the new tougher regulatory regime.

Entrust your financial future to Wigan’s only Chartered Financial Planners.

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• Do you want someone to advise you rather than being sold to?

• Are you about to retire or have you already retired and need an adviser to manage your financial wellbeing throughout retirement?

• Have you been orphaned by your previous adviser and been left with investments and pensions that you think may need reviewing?

Whilst we do not require a minimum investment level for our services you would ideally have at least £75,000 liquid funds to invest or have existing investments at this level?

If you feel that we can be of assistance please do not hesitate to get in touch. The initial meeting is at our expense and is without obligation.

Prosper IFA are the FIRST firm of financial advisers in Wigan to be awarded the prestigious Chartered Financial Planners Status.

Prosper Independent Financial Advisers Ltd. Prosper House, 99a High Street, Standish, WN6 0HD

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45

Sign Of The Times

Rainbow Helper Plea

Mileposts and boundary markers in Lancashire is the subject of a talk by John Armstrong for the Wigan Archaeological Society on Wednesday, September 3, starting at 7.30pm. It takes place in the Standish Suite at the Brocket Arms, Mesnes Road, Wigan. Entry is £3 and for more details contact Bill Aldridge on 01257402342 or visit www.wiganarchsoc.co.uk.

An adult helper is needed to assist with the running of the Rainbow group which meets at St Luke’s Church, Lodge Road, Orrell. The group meets on Mondays from 5.45pm to 6.45pm. Rainbows are aged between 5 and 7 and operate on a ratio of 1 adult to every 5 girls. One of the group’s leaders is leaving in September due to work commitments, hence the hunt for a replacement.

War Event

Carol Benson, from the Rainbows group, said: “Each week we do different craft activities with the girls and get tremendous feedback from the girls and parents on how much the girls enjoy their time at Rainbows.

The Friends of Haigh Country Park are holding a World War I summer event on Sunday, August 24, from 11am-7pm. There will be donkey rides, a barbecue, craft stalls, a nostalgic train road ride, Punch & Judy and an appearance from Willpower Theatre. Live music comes from The Jade Assembly, Stereo Fuel and Lottery Winners. All welcome.

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If you are interested in helping please contact Carol on 01695 628174 or Lucy on 07788 828452.

Beat It Regular West African Drumming classes are being held in Wigan. They are every Tuesday from 7.30pm at Newtown Working Men’s Club, Anson Street, Newtown. Entry is £7. A spokesman said: “The benefits of drumming are endless; it promotes people from all walks of life to come together and develop music together, our classes facilitate confidence and learning and build bridges and new friendships, we create a sense of belonging. There is a real sense of community within drumming groups.”

>> Consultation & Examination £65 (INCLUDES YOUR FIRST TREATMENT SAVING YOU £40) >> Digital X-ray pictures £65 extra views £30 per area >> Chiropractic or Sports Therapy sessions (each) £40 >> Acupuncture sessions (each) £40 >> Combined Chiropractic & Acupuncture sessions (each) £40

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

Making your life easier!

Do you have ISAs, Unit Trusts, Investment Bonds and Pensions dotted around with different companies and are you fed up with receiving countless statements and information from each of them?

Are you unsure as to how each investment is performing?

And finally, would you like to simplify your investment affairs whilst still having access to some of the leading investment houses and insurance companies ?

Because of the slow recovery in the economy the bad news for savers is that whilst interest rates may start to creep north towards the end of the year / early next year they are likely to remain low for some time to come and consequently bank accounts remain very poor value for the majority of investors.

For those of you who have answered yes to one or more of these questions I would suggest that you read on.

As a result of the turmoil experienced since 2008 in the investment markets, I believe that the focus has very much sharpened on three things for investors.

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Service Risk Fund Performance

The majority of our new investment clients tell us that they had become totally frustrated with the volume of paperwork they were receiving from their investment providers and that they had lost track of where they were up to with regards to their portfolios. They had lost touch with their previous advisers and when I asked them about the risk profile and the performance of their underlying investments, without exception the response was very much a scratch of the head or “I don’t really know”. This is really quite scary. Your money is important, it needs to be looked after and managed sensibly.

I am pleased to say that all of these clients now know exactly what their investment risk levels are, where their money is invested, and more importantly how it is performing. In addition, for the majority, they can now

obtain valuation details of all of their investments by either making one phone call or better still pressing a button on their home computer.

In today’s fast changing economic / investment environment it is vital that investors keep abreast of the latest developments and that they have access to unbiased investment expertise at a competitive price.

As market opportunities come and go it is imperative that portfolios are correctly positioned to either seize the opportunities or to mitigate the potential threats.

Too many investors adopt a passive stance and consequently remain in funds or sectors that have long since fallen out of favour.

Most people would prefer to spend time on hobbies, holidays and with family rather than pouring over financial information and worrying about what they should be doing with their investments. If this sounds like you and you need help to make managing your money a little easier please do not hesitate to give us a call.

If you invest in the stock market the value of your investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount invested.

Entrust your financial future to Wigan’s only Chartered Financial Planners.

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Prosper IFA are the FIRST firm of financial advisers in Wigan to be awarded the prestigious Chartered Financial Planners Status.

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Accountancy - by Chris Alcock ACMA

It’s not too early to complete your Self Assessment Return Hello and welcome to the latest article from CMA, a proactive, hands-on accountancy firm based on Skull House Lane in Appley Bridge.

early, by 31 October, instead of leaving this until the end of the year:

Summer holidays are now drawing to a close and it is now a good time to be looking at completing your tax return for 2014. The deadline for submitting this to HMRC is 31 January 2015.

As a reminder, the following are the main reasons you may be required to completing a return:

1. Paper returns can still be submitted before 31 Oct 2014 and HMRC will calculate what tax you owe.

2. If you owe any tax on your 2013/14 income and this is below £3,000, HMRC can amend next year’s tax code.

3. If you are self-employed, the earlier you know your tax liability, the sooner you can plan your payments.

4. Finally, you will sleep better at night!

• Anyone who is self-employed, that is they are not employed and pay income tax via PAYE.

You may have this in hand but if you need any help with this we can complete your SA Return.

• If you have savings income above £10,000.

We have a special discount of 15% off our standard fees for SA Returns if you contact us before 30 September. Please quote reference “Local Life Sept 15%” to qualify for this rate.

• If you receive rental income from a property.

• Company directors must complete a return.

• You have Capital Gains Tax to pay from selling an asset.

Please contact us if you would like to discuss anything in this article. Alternatively drop by the office on Skull House Lane in Appley Bridge and we can discuss these further.

• You have received income from overseas such as pensions that are liable to UK tax.

• If you are employed and want to claim for expenses or professional subscriptions.

• Changes to Child Benefit mean that any household with someone earning more than £50,000 lose a proportion of the benefit. Households where the highest earner has a salary of £60,000 lose the benefit entirely. Parents who are in this situation must register with HMRC and complete a tax return before 31 Jan 2015.

There are a number of benefits to completing your return

Tax Tip of the Month Business Mileage Claims – Do you claim business mileage expenses from your employer for using your own car? If the rate you are being reimbursed is less than 45 pence per mile, and you claim a significant amount of miles per year, above about 3000, then you may benefit from a tax relief claim.

To see how we can help you please get in touch:

CMA is a proactive accountancy firm based in Appley Bridge. We provide the usual services such as accounts and payroll services. We can also help you with your bookkeeping if you hate doing this!!

Want to advertise in Local Life?

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

...call us now on 01695 627 999

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| 200 Main Street, Billinge

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Join Marken Travel at 6.30pm on Tuesday, September 9 and learn how to make your Disney experience run smoothly; all you need to know from pre trip planning to the new and enhanced changes Disney have introduced this year. We will talk about the new Magic Bands, chip-enabled park tickets, pre-bookable Fastpass plus (enabling you to book times in advance, saving time waiting in lines on the popular rides throughout the park and also enabling you to reserve viewing spots for park favourites like the Magic Kingdom fireworks and slow-moving character meet ‘n’ greets) and much more!

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SeaWorld Orlando Behind the Scenes Tour

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Chef Mickey’s Character Dinner with Limousine Transfers

Do you want to see what happens behind the scenes at SeaWorld? Join the behind the scenes tour and discover how SeaWorld animal experts care for manatees and sea turtles. Then interact with a small shark, explore one of the hidden polar bear dens and touch a penguin.

Here is your chance to dine with Walt Disney World’s biggest stars! A 5-star stretched limousine will pick you up from your hotel and whisk you Chef Mickey’s Restaurant where you will be joined by Mickey Mouse and the gang as you sit down for a mouthwatering buffet dinner.

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Busch Gardens ® Serengeti Safari Tour

Take a 30-minute open-air safari truck expedition out onto the Serengeti to feed giraffes from your hand, plus meet zebras and antelopes right in their own habitat.

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Blue Man Group Orlando

Outrageous comedy, exciting music and dazzling multimedia theatrics are combined to create visually stunning and hysterically funny show. Loved and renowned all over the world for their live stage shows, the Blue Man Group has now brought its unique and spontaneous performances to Orlando.

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Experience the only place on Earth where you can tour real life rocket launch areas, explore the space shuttle, meet an Astronaut, see giant rockets, train in space flight simulators and even experience a launch into space!

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Clearwater Beach Trip from Orlando

Escape the frenetic pace of Orlando’s theme parks- and head for the white sands and turquoise waters of Clearwater Beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

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A fantastic Floridian adventure. Experiencing the natural wonders of the Everglades including an exhilarating airboat ride before visiting glorious Miami beach, a playground for the rich and famous.

Over 2000 more experiences worldwide, from the ordinary to the extraordinary, to choose from.

Book your any Theme park attraction tickets with Marken and receive up to Want to advertise in Local Life?

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Planning Matters

Good Friends

Orrell

The Friends Of Alexandra Park in Newtown are looking for like-minded people to help improve the park and make it a more interesting place for the community to visit. If you have an interest in developing a community garden, improving the woodland garden, identifying and recording the wild flowers, trees, birds and insects for the biodiversity plan or helping with the campaign to restore the Monument, please email friendsofalexparkwigan@outlook.com

266 Orrell Road: Lawful development certificate for single storey rear extension (ref: A/14/79562).

The consultation deadline is August 28.

Pemberton 164 Bell Lane: Proposal to extend dwellinghouse two storey to rear (ref: A/14/79546). The consultation deadline is August 25.

Winstanley 8 Culcross Avenue: Proposal to extend bungalow single storey to rear (ref: A/14/79563). The consultation deadline is August 28.

Up Holland Hope Cottage, 14 School Lane: Retention of replacement UPVC windows (ref: 2014/0662/FUL).

The target decision date is October 1.

For information about the Orrell, Pemberton and Winstanley applications, visit www.wigan.gov. uk. For details on the Up Holland plan, visit www. westlancs.gov.uk

Alternatively, the Friends group meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 6pm in the Community Room, in bowling green area of the park.

The Fallen A walk around Wigan Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Lower Ince, is being planned for Wednesday, September 3. it will look at the memorials and stories of local men who died in conflict. It starts at 1.30pm and last until 3pm.

The cost is £3 and booking is essential on 01942 828128 or by emailing R.musa@wlct.org

Improve your home in 2014 Vale of Wigan can replace or modernise your existing staircase with a traditional oak staircase with wooden spindles, a more contemporary staircase with glass and chrome or a bespoke design of your choice. Call Vale of Wigan now for a free no-obligation survey.

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Thank you! to those companies that kindly supplied us with tickets to raise funds for North West Air Ambulance at Rainford Festival

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David Sudworth digs out his wellies to see how Billinge’s community farm is faring in its first season…

Mandy Wellens-Bray is a bit of a trailblazer in these parts. Having won planning permission to build Wigan’s first green home in Orrell Road years before being eco-friendly was mainstream, it was also her idea to breathe new life into Billinge’s Greenslate Farm.

However, the 50-year-old mum of two is quick to turn the limelight away from herself and towards those in the community who have rolled their sleeves up alongside her.

“It’s all about people and self-empowerment, rather than being told what to do by someone coming in from outside. That’s why it’s worked so well.”

Indeed it has. But there’s no getting away from the fact that without Mandy’s drive, the seed of an idea which was first planted five years ago would probably not have germinated, let alone taken root, without her dedication.

Speaking of roots, Mandy has got plenty in the area.

Born at Bllinge Hospital, which once loomed large over the Greenslate site, she was brought up in Tennyson Drive, Billinge. She went to Holgate Primary and Up Holland High schools, before going to agricultural college in Newport, South Wales. She now lives in Orrell Road and is married to Pat, 54.

Her first business was Mandy’s Pet Care, which she ran from her parents’ house, but eventually she sat a civil service entrance exam and embarked on a career as a tax inspector. After two-and-a-half years, she went into private practice. However, the outdoors has always been her passion; she had worked on Tattersall’s Farm in Wrightington previously, so went back to education by enrolling on a countryside management degree at

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Mandy Wellens-Bray: “It’s a real community effort” Liverpool John Moores University.

Since then, she’s helped train rangers, worked for Business Link, ran a herb business and got involved in the Transition Network. From there, a Billinge and Orrell group was set up, and that was when the idea for transforming Greenslate, which at time had lay pretty much untouched for years , really started to pick up pace.

“I remember putting a proposal to Wigan Council but at the time they were thinking about using it for football pitches. That would have cost a lot because the land isn’t flat at all. I would be calling every week or so seeing if there was any movement. When things are going well though, people don’t need to look for alternatives.”

Despite being initially lukewarm, the financial squeeze, coupled with legislation allowing community groups to take over the management of council facilities, caused town hall chiefs to look at it afresh. Finally convinced that the project was viable, they formally signed over the land on a 25 year lease in March this year.

Greenslate is now run as a community benefit company, aka a ‘bencom,’ under the auspices of the Industrial and Provident Society. Anyone can purchase shares, starting from £25, and the maximum amount is £20,000.

However, regardless of the amount of shares owned, each person has just one vote at board meetings.

“That means that it is a truly equitable enterprise, no one person has more power than another, and that is important. We also have a flat management structure and an equal pay system for the salaried staff.”

However laudable Greenslate’s aims, Mandy acknowledges they mean little without the ability to balance the books. The project has already secured a three-year funding deal worth £90,000 in total from Wigan Council. However, with estimated running costs of £125,000 per year, they need to find sustainable income streams. To that end, the aim is to build solid links with local groups, organisations and individuals which, in turn, will hopefully provide a large portion of its future income through activities such as kids’ clubs, corporate days and the care farm which is used by adults with learning difficulties. Other ideas, such as a community bakery and grocery, are also being explored.

The allotments at Greenslate

“The idea is we will be self-funding within three years, and I’m really pleased by how people have rallied round,” says Mandy.

Volunteer Joe Taylor feeds the Greenslate piglets

Grower Sarah Park in the greenhouse

Biscuit the goat gives us a smile

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...call us now on 01695 627 999

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“We have around 40 volunteers and we are doing a lot of paid-for work with organisations such as drug and alcohol charity Add Action, as well as holding fundraising events. People also pay rents on their allotments, so we are building up an income.”

Among those who have a growing plot at the Greenslate Road site is the Adamson and Birchall family.

Orrell’s Ian Birchall took a break from his digging – ably assisted by great nieces Evie, aged four, and Caitlin, aged nine - to wax lyrical about Greenslate: “We really like it here. We come as a family and all help out. It’s great for the little ones as well – they don’t mind getting their hands dirty at all!”

Freya Green, Laura Berry and Janet Walker at Greenslate about creating a revolution and more like having a party! We have lot of fun here and it’s open to everyone.

You don’t have to be a gardener or experienced in agriculture, we get so many people here with different skill sets and it’s all about sharing them.

“We are also building resilience into the community, realising that we can’t go on relying on things like cheap fossil fuels. I remember a few years ago when it was snowing and the Co-op had to close temporarily because people were scrambling over the last loaves of bread. That shows how a lack of resilience can emerge in a short space of time.”

Greenslate: What’s On Saturday, August 30 (2pm-5pm): End of Summer Party, filled with loads of party games, fun activities, face painting, team challenges, animal fun and a party buffet. It is being held to help fund vital equipment for Greenslate’s two new ponies, John Mac and Billy Mac. Tickets are £12 and booking is essential.

Back at the site office, there’s plenty of work going on.

Each person I see is either lifting, carrying, digging or hammering something.

Friday, September 12 (7pm-midnight): A fundraising band night, Greenstock, is taking place at Orrell St James’ Social Club. Tickets cost £10 each, there are four local bands playing, hot food will be available to buy on the night and all the proceeds go towards Greenslate Community Farm.

Mandy is clearly happy with the way everything is shaping up: “As human beings we are social creatures, yet over the years we’ve got to the stage where some people never see their neighbours. We lead separate lives, so Transition is about re-balancing that. It’s less

Greenslate Farm is open Mondays-Fridays, 9.30am4.30pm and on Saturdays from 10am-1pm. For more details on the above events, to volunteer, or for more information about Greenslate Farm, contact 01695 229150.

Ian Birchall on the plot with great nieces Evie, aged four, and Caitlin, aged nine

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What’s On in the North West Friday, August 29 to Sunday, November 9 Blackpool Illuminations Bolton funnyman Peter Kay will be switching on the 2014 Illuminations on Friday 29th August, joined by Little Mix and rock band Texas. Chart stars Pixie Lott, Union J, Neon Jungle and George Ezra will also be performing. The switch on event in 2014 will encompass a whole 3 days of entertainment.

The Friday Concert will be FREE and tickets can be purchased for the Saturday and Sunday evenings. Illuminations run until Sunday, November 9.

Tickets are availble from £16.50 via www.blackpool-illuminations.net or by calling Ticketmaster on 0800 988 4440 Sunday, September 7 Lancashire Classic Car and Motorcycle Show Classic Shows are proud to present the 32nd Classic Car and Motorcycle Show at Hoghton Tower.

Admission is adults £7, children (7-14) £3, under 7s free. Free parking.

If you wish to take a classic car or motorcycle and take part in the show, please contact Andrew Greenwood on 01484 667776.

House and gardens open for tours - separate admission charge applies.

Starts at 10am. Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, PR5 0SH.

Wednesday, September 10 Ant & Dec’s Takeaway on Tour The cheeky Geordie chappies take their popular ITV show on the road. As viewers of Saturday Night Takeaway will know, no audience member will be safe whether you’re sat in the front row or at the back, so Ant and Dec could be taking you up on stage - so you’ve been warned!

Liverpool Echo Arena, Kings Dock, Liverpool waterfront, L3 4FP. Tickets from £28 via www. echoarena.com

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Monday, September 8, to Saturday, September 13 Talking Heads Written by Alan Bennett and directed by Zoe Jones, this series of monologues sees four very different women tell their stories.

Meet Lesley, an aspiring actress hoping for her big break; vicar’s wife Susan, secretly conducting an affair; lady of letters Irene - not afraid to speak her mind; and elderly Doris who comes to re-evaluate her life after spotting a cream cracker under the settee.

7.30pm-10pm at Chorley Little Theatre, Dole Lane, PR7 2RL. Monday-Wednesday £6, Thursday-Saturday £8. Groups of 10 or more: deduct £1 per ticket (Monday-Friday). Buy 10, Get 11th free. On sale now from Malcolm’s Musicland on 01257 264362.

Thursday, September 11 BBC Antiques Roadshow BBC ONE’s ever popular Sunday evening programme ANTIQUES ROADSHOW will be filming for its 37th series at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral.

9.30am to 4.30pm, entry is free, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, Merseyside L3 5TQ Contact telephone 0117 974 2395 - to check latest times or cancellations or visit www.bbc.co.uk/ antiquesroadshow Wednesday, September 17, to Sunday, September 21 Turbo Time From the world renowned circus producer, Gerry Cottle, comes a fast, fun and totally immersive new show combining death defying stunts, rock n roll skaters, illusionists, acrobats, jugglers and sensational comedy performers.

You will be witness to 50 spectacular circus acts in just 100 minutes as you experience sky high daredevils swinging from the roof of the dome, international illusionists disappearing before your very eyes and a new wave of world class performers.

Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6QN. For more information, call 01625 374416 or visit www. tattonpark.org.uk Saturday, September 20 & Sunday, September 21 Southport Air Show If you’re looking for a fun and exhilarating day out with the kids then look no further than the Southport Air Show. Arrive by 10am and you will see light aircraft landing, a spectacle unique to Southport Air Show which has a purpose built runway on the beach. Don’t forget to check out the ‘life in the trenches’ display, the climbing walls, the assault courses and make sure you experience the flight simulators. Then the flying begins...the Red Arrows, a Typhoon Fighter Jet and the world’s last two Lancaster bombers are scheduled to appear.

9am -5.30pm Southport Seafront, tickets from £7.32 (under 5’s are free), advance tickets can be purchased via www.visitsouthport.com or call 01704 533333

Thursday, September 25 We Shall Remember Them: Rugby Footballers in Khaki A look back at the rugby players of the Wigan and Leigh area who gave their lives during World War I. The casualty list included 10 Leigh players with League Championship winners Sam Whittaker and Paddy O’Neill and Wigan’s star winger Lou Bradley. Mike Latham gives the background to their careers, time in the services and tragic ends serving King and Country.

Museum Of Wigan Life, Library Street, Wigan. Event taking place during normal museum opening hours.

Cost is£2.50 including tea/coffee.

Friday, October 3 to Sunday, October 5 British Musical Fireworks Championship Seven magnificent firework displays over three nights of entertainment, but only one winner! Southport’s sky bursts into light as some of the country’s top pyrotechnic teams compete to win the prestigious industry title of UK Champions. The British Musical Fireworks Championship is no ordinary competition, each competitor is required to synchronise their display to music making each display no ordinary display and this event one of a kind in the UK! Tickets from £5.23 via www.visitsouthport.com or call 01704 533333. Victoria Park, Rotten Row, Southport, PR8 2BZ.

Wednesday, October 15 to Sunday, October 19 Disney On Ice Get ready to celebrate in style! Disney On Ice is proud to present a scintillating skating spectacular at the Phones 4u Arena. You will see Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends from Disney’s Mulan, Lion King and Pinocchio, and Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo, The Incredibles and Toy Story all take to the ice. This fanfare production features more than 60 unforgettable Disney stars that span the decades, a sing-along score of award-winning Disney music, stunning choreography, elaborate sets and beautiful costumes.

Tickets from £16.50 via www.eventim.co.uk or call 0844 847 8000, Phones 4u Arena, Manchester, M3 1AR. Saturday, October 18 Voulez Vous - 40 Years of Waterloo After their unforgettable performance at The Dome, Brighton in 1974, ABBA’s hit Waterloo has since been voted the all-time best song of the Eurovision Song Contest 40 years on from smashing their way onto the international music scene, ABBA fans and music fans alike are coming together to celebrate the Swedish superstars’ longevity!

Voulez Vous have been masters of the ABBA scene for the past 23 years, and will transport you back to the 1970s and early 1980s with hits such as Take A Chance, Dancing Queen, SOS, and Fernando and, of course, Waterloo!

7.30pm at the Charter Theatre, Preston Guildhall, Lancaster Road, PR1 1HT. Tickets £17.50, concessions £1.50 off. www.prestonguildhall.com Saturday, October 25 Serenade To Music The latest instalment of the RLPO’s Strauss Edition is the spectacular climax of a concert that begins with the knockabout humour of Elgar’s cockney overture, and showcases the Phil’s choir in Vaughan Williams’ rapturous Serenade to Music. In between, Vasily Petrenko and the RLPO make history with the world premiere of a brand new work by the sensational young American composer Nico Muhly.

7.30pm at Liverpool Cathedral, St James Mount, Liverpool, L1 7AZ. Tickets £25, £7 students/under 25s/claimants. Must be booked by calling 0151 709 3789 or in person only.

Friday, October 3 Singalong Sound of Music Is the Sound of Music one of your ‘favourite things?’

Or do you think Edelweiss is an Austrian foodie delicacy? Whatever your knowledge, you’re sure to enjoy this rapturous singalong from tunes everyone knows. Altogether now... ‘Doe, a deer, a female deer...’

7.30pm at Bolton Little Theatre, Hanover Street Bolton, BL1 4TG. All tickets £10 and available from The Albert Halls’ Box Office on 01204 334400.

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Sunday, October 26 Hey Presto!

Presto, the cat, is a very talented magician, so when he and his best friend Monty, the dog, join a funfair and start a magic show things look good for the duo. But fame goes to Monty’s head and soon Presto loses his friend and his show! Will true friendship prevail? Is there a touch of magic in the air?

A heart-warming tale of aspiration, friendship, adventure and a little bit of mischief accompanied by catchy songs, this is the perfect treat for everyone aged 3 onwards.

2pm. Tickets £7 for adults and £5 for under 16s.

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Class from the Past - St Mark’s, Newtown Many thanks to Mr Frank Barker, of Winstanley, who sent in this photo of children from St Mark’s School, Kildare Street, Newtown, in 1939.

Frank was 10 years old when this snap was taken, and has provided the following names; (back row, from left) Jimmy Hazeldene, Turner, Percival, Knowles, Ken Bradburn.

Middle row from left: Alf Burns, Walt Cottom, Walter Benson, Eric Astin, Morris Kay and Joe Bradburn. Front row from left: Croft, Frank Smails, Frank Barker, Alan Martindale, Click Gibson.

Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact David Sudworth today by emailing editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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69

Jack’s Tracks

Ashton &

Bamfurlong With words being the tools of my trade, I despise clichés. Indeed, I avoid them like the plague. So that’s why this month’s walk, despite being reasonably hidden and displaying gem-like qualities, shall not be described as ‘a hidden gem’. I’m not sure what descriptive tag it deserves though. Maybe I’ll think of one later on.

Anyway, to the task in hand...

I know the Ashton and Bamfurlong area well, having grown up a few miles away, so wasn’t expecting anything out of the ordinary. By the end though, I had a whole new perspective. Our starting point for this 6.6 miler was the Three Sisters Recreational Area, off Lockett Road. We took advantage of the free parking just by the pond and play area, and started our hike by going in north easterly direction towards Bryn Hall Farm.

Once out of the main Three Sisters parkland, it’s a short walk before turning right. At this point you really need to keep your eyes open, as the public right of way is not only unsigned, but it also has a gate which at first glance appears to be a sturdy, boundary fence from the adjacent house (see photo to the right).

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Thankfully, a friendly farm worker was nearby and advised us to push on it, which we did, and it sprang open. Once you’re through the gate and past the property you follow the track down and round to the right. Now the walk starts to feel a lot more rural with fields of crops and live stock. Here we got a real sense of nature when, out of the undergrowth, a young deer crossed our path. It scarpered very quickly - much too rapid for our normally super-agile lens man Peter - but what a treat. Of all the beautiful and rural places I’ve visited doing Jack’s Tracks, the last place I expected to see wild deer was on the fringes of Ashton!

neat dormer bungalows. We turned right into Epsom Drive (I sensed a horse racing theme going on here) and carried on into the field in front. After two minutes, we arrived at a copse, went over the footbridge and turned a sharp left. Although the vegetation in the area was extremely well developed and dense, the route was amazingly clear. By this point, the sound of Virgin trains whizzing up and down the West Coast Main Line could be heard up the steep embankment yonder.

We continued until our path did a bit of a dog leg. The vast expanses of wheat crops, evident in the earlier part of our walk, continued to carpet the fields as far as the eye could see. It could have been a scene from North America rather than little ol’ Wigan. If only George Orwell could have seen it.

We eventually emerged opposite Abram Bryn Gates School where there was a handy pedestrian crossing to take us over into Furlong Close, a small cul-de-sac with

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Once you get to the bridge, which goes underneath the tracks, just be aware that there are a few paths and it’s therefore easy to take the wrong one. For our suggested route, stick to the path which is closest to this side of the embankment. From here, it’s a very straight route south on a formal path before it veers south west towards Riding Lane. While on this section, our eyes were drawn to the presence of a commemorative stone laid to the left of the path, and surrounded by loose bricks. It reads: “P. W. DAVIES. BORN EDGE GREEN 9 JULY 1889.

DIED CHESTER 18 NOVEMBER 1944. AT HIS REQUEST HIS ASHES WERE SCATTERED NEAR HIS BIRTHPLACE. A WORTHY SON OF LANCASHIRE. A GREAT THINKER.”

There are no further details on the background of this particular gentleman, but as far as final resting places go, he chose a lovely spot.

We finally went past some farm buildings and a house on the right before coming to Edge Green Road/Riding Lane. A combination of weary feet and the sight of a rural pub is hard to resist, and so the gravitational pull towards The Harrow Inn pub proved too much for our aching limbs to fight against. As it was a warm, bright day, we sat outside on one of the many benches, nursing a refreshingly cold cola and plotting our way back. We found that from here, it was a virtual straight line back; down Riding Lane, back across the A58,

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past Lily Lane Farm and into the formal Three Sisters Recreation Area. Look out for the bird watching area on the left hand side – some of the species indicate a twitchers’ paradise. Once back at the car park, there’s the option of feeding the ducks or letting the little ones burn off any energy they may still have stored away by letting them loose in the play area.

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.

As I said at the outset, it’s hard to believe that in an area known for its industrial past, so much countryside is still not only in place, but also actively used and harvested.

As a born and bred Ashtonian, it certainly opened my eyes. Never again will I solely think of traffic jams when asked to describe my hometown. But let’s get one thing straight, despite all this I’m still not labelling the walk ‘a hidden gem.’ That would be far too trite. More like an undiscovered diamond...

Sharing The Spoils...

The Three Sisters Recreation Area was previously Garswood Hall Colliery which closed in 1958. Its legacy three huge slag heaps, known locally as the Three Sisters.

In the late 1960s the Greater Manchester and Lancashire Joint Reclamation Team began developing the area for recreation, levelling the spoil heaps and planting thousands of trees, with the intention of providing facilities for a wide range of leisure activities. The initial phase involved the building of a visitor centre, racing circuit and the creation of a lake.

The original Three Sisters slag heaps

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In 1974, the site was passed to Wigan Council and since then has matured massively. The facilities today are popular with racing enthusiasts, fishermen, walkers and cyclists.

...call us now on 01695 627 999

73

Test Drive - by Tim Barnes-Clay

Alfa Romeo MiTo Save £££s

on servicing costs for your German car!

Someone once said: “What good is an eye-catching new suit if the person inside of it is rotten?”

Now that’s a pretty brave statement — but an assertion, nevertheless, that speaks to the question of style versus substance.

The style over substance debate has been around for a long time, and today the harsh reality is that we, the mainstream, are far more influenced by the “image” style or outer shell of things rather than what’s on the inside.

So when it comes to cars, what about the 2014 Alfa Romeo MiTO? Where does that fit in the style-versussubstance topic? Well, in my opinion, the arch-rival to the MINI and Audi A1 is a gorgeous little motor, and it lives up to its revised looks.

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Part of SGN Autos Ltd

than the previous 85hp version. Despite the additional performance, the Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir remains impressively efficient, with a combined fuel economy figure of 67.3 mpg and CO2 emissions of just 99g/km.

875cc TwinAir headlamp and tail lamp surrounds; tinted rear windows and a sports rear bumper, as well as an altered colour palette that now includes a laid-back “Matte Magnesio Grey” finish.

The interior is thoroughly different to the initial MiTo, first launched in mid 2008. The car now has a changed dashboard, upgraded plastics and an up-to-the-minute five-inch, touch-screen infotainment system with voice recognition, Bluetooth, steering wheel remote controls, USB/Aux ports and optional satellite navigation.

With just 875cc under the bonnet of the Alfa I tested, you’d think you’d have all the power of an average domestic vacuum cleaner on tap. You’d be wrong. Yes, there’s no denying the TwinAir Sprint model sounds like an industrial sewing machine on tick over, but the little Italian car draws deep from its well of two-cylinder potency when it needs to.

The tiny petrol-powered turbo engine benefits from a 20hp boost in performance – now 105hp – which translates in a 0-62mph time that’s 1.1 seconds quicker

Billinge &

Rainford Service and MOT Centre

A wide-ranging array of traction, braking and stability control systems is standard on the mini MiTo too. All this can be adjusted via Alfa Romeo’s trademark Alfa D.N.A. selectable driving mode system. It allows you to choose between three different driving settings: Dynamic, Normal, and All-Weather.

The clever gadgetry controls the character of the car, from the behaviour of the engine, brakes and steering, to the suspension and gearbox. And it works – to an extent. Dynamic is sporty, making the steering weightier and the throttle more responsive, but that in reality makes the MiTo more of a struggle to drive. If you stay with the Normal setting, the steering is gentle and the car is effortless to weave in and out of city traffic.

The super-mini is also now equipped with fuel-saving Start& Stop; air conditioning; a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob; electric windows and mirrors; seven airbags; front fog lamps; a rear spoiler and alloy wheels.

So, even though prices for the MiTo aren’t going for a song, the miniature motor is well equipped and offers fistfuls of charm. And, no, in my opinion, looks still aren’t more important than content – but they’ve certainly not done Alfa Romeo any harm.

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Answers are on page 93 of this magazine

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Rebecca Kells, Hannah Lyons, Sophie Connelly, Katie Myers and Ben Crumpton

Meet The A-Team!

It’s beaming smiles all round for these Winstanley College students who are celebrating a string of impressive results. The young adults are now busy making plans to go to university after receiving their A-level results.

Among those Local Life caught up with were Sophie Connelly, of Hanstock Close, Orrell who is off to Durham to study archaeology; Katie Myers, of Orrell, who is studying English at Newcastle; Amanda Lowe, of Cranfield Road, Marus Bridge, who is studying law at the University of Liverpool; Jack Macdonald, of Redgrave Rise, Winstanley, who will be studying chemistry at Sheffield; Jack Nurdin, of Pepperwood Drive, Winstanley, who is doing sports at Sheffield; Hannah Lyons, of Crank Hill, Crank , who will be studying psychology at Chester; Rebecca Kells, of Alder Avenue, Billinge, who is off to University College London to study English, and Tom Horsfall, of Whittle Court, Winstanley, who is going to Durham to study physics.

However, not everyone is planning to go straight onto further studies. Ben Crumpton, of Wilsham Road, Orrell, is off on a gap year to South America. Ben told Local Life: “I’m not sure exactly what I want to do yet so I’m planning to go to Ecuador, Peru, Chile. do the Inca Trail and get involved in some conservation work as well. I’m really looking forward to it.”

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Amanda Lowe, Jack Macdonald, Jack Nurdin and Tom Horsfall Winstanley College principal Louise Tipping said: “Once again, we are delighted to celebrate our students’ outstanding results. Both staff and students have worked incredibly hard so it’s lovely that all that hard work has paid off with most of our students getting into their first choice universities.”

Bridge Club Wigan Bridge Club is looking for new members and potential new recruits of all abilities are very welcome.

Lessons for beginners and improvers will be starting on Monday, September 22, at 7.15pm. The club is at 38 Bridgeman Terrace, Wigan (opposite the park gates). The cost is £25 for each course of eight lessons. For more information ring Margaret on 01257423493 or visit www.bridgewebs.com/wigan

Soldier’s Life There’s a chance to discover the history of a local soldier at Up Holland Library on Monday, September 8. The talk is part of the 1914-1918 Wartime Family series and starts at 10.30am. You will be able to not only discover the life of a local soldier, but experts will be on hand to guide you through sources that you can use when tracing your own ancestors. The event is free and for more information, contact 0300 1236703.

Roadworks Update Visitors to Ashurst’s Beacon have been warned about planned roadworks on the main route up to it from Up Holland. A temporary ban on access will be in place between 8am-5pm each day until Saturday, September

6 between Mill Lane’s junction with Beacon Lane and Harts Lane. The alternative route is via Beacon Lane on the Dalton side of the Beacon. The ban on throughtraffic is to enable pothole filling to be carried out.

Meanwhile, Wigan Council says National Grid roadworks on Church Street, Orrell, should be finished by Friday, August 29. Until then, temporary traffic signals will be in operation.

A well trained dog is a happy dog!

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Agility classes UK Rally Obedience classes Puppy classes One to one training Puppy socialisation parties Give Jo a call today on 01257 423726 or email her on jo@standishdogtrainer.co.uk

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79

Garden Diary - by Angie Barker

I’ll be doing it all again next year!

Award Winner

I thought I would let you know how my first garden open day for the National Garden Scheme went at the end of June.

We had 130 visitors to the garden, the sun was shining and we had a brilliant day. I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came, NGS members, clients – past and present – and neighbours. I would also like to thank my helpers, without whom I don’t know how I would have managed. Yes Hubby too played his part nipping to and from the shops as we kept running out of tea bags!

We raised £500 for the NGS cancer charities so thank you again to everyone involved.

There were three plants in the garden which were a real talking point and proved to be very popular: Ophiopogan planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’ – a small black, spider like grass (although it is actually a member of the Lily family) which is evergreen and makes excellent ground cover. Black Lilyturf is the common name and much easier to say! It makes a fantastic contrast to plants which are silver or grey or yellow.

Imperata cylindrica ‘Rubra’ – a striking upright, deciduous grass with blood-red leaves which fade to bright green at the base. Otherwise known as Japanese blood grass.

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

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Campanula lactiflora ‘Loddon Anna’ - soft lilac pink bell shaped flowers appear on leafy branched stems throughout the summer months. It will get quite tall and does need staking so not one for the low maintenance garden. It responds extremely well to the ‘Chelsea chop’ which is a method of selectively reducing the height of a plant around the time of the Chelsea flower show, to make stockier plants which flower later in the season.

Yes, it was a great day -so if you fancy a nosey round my garden, put Sunday 28th June 2015 in your diary – I’ll be doing it all over again next year.

Call Angie now for your free consultation!

Author: Angie Barker Dip GD (Inst GD) BA (Hons) Garden Design For All Seasons Tel: 01942 522 405 Mob: 07857 008 383 www.angiebarker.co.uk

Award Winner

Garden Services

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Call for a free design consultation 07722 8999 26 01942 820 158

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we make it our business to help yours

Our aim is to deliver a creative, personal service adhering to our customers requirements and within budget.

Large projects or small makeovers are all carried out with the same commitment and dedication. We take great pride in completing all projects to the highest possible standards. w w w. p d h o m e a n d g a r d e n . c o . u k

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Looking for plants for your garden?

new leaf gardens • Landscapes & Maintenance Work • Regular garden maintenance service in your area • One off tidy ups welcomed

Huge range of quality plants on a supply only or supply & plant basis

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Give your garden a makeover!

We offer high quality landscaping, garden design and ground maintenance services Quality work and reliability at competitive prices

01942 510 986 07710 405 214 www.ashlandscapingandmaintenance.co.uk Established 1994

Want a beautiful garden without all the hard work?

At GreenHills we don’t just treat your lawns, we offer a complete service all year round.

• • • • •

APPLICATION OF LAWN TREATMENTS GARDEN MAINTENANCE WEEDING & BORDERS HEDGES & SHRUBS MAINTAINED WEED SPRAYING OF PATHS & DRIVEWAYS

Professional Lawn Treatment & Garden Maintenance ~ Est. 2001 ~

01942 200 039 or 07950 651 956

•

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• Gates and railings • Repairs and restorations • Ironwork and welding • Traditional forge work over 20 years experience

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

82

SMN

Tree and Landscape Management West Lancashire District Council approved contractor

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

steve@smntrees.co.uk

Create an impact with Local Life Leaflet Distribution Rates start from £26 per thousand

Call 01695 627 999 for details Dalton Tree Services & Log Supplies

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we make it our business to help yours

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AC U F TU N

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E TH MA

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Sheds Log Cabins Workshops Wendy Houses Summer Houses Free delivery Free 100% pressure treated Free erection See our show sites at;

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Recipe of the month

Roast Sea Bass with a Lemon & Garlic Crust Ingredients • 4 skinned fillets sea bass, washed under running water • 3 unwaxed lemons • 4 cloves garlic • Small bunch of washed fresh parsley

Perfect for a simple lunch or a dinner party with friends, this main course is an easy crowd pleaser, looks great on the plate and is a wonderful dish to serve with vegetables or salad alike.

Method

• Salt & pepper

Brush undersides with olive oil and season fish all over with salt and pepper. Zest one of the lemons and squeeze juice. Wedge the other lemon for garnish. Whizz garlic with lemon juice and zest. Once no more large pieces can be seen, add the parsley, bread and butter to the processor.

Equipment

Quite quickly you should produce a moist and very tasty breadcrumb mixture. Press this mixture firmly onto the upper side of the fillets.

Small processor or mortar and pestle

Roast for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crust is brown.

Oven

Serve with whatever takes your fancy!

• 25g butter • 30g wholemeal bread • 50ml extra virgin olive oil

Gas Mark 5, 190°c Recipe courtesy of Diane Johnson

84

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Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning • traditional service, state of the art results •

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we make it our business to help yours

5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme plus, Awarded the Certificate of Excellence in recognition of consistently high standards of feedback from customers in 2009/10/11/12

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Professional Carpet, Leather & Upholstery The Cleaning Bee’s Knees!

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• Qualified • Fully Insured • Stain Removal • Odour Removal • Reliable Service • Quick Drying

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Lady Decorator

Create your Dream Home today…

Just Imagine

Our Master Craftsman Derek and his friendly team will help you create your dream home.

All aspects of decorating - from simple painting or wallpapering to complex murals.

50 years wallpapering expertise.

100% satisfaction guaranteed.

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

Decorating - Interior Design - Soft Furnishings

Call Derek today for a free consultation & quote

Call 07831 505 672

email franklindecorators@gmail.com

www.wigandecorators.co.uk

PAINTING

Need a new look for your home?

Skilled interior and exterior work undertaken at reasonable prices!

& DECORATING From interior to exterior - we do it all!

Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator

01942 518126 or 07545 065119

• High Quality • Superb Value • Outstanding Service

Orrell based business

Award Winner

Call today for your free quotation

01257 402045 or 07702 360597

www.ParkinsonDecorators.co.uk

Ian Martland

Painter & Decorator Established 1990

• All aspects of Decorating • Interior & Exterior • Free Estimates

01695 632 477 | 07748 195 809 Want to advertise in Local Life?

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87

Are you looking for replacement Windows, Doors, Conservatories, Facias or Gutters?

You’ll get a better deal and a quality product at From just

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01942 226677 | 07841 923230 | www.phprofiles.co.uk

House Extensions New Kitchens & Bathrooms Garage Conversions Full Refurbishments All our work is fully insured & guaranteed References available on request Call now for a free quotation For all aspects of renovations and maintenance – no job too small!

For a free quote, call MY Joinery now.

01257 422317 or 07852 202867 or e-mail: mtjoinery@outlook.com

www.mtjoiner ynor thwest.co.uk

01942 216 735

|

07725 909 257

Home Improvements • Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms • Garage & Loft Conversions • Floors, Doors & Windows For all your home improvement needs call David on...

01942 203 804 DS Joiner 07851 225 876

K Stone Building Services All types of building work undertaken 25 years experience

• Brickwork • Pointing • Garden Walls • Patios • Joinery • Flagging • Alterations • Plastering

01942 495412 / 07974 496676

88

Number One for House Maintenance!

• UPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & ROOFLINE • BROKEN LOCKS & MISTED WINDOWS • GUTTERS AND UPVC CLEANING SERVICE • FLAGGING, FENCING & POINTING • GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE

No job too small!

Call Mike Darbyshire on

01942 513 584 / 07917 352 181 Orrell based

Resurfacing, Repair & Restoration Specialists • Is your bath damaged, chipped, scratched or worn?

• We can resurface, re-enamel or repair your bath, sink, worktops or uPVC • Established since 1984 – we cover the entire NW

Contact us today for more information 36 Broad Oak Road, St Helens, WA9 2EL

01744 453202

Arley Cabinet Company Ltd • Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •

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We measure we make we fit and have done for 60 years.

Visit our showroom or call us today for a FREE estimate

Arley Cabinet Co. Ltd 214a Gidlow Lane Wigan WN6 7BN Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm Sat: 9am - 12pm

tel: 01942 246190

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we make it our business to help yours

www.thebathdoctor.org

bath.doctor@btconnect.com

Great Value Bathrooms!

Full Bathrooms & En-Suites Showers, Trays & Cubicles Relocation of Bathroom Suites 25 years bathroom experience Call Chris now for a free quotation

C L Bathrooms

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

plasterer All aspects of plastering undertaken Re-skims Dot & dab Rendering 2 coat work Unwanted artex Domestic & Commercial work welcomed Quality work guaranteed 10 years experience

For a free quote, call Ian Ridley on

01942 218 160 or 07958 695 116 Orrell-based

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

A.J.S.

BAILEYS ELECTRICAL

01942 215 769 07739 709 005

Free quotations

ANDY HIDDEN Domestic Electrician

• • • • • • •

No Job Too Small!

Re-Wires Additional Sockets / Lights Home Safety Tests Fuse Board Upgrades Security Lighting Alarms CCTV

Good Trader Of The Year Winner in the Wigan Trading Standards Best of the Best Awards 2013/14.

Certificate of Excellence Winner in the 2012/13

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07946 844 904 08000 842 394 Email: andy@ahde.co.uk

Need thing somed? move Call Ian on

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90

• Rewires & Upgrades • Interior & Exterior Lighting • Alarms & CCTV • Extra Sockets & Lights

07531 765 529 / 01695 628 150 Paton Plumbing and Heating Ltd A friendly reliable service

Full central heating installations Complete bathroom renovations Boiler servicing and repairs Landlord’s gas safety certificates Tony Paton

542856

T: 01942 568 184 M: 07825 323 711 E: patonplumbing850@gmail.com

C &D

Central Heating Engineers & Installers • Boiler Servicing & Repairs • Full Central Heating Installations • Kitchen & Bathroom Plumbing

Plumbing and Heating

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

554021

Domestic & Commercial Work undertaken 30 years experience – Quality workmanship

07853 826 411 07853 071 961

www.beltinco.co.uk

T 01744 892 385 H E AT I N G E N G I N E E R S

W rghheating.co.uk E info@rghheating.co.uk

Breakdown, Service & Repair Central Heating Installation Gas Safety Inspections Boiler Replacement Power Flushing Based in Billinge, covering all of Wigan & St Helens

A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff

SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES

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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

• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985

Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair • Fascia & soffit installation

W.Newman ROOFING & REPAIRS

01695 627 212

• 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

MOBILE: 07774 943 706

52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years

Fix my conservatory!

• Misted/broken panels replaced • Leaks solved and sealed • Conservatory roof replacements • Warm roof upgrades Call Mark now for a free quote

01942 737381 (office) 07763 151720 (direct)

e-mail: conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com

www.fixmyconservatory.com 92

Specialists in Replacement Double Glazed Units Ring with sizes for FREE estimate

Open 7 days 8am - 8pm Established Local Family Company

01942 470 085 / 0800 328 8573 www.steamywindows.net

?? ? ? ?? ? ? ?? ? ? ?? ? ?

?? ?

?

Puzzle Corner

?

We install

Woodburners

?

& Multi-fuel Stoves!

An extensive range of stoves to suit your home.

Perfect for warmth and for hot water too!

A sustainable solution to energy price increases.

Traditional & contemporary stoves available.

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Belvedere Barn Estate, Crank Road, Billinge

01744 893957 Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809

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Get the wrinkles out of your life!

• Quality ironing service at reasonable rates • Pick up & drop off service to your home – 24 hour turnaround.

• Family-run businesses, established 1990 • Call us today for more details

Wrinkles Out Ironing Service 01942 246029 / 07774 722333 For all your clothing alterations call:

Sue’s Sewing Solutions ~ ~ ~ ~

Efficient Service High Quality Finish Excellent Value No Job Too Small

Call: 01942

?

- Solutions

?

?

?

? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?? ? ? ?

734 499 or 07927 859 747

Want to advertise in Local Life?

?

?

?

?

The photo on page 77 is of Sefton Road, Orrell.

?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

93

Don’t Replace... Restore can nd new bathroom, when we Why spend a fortune on a bra t bathroom by +10 years? extend the life of your curren We supply and fit:

After

Before

Contact us today...

“The bathrooms now look better than when they were first done over 13 years ago.”

01942 375 201 0800 988 7778

(Mrs Gannon, March 2014)

Useful Numbers

www.TotalBathroomRestoration.co.uk

sponsored by Total Bathroom Restoration

Medical Pemberton PCT Clinic Concourse Walk-in Centre Bradshaw Street Surgery Church Street 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

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Local Life Magazine Advertising & Editorial Accounts & Distribution

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Established 1999

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Crows Nest, Ashton Road, Billinge, WN5 7XX (Near Windy Arbour)

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