Local Life - Wigan West - Nov/Dec 2014

Cover photo by David Sudworth

Wigan West Edition

Nov/Dec 2014

Vital Lifeline Billinge’s Storehouse

Win Tickets to

Where Are They Now? Billy McGinty

Jack’s Tracks visits Duxbury

Lifting The Lid Old Wallgate

Class From The Past Highfield Juniors www.locallife247.co.uk

Wigan’s Premier Furniture Store No Pushy Salesmen Free Coffee While You Browse Hassle Free Shopping Experience

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER

FREE

5 Year Warranty including: Stain Cover Accidental Damage Structural Defects

Worth up to £250 When you buy ANY sofa Dinning room furniture I Living room furniture I Bedroom furniture I Oak furniture Sofas I Chairs I Lighting & Lamps I Mirrors I Wardrobes I Rugs

Wigan’s hidden Gem! @LuxeLtd

263 Woodhouse Lane I Wigan I Lancs I WN6 7NR Luxe Furniture Ltd

01942 233 333

www.luxefunitureltd.co.uk

Opening Times Mon - Sat 9.30am - 5.00pm I Sunday 11.00am - 4.00pm

2

No Happy Ending…

In this issue

A nice surprise dropped in the Local Life inbox last month, informing us that we’d been shortlisted for an Editorial award at the Quay National Magazine awards!

14 Food For Thought 18 Class From The Past - Highfield Juniors 32 History In Their Hands - Ashurst’s Beacon 44 Lifting The Lid - Old Wallgate 66 Planning Matters 72 Where Are They Now? - Billy McGinty 76 Jack’s Tracks visits Duxbury 86 Recipe Of The Month 88 Bonfire Guide 90 Christmas Events 92 WIN Farmer Christmas Tickets!

94 Test Drive - Lexus IS 300h F Sport 96 Motoring Services 99 Puzzle Corner 101 Garden Diary 102 Garden Services 104 Home Services 114 View From The Lump

We don’t really do posh nights out at Local Life HQ, and I had to go shopping, at the grand old age of 48, for my very first tuxedo! The tux had this amazing feature called an Active Waistband – which I got really excited about, I can tell you! In fact, I may wear this tux all the time!

Anyhow, we went off to Warwick, where the conference and Oscar-style award ceremony were being held. Sadly though, there were no happy endings as we lost out in our category, and the overall Community Magazine of the Year award went to a magazine called Village People, which has nothing to do with dodgy moustaches and hard hats, but is a rather nice magazine serving the villages of East Anglia.

Still, it was a lovely trip, it was nice that our little magazine got some national recognition, and it’s given us lots of ideas on how to improve your Local Life in 2015.

Speaking of which, your next magazine in the Wigan West area will come through your letterbox on the first weekend in January. If you’d like to read our Wigan North magazine – which is out at the end of November – then please visit our website at www. locallife247.co.uk and register your details. We’ll then send you a link to the magazine so you can read it online, or if you want a hard copy, then pop into our offices in Orrell.

See you next year!

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.

Next issue - December.

Advertising deadline - Friday 7 November Published - Thursday 20 November

Local Life Media

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

@locallifemedia

Want to advertise in Local Life?

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

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

...call us now on 01695 627 999

3

Upholland Road, Billinge

Greenslate Road, Billinge

Swinburn Grove, Billinge

St James Road, Orrell

£595,000

£410,000

£360,000

£299,000

College Road, Up Holland

Bennett Drive, Orrell

Longshaw Old Road, Billinge

Wilsham Road, Orrell

£250,000

£235,000

£220,000

£205,000

Denholme, Up Holland

Jacob Court, Billinge

Church Street, Orrell

Ormskirk Road, Up Holland

£179,000

£175,000

£159,750

£135,000

Orrell Road, Orrell

Holt Street, Orrell

Higher Lane, Up Holland

Ash Grove, Orrell

£120,000

£120,000

£100,000

£95,000

4 bed detached

4 bed semi

3 bed detached

4

4 bed end terraced

4 bed detached

4 bed detached

4 bed town house

4 bed end terraced

4 bed detached

4 bed detached

3 bed semi

2 bed terraced

4 bed detached

3 bed semi

3 bed semi

2 bed semi

Fancy celebrating Christmas in a new home?

Our Orrell office has already sold millions of pounds worth of property in 2014 in the Orrell, Billinge and Up Holland areas.

Call us today for a free valuation on your home.

Borron Shaw – making you feel at home 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

5

6

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

7

• SANDCROSS GARDENS •

Final phase!

Don’t miss your chance to move into a four-bedroom detached home on an exclusive gated development in Orrell.

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

The price includes; • Landscaped front and rear gardens • Luxury fitted kitchen • Security alarm • GRP ROK front door • Bi-folding patio doors • Renewable energy features • Energy efficient heating system • Choice of tiles in bathroom, ensuite & kitchen • Sunroom to the rear

S E LL IN G FA S T

£243,950

without garage

£249,950

with garage

Your luxury fitted kitchen will include a; • Stainless steel hob, oven and extractor hood • Integrated fridge freezer • Washing machine • Dishwasher • Wine cooler

NOW RELEASED 6 x four-bedroom detached homes on Sandcross Gardens For more information just call into our showroom (open Friday to Monday) at Sandcross Gardens, Sandbrook Road, Orrell WN5 7AL

Call 0844 774 4460 or email us at info@sandcross2.com

www.sandcross2.com

8

OAKWOOD MEADOWS Vicarage Lane, off Gathurst Lane, Shevington, WN6 8HP 3 & 4 bedroom homes from £199,995

GREAT DEALS AVAILABLE YOUR STAMP DUTY PAID or 5% TOWARDS YOUR DEPOSIT! On selected plots only

Moving made easy...

Do you have a home to sell? With our Easymover* scheme we could sell it for you!

We’ll use our expertise to sell your home at its full market value, plus we will contribute towards your moving costs - so you can relax and look forward to moving into your new home at Oakwood Meadows. * This offer is subject to status and only available on selected developments and properties. It is not offered with any other promotion unless by special arrangement by us. Based on the existing home being valued by our agent and using the easymover scheme, agreed estate agents fees will be paid.

Offer can be withdrawn at any time. Images of the Eynsham home at Oakwood Meadows. Internal images may show optional upgrades available at the time at additional cost.

New showhomes now open

Call 01257 447 049 or visit taylorwimpey.co.uk

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

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

9

me o h ek w e we y ’ n ur per o Bu o y 00 t n 1 lp Ow or £ He f ith w

THE LAURELS SCOT LANE WIGAN, WN5 0UE A new development of 24 modern 3 bed homes

Normal opening hours: Thursday to Monday, 10.30am to 5.30pm For enquiries please call 01942 826 695 thelaurels@mcdermotthomes.co.uk

10

from as little as

110,400

£ with Help to buy

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

11

Poignant Walk It’s an experience they will never forget. Orrell and Winstanley teenagers Tara Griffin, Harrison Clarke, Rohan Stevenson, Jack Finch and Mathew Owen have completed a marathon trek from Wigan to Belgium, raising over £5,000 for the Poppy Appeal in the process.

The walk took eight days and saw them hiking across to Hull before getting the ferry to Zeebrugge. From the Belgian port, they walked to the Menin Gate at Ypres.

The gate, unveiled in 1927, is dedicated to the British and Commonwealth soliders who were killed in the Ypres Salient, but whose bodies were never found.

While there, they participated in one of the daily memorial parades at the Menin Gate alongside veterans of different countries, both currently serving and retired, and lay three wreaths in remembrance.

Tara’s dad, Peter, was due to surprise his daughter by

Sales Rentals Commercial

Tara, Harrison, Rohan, Jack and Mathew at the Menin Gates with Tara’s dad Peter and Jack’s grandmother, Jacqui Cook meeting them at Hull, but due to one participant having to drop out, he did the full trip.

He told Local Life: “It was great, we had five days in this country, and two days in Belgium with one rest day. It was hard work and, I’ll be honest, the only thing which kept me going at times was the thought of a glass of Belgian beer waiting for me!

“Neil Bracegirdle did all the driving and navigation, and was a massive help” To sponsor them retrospectively, visit www.facebook. com/walktobelgium or www.justgiving.com/Cadets-723/ or call 07544 115512.

Prices start fro

£per1w 00

m

eekend

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

01942 829 490

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

01942 717 242

ashton@lloydspropertyagents.com

lloydspropertyagents.com 12

Beautifully furnished

Stone Cottage Holiday Let

Situated near Sedbergh, in the Yorkshire Dales, and also within easy reach of the Lake District

– sleeps up to 4

Children & pets welcome

Call 01942 216 058 E-mail janemillthrop@yahoo.co.uk www.millthropcottage.co.uk

All I want for Christmas is my own front door

Dorbcrest will help your wish come true with £10,000 off and up to £500 in vouchers to spend on anything you like.

And if you move in before Christmas, we’ll even throw in the tree and decorations to ensure your first Yuletide in your new home is a memorable one.

3 & 4 bedroom homes from only £108,000 with Help to Buy.

THE MINERS LAMP PARK ROAD, ORRELL, WIGAN WN5 8HY. TEL: 01942 216926 OR 07909 523950.

Open Thurs to Mon 10:00am - 5:00pm

www.dorbcresthomes.co.uk

*Prices and information correct at time of going to press and are subject to change without notice and build stage. Images may feature items that do not form part of the standard specification and an extra charge may apply. Terms and conditions apply and full details are available upon request. Help to Buy based on a 75% mortgage with a minimum 5% deposit contribution. It is not available in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. Full details of all our offers can be obtained from your Sales Advisor. Dorbcrest reserve the right to change or remove any incentive without notice. Full purchase price from £135,000.

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

13

Food For Thought

David Sudworth visits the Billinge project which helps the area’s most vulnerable Julie Smith is on the phone. It’s clear the 37-year-old is talking to someone in desperate need of help.

Afterwards, she tells me it was a local man who only has a bar of chocolate left to eat. A parcel of food is duly despatched – sadly, such cries for help are not uncommon. Only recently, the Storehouse Project, based at Billinge Family Church on Crank Road, hand delivered a parcel to someone who had been living on dog food.

Julie, who lives in Orrell, is the Storehouse co-centre manager alongside Rachel Dunn, who hails from Up Holland. They’re showing Julie Smith me around the project, which is now busy assembling special Christmas hampers which will soon be going out to local families.

The church is a converted house and the project is

14

Rachel Dunn in the storeroom based in its front room, which still has the old parquet flooring and elegant art deco fireplace in place.

Julie works in the Prison Service but has been on a career break for the past year: “It really gets to you at times, but I’m just pleased we are able to help. It’s rare for people to ring us directly as most are referred to us via one of the 50 agencies we work with. “ The Storehouse was set up in 2008 by local dad-of-two Nolan Bradshaw. Originally from Bryn, he moved to Billinge 30 years ago and worked for the council. He later went on to be Head Porter at Billinge Hospital.

Having battled cancer twice, he retired in 2007 on health grounds.

Nolan, now 65, said: “Originally it was set up to help people from the church, but it grew Nolan at the wheel from there. We get items donated by people and some people help us pay the bills by financially supporting us by Standing Order each month, which we are very grateful for. I’m on my third hernia but still going strong!”

In the past year, the project has doubled in size. The majority of help has gone to people are from the WN5 postcode area, with WN2 and WN7 close behind. Over 5% of those visited had fled either domestic abuse or human trafficking. As well as food, they’ve also provided more than 90 beds and 126 packs of toiletries.

Julie added: “Unfortunately, food banks get a bad press as there’s a misconception that people who use them are scroungers, but that’s not true. We’ve helped people who have mortgages, and even given clothes to a woman to attend a job interview.”

Her co-centre manager Rachel, 23, who has previously done relief work in Hong Kong and Asia, agrees: “We help people with a range of different circumstances.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. For our Christmas hampers, we ask the main agencies we work with to

nominate families or individuals, and they give us details so we can tailor them to that specific home.”

As I’m about to leave, Nolan returns from a delivery with a heart-breaking tale of a man he’s just visited. He tells me that the man has very little, and very rarely sees anyone, so Nolan has invited him down to church.

It seems that for all the talk of times getting better, the lifeline which organisations such as the Storehouse provides will be needed for some time yet…

The Storehouse needs wardrobes, drawers, white goods, pots and pans, tin openers etc. If you can help, or if you would like to discuss other ways of supporting them, please call 07816 623612, email info@storehouseproject.org.uk or visit www. storehouseproject.org.uk. They are also at www. facebook.com/storehouseproject and on Twitter @storehouseproj If you need assistance, contact Wigan Council on 01942 705221 for a referral.

Wedding Outfits Occasionwear Cruisewear Casualwear

Est. 1976 www.barbarasofstandish.com

01257 425 480

68 High Street, Standish WN6 0HF

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

15

January Start Major roadworks which will see the disappearance of Marus Bridge roundabout will begin in January, Local Life can reveal. The well-known junction is set to be transformed as part of a £1.44m windfall from the Government, which also includes improvements at Clapgate Lane and Warrington Road.

Wigan Council chiefs say the measures will ensure that the A49 becomes the route of choice for the majority of traffic travelling from the A49 and M6 to the town centre and vice versa, particularly once the future A49 Link Road, linking the new roundabout at Goose Green to Westwood Park and Wigan town centre, is completed.

Following consultation with locals, which involved information events held at The Grange Community Centre in Marus Bridge, the council confirmed that works would start in the New Year.

Mike Worden, assistant director of planning and transport, told Local Life: “We are completing detailed design work including signal arrangement. A contractor will be procured with works beginning on site in January and being completed by end of March. We are hoping to complete the Clapgate Lane right turn early on in these construction works.

“We have a meeting planned with Transport for Greater Manchester to look specifically at the issue of bus access to the Hawkley Hall area, which was a matter raised by residents. We are also examining the phasing of the Sainsbury’s junction lights as this was another matter raised by residents during the consultation.”

For further information on the scheme, call 01942 489256. The plans can also be viewed at www.wigan. gov.uk

Free NHS eYe

eXAMINATIONS*

for all over 60’s and home visits for the housebound HEPWORTH & HALL opticians 806 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton WN5 8AX

01942 225301

73 Ormskirk Road, Newtown WN5 9EA

01942 323162

*Terms and conditions apply, ask in store for further details

16

Getting Involved A group of talented adults with disabilities are sprucing up Orrell – and have offered their services to local community groups. SK Independent Living Services, whose Orrell branch is based on Church Street, is a notfor-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) which specialises in offering opportunities for adults with support needs to enhance their life skills.

These take place through a variety of activities such as support the local community by attending coffee mornings, accessing community fitness sessions, attend local Transition events and even printing mugs to order.

They recently teamed up with the National Citizen Service to take part in team-building activities at Orrell Water Park while others went to tend to their allotment at St Luke’s Church, painting and filling the raised beds with topsoil.

Creative support worker Ryan Williams said: “We would like to thank NCS for all their support and funding to make this fantastic day happen. If anyone has a project in the community that they need support with our members would love to get involved so please don’t hesitate to contact us.”

For further details, call 01942 522333 or email info@skilscic.co.uk

Shoes Handbags Accessories www.barbarasofstandish.com 01257 426 073

13 High Street, Standish WN6 0HA

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

17

Class from the Past - Highfield Juniors

Many thanks to Derek Atherton, of Orrell, who kindly sent in this photograph of Highfield Juniors from around 1952. Derek is pictured on the third row, fifth from the right. Among those also on the photo are as follows: Elsie Lancaster, Gabriel Butts, Stuart Baxter, Alan Winstanley, David Divine, Geoff Parks, Alan Hurst, Calvin Lowe, Sydney Moss, Brian Ashurst, Peter Fellows, Peter Beardsmore, Brian Hickman, Eric Farrimond, Kevin

Davies, Arnold Lowe, Alan Grey, Alan Lowe, Rita Parkes, Sheila Foster, Christine Fairhurst, Margaret Cropper, Eileen Massey, Dorothy Rimmers, Brenda Dawber, Katherine Turner, Jaqueline Scroggy, Ian Burrows, David Bushell and Dorothy Melling. Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to share, contact David Sudworth today by emailing editorial@locallife247.co.uk

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

For CLASS DETAILS contact your LICENSED zumba® instructor:

Julie Moss 07789 387502

juliemouse@hotmail.co.uk

zumba.com

MONDAY 19.00 - Upholland Methodist Church, Alma Hill TUESDAY 19.30 - St Matthews Parish Rooms, Winstanley WEDNESDAY 19.00 - West Lancashire College, Skelmersdale 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

18

Super Slimmers Slimmers from Wigan’s Lose Weight Feel Great weight management programme will become models for the night at a special fashion show. Lost Weight, Feel Fabulous, takes place at the DW Stadium on Friday, October 24, and celebrates the successes of the scheme carried out by WLCT in partnership with Slimming World, on behalf of Wigan Council. The event, which is sponsored by clothing company Simply Be, will raise money for Cancer Research UK. However, it’s not all just for women. There is also a very popular men’s weight management programme, Trim Down Shape Up which is delivered by ABL Health on behalf of Wigan Council. Trim Down Shape Up is also supporting the fashion show and some participants will be attending to collect awards for accolades such as Mr Weight Loss, Mr Commitment and Mr MVP (Most Valuable Participant).

Tickets for the event, which starts at 7pm, can be purchased at £5 by calling 01942 488481. The price includes a healthy buffet, and there will be raffles and great prizes on the night.

Distributors Wanted 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: Pemberton – Valley Road, Queen Street and Winton Avenue Up Holland – Denshaw, Denholme and Parsonage Brow If you are interested, please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@ locallife247.co.uk

Purchase 2 Clarins products and receive these 4 others FREE! ...we’ll even give you a gorgeous bag too!

Hurry - Offer only available whilst stocks last!

Perfect packaged Christmas gift sets for Clarins and Espa now in stock.

Also available – Christmas Gift vouchers Open Monday-Saturday

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

19

Christmas at Tunley There’s plenty on at Tunley United Reformed Church on Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington, between now and Christmas.

On Saturday, November 15, there’s an audio-visual presentation entitled The Falklands: Where Nature is Still in Charge. Starting at 7.30pm, it will be led by Colin and Rhona Balls who will be giving the audience a feast of wildlife, scenery and an insight into a completely different way of living.

It takes place in the church hall and tickets are £7, including refreshments.

The church’s annual Christmas Fair also takes place in the hall on Saturday, November 29, from 11am-1pm.

There will be various stalls, including gifts and toys, tombola, raffle, crafts, homemade cakes and pies, preserves, plants, cards and Paper, bric-a-brac and much

more. There’s also an opportunity to win a Christmas cake and you can guess the name of Tunley’s Christmas teddy, plus visiting Santa in his grotto!

And finally, on Saturday, December 13, there will be a Christmas concert by Coppull and Standish Brass Band from 7.30pm in the hall. Tickets are £7, which includes a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie.

For more information or tickets for these events, call 01257 463407/425330/426252.

Workshops Invite Orrell Eggcrafters are holding a workshop at Salem United Reformed Church Hall, Church Street, on 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 details.

“With the help of Millan Interiors we transformed our house into a stylish and elegant home” Adam Aspinall, AP Joinery

Proud stockists of

Visit our showroom to view our fine selection of...

Bespoke Curtains & Blinds | Fabrics | Wallcoverings & Paint Curtain Poles | Plantation Shutters | Accessories for the home Full design service available from qualified interior designers

Millan Interiors, 5/7 Mill Lane, Parbold WN8 7NW

T: 01257 46 34 77

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10.00am - 5.00pm, Saturday: 10.00am - 3.00pm

20

Fundraisers Needed Samaritans of Wigan is looking for voluntary fundraisers.

Samaritans provide confidential, non-judgemental emotional support to people via telephone, e-mail and also face to face from its branch in Dicconson Street, Wigan town centre. If you feel that could organise events and help the charity carry on with its vital work, please call 07594 632854 or 01942 707955.

Writing Therapy Pemberton Pens, a creative writing therapy group for adults with a variety of health and social issues, meets on Wednesday from 10am to noon at Marsh Green Community Centre, Kitt Green Road. For more information, contact Irene on 07897 623 158 or just turn up on the day.

Tai Chi for Health Monday, 1pm – Seated Tai Chi

If you have limited walking ability, unable to stand for very long, has breathing difficulties, getting over a stroke or heart attack

Monday, 2.15pm – Tai Chi

If you are able to move about unaided and requires gentle exercise to help improve * Blood pressure & cardiovascular * Mobility, flexibility and muscle strength * Arthritis, Diabetes, Osteoporosis * Improve Balance and falls prevention * Stress and depression

First Lesson FREE! “PAY AS YOU GO”

Family portraits Personalised keepsakes Souvenir shirts Sporting memorabilia Cross-stitching and Craft We don’t just make frames, we frame memories Wide choice of quality frames Expert advice and efficient service

Shevington Youth & Community Centre Highfield Avenue, WN6 8HB Secure your place for January 2015 - call Lyn on

07936 527 924 or email keepfitwithlyn@yahoo.co.uk

KEEP FIT WITH Lyn www.keepfitwithlyn.co.uk

Want to advertise in Local Life?

Call - 01942 718602

25 Bolton Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, WN4 8AA Opposite the American Bar On-site Parking www.artisanframingservices.co.uk

...call us now on 01695 627 999

21

St Luke’s Fair HOLLAND HALL HOTEL

Dance ‘til you Drop at our fabulous Christmas party nights!

Live Rat Pack Night 5th December (£34.95pp)

Live Soul & Motown

6th December (£34.95pp) 19th & 20th December (£36.95pp)

Live Disco Diva

13th December (£34.95pp)

Disco Mania Night

28th & 29th November (£24.95pp) 11th & 18th December (£24.95pp)

Casino Night

21st December (£34.95pp)

Casino Night

12th December (£34.95) Christmas Casino Extravaganza with Pier Fun Casinos

St Luke’s Church on Lodge Road, Orrell, is holding its Christmas fair on Saturday, November 29, this year.

The fun starts at 11am and lunches will be served from noon. There’ll be stalls, tombola, games, a grand prize draw and the chance to visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Admission is 30p for adults, while children go free.

Christmas Present Standish Chorale is holding ‘A Musical Christmas Present’ in St Wilfrid’s Parish Hall on Friday, December 12, at 7.30pm. This will be an evening of music and verse both secular and religious to help to get you in the mood for Christmas. An interval glass of wine will be available.

Tickets can be obtained from members of the society, by telephoning 01257 427284 or by paying at the door.

Autumn Offer!

£15 off cut & colour

when booked as one appointment with a stylist or top stylist

Dress To Impress!

Price includes 5-course Christmas meal!

Please be aware that our Party Nights are incredibly popular – so please book early!

Holland Hall Hotel Lafford Lane, Up Holland, WN8 0QZ T: 01695 624426 E: info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk

Junior Stylist Offer!

Cut & Blow Only £12.50

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

01942 820 333

www.hollandhallhotel.co.uk /HollandHallHotel

22

@realhollandhall

www.bijouhairsalon.co.uk

bespoke fused glass design

glass morpheus

Open studio sale Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th November

Need some inspiration for Christmas presents this year? Come along to our open weekend and choose from lots of lovely and unusual gift ideas, all work is handmade at the studio and many pieces will have upto 70% off for this weekend! Christmas decorations, bowls, jewellery, wall panels, mirrors, coasters and sculptures will all be on show at great discount prices.

So come along on the 8th & 9th November 2014 open from 10-4 both days.

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

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

23

Friends’ Challenge While their mates put their feet up this half term, these two friends will be scaling the heights for charity. Peter Reid and Oliver Rudd, both aged nine, are walking up Scafell Pike in the Lake District in aid of the Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Association and their football club, Ashton Athletic.

Peter lives in Orrell and goes to St James’ Primary while Oliver is from Standish and goes to St Wilfrid’s CE. Peter’s dad, Paul, told Local Life: “I have a friend whose mother died from the disease so this idea came up in conversation and it was an opportunity to take up a challenge.

“We’ll be doing it during half term, although the precise date won’t be known until nearer the time and it’s weather-dependent “We’re doing it with Peter’s mum, Andrea, and Oliver’s

Is your child ready for primary school in 2015?

Peter and Oliver parents who have got experience of fell walking so know Scafell quite well.”

To sponsor Peter and Oliver, email preid1967@gmail. com

Is your child three years old, but only ready for Nursery in January 2015?

Do you need childcare now?

Come and look round our small village school where we offer every pupil free music lessons and swimming lessons, involvement in all sporting activities and every school production along with a variety of out of school activities.

All this in a safe, friendly and happy environment where children can develop to their fullest potential.

2014 Open Day Friday 21st November t. men oint app an or Call Now for Our school is always open.

Roby Mill C.E. Primary School School Lane, Roby Mill, Up Holland, WN8 0QR

Telephone: 01695 622536 www.roby-mill.lancsngfl.ac.uk

Developing Potential • Celebrating Success

24

Billinge ‘Caterpillars’ is a brand new provision which can cater for your childcare needs as soon as they are three years old.

We are also able to offer wrap-around care from 7.30am until 5.45pm if required.

To discuss your childcare requirements or arrange a viewing of our facilities please contact Mrs Bennett at: Chapel End Primary School

Telephone:

01744 678 230

St John Rigby College Gathurst Road Orrell Lancashire WN5 0LJ

St John Rigby College is a Catholic sixth form college with a distinctive mission and ethos. Our continued pass rate of nearly 100% and record breaking high grade passes for both A level and BTEC courses are testament to the dedication and effort of both students and staff. We invite you to visit us on one of our Open Evenings and experience the College’s supportive atmosphere and outstanding opportunities for success, happiness and personal growth.

Open Evenings 2014 (5:30-8:30pm) Monday 3rd November Tuesday 11th November

Grow with us enquiries@sjr.ac.uk www.sjr.ac.uk

Want to advertise in Local Life?

01942 214797

...call us now on 01695 627 999

25

A Fantastic nce e i r e p x E s a Christm far m e h t n o n w o d

Santa has completely rebuilt his workshop and grotto.

The huge buildings have been given a Christmas makeover creating the ultimate FARMER CHRISTMAS! Your ‘BOARDING CARD’ allows you to step inside this wonderful world and make your way through the huge halls into ELF SCHOOL, then hop aboard the SANTA EXPRESS and arrive at the MAGICAL CHRISTMAS FOREST. On your journey you will encounter ELVES, REINDEER and all their friends until at last, you reach SANTA’s WORKSHOP.

General Admission Charge Under 1 year old (receiving a gift) - £5.00 Child - £11.50 Adult - £6.00 (Booking Fees Apply)

Book on-line at: www.farmerchristmas.com Tel: 0844 736 0151 Farmer Teds @FarmerTedsFarm 26

Autumn At Trinity

women and those with a chronic health condition, such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease, are at particular risk.

There will be stalls galore at Trinity Methodist Church’s autumn fair on Saturday, November 8. It starts at 11am at the Fleet Street venue in Pemberton and finishes at 3pm. Stalls include hand-crafted cards, jewellery, toiletries, wood wares and books. All welcome.

The flu vaccine reduces the chance of serious illness, hospitalisation and even death among those who are most at risk. For more information, contact your GP.

Holgate Fair

Flu Call Wigan’s public health chiefs are urging people in at-risk groups to get the flu vaccine and avoid illness this winter. The vaccine is free to people of all ages with a health condition, the over-65s, pregnant women and children aged two to four.

For most healthy people flu is an unpleasant but usually time-limited disease with recovery time taking up to a week. However, older people, the very young, pregnant

Orrell Holgate’s Christmas Fair is back - and organisers say it will be better than ever before! It takes place at the Moor Road school on Sunday, December 7, between noon and 2pm and locals are urged to join the crowds for a fun-filled Christmas shopping spree.

There will be stalls galore including Santa’s Grotto, children’s face painting, new and used items, cakes, chocolate tombola and much more!

Are you thinking about a nursery or reception place for your child?

Open Day Then join us for our Open Day and see for yourself the high quality education we offer.

7th November 2014 9.15 - 10.15am 2.15 - 3.15pm

Refreshments will be

available at 9am and

All welcome

2pm

Winstanley Community Primary School Tanhouse Drive, Winstanley, Wigan, WN3 6JP

Tel: 01942 749141

www.winstanley.wigan.sch.uk

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

27

Shevington Crafts A craft and gift fair is being held on Saturday, November 8, from 10am-3pm at St Anne’s Parish Centre, Church Lane, Shevington. Among the attractions will be a Fair Trade stall, local craft demonstrations and refreshments.

For more details, contact Linda Hill on 01257 252496.

Water To Wine St Teresa’s School on College Road, Up Holland, holds its Christmas fair on Saturday, November 29. Starting at 12.30pm, all the usual favourites will be there, including the popular Water to Wine stall, the jamboree stall where everyone is a winner of a jar of sweets, as well as tombola, perfumes and cosmetics stalls for early Christmas presents!

The fair has a grand raffle with the first prize being a hamper worth £100, and there will be a visit from Santa plus demonstrations from local dance troupes and martial arts demonstrations.

War Exhibition The Museum of Wigan Life, on Library Street, is charting the town’s story through the Great War at a special exhibition. Home Front to Battle Front – Wigan Borough at War 1914-18 runs until Saturday, March 28.

It focuses on the stories of men who went to fight and the struggles faced by women and those left behind.

Items on display will include William Kenealy’s Victoria Cross medal awarded for bravery in Gallipoli and Lord Crawford’s original war diary. Entry is free and for more information, visit www.wlct.org.uk

r watch out. You better not cry. e t t e b You tter not pout. I’m telling you why. e b You laus is coming

C Santa

to town!

Visit Santa at his new grotto at Holland Hall every Sunday throughout December Book your child’s place NOW to avoid disappointment.

£9.95 per child *all good children will receive a Christmas book and selection box

HOLLAND HALL HOTEL

More than just a wedding venue

28

Holland Hall, Lafford Lane, Up Holland, Lancashire, WN8 0QZ • 01695 624 426 www.hollandhallhotel.co.uk • info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

29

Good Head for Business Have you ever popped to the shops to buy something and come back with something completely different?

Up Holland’s Dorothy Craig took this to extremes in 2005 when she popped out to buy a new head for a brush from a hardware store in Pemberton, and returned home as the new owner of a ladieswear business!

but did you know that the store also sells for other occasions – cruisewear and evening wear?

Shopping for a special outfit can be a nerve-racking experience, but Aubergine are well placed to ensure your visit will be memorable not only for the elegant clothes but for the exceptional service also. The store has an in-house seamstress, Anne, who will ensure that

And now, after nine years of hard work by Dorothy and her daughter Nicola Edwards, that ladieswear business - Aubergine - has outgrown their old premises and have set up their new home in a beautiful and spacious double fronted store about 200 yards away. Now clearly established as one of the area’s leading independent Mother of the Bride/Groom stockist, customers visit Aubergine from all over the North West to buy their outfits for the big day.

They are spoilt for choice at Aubergine, which stocks a wide and varied collection from some of the most respected occasion wear brands in the business. The store is a stockist for John Charles, Condici, Ispirato, Zeila, Cabotine, Gina Bacconi and Michaela Louisa. Joining them from January 2015 are Irresistible, and Personal Choice, a new label which specialises in sizes 18 -26.

KFC

7

Car Park

Aubergine

30

Pemberton Boots

Ormskir

ite St. Wh Ch ap el St.

To M6 J 26

A57

Fleet St.

Every year, thousands of brides see Aubergine’s Mother of the Bride/Groom catwalk show at local Bridal Fairs,

Tesco

k Road To Wigan

your outfit fits perfectly before you walk out of the door, and who will also alter or repair any item of clothing, whether purchased at Aubergine or not.

The new store is easy to find and has plentiful parking at the side and rear of the building, so if you’re looking for a special outfit for a Christmas party or for a 2015 wedding, do call in today – you’re guaranteed a warm welcome.

Aubergine w w w. auber gi nel adi es w ear.c o.uk 13 - 15 White Street, Pemberton, WN5 8JW Open: 9.30am - 4.30pm Monday - Saturday Closed Wednesday

Call - 01942 212 520

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

31

History In Their Hands David Sudworth discovers why there’ll always be a part of West Lancashire which is truly Wigan Standing in front of one of the area’s most recognisable landmarks, Orrell’s Chris Smith and his colleague Daniel Roscoe grapple with a weighty piece of local history.

For those who have been going to Ashurst’s Beacon for years, they may have noticed something missing - a dedication plaque which for decades had adorned the 18th Century structure. Word has it that vandals ripped it down sometime in the 1990s, and the presumption was that it had been weighed in for scrap, all 20kg of it.

However, earlier this year local man Paul Lea, 30, was trying out some new metal detection equipment when he found the plaque buried in undergrowth. Since then, it has been restored and now, thanks to Chris and Daniel, it is now back in its rightful place.

Chris, of Orrell-based Chris The Builder, is a past winner of a Trader of the Year Award from Wigan Trading Standards, which runs the Good Trader Scheme. He said: “This was an unusual job but it’s nice to be part of it and see the plaque going back on the Beacon. While we were up there, a group of Year 4 pupils from Marus Bridge were on a field trip so we got chatting to them and explained what we were doing, and the history behind the plaque. They loved it.”

The story of the plaque dates back to a blustery Thursday, March 24, 1966, when the great and good of Up Holland and Wigan gathered at the Beacon for the plaque’s formal unveiling. It denoted the ‘gift’ of the Beacon to the people of Wigan from Thomas Meadows.

Mr Meadows was an editor at the Wigan Observer newspaper and bought the Beacon, and its surrounding land, in 1926. Upon his death in 1956, it passed to his wife Sophia under instruction that it should “remain forever a beauty spot for the enjoyment of the people of Wigan.”

The transfer to Wigan Corporation took place on December 12, 1962, and following Sophia’s death in 1966, the plaque was formally unveiled. Archive records

32

show that among those present at the unveiling of the plaque was their children, Dora Hartley and Swithin P. Meadows, as well as representations from Wigan and Dalton councils.

Speaking at the event, the Mayor of Wigan, Cllr R.F. Connolly, said: “We are deeply indebted to the Meadows family for this wonderful gesture. Generations of Wiganers, long after we have gone, will have cause to appreciate it.”

True to their word, in the 52 years since it transferred into public ownership, the Beacon has continued to provide open space for Wiganers. This arrangement even survived the local government reorganisation of 1974, which saw the Beacon fall within the West Lancashire council boundaries. To this day, Ashurst’s Beacon is owned by Wigan Corporation’s successor in title, Wigan Council, despite the land still technically being part of West Lancashire.

However, the Meadows story doesn’t stop there as their son, Swithin, went on to become one of Britain’s most respected and admired neurologists. As a former Wigan Grammar School pupil, he secured a coveted position as Medical Registrar and Tutor to St Thomas’s Hospital, London. He was honorary neurologist to several organisations, including British European Airways before it amalgamated to become British Airways - and, in view of his father’s work, to the Newspaper Press Fund of which he later became vice-president.

Described as “bluff, outspoken and looked more like a genial and prosperous Yorkshire farmer than an expert in neurological disorders” he was the antithesis of the public image of a London consultant. According to the Independent newspaper, despite his growing reputation, Swithin remained ego-free. It’s said postgraduate students at Queen Square National Hospital were captivated by his informality and

Want to advertise in Local Life?

intellectual honesty - he once assured a startled foreign visitor that it was weeks since he had made a correct diagnosis.

Swithin retired from active practice at the age of 75 to devote his time to travel, to his books and to his family - and to his favourite evening occupation of playing the piano. He died on May 1, 1993, aged 91.

...call us now on 01695 627 999

33

No ‘Minor’ Event!

Variety Showtime

Wigan Choral Society’s next concert will be a performance of Mozart’s Mass in C Minor and Bach’s Magnificat on Saturday, November 8, at 7.30pm, at St Michael’s Church, Swinley. The choir will be conducted

by Paul Chamberlain, and there will be professional soloists and an orchestra. Entry fees are £10 and £8 concessions on the door.

Up Holland and District U3A is hosting a Variety Showtime at St Teresa’s Hall on College Road. Shows take place on two nights, Friday, October 31, and Saturday, November 1, both starting at 7pm.

Wheelchair Basketball

Refreshments available and bar will be open. Doors open at 7pm and, as this is a community performance, all are welcome.

Wigan Warthogs - the town’s only wheelchair basketball club - is on the look-out for new members. It meets regularly at Robin Park Sports Centre, Loire Drive, and is suitable for all ages and abilities. For more information on training dates and times, call head coach Emma Tomkinson on 07875 144970 or email info@ wiganwarthogs.com

le b a il va a s e m u st o c f o s d re Hund for your Halloween parties Large range of accessories (fake knives, masks, fangs, wigs, fake blood and liquid latex) and costumes for sale.

e

ress Hir

A youth theatre is putting on a three night performance. Somewhere In France - a new play commemorating World War I - will be held by Willpower Youth Theatre at St Michael’s Hall, Shaw Street, Swinley, from Friday, November 7, to Sunday, November 9.

The play includes a song, Where Poppies Blow, which was especially written for the occasion by Tim Hans Smith.

Taking you wherever you need to go…

All ex-rental costomes for sale!

ll today - 01942 213 432 a C Mobile - 07837 278650 or 07980 144433 769 - 771 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton (Near Boots Chemist)

www.fancydressinwigan.co.uk 34

Somewhere In France

Performances are at 7.30pm each day, with a 2.30pm matinee on the Sunday. Tickets are £6 for adults and £5 for concessions. To book, call 01942 745082.

‘Fright Eyes’ coloured contact lenses - further authenticate your look.

Fancy D

Organisers are promising a “cornucopia of talent” with song, dance, nostalgia and comedy. Tickets are on sale from 01695 623378 at £5 for adults and £2.50 for under 16s.

SWH Travel

• Weddings • Airport Transfers • Reliable & Friendly • 8 Seater Minibus • Private Hire Only

SWH Travel

01942 222646 / 07930 243322 E-mail: haigh591@btinternet.com

Spooky Kids

Ashley. The concert will conclude with a performance from the Senior Band, who currently play in the National Championship section.

Pemberton Community Association is hosting a children’s Halloween Party with free admission at Lamberhead Green Working Men’s Club, White Street, Pemberton, on Sunday, October 26, from 1pm-4pm.

Tickets cost £8 for adults, £6 for OAPs and £3 for under16s. Visit www.pembertonoldwigan.co.uk

There will be an entertainer, best fancy dress competition and best pumpkin competition. Hot dogs will also available. All welcome.

Friends’ Plea

DW Band Concert Pemberton Old Wigan DW Band are holding a Christmas concert at The Rose Club, Atherton Road, Hindley, on Sunday, November 30, at 2pm. The concert will comprise of performances from all three DW bands. The Youth band, conducted by John Don-Duncan, will start off events followed by the ‘B’ Band, conducted by Peter

Want to advertise in Local Life?

The Friends of Alexandra Park need donations of herbaceous plants. The Newtown group hopes to turn the borders around the bowling greens into flowering herbaceous borders, and wants locals to hand over their unwanted plants.

The Friends of Alexandra Park meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 6pm in the Community Room at Bowling Green Pavilion in the park. For more information, email friendsofalexparkwigan@outlook. com

...call us now on 01695 627 999

35

Wigan’s Underground Time is running out to take a trip through the bowels of Wigan town centre’s historic underbelly. The Old Courts, or Gerard Winstanley House as it was known, on Crawford Street, has sat unused for a number of years after the County Court and council offices moved across town. In recent months, however, the building

has come back to life as an arts and enterprise hub with a range of creative industries based in offices and workshop spaces throughout.

Running through the heart of Wigan’s late Victorian courthouse, prisons, corridors, hallways and cellars, the tour ends in the courtroom itself for a Halloween fair with chilling fun for people of all ages.

The Old Courts Halloween Tour has been written by local writer Julie Mckiernan, who has woven a tale that encompasses the history of Up Holland Priory, the Courthouse itself and creates a world in which the gargoyles and grotesques of the Wigan Parish Church come to life.

Performers have been drawn from across the borough with a vast wealth of performance experience in stage, TV and film to create what organisers says is a unique and terrifying experience in which you’ll never know what lurks around the next corner.

Michael Rees, of The Old Courts Theatre and Events, said: “Working with companies with extensive film credits to create our monsters has meant we can take the idea of a haunted house to a new level – it’s genuinely terrifying!”

The Old Courts Halloween Tour runs until Saturday, November 1. Tickets are £12 for adults with £7 concessions plus free entrance to the Halloween fair.

Log onto www.oldcourtsevents.co.uk

Over a Century of Local Family Tradition

EDWARDS Funeral Directors

R. BANKS

& SON (FUNERALS) LTD. Brian Halliwell Dip F.D M.B.I.E.

Independent Funeral Directors Monumental Masons

A local family run business, R. Banks & Son are one of the largest independent funeral directors in the Wigan Area

Golden Charter Pre Arrangement Funeral Plans and Memorial Plans available

FINANCE NOW AVAILABLE on Funerals & Memorials Subject to status, written details on request

24 hour service • Caring family firm Holmwood, Dicconson Terrace, Wigan WN1 2AA

T: 01942 821215 www.edwardsfuneraldirectors.com

36

Branches: Coppull 01257 793880, Upholland 01695 622099 Standish 01257 422011, Scholes 01942 820526, Leigh 01942 261415, Beech Hill 01942 829200, Tyldesley 01942 887312, Bryn 01942 271392

Head Office: Halliwell House, 758/768 Ormskirk Rd

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

T: 01942 222156

Carving and Christmas

Spot Cancer Signs

Book-Cycle helpers and volunteers are hosting a range of Halloween and Christmas events for all the family.

Would you be interested in becoming a Cancer Champion who could encourage people to seek help and advice from their GP? Wigan Council Public Health is offering a free one day course designed to give you knowledge and understanding of the early signs and symptoms of bowel, breast, lung, bladder and kidney cancer as part of the Be Clear on Cancer campaign.

On Tuesday, October 28, it’s pumpkin carving day from 2pm onwards at its Orrell branch on Orrell Road.

The following day at the same time, there’s another pumpkin carving at Book-Cycle’s facility on Buckley Street West, Beech Hill. And on Friday, October 31, there’s a Halloween Party at this venue from 3pm-5pm.

Book-Cycle is also holding Christmas fairs; the first on Sunday, November 30, from noon to 4pm at Buckley Street West. The Orrell centre’s fair is being held the following Sunday (December 7), again from noon-4pm.

For more information, contact Beech Hill Book-Cycle on 01942 747750 or Orrell Book-Cycle on 01942 665646.

Want to advertise in Local Life?

It takes place at the Wigan Life Centre, College Avenue, on Wednesday, November 5, from 9.15am to 4:30pm.

Refreshments are provided on the day but you will need to take your own lunch.

Places are limited so booking is essential. To book your place please phone Gwen on 01942 404237 or email Gwen.derbyshire@wigan.gov.uk

...call us now on 01695 627 999

37

OAP Survey

One Night Only

Older folk in Up Holland and Roby Mill are being quizzed about their health and wellbeing. Lancashire Fairness Commission wants to know whether they feel they have the services and support to help them to carry on working, enjoy retirement or play a full part in their local community.

Singers from the Royal Northern College of Music will perform a wide range of songs in For One Night Only at Trinity United Reformed Church, Milton Grove, Wigan. It takes place on Friday, October 31, at 7.30pm. All profits to go to Wigan Rotary Club charities. Tickets are £10, call 07813 471000.

A survey has now been set up at www.lancashire.gov. uk/fairness so people can give their views.

Commission chairman the Very Rev. Christopher Armstrong, said: “We’re asking about everything from whether people think the economic climate has led to them feeling more lonely and isolated, to whether they feel austerity is making it more difficult to live in their own homes for longer. We also want them to suggest ideas the commission could take up that could be more widely used for the benefit of older people, whether they are richer or poorer.”

Themed

Art & Craft

Parties We can organise brilliant art & craft parties for your child at your home or venue.

Or we can keep kids entertained at weddings, christenings, BBQ’s and other parties.

Make a wooden treasure box, a pirate sword, jewellery and lots more to take home as keepsakes.

Suitable for children aged 3-11 years.

Owner Suzanne has 20 years teaching experience at Primary School level and is fully insured & CRB cleared.

For more details call her on

07850 077 888

ARTmosphere 01257 255 383 / 07850 077 888 email: artmosphere@hotmail.co.uk

38

Let our lights transform your home this Christmas Huge range of stock Wigan’s largest lighting specialist Open six days a week

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

01942 216 033 www.pembertonlighting.co.uk

GO ODYEAR FURNITURE

GRAND SALE & FURNITURE CLEARANCE

OVER £500,000 OF FURNITURE FOR IMMEDIATE CLEARANCE Due to development of the site in Mawdesley, we will be vacating our current showrooms in the near future. In order to facilitate our move into our new premises on the existing site, we desperately need to sell many 100’s of pieces of furniture. These include: sofas & chairs, dining furniture, sideboards, cane furniture, beds, display units, occasional furniture, pictures, mirrors & more.

UP TO

50% OFF

PRICES HAVE BEEN DRASTICALLY REDUCED

A VERY SMALL SAMPLE OF CLEARANCE OFFERS: Clearance offers subject to availability

OLD MILL OAK

G PLAN

MORRIS

CINTIQUE

3 door sideboard medium oak finish

RAVELLO 2.5 seater sofa & 2 armchairs

SCOPE 180cm light oak table & 6 leather chairs

TRIESTE leather swivel recliner chair

Was £999 YOU PAY £499

Was £3540 YOU PAY £1799

Was £1499 YOU PAY £799

Was £1318 YOU PAY £699

GO ODYEAR FURNI TURE 0 1 7 0 4 8 2 1 5 7 7 Gorsey Lane, Mawdesley, Nr Parbold, Lancashire L40 3TE Mon to Fri 10am - 5pm / Saturday 10am - 5pm / Sundays - Closed Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

39

Free Publicity For YOU! Are you in a local community group? Do you want to publicise a talk, school fair or charity fundraiser? If so, get in touch with us today!

Local Life is distributed to thousands of homes across Wigan, St Helens, Chorley and West Lancashire. Each edition is crammed with stories for local events, and your group could be appearing in our next edition. The types of events we publicise are as follows: - Charity fundraising events - Local school, church or community fairs - Amateur concerts or performances by community groups - Talks which are open to the public - Pleas from community groups or associations for new members

- We’re also on the look out for old school photographs, street scenes from yesterday and we want to hear from you if your group is celebrating a special milestone.

Simply contact our Editor David Sudworth with the details - what, where, when, why, who for, how much - and anything else you want to tell our readers. The earlier you can provide the information, the better the job we can do.

So don’t delay – contact David today by calling 01695 627 999 or emailing him directly at editorial@locallife247.co.uk

For a top quality deep clean carried out by experienced specialists Traditional service - state of the art results Shevington based family business 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 The most thorough clean, or it’s free!

Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote

40

TOTAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT FROM START TO FINISH

WIDE selection of BATHROOMS & KITCHENS up to

F F O 5AL0L% K IT C H E N S

LIMITED PERIOD

ONLY

New Freelux range of stylish, practical bathrooms on display

FREEs LEAK e n c lo s u re

shower Boiler Upgrades • Combi Boilers Full Central Heating Systems ALL AVAILABLE Fully qualified GAS SAFE fitters. Call for more details

Full service from design to fitting Friendly family run business Over 20 bathroom & kitchen displays Wide choice from many famous brands Ample free parking • Trade Welcome

www.designsforlifestudio.co.uk

Designs For Life 290 Church Rd, Haydock, St. Helens WA11 0LF

Want to advertise in Local Life?

NO GROUT NO STAINING Anti-bacterial Open: Mon to Fri 8.30am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-4pm

Higher toilets and spe cially designed wetrooms suitable for disabled customers ava ilable. (registered disabled peo ple pay no VAT – ask for details)

Bathroom & Tile Centre

tel: 01942 274844 ...call us now on 01695 627 999

41

Exquisite glasswork to enhance your home Buy your individually crafted decorative glasswork direct from the factory Table & Worktops Coloured Splashbacks Glass Balustrades Bespoke Mirrors Glass Doors Shower & Wetroom Screens Fireplace Surrounds

Full plann in & fitting s g ervice available

Glasswork made at our Leigh factory with full onsite processors, including precision sandblasting and glass fusion techniques.

Domestic | Commercial | Architectural

For more details about our products, pop into our factory or call us on:

01942 674 331 Open: Monday - Thursday 8.00am-4.30pm, Friday 8.00am - 3.30pm

Bedford Glass Established 60 years

1-7 Brideoak Street, Leigh, WN7 2AG www.bedfordglass.co.uk 42

Lunatic Confessions

Creepy Goings-On

As titles go, Confessions of a Lunatic certainly stands out from the crowd! It’s actually an illustrated talk by Kevin Briggs who studies the birds of the Lune valley, which takes place on Tuesday, November 11, from 7.45 pm at St Anne’s Parish Centre, Church Lane, Shevington.

Greenslate Farm in Billinge is expecting some creepy goings-on on Thursday, October 30, from 4pm-6pm.

The farm, at the corner of Greenslate Road and Tracks Lane, will be opening its gates to all manner of ghouls, witches, wizards and any other frightening creatures aged five to 12-years-old for a celebration of all things spooky at its Halloween Party.

And on Tuesday, December 2, there’s another illustrated talk, this time from Mike McKavett about the birds of Lesvos, again from 7.45pm.

Both events are part of the Wigan RSPB Local Group’s programme. They are free to members, and to nonmembers there’s a charge of £2.

Details of all the group’s events can be found at www. rspb.org.uk/groups/wigan

The Party is to help raise vital funds for future projects at Greenslate and will include a fancy dress competition, Games, competitions, arts and crafts and a full buffet.

Tickets are £10 each. Booking is essential as places are limited, and best of all, parents do not have to stay!

To buy tickets please email info@greenslatefarm.org.uk or call 01695 229150.

Are you thinking about getting the Christmas decorations out of the loft?

Let Access4Lofts make it SAFE and EASY for you!

We supply and fit: • Loft Ladders & Loft Hatches • Boarding, Lighting & Insulation We guarantee: • Professional & Friendly Service • No Mess • 5 Year Full Parts & Labour Guarantee

CALL NOW TO BOOK YOUR FREE, NO OBLIGATION SURVEY & QUOTE www.access4lofts-preston.co.uk

email: access4lofts@aol.com

Want to advertise in Local Life?

01772 811611

...call us now on 01695 627 999

43

Lifting The Lid…

David Sudworth delves into the history of old Wallgate, and discovers how jam made in the area fed Boer War troops Look closely and the clues are still there... just about.

In many ways, before the early 1970s, old Wallgate was not unlike Scholes, on the other side of town. But whereas Scholes families saw their community razed to the ground and newer, modern homes spring up in their place, the majority of Wallgate’s population were forced out altogether as their homes were supplanted by large commercial units. Some of the original road names remain, but places such as Adelaide Street (later called Melbourne Street), Fisher’s Yard, and Ironmonger Lane exist only on old maps and in history books; these are now the sites of Go Outdoors, Speedy Hire and King’s Meats respectively.

Wallgate was served by a number of schools, such as Clayton Street School (built in 1872), St Thomas’ on Caroline Street (built 1846) and St Joseph’s Catholic School (built 1873), which have all gone. One of the Wallgate area’s most famous sons is ex-Wigan Athletic and Oldham footballer Maurice Whittle is a former

44

Wallgate looking towards Wigan Pier in the 1950s pupil at St Thomas’. Now 65 and residing in Up Holland, Maurice lived with his mum Mona, dad John and older brother Fred on the now-demolished Fletcher Street.

He made his name in the 1970s and played for Fort Lauderdale Strikers in America, alongside the greats such as George Best.

However, it appears the north American link to Wallgate isn’t merely confined to Maurice. While researching his family history, Brian Harrison, who lives in Toronto, Canada, discovered his descendants are from Wallgate.

His great grandmother, Alice Barton, was born at 43 Princess Street and she later went on to run the Honeysuckle pub in nearby Poolstock with her husband, Henry, who she married at St Thomas’s Church on Hodson Street, in the 1890s.

Brian said: “Alice gave birth to her first and only child, Harold, my grandfather, in May 1886. Although Alice and Henry were married for a decade after Harold’s birth they did not have any more children. This was very unusual for Wigan families of the day, and suggests that Alice had a medical condition. My grandfather came to Canada in 1907 after completing his apprenticeship as a joiner in Wigan. His descendants all reside here now, most of us in Toronto where he settled.

Photos courtesy of Wigan World

For a community which once boasted its own schools, cinema, places of worship, numerous pubs, mills and factories, interspersed with terraced homes, precious little remains of old Wallgate. Of course, the name lives on, but it is now mostly synonymous with the train station and surrounding shops which form part of Wigan town centre. But walk beyond the rail bridge towards Wigan Pier and you’ll find remnants of a once a bustling residential area.

“Alice died at the Honeysuckle on August 24, 1897, aged 33. The cause of death is listed as cirrhosis of the liver, of which the most common causes are alcoholism and hepatitis. It’s said that her ghost still haunts the pub.”

Speaking of pubs, Wallgate’s menfolk were kept well-oiled after a hard day’s graft with venues such as the Grapes, which stood at the corner of Wallgate and Clayton Street; the Vine Inn at the corner of Caroline Street and Chapel Street; the Buck I’Th Vine on Clayton Street and the Ropemakers, on Caroline Street, close to the junction with Wallgate.

None of these survived the wrecking ball, and the same fate befell Wallgate Cinema and Gordon Isherwood’s shoe shop, which stood at the corner of Melbourne Street.

But one wellknown landmark which continues The old Wallgat e cinema to provide a historic link with Wallgate’s past and remains there to this day is the old St Joseph’s Church building on Caroline Street.

The Grapes at the corner of Wallgate and Clayton Street

The Buck I’Th Vine on Clayton Street

The Ropemakers on Caroline Street - the building at the junction of Wallgate is now home to Music 90.

Want to advertise in Local Life?

Archive materials reveal the first Catholic service at the site was held on January 22, 1871, in a small chapel which formerly belonged to the Primitive Methodist Body. However, in a very short time the building was found to be too small for the increasing number of Catholics living in Wallgate. So adjoining land was brought for £500 and a new church, which could cater for up to 600 worshippers, opened the following April at a cost of £3,000.

Incredibly, even this expansion failed to meet the exploding demand, and it soon became clear that an even larger church was required. This church - the one we know today - opened on Sunday, June 30, 1878, to what m fro h’s sep Jo St A view of appears to have been Hodson Street a carnival atmosphere.

Press reports from the time state: “From windows of houses in Wallgate and Caroline Street and the adjoining streets, there was a profuse display of flags and banners, giving the district quite a holiday aspect. Large crowds congregated outside the church in the hope of obtaining a glimpse of the two Roman Catholic bishops. Although admission was only to be gained by tickets, for which large prices were paid, the church was filled both in the morning and the evening.”

...call us now on 01695 627 999

45

Of course, much has changed since those heady days and the Grade II listed building has now lay dormant for the best part of two decades. Back in 2002, planning permission was granted to use it as an indoor rock climbing centre, but nothing came of it. However, it has provided fertile ground for ‘urban explorers’ who access old premises armed with a camera and post the resultant photographs on websites such as www.28dayslater.co.uk One St Joseph’s explorer, Orrell-born Tom Sherman, whose work can be found at the site, said: “I went in around June/July last year. It’s ok inside but the paint is peeling off the walls and there’s pigeons in there. It’s still got the large cross and it was really interesting to visit.”

As well as urban exploring, St Joseph’s has also been highlighted by campaign group Save Wigan, which aims to promote and preserve historic buildings in the area.

Andy Lomax, from the group, told Local Life that turning it into apartments may be the best way of securing its future: “This church hasn’t seen a planning application for some time. It is interesting how markets change and whatever the ‘in’ thing is, but we now have a councilbacked project which promotes more town centre living.”

Aside from St Joseph’s, there are a few old buildings dotted around on Wallgate itself, including one which now houses Music 90, and several homes on Queen Street and Hartley Terrace, but the vast majority of old Wallgate came crashing down in the early 1970s when Wigan Corporation compulsory purchased a number of buildings and widened the roads. But sadly for some, even with town centre living now becoming in vogue again, it’s highly unlikely that Wallgate will ever be quite the same place again.

Jam Yesterday at Deakin’s…

The Wallgate area was home to two jam and preserve factories – and it transpires that produce from one of them was sent to troops fighting in the Boer War. Premier Jam Works, was in Princess Street, approximately where King’s Meats is today, and the other was at Deakin’s, based at Eclipse Works, which still partially exists on Bradford Place, off Chapel Lane.

Research shows production at Eclipse was started by Poolstockborn William Robert Deakin, and by 1897 had around 70 staff.

As well as being William Robert Deakin (back right) with a Wigan other Deakin family members in 1921 councillor and magistrate, he was known for being a benevolent boss, with annual staff picnics and reducing working hours without cutting pay. During the Boer War, Deakin’s

46

supplied produce to troops and duly received letters of thanks for them. One was received from Pte Fred Moser, who was originally from Ashton-in-Makerfield but served, in the 1st Coldstream Guards. He An advert for Deak was very impressed by in’s the apricot jam, and wrote enthusiastically: “It is a splendid luxury I can assure you, and thus been enabled to keep up our condition and strength much to the discomfort and surprise of the Boers around here. Unfortunately like all other good things, the supply has come to an end - not however before the price reached 4s. per tin!”

William Robert Deakin died in 1943 and is buried in Wigan Cemetery, in Lower Ince. The business continued to trade at Bradford Place until the 1950s, when it was wound up voluntarily.

Local Life managed to get in touch with William’s great granddaughter, Debbie Williamson, who lives in Worcestershire. It transpires the family wants to write a book about the factory, and anyone who has memorabilia, photos or memories of working there to get in touch via www.deakin.broadwaymanor.co.uk

r e d Or For ! s a Now m t s i r h C ow pay 2015 Buy N st Free! e r e t n igan’s -I W e e nd s

day a of; o t n i Pop ction e l e s s st Blind n bigge O it Clip hings s F i t n c r e u f • Per Soft F & s tain • Cur tters s • Shu Blind n a tians e • Rom n e den V • Woo lers s • Rol Blind d e t • Plea s etian n e V • y icals t Frida r e y V a • Mond : Open

- 5pm Saturday 9am - 4pm 10am

Call - 01942 743203

685a Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan, WN5 8AQ

www.harmonyofwigan.co.uk Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

47

Chonkinfeckle Live an international movement which sets up school feeding projects in communities where poverty and hunger prevent children from gaining an education.

Wigan lads Chonkinfeckle Ey up - Wigan band Chonkinfeckle are playing a hometown gig on Friday, November 7! They’ll be playing at Standish Unity Club in aid of Mary’s Meals,

Chonkinfeckle consists of Les Hilton, Tim Cooke and Peter Byrom. Tim and Les met in September 2009 at the Wigan Ukulele Club. Peter joined the band in 2013 on Keyboards. after getting to know each other at various local music events. Staying true to their Lancashire roots, most songs have a local lyrical theme, others are instrumental, but all are played on the ukulele, harmonica, drums and keyboards.

The fundraiser is being held by the Knights of St Columba, based at St Marie’s RC Church in Standish. Tickets are £5 each and can be purchased at St Marie’s or by calling 01257 404038 and 01257 400308.

Could your bathroom benefit from a Touch of Magic We supply and fit:

Tragic

Magic

• UPVC Ceilings (no more maintenance) • Flooring: Vinyl, Tile and UPVC • Shower Cubicles and UPVC Wet Wall (no more mouldy tile grout) • Bath Panels, Taps and Showers • Tile and Grout Cleaning, Sealing and New Precision Silicone

to ‘its former glory’ We can restore your bathroom brand new bathroom! at a fraction of the price of a Call now for further information “The bathrooms now look better than when they were first done over 13 years ago.”

(Mrs Gannon, March 2014)

48

01942 375 201 0800 988 7778 www.TotalBathroomRestoration.co.uk

What’s the BEST home investment you could make?

Vale of Wigan can replace or modernise your existing staircase, bringing style and elegance to your home.

Add instant value to your home Traditional or contemporary look Unsurpassed craftsmanship Best quality materials used Fully guaranteed for 10 years Typical installation takes 2/3 days Call today for a free, no obligation survey or visit our website for more details David H – Frodsham “...a stunning oak staircase with glass balustrades.... you could not pick a better company to work with.”

David & Stella - Leyland “Your workmanship is second to none.

Thank you for our stairs, they look divine.”

BEFORE

Sandra & Arthur - Westhoughton “…a very professional job which we are delighted with and would highly recommend you.”

AFTER

Rear Mill, Wood Street, off Chapel Lane, Wigan, WN3 4HL

CALL US todayON

01942 246553

www.modernisemystairs.co.uk Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

49

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

Before

After Here to help you is HomeSafe Roof Solutions, a 5 star rated conservatory roof replacement company based in Hindley. They don’t believe in high-pressure sales techniques, but instead HomeSafe offer low prices all of the time.

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.

So what are the key features & benefits of a tiled conservatory roof solution?

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Comfortable temperatures all year round 10 years comprehensive insurance backed warranty Roof is extremely lightweight and thermally efficient Choice of roof colours Skylight/Velux window options Maintenance-free Tapco Slate It looks great!

How do you make the step to convert your conservatory into real living space?

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.

Hindley Business Centre, Hindley, WN2 3PA www.homesaferoofsolutions.co.uk

50

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

51

Bear Necessities Chicago Teddy Bears Jazz Band will be at St Luke’s Church on Lodge Road, Orrell, on Saturday, October 25, from 7.30pm. Tickets are £7.50 (including hotpot supper) from Margaret Heaton 01695 622380. Take your own drinks.

at the Christmas Fair, which takes place from 11am to 1-30 pm. Admission is 50p and there will be the usual stalls and a Grand Draw. The first prize is a £150 voucher for £150 and the second prize is a drinks hamper.

Kiddies will also have the chance to meet the Amazing Spider-Man and Olaf from Frozen.

Highfield Bake Off

And on Friday, December 5, from 1pm-7pm, a weekend Christmas Tree Festival begins in church. On the Saturday, it runs from 10am to 6pm and on the Sunday it’s from 1-30pm to 4pm.

Devastated the Great British Bake Off has now ended for another year? Why not enter a local version - the Great Highfield Bake Off!

Wigan History Talks

There is no entrance fee and those cakes entered will be sold to raise funds for St Matthew’s Church, Billinge Road, Highfield., The cakes will be judged on Friday, November 28, at the Parish Rooms, Highfield and the winners will be announced on Saturday, November 29,

Wigan Family & Local History Society’s next meeting is at St Andrew’s Parish Centre, 120 Woodhouse Lane, on Wednesday, November 12. On this date at 7.15pm, speaker David A. Fearnley gives a talk on the Lancashire Fusiliers and their links with the Gerard family of

The closest you’ll get to the perfect garage door

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

52

W 68 mm x D 115 mm Advert - SeceuroGlide (additional logos) 5 YR04/07/2013 Warranty AW.in 10:1

Ashton-in-Makerfield. The charge is £2.50, including tea and coffee. Annual membership fees are £14 for individual UK members, £16 for family UK members or £20 for overseas members. For more information, visit www.wiganworld.co.uk/familyhistory/

The event is now in its sixth year. It was prompted by Kath, whose mother Daisy Russell died from cancer over 20 years ago. Since starting out, they’ve raised in excess of £34,000.

The ladies said: “This event couldn’t take place each year without the ongoing support from the local farming community and local businesses, who provide help as well as providing a lot of raffle prizes.”

Macmillan Success Three charity fundraisers have beat their previous target of £6,200 following their annual Macmillan Charity Extravaganza. The event, organised by Kath McGuire, Edith Berry and Anne Hurst and held at St James’ Social Club in Orrell, raised £7,165 -almost £1,000 more than the same event last year.

Amid the veg stalls, cake stalls and fancy goods, an audience of 150 were entertained by performances from the Old Hall Community Brass Band, Woolfenden School of Dance and the Phoenix Singers.

Want to learn BSL? British Sign Language courses now available in the Wigan area.

Level One BSL Level Two BSL Level Three BSL Courses Deaf Awareness sis as tance to sations who need For those organi of hearing. rd the deaf & ha communicate with

Also available

Enquiries welcomed from individuals or organisations.

Please contact; Alison Becker TEXT: 07527 912 891 EMAIL: ali.deafaware@blueyonder.co.uk www.bsl-deafaware.com

Want to advertise in Local Life?

Theatre Group Wigan Musical Theatre Group meets every Monday, from 7.45pm to 9.45pm, at St Mary’s Parish Hall, Shaw Street, Wigan. New members always welcome, on stage or backstage. For more details, ring 01942 204461.

Jog On Jogging For Beginners takes place every Monday, from 5.15 pm–6pm at The Grange Community Complex, Highfield Grange Avenue, Winstanley. The cost is £1 and for more details, call 01942 488489 or email a.griffin@ wlct.org

Art Group New artists are invited to join Marsh Green Art Group, which is on the hunt for new members. The group meets every Tuesday from noon until 3pm at St Francis Church Hall, City Road, Kitt Green. Each session is £2 and all are welcome.

Powerfest Back Trencherfield Mill off Pottery Road, Wigan, will be hosting the annual Powerfest event in partnership with the Manchester Science Festival 2014 on Wednesday, October 29. The day, from 11am to 4pm, will include a programme of events aimed at the whole family. Learn about the mighty Trencherfield Steam Engine and see it running like it did in 1907. Learn about the cotton industry in Wigan and the vital role steam power played in the local community. Entry is adults £2, concessions and under 16s £1, and a family ticket (two adults and two children) costs £5.

Please contact Bill Rowley or David Howard on 01942 777566 or call 01942 828128 for further information.

...call us now on 01695 627 999

53

Let’s stay together This year’s National Adoption Week (3 – 9 November) is focussing on siblings in a bid to encourage more people to come forward who can adopt brothers and sisters.

Currently there are seven sets of siblings in desperate need of a loving family across the three WWiSH (Warrington, Wigan and St Helens) authorities , five groups of two siblings and two groups of three. Since 2013, there has been a 65 per cent decrease in the number of sibling groups waiting to be adopted.

Earlier this year, Channel 4’s 15,000 Kids and Counting showed siblings, Lauren and Liam placed with a loving family.

The programme gave viewers unprecedented access into the adoption process, giving them a glimpse into the difficult, but rewarding journey social workers face when searching for a forever family.

Social worker Annette, 35, from Wigan, was described as a hero by the press and the public. Her commitment to the children in her care, including sibling group Lauren and Liam, had viewers on the edge of their seats.

Here she tells us why she thinks it’s important to keep siblings like Lauren and Liam together and stresses the importance of post-adoption support.

Annette said: “When we think about keeping siblings together, we tend to consider our own sibling relationships and our children’s sibling relationships. While a joint placement is not always appropriate, there are real benefits of placing siblings together.

“Children in foster care experience a variety of emotions which include sadness, loss, confusion and even guilt.

Some children will have gone through traumatic experiences and have those emotions to deal with on top of that. Having a sibling with them can help them with these feelings, as well as supporting the child to maintain a sense of identity when everything else familiar to them is gone. I believe siblings’ remaining together, when it is appropriate and safe, helps them re-build their individual strength and resilience. Siblings are a source of support to one another. Not only this but they learn skills from one another and develop empathy as a result of that sibling relationship.”

Councillor Joanne Platt, cabinet member for children and families at Wigan Council, said: “Since the launch of WWiSH we’ve placed lots of children with loving families. It would be fantastic if this week we can find these seven sibling groups a loving family too.”

If you have enough love for more than one child, find out more information here: 01942 487272 or email wwish@wigan.gov.uk.”

54

3rd-9th November

WWiSH... you were doing the school run too?

Last year we found forever families for 86 children in Warrington, Wigan and St.Helens.

This year, could you be one too?

Find out more, call 01942 487272, e-mail wwish@wigan.gov.uk or visit www.wwish.org.uk

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

55

At The Car Wash…

Bispham Methodist Church, on Crank Road, Billinge, is holding a bargain bucket and car wash day on Saturday, October 25. The fun starts at 10am until noon and there’ll be a host of stalls including books, gifts, jewellery, bric-a-brac and toys. All welcome.

Festive Stalls Lamberhead Green Library, on Greenhey, Orrell, is holding its Christmas Market on Saturday, November 15.

There will be an opportunity to browse a variety of stalls from 10am onwards, including handbags, jewellery, bric-a-brac, handmade chocolates and much more.

Table Top Sale

Not enough hours in the day for you?

Want to spend quality time with the family?

Then why not use

?

• Regular hourly rate only £9.75 • 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

Organisers are promising bargains galore at a table top sale held at St Francis of Assisi Church, City Road, Kitt Green, on Friday, October 24. It starts at 6.30pm in the hall and stalls will include nearly new clothes, toys, books, CDs, DVDs, linen, towels, shoes and lots more.

Refreshments will also be available.

Pemberton’s Fallen Locals whose relatives fought or fell in World War I are being invited to a special service in Pemberton on Sunday, November 9. St John’s , in Church Street, is holding a Pemberton Remembers service from 10am.

People are being encouraged to go along wearing their poppies, and take photos of soldiers in their family’s history to help remember the sacrifices made in the 1914-1918 conflict.

For more information, call 01942 375209 or visit www. stjohnthedevinepemberton.co.uk

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

56

Same day denture repairs Pick up & drop off service available

>> 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

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

57

58

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

59

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

How do investors spread risk?

ASSET ALLOCATION Basically, asset allocation is a term used to describe the investment asset mix held within an investment portfolio. Independent research has shown that the right types of investment assets (Asset allocation) can create 94% of the long term investment performance success. Stock selection contributes 4% and stock market timing 2%. Source -Institutional investment in the United Kingdom. A Review - Paul Myners.

You should never look to place your entire portfolio into just one asset class. Whilst a single asset type can provide you with the highest short - term returns, due to timing issues this could well be at the expense of achieving your longer term investment goals. In order to achieve these longer term goals you will need to ensure that you are holding the right mix of asset types, something which is determined by both prevailing market conditions, your stage in life, and of course your attitude towards investment risk.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN ASSET CLASSES Cash - Low risk Ordinarily these are a very stable form of investment however over the longer term they offer the lowest real rates of return. Cash ISAs, Internet Accounts tend to provide the better interest rates. Everyone should have a holding in this asset class for emergencies.

60

High risk investments Venture Capital Trust Enterprise Investment Schemes Futures and Options, Small cap stocks Moderate risk investments Blue Chip Stocks, Growth Stocks, Mutual Funds, Commercial Property Funds Lower risk investments Corporate Bonds, Government Bonds Cash and cash equivalents Savings Accounts, Insurance, Certificates of Deposit

Fixed Interest Securities- Low to medium risk Gilts and Investment grade corporate bonds are in the main relatively stable investments, but tend to give a modest return. Ordinarily they have a negative correlation to equities and will tend to perform poorly when equities are doing well. Gilts are loans to the government for which a fixed rate of return is paid at a set point in the future.

Property - Low to medium risk Commercial property tends to be un-correlated with other asset classes, except perhaps in the level of yield obtainable, and therefore offers performance unrelated to how the rest of your portfolio is doing.

Equities - High risk Stock and shares are relatively volatile. Timing and stock selection is a critical component to obtaining superior returns.

ARE YOU CAUTIOUS, BALANCED OR ADVENTUROUS? Asset allocation will be driven by your attitude towards investment risk as well as the life stage you are now at.

The following examples demonstrate the two ends of the spectrum.

Example 1 Mr and Mrs Cautious Retired couple in their 70s, own their own house, moderately well off with a variety of savings and investments. They are looking to maintain their capital and to provide extra income to supplement their pension. The last thing they want to do is to take unnecessary levels of risk .

Example 2 Miss Adventurous Age 30 with no dependents. Receiving a good salary with little outgoings. Keen to build up capital. Willing to take risk as she has plenty of time to put things right if she makes a mistake.

Clearly, the asset allocations to be used within the above examples are likely to be quite different as the age and risk profile of the individuals need to be reflected within any portfolio model.

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU? Our approach to looking after new and existing clients is very simple Stage 1

Understanding your circumstances and attitude to risk

Stage 2

Identify your objectives, short and longer term

Stage 3

Apply asset allocation modelling

Stage 4

Research and select investments within each asset class.

Stage 5

Keeping in touch through regular reviews

If you would like to have an initial consultation at our expense without obligation please do not hesitate to give us a call on 01257- 423 800.

It is important for you to be aware that any stock market investment should be for the long term and that the value and any income generated can go down as well as up. You may not get back the full amount invested. Past performance is not a guide to future returns.

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

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

• Financial Advice • Investment Solutions • Portfolio Management • Inheritance Tax planning • Regular Financial Reviews

David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP)

Call Prosper today on 01257 423800 to arrange your no obligation initial consultation.

Prosper Independent Financial Advisers Ltd. Prosper House, 99a High Street, Standish, WN6 0HD Telephone: 01257 423 800 www.prosper-ifa.co.uk

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

61

Charlie’s Visit One of the UK’s most respected singersongwriters is coming to Wigan following the release of her new album. Charlie Dore (pictured) will be in concert at Wigan Parish Church, Crawford Street, in the town centre, on Friday, November 14.

Charlie has enjoyed a varied career that includes acting in film, TV and radio, comedy-improvisation, writing for radio and composition for film and TV. Her songs have won two Ascap awards and an Ivor Novello nomination. In November 1990, her 1979 song, Pilot of the Airwaves, was the final track played by Radio Caroline as an unlicensed offshore radio station.

Her latest album, Milk Roulette, is being launched in London just a week before she comes to Wigan.

Supporting Charlie will be special guests The Bailey Sisters and the guest compere for the evening is Judy Dunlop, who will also be performing some unaccompanied songs.

Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Tickets are £14 in advance and are available from by calling 01942 824291 or emailing. Alternatively, visit http://www.wegottickets. com/event/288664

Want your tills to ring this Christmas?

If you’re a restaurant or a retailer and you want help planning a successful Christmas campaign for your business, call Chris today on

01695 627 999 Call Andrea on: 07827 774471 Email: areid@bookkeepingsolutions.org.uk

62

Accountancy - by Chris Alcock ACMA

Accountancy Services Welcome to the latest article from CMA, a proactive accountancy firm based in Appley Bridge.

All packages are available for a fixed monthly fee. We also offer additional services that can be ‘bolted on’ and added to each package to create your own bespoke accountancy service.

We provide the usual services such as annual accounts, payroll services, help with your VAT return and of course the dreaded self-assessment tax returns.

In fact the 31 Jan 2015 deadline for the 2014 SA returns is approaching fast so don’t leave it to the last minute and contact us for help soon. We can help individuals who may have rental properties and need to complete a return for the 1st time.

When it comes to working with companies we love to work with business owners who are passionate about growing their businesses. To do this we have devised a range of accountancy packages to help businesses of all shapes and sizes. Our packages are summaries below:

Please take a look at our updated website, www.cmaaccountancy.com regarding these packages where you can find out the full details of what is included.

With our free consultation for all business owners you can have your questions answered and determine whether we would work well together without spending any money.

Essentials – This package is designed for sole traders and smaller business owners and aims to ensure that all your compliance requirements are covered so you have complete peace of mind.

Growth – This is our most popular package as it helps you to effectively manage your business finances and helps you drive it forward. It is designed for business owners who want to take control and are committed to growth.

Premier – This is our ultimate package. It is designed for ambitious firms who are truly serious about taking their business to the next level. It is aimed at business owners who want the hands on experience of a finance director, on a cost effective basis.

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.

Tax Tip of the Month HIGHER RATE TAX PAYER? – Make sure you have claimed the higher rate tax relief due to you on pension contributions and gift aid donations. Again, this is not given automatically and you MUST make the claim to HMRC. This can lead to a tax refund or reduction in tax taken from your salary.

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 chris@cma-accountancy.com www.cma-accountancy.com

...call us now on 01695 627 999

63

Mind the Gap The gap between our holidays seems to be getting longer so why not let 2015 be the year of the Short Break? Treat yourself to enjoying some of the top attractions in the UK (or just across the Channel) all without draining your savings account.

Here’s a fantastic selection of Short Breaks from Newmarket Holidays. All short breaks leave via coach from Wigan, St Helens or Skelmersdale.

Lake Garda

7 nights, May - October 2015 (Manchester flights)

from £389

Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, has captivated visitors for over a century with its spectacular scenery - clear blue waters fringed by towering mountains and groves of olives and citrus. Explore its colourful, stylish resorts and historic lakeside towns, and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer.

Marken Travel 64

|

Wimbledon

11th & 12th July

from £169

Soak up the atmosphere of the world’s most famous tennis championships. Wander the outside courts, watch the action on Wimbledon’s No. 1 court, savour strawberries and cream - perhaps with a glass of champagne or Pimms - and spot celebrities and players enjoying the spectacle. Stop off at Royal Windsor on the way back and wander the streets of this lovely riverside town, visit the Castle and see the magnificent State Apartments.

200 Main Street, Billinge

London Theatre Saturday Nights

Battlefields of World War One

2 days, November 2014 - May 2015 from £119

Friday 5th June & Friday 18th Sept

Newmarket’s super value ‘Four Star Best of the West End’ breaks offer you the chance to travel by coach to London, enjoy a night in an excellent four-star hotel and take your seat at your choice of one of London’s top shows! Return to the West End the following day to shop and explore before returning home.

This captivating four-day break will help you understand the tragic events of the First World War, how the action developed and led finally, painfully, to victory. Visit some of the most poignant sights of the Somme and Ypres Salient with our knowledgeable guide, taking you back through history on a moving journey that you won’t forget

Paris Valentine’s Break

3 days in February

Carcassonne, Avignon & Provence

from £145

6 days, 3rd June & 9th September (Liverpool flights)

Paris must surely be the world’s most romantic city - nowhere else is quite so exciting, glamorous or beautiful. Every year, young lovers, newlyweds and couples of all ages find themselves delighted, charmed and captivated by the city’s unique atmosphere. Join them for a Valentine’s weekend you’ll never forget.

from £539

Join us in the stunning walled fortress-town of Carcassonne - one of France’s greatest medieval glories. Visit the fascinating papal city of Avignon and the spectacular Pont du Gard, cruise along the Canal du Midi, and perhaps join our optional excursion to the port-town of Collioure, on this wonderful, six-day holiday.

Chelsea Flower Show

Friday 22nd May

from £229

from £169

Visit Chelsea - the world’s most famous and bestloved flower show. Marvel at the fabulous show gardens, get advice and inspiration, mingle with famous celebrities and see the latest in garden design and equipment. This break also includes a visit to Kew Gardens. Kew has a magical mix of landscaped lawns, formal gardens, glasshouses and over 30,000 plants.

Ladies Day at Royal Ascot

17th June

from £145

One of the highlights of the English ‘Season’, Royal Ascot is always a stylish affair, and Ladies’ Day is definitely the day to ‘see and be seen’. High fashion and high stakes add to the atmosphere of this, Britain’s most popular race meeting.

Please note that other dates, and different durations may be available on these tours. Single room supplements may apply.

There are hundreds more tours to choose from in these two Newmarket brochures – if you’d like a copy of either (or both) of these brochures, just call Marken Travel on 01744 893291. Or, if you’d like to meet the Newmarket Tour Operator and the team at Marken Travel, then pop along to their Newmarket Open Evening on Tuesday 4th November at Marken Travel at 200 Main Street, Billinge WN5 7PE. The event starts at 6.30pm and refreshments will be served.

Newmarket Open Evening

Check out your choice of 2015 Short Breaks

Tuesday 4th November 6.30pm Wine and Nibbles served

Independent travel specialist with a vast range of choice.

Call us now for friendly expert advice.

Established since 1983

RSVP to confirm your attendance

Telephone: 01744 893291 Want to advertise in Local Life?

|

www.markentravel.co.uk

...call us now on 01695 627 999

65

Planning Matters Billinge 5 Crank Road: Single storey rear extension (A/14/79885/HH). Consultation deadline: November 6.

Orrell Glenways, Gathurst Road: Single storey side extension (ref: A/14/79854/HH). Consultation deadline: November 2.

25 Naburn Drive: Two storey side extension (ref: A/14/79702/HH). A decision is due by mid-November.

Co-operative Community Stadium, Edge Hall Road: Prior notification to replace existing 15m monopole supporting 1no transmission dish and 6 antennas with new 15m monopole supporting, relocated transmission dish, 6 antennas and ancillary equipment at ground level (ref: A/14/79825/TCSO). The target decision date is November 11.

Orrell Hall Barn, Spring Road: Partial change of use of ground floor of existing dwelling house to provide day care service for people with dementia (ref: A/14/79717).

A decision is due by October 28.

49 Wimborne Road: Alterations to front of dwellinghouse (ref: A/14/79747/HH). A decision is due

by October 29.

Pemberton 8 Windle Gardens: Single storey rear extension (ref: A/14/79879/PDE). Consultation deadline: November 3.

Vacant Land at Old Fold: Erection of 2 semi-detached dwellings (ref: A/14/79817/FULL). Consultation deadline: November 3.

Roby Mill 46 Roby Mill: Demolition of existing single storey rear extension and erection of a two storey rear extension (ref: 2014/0892/FUL). A decision is due by November 10.

Tontine 17 Kilburn Road: Two storey side extension. Extension to existing front dormer and new dormer extension to rear (ref: 2014/1013/FUL). Consultation deadline: November 4.

Up Holland 32 Church Street: Alterations to rear elevation, inc. single storey extension with balcony above (ref: 2014/0886/FUL). Consultation deadline: October 29.

Winstanley 4 Hornsey Grove: Two storey side extension (ref: A/14/79833/HH). Consultation deadline: November 1.

24 Melling Way: Single storey side extension (ref: A/14/79713/HH). Consultation deadline: November 3. A decision is due by November 6.

4 Lidgate Close: Two storey side extension and single storey to the rear (ref: A/14/79770/HH). A decision is due

by November 6.

Call us now for details - 01744 884820

RAINFORD WINDOWS LTD 66

Holly Farm, News Lane, Rainford

www.rainfordwindows.co.uk

Decision Due 40 Holmes House Avenue: Retrospective application to extend dwellinghouse, single storey to side with room in roof space (ref: A/14/79779/HHRET). A decision is due by October 27.

St Aidan’s Catholic Primary School, Holmes House Avenue: Extension to existing school to create new hall and additional classroom space (ref: A/14/79792/ FULL). A decision is due by October 29.

88 Merton Road: To extend dwellinghouse, single storey to rear and side (ref: A/14/79813/HH). A decision is due by November 11.

15 Aveley Gardens: Single storey rear extension (ref: A/14/79821/PDE). A decision is due by November 2.

For more information on the Billinge, Orrell, Pemberton and Winstanley plans, visit www.wigan. gov.uk. Further details on the Roby Mill, Tontine and Up Holland applications can be accessed via www.westlancs.gov.uk

A decision on proposals to demolish the old Sandbrook Arms pub in Tontine have been delayed.

As reported in previous editions of Local Life, plans have been submitted to knock down the current building on Sandbrook Road and replace it with four new homes.

The initial public consultation deadline was late June, but since then revised plans relating to the types of homes due to be built there have been submitted to West Lancashire Borough Council planners. As such, neighbours and other consultees were notified of these changes and asked to submit any further comments by October 16.

A final decision had not been made as Local Life went to press, but it is understood one is now imminent.

The perfect solution to cold conservatories.

Revolutionary underfloor heating!

• Cheaper than replacing the roof • No loss of light • No mess, no maintenance • Just 1-2 days to fit • Can run off existing central heating It’ll keep your conservatory warm & toasty – just the way you like it!

Call today for a free, no obligation survey

WarmFloor NW

01744 885 681 / 07887 876 140 01942 208 192 / 07739 989 210

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

67

Where There’s A Will…

Liquidation Sale

Wiganers are being urged to get a will drawn up in November – and help charity at the same time. Will Aid month, which starts on Saturday, November 1, is a scheme whereby you get a will drawn up by a local solicitor for free in return for a voluntary donation.

A liquidation sale is being held at Billinge Garden Centre, on Winstanley Road. The sale, which takes place from 9.30am to 4.30pm on Friday, October 24, Saturday, October 25, and Sunday, October 26, comes after the centre closed down recently. Sales are strictly by cash only and there’s between 50%-70% off all stock.

The suggested voluntary donations are £95 for a single will, or £150 for a pair of ‘mirror’ wills .

To find a list of local, participating solicitors, visit www. willaid.org.uk

History Revealed The history of Lathom Remount Centre will be uncovered at a talk on Monday, November 10, at Up Holland Library. The Hall Green facility hosts the event, which starts at 11.30am. All welcome.

Gary Mulvaney

Dog Trainer Train for Fun – Skills for Life • Pet Obedience Courses • 1-2-1 Instruction • Behavioural problems 07754 003 021 or 01257 252232 Email garymulvaney@btinternet.com

n When ca k to I go bac arm Dukes B Farm?

Boarding kennels for all breeds of dogs.

Heated accommodation.

Recommended by vets & clients for over 35 years.

Local authority licensed & approved.

Open 9am – 6pm Mon – Sat Closed to customer visits on Sun.

Dukes Barn Farm, Brook Lane, Pemberton. WN5 8JQ

Call - 01942 217752

68

A well trained dog is a happy dog!

Jo Pay is a fully qualified Dog Trainer who offers:

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

g

” E e! IT! IS ric BEAT M n p ill O en od we w PR at an E be uote IC ’t betors q PRwonmpeti e co W us a

in Br

ORDER NOraW nteed for gua as Christm on ti Installa

Classic or Contemporary?

We’ve got the kitchen for you!

Be inspired as we create your new kitchen using the very latest Computer Aided Design technology

FREE NEFF Integrated Dishwasher FREE LED Feature Lighting Upto 50% OFF Selected Ranges! *Subject to minimum spend - terms & conditions apply

VISIT OUR SUPERB SHOWROOM

Full project management from concept to completion. We employ all our own project managers and kitchen fitters 18mm solid back rigid cabinets, Soft closing doors & drawers plus a Lifetime Guarantee as standard!

Deposit protection scheme

20 – 22 Wigan Road, Hindley, Wigan, WN2 3BE

Whatever your budget – Our kitchens are designed with you in mind!

HARVEYS KITCHENS

For a free, no-obligation, design consultation at your home, call now on

01942 665 665

Proud member of

Check out our fantastic ranges on our website www.harveyskitchens.co.uk

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

69

Firm Expanding

“We’re a close knit team and together we work hard to do a good job for our customers.

A business started by an Up Holland couple in the depths of the recession is blossoming. Cabinet Master, run by husband and wife team Andrea and Andy Hampson, of Abbey Close, is now expanding by moving into a bigger unit at Conway Industrial Estate, Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. And to celebrate, they are holding an open day for their new showroom on Saturday, November 8, at Unit 4 from 11am-4pm.

“We specialise mainly in Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom furniture but we also provide a large number of furniture for other rooms within the home, such as home studies and bespoke retail furniture.” For more information, visit www.cabinetmaster.co.uk or call 01257 255831.

Andrea said: “Since January, it has been getting busier and busier. We’re a real family business – my dad, Jack Latham, has been working in the industry since he was 16 and is now in his 70s, but he still goes out and does the quotes for us while husband Andy does the fitting “We’ve also got three lads on the shop floor, Ian Sephton, John Whittle and Chris Bradhsaw, plus we’ll be taking on an apprentice soon, and Jane Duffy who does the accounts and book-keeping.

John Whittle and Ian Sephton on the shop floor

Now you can read Local Life wherever you are*

Don’t miss a single issue of

Register online for your monthly e-issue at

www.locallife247.co.uk *providing you have an internet connection

70

. un de Br *r r c an el on d n oc st ew a ru ct sh tin io ow g n co ro * m om in g so on

Made in Wigan

Kitchens, bedrooms & studies - all at Factory Shop prices

Traditional cottage kitchens or the latest contemporary designs – we have a kitchen to suit your style and budget.

CABINET MASTERS

Kitchens, bedrooms and studies, individually designed and tailor made to your requirements – all at factory prices!

Visit your local factory shop in Appley Bridge 8 - 5 pm Monday - Thursday, 8 - 4 pm Friday 10 - 1 pm Saturday

Skull House

Lane

Unit 4, Conway Trading Estate, Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DW

e North

Conway Trading Estate

Appley Lan

On a budget?

Ask about our kitchen makeover service!

NORTH WEST LTD

ck

Ba

Want to advertise in Local Life?

ne

Telephone: 0 1 2 5 7 2 5 5 8 3 1 www.cabinetmaster.co.uk

La

...call us now on 01695 627 999

71

Where Are They Now?

Fruity Tales...

David Sudworth talks to the ex-Wigan rugby player who left Prime Minister John Major almost speechless “So Billy, when being interviewed by people like me, what’s the one question they always ask you?” The ex-Wigan Rugby defender knows the subject is coming, but can’t contain his laughter: “Something to do with John Major and a pineapple ring perhaps?”

piece of foam. The Prime Minister looked at me, I looked at him and then I said: ‘It’s a pineapple ring.’

Fair play to him, he saw the funny side and quick as a flash said: ‘Well I’ll never eat pineapple again!’

“The story didn’t come out until a few weeks later. We were on tour in Papua New Guinea and I started getting phone calls from the tabloids at three o’ clock in the morning asking if it was true. I was even asked by one newspaper to pose naked on a bed with just a pineapple covering my privates. I ran it by the then Wigan chairman Maurice Lindsay and he told me not to do it.

As ever, Billy McGinty is on ball. Picture the scene; it’s the Wembley dressing room on May 2, 1992. Having just disposed of “It’s really strange how the story is Castleford by 28 points to 12, still around. About nine years ago Billy in action for Wigan Wigan’s star-studded team are I got a call from my brother telling celebrating their fifth Challenge Cup victory in a row. me to go and pick up The Times. There was a piece in it Second row forward Billy McGinty has stripped off, called ‘Ten People John Major Won’t Forget’ and there discarding everything apart from a homemade foam was my name! I was even asked by a newspaper if I support which protected stitches still had the piece of foam as they’d been contacted by on his knee during the game. In someone who collects sports memorabilia. I took it on the exuberance of the moment, tour with me but afterwards it got put in the bin.” the 27-year-old decides to Two decades on from Billy’s dressing room antics and place the aforementioned foam the 49-year-old is still involved in the game at the around his private parts. And grassroots level. Born in Springburn, north Glasgow, then the most powerful man in on December 6, 1964, Billy spent the first five years of the country walks in. his life north of the border before the family moved to Ex-Prime Minister John Major

72

Billy takes up the story: “I didn’t know John Major was about to walk in. I was standing there naked with nothing on but this

South Africa due to family work commitments. A few years later and Billy was back in the UK, first in Glasgow for a spell and then in Widnes, where he settled aged seven.

He started playing for Widnes Tigers and then turned out for Wade Deacon School. Aged 17, he signed for Warrington although he also had the choice of signing for Widnes: “I went to Warrington because they had a really good reputation for bringing youngsters through the ranks. Mike Gregory signed two weeks before me so I thought it was a good move for me.”

During nine years at Warrington from 1982, he played over 130 games, notching up 20 tries, but he was dogged by injuries: “I had an unbelievable amount; I was picking them up every five or six games. My career was littered with them, I had broken cheek bones, eye sockets, everything. They were mostly collision injuries. I was aware later on that if you lost your spot in the Wigan team through injury, it was hard to get it back in. The doctor was saying I shouldn’t be playing for the next two to three weeks but there was no way I was missing Wembley - that’s why I had the foam on my knee.”

continued adding to their groaning trophy cabinet with the World Club Challenge Cup resting alongside silverware from the Championship, Regal Trophy and Challenge Cup. “I was just a really small cog in a large wheel. I knew John Monie was a fantastic coach and by working alongside the likes of Shaun Edwards, Martin Dermott, Kelvin Skerrett and Andy Gregory, it made me a better player because you try to emulate them. People like Dean Bell instilled a lot of discipline in us, especially the rule that you never let your teammates down. We all just wanted to win.”

“It was every boy’s dream” The ‘pineapple’ saga may never have happened had it not been for a chance conversation with Wigan legend Andy Gregory: “While at Warrington I was doing plastering with my dad Ian and we were working at Andy’s house when he was living in Widnes. He asked me whether I’d be interested in moving to Wigan, as they were looking for a back row but it was all down to whether Mike Forshaw would be signing a new contract or not. In the end he did so I thought that would be the end of it. But fate then sort of intervened because a few days later, Wigan were playing in the Charity Shield and Andy Goodway broke his arm so they signed me.

“It was every boy’s dream as back then Wigan was littered with stars. I never saw myself as a big star but I was a grafter with enthusiasm. At that stage I didn’t even know whether I was going straight into the first team but I went there with the aim of just working as hard as I could.”

Billy spent three years at Central Park between ’91 and ’94. In that time, the all-conquering Cherry and Whites

Want to advertise in Local Life?

Pitch side at Wembley with a fan Billy was eventually released to Workington where he spent a season, but in a career plagued by injuries, one of them literally proved to be a knockout blow: “I was playing in the World Nines with Scotland and collided with a Samoan player, which isn’t advised because they are huge. I had serious concussion and afterwards had really bad headaches. The doctors advised me then that I should stop playing.”

Having packed up his boots for good, Billy began working for the Rugby League Players’ Association and helping prepare the next generation of budding stars for a life after rugby. It was a by sheer fluke that a visit back to Central Park in his new capacity ended with him landing him a role on the club’s coaching staff.

Billy explains: “As I was walking in, the then academy team coach Nigel Ashley-Jones was leaving that day to join St Helens. I’d recently got qualified in coaching so I

...call us now on 01695 627 999

73

walked in, spoke to John Monie and that got me the job. It was fate because if I’d have been walking through that doorway 20 minutes later I wouldn’t have seen Nigel.”

in West London and the £3,500-a-term independent Royal Grammar School in Worcester, a county he has lived in for the past 10 years.

“Extremely proud”

For the next four years, Billy worked with the club’s youngsters; first as Academy coach and then for the U-21s and assistant coach for three years before switching codes as heading to Sale Sharks: “I’d played both codes and appreciate the differences between them. League has some real, real athletes whereas Union is very physical and technical.”

He married Corrine 20 years ago this year. Their daughter Heather, 18, appears to have picked up some of Billy’s sporting prowess as she represents Scotland at sprint athletics, a feat which makes him extremely proud.

He also worked with Worcester Warriors and spent two years as defence coach at Edinburgh and was head coach for Scotland between 2001 and 2003. Nowadays, he does consultancy work with Ealing Trailfinders RUFC

“The Wigan fans were great and when I was playing they treated you in the same way a Premier League footballer would be treated today. I used to love winning and seeing the smiles on the fans’ faces afterwards.”

Billy with Corrine and Heather

74

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

75

Jack’s Tracks

Duxbury If you hate mobile phones, but see them as a modern-day necessity, you’ll love this walk. For no sooner had we arrived at Yarrow Valley Country Park than my super-dooper, magical mobile, which does everything apart from make my breakfast, flashed up ‘No Service Available’ message.

We parked up the charabanc for free and headed south eastwards beside the side of the reservoir. Upon entering the wooded area, turn right and you basically follow the Yarrow River as it meanders towards Coppull Hall Wood. It’s not long until you come to a waterfall, which includes some steps to allow salmon to find their way back up stream. There’s also a great vantage point up above which, because of the arch of the waterfall itself, felt like you were looking at it through a magnifying glass.

This in itself was irritating enough, but my blood pressure rose considerably when my very own Sherpa Tenzing for this walk (who doubles as our fearless lens man Peter) received a call on his phone. Let me explain; Peter’s phone is so old it is allegedly as heavy as a baby elephant and can only be topped up using Green Shield stamps. Yet here he was, chatting away merrily into his Taiwanese house brick at the very same moment my bonny piece of Japanese precision technology was pulling up the 3G drawbridge.

Pressing on, it became clear that part of the path was a tad tricky to navigate as it followed the boundary of the wood on one side and perimeter fencing on the other. This is a particular problem in summer when the vegetation is at its most mature. We’d heartily recommend some insect repellent given the moist nature of the environment.

So you can either adopt a ‘the world can wait’ attitude or invest in something which probably can’t be killed by conventional weaponry.

Happy shopping!

Patchy phone coverage notwithstanding, the Yarrow Valley is a wonderful area. Not only is it a great place for walking, but it has a fabulous playground for youngsters. You could easily fritter away the hours there without leaving the park itself.

76

On the plus side though, the path through Drybones Wood itself is fairly easy to navigate, and the foot bridges are in a good state of repair. On hot or rainy

days, the amount of tree cover provides good shelter.

Once out of the wood, the public right of way follows the edge of a field which is all fine and dandy, but finding the way across the old railway and onto Wigan Lane is a bit of a challenge at first. Once we sussed it out, we steeled ourselves for one heck of a climb up the embankment onto the rail railway line route which served Ellerbeck Colliery, and then had to grip ourselves for the steep drop back down on the other side. Top tip - tighten your laces before tackling this, it’ll give you that extra grip underfoot. Eventually, we emerged from the undergrowth onto Wigan Lane. Without wishing to sound like someone from a 1970s public information film, we’d advise you to take care when crossing Wigan Lane as many motorists seem to feel the need for speed on this stretch. It goes without saying that your dog should also be on a lead.

Once across, we made our way across the flat plain to Rawlinson Lane before slipping down onto the LeedsLiverpool Canal towpath. Usually, the straightforward parts of a walk are among the most boring, but there’s plenty of interest here with quaint houseboats, cyclists and we even spotted a canoeist. There’s also the chance to find your inner children and stop off at the famous Frederick’s ice cream parlour.

One thing which did leave us scratching our heads was a sign saying Welcome to Lancashire. All very nice, but I’m pretty sure we never left God’s County in the first place! Answers on a postcard for that one…

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

77

At bridge number 74, we veered away from the towpath and through the woodland to briefly join up with the thunderous traffic on the A6. Just before the lights, turned left into the grounds of the old Duxbury Hall.

We passed what appeared to be the former gatehouse, sadly uninhabited when we saw it, and for the second time today, followed the river as it snaked around the clusters of woodland. In fact, talking about snakes, we happened upon one gigantic serpent while hotfooting it back to base camp. For a split second, my heart was in my mouth as, just recently, an 8ft boa constrictor had gone missing from a home in Lancashire. Thankfully though, this chappy was less harmful than a feather boa as it had been carved from a felled tree. Phew!

As the map shows, there are a few ways back to the car park but we decided to retrace our steps through Drybones Wood. All in all, we’d done 7.5 miles and, as it was a warm day, I don’t mind admitting it left me feeling

ay hW

dis

B5252

les

n Sta

A5

25

1

B5252

My

A6

Birkacre Garden Centre & Cafe

Fredericks Ice Cream Parlour

Yarrow Valley Country Park

10 A5

Heath Charnock

Coppull

Leeds & Liverpool Canal

Wigan La

ne

Start/Finish PR7 3RN

6

Duxbury Park

Weir and Fish Ladder A6

Ellerbeck Narrowboats

ll pu

p Co ll Ha ne

La

78

a little worse for wear. On the plus side, thanks to a lack of mobile signal, I’d enjoyed a pleasant few hours of radio silence. However, the same can’t be said for Peter. Maybe modern technology isn’t so bad after all...

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.

Want to advertise in Local Life?

Walk The Line!

This walk takes you across the old Lancashire Union Railway Line which served Ellerbeck Collieries. It is believed the Hilton House and Red Moss Coal Company sank the first shaft in 1876. In its 1930s heyday, Ellerbeck Collieries employed more than 1,000 workers, the vast majority of them underground.

Like many pits at the time, Ellebeck Collieries was nationalised by Clement Atlee’s government just after World War II. Falling under the auspices of the National Coal Board, it was redeveloped and in the late 50s, employed around 400 men. Records show it finally closed for good in 1965.

...call us now on 01695 627 999

79

Make Merry at the

Robin Hood!

Our Head Chef, Craig Sheil, proudly presents the 2014 Robin Hood Christmas Menu...

Starters Winter Vegetable Soup Homemade soup served with fresh roll and butter Melon & Parma Ham Juicy pieces of gala melon with dried Parma ham and Fruits of the Forest Pigeon Breast Pan seared pigeon served with crispy smoked bacon , black pudding & caramelised apple

Stilton Mushroom Field mushroom topped with sliced pear, melted Stilton served on a bed of crisp beetroot salad Smoked Mackerel Peppered mackerel topped with horseradish and chive cream on fresh crisp salad

Mains Seasonal Turkey Traditional roast turkey dinner with all the trimmings Duck Breast Pan fried duck breast served with sautéed cabbage and mushrooms with creamy mash potato and a red wine jus

Belly Pork Crispy belly pork served with buttered cabbage, black pudding, mashed potatoes and a rich sage gravy

Game Casserole Homemade game casserole with diced carrots ,peas and crispy duck fat roast potatoes Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce

Cod Loin Pan seared cod loin served on a bed of crushed new potatoes and Spanish chorizo

Don’t m New Yeaiss our r ’s party Eve

Fancy Dre ss, plus FR E Pot at 10p E Hot m

Wild Mushroom Risotto Creamy risotto topped with wild mushrooms, fresh rocket, shaved Parmesan and a drizzle of pesto

Desserts

Sticky Toffee Pudding with Toffee Sauce

Homemade Apple, Cinnamon & Sultana Crumble with Cream

Chocolate & Hazelnut Cheesecake

2 courses £16.95

3 courses £19.95

Cheese & Biscuits (£2 supplement)

Serving Wednesday – Sunday from 3rd – 21st December. Plus Monday 22nd & Tuesday 23rd December

Works Do?

Private dining room available for up to 30 people.

Call Chris on 01942 511859 or email for details.

Robin Hood 80

117 Sandy Lane, Orrell, WN5 7AZ

01942 511 859

robinhoodorrell@yahoo.co.uk www.robinhoodorrell.co.uk

Information Days Wigan Samaritans will be holding information sessions at its Wigan branch, 73, Dicconson Street, on Thursday, November 13, at 7pm and Sunday, November 23, at 1pm for anyone who is interested in joining the organisation either as a listener or other roles which are available. For more information, call 01942 492222.

Hospice Fundraiser An Orrell club is hosting a cabaret night in aid of Wigan & Leigh Hospice on Friday, December 5. St James’ Club, on St James’ Road, welcomes top acts Dusty Young, an Irish comedian; Gaynor Connor, formerly of Radio 2 and Wigan ukulele band Maggie’s Misfits from 8pm onwards.

The evening is being compered by David Franks.

Tickets are priced at £10, including a hot pot supper. For more details, call the club on 01695 623902, the hospice on 01942 525566 or Frank Mernagh on 01744 309760.

New Toddler Group Roby Mill CE School is launching a new parent and toddler group. It will be held in school each Wednesday commencing November 12 from 1.30pm to 3pm and is aimed at under-fours and their parent or carers.

The village school says it will provide a fun play session in a safe caring and rich learning environment for you and your child. It’s a chance to chat and meet new friends, and a place to stay and play.

Refreshments will be provided for you and your child, for a small charge. No need to book - just turn up on the day.

The place to be for authentic Thai food!

THE TAVERN Bar & Thai Restaurant

Curry Sunday 50% off Carvery Tavern Bar £6.95 Lunch Thai Tapas £3.95 Early Bird Menu £11.95 À la Carte menu also available

Food served all day at Tavern bar ground floor

Restaurant Opening Hours Monday 5 - 11pm Tuesday - Sunday Lunch 12 - 3 pm Dinner 5 - 11pm

www.thaitavernhouse.com

T: 01942 375 413

Spend your Christmas at

THE TAVERN Bar & Thai Restaurant Now taking bookings for Christmas

37 Mesnes Street, Wigan, WN1 1QP

20%

OFF

Want to advertise in Local Life?

your food bill when you select from the a la carte menu.

Available Monday - Thursday Only one voucher per booking Voucher does not include drinks.

Valid until 31December 2014

#

...call us now on 01695 627 999

81

Ex-Owners Sought The hunt is on for a family whose Wigan home was set to be demolished for a planned new road. Harry Hardman and Olive Harrington owned 369 Warrington Road, Goose Green, when it was acquired by the Government in 1991. It was bought with a view to being demolished for the planned A5225 road. The route would have gone from Orrell Interchange at the M6/M58 over to Leigh and Atherton. However, it was cancelled in 2007.

The property has been owned by Wigan Council since 2003 and has now been declared “surplus to requirements” by the authority.

A spokesman told Local Life: “The council has a legal obligation, under what is known as the Crichel Down Rules, to offer the house for sale to the original owners or their successors in title at the current market value.

“This statutory process is followed when properties bought by government or local authorities, by or under the threat of compulsion, are no longer required for the original purpose they were bought for.”

The owners or, if deceased, their successors in title are now being invited to get in touch with the council if they want to register their interest in the property. The deadline is Wednesday, December 3, and interested parties should write to Claire Foster, Legal Services, Wigan Council, Town Hall, Library Street, Wigan, WN1 1YN, quoting reference RD/LS/N-3306/CF.

Super Scribes Ashton Writers & Literary Club’s next meeting is on Tuesday, October 28, at Heath Road Day Centre, Ashton.

They specialise in poetry, prose or non-fiction, and welcome new members. Ring Frances on 01942 723350.

Disney Frozen Party Sunday 23rd November Enjoy a 3 course carvery lunch and children’s buffet with a surprise visit from the Frozen Princesses • Signed autograph picture from Anna & Elsa • Performing 3 iconic songs from the hit movie Frozen • Photo opportunities with the Princesses • Face Painting (not included in Price)

Prices - £26.95 for Adults, £13.50 for Children Holiday Inn Haydock M6, Jct23 Lodge Lane, WA12 0JG

T: 01942 868 330

Meetings-haydock@ihg.com www.hihaydockm6j23hotel.co.uk

* Terms & conditions Apply / Dates are subject to availability. * 2 For 1 Offer applies only on adults

82

2 for 1*

CHRISTMAS TRIBUTE Fayre Menu 2014...

Nights 2014

2 Courses £19.99

£24.99 per person, includes 3 course Xmas Fayre menu & entertainment

3 Courses £21.99

Starters

A piping hot bowl of butternut squash & chorizo soup, topped with roasted peppers, served with a crusty soup roll.

Fresh chicken liver & smoked bacon pate, complimented by cranberry & red onion chutney, with toasted brioche.

Smoked salmon & fresh water prawn salad, bound in a tangy Marie Rose sauce, finished with a lemon drizzle & toasted bloomer bread.

A diamond of melon, soaked in peach schnapps, served with a roasted pear puree & a selection of fresh fruit.

Mains

Traditional roast turkey, with sage, chestnut & onion stuffing, with turkey gravy & all the festive trimmings.

Roasted rump of beef, with a delicious pan jus & Yorkshire pudding.

Oven baked loin of cod, wrapped in Parma ham, resting against herb crushed new potatoes, finished with a lemon & chive butter cream.

Portabella mushrooms, packed with blue cheese & butternut squash, roasted in the oven, sat upon a nest of linguini, in a creamy white wine sauce, finished with crushed walnuts.

Desserts

(All desserts finished with fresh fruit garnish.)

Traditional Christmas pudding, served with our delicious brandy custard.

Hot chocolate fudge cake, with a rich mint chocolate sauce & pouring cream.

Open until 2am. Food served 5 ‘till 9pm Sat 29th Nov Adele Kick off our Xmas Fayre Menu with the ultimate Diva

Sat 6th Dec. David Bowie Back again, after his fantastic performance earlier in the year.

Sat 13th Dec. Lady Gaga The undisputed ‘Queen of the Star’ Charlie Hamer, once again shows why she is a star!

Sat 20th Dec. Robbie Williams Our very own Rock DJ, Paul Munroe, make sure your night is a cracker!

Sat 3rd Jan 2015 Elvis He’s back to kick start the new year, as only Elvis can do.

A selection of quality cheeses, with biscuits, celery, with an apple & grape chutney.

Trio of Fredrick’s ice cream, with wafers & fresh fruit coulis.

Coffee & Mince pies.

Food Served

FREE WINE OFFER!

Saturday & Sunday 12 - 9.00pm

Book your works do (12+ people) and get a free bottle of house wine for every four people when you mention Local Life.

Monday - Friday 12 - 2.30pm & 5.00 - 9.00pm

The Star Inn, 60 Bank Top, Roby Mill, Skelmersdale, Lancashire, WN8 0QQ

www.thestarinnrobymill.co.uk | Telephone: 01257 253 355

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

83

Enjoy great beer, delicious food & memorable times this Christmas at Orrell’s only award winning free house

Starters

Christmas Menu

Winter Vegetable Broth with a crusty roll & flavoured butter Tomato And Feta Salad vine ripened tomatoes with feta cheese, balsamic dressing and lambs lettuce Chicken Liver Pate with toasted Croutes, spiced tomato chutney and salad Stilton Mushroom Bruchetta Thick creamy Stilton mushrooms, on a toasted glaring bruschetta

Desserts Christmas Pudding - with brandy sauce Chocolate Brownie - with vanilla ice cream Carrot Cake - with Chantilly cream

Private Bookings & Office Functions available on request

£10.95 – Two Courses £13.95 – Three Courses Served Main courses Roast Turkey Breast Traditionally served with all the trimmings.

Roast Topside Of Beef with red wine gravy and all the trimmings

Wednesday to Sunday 12.00 noon to 8.00 pm from 1st to 23rd December.

Call us today on

01695 622 239 to book your table!

Pork Steak with an apple, cider cream sauce and Wholegrain mustard mash potatoes.

Grilled Plaice Fillet with crushed lemon potatoes, and fresh mint leaf salad Beetroot And Wild Mushroom Rissotto with garlic bread, and wilted spinach

Tontine, Orrell, WN5 8UJ 84

T: 01695 622 239

Our Famous Halloween Party

Saturday 25th October

Celebrate Halloween in style at the best party around – with DJ, entertainment & cocktails.

Admission by ticket only - £1 per person

Bonfire & Fireworks

Saturday 1st November

Join us for black peas, toffee apples, sparklers, outside bottle bar, hot dogs, chilli & hotpot Tickets £5 per adult & £3 per child Bonfire lit at 6.30pm Fireworks at 7pm

007 Casino Night Saturday 22nd November

Our James Bond themed casino night will feature 4 casino tables with £2,000 of gambling money & DJ. Entry is by ticket only and the cost is £10 per person – this includes buffet & gambling money.

Call in to take a look at our Christmas menu Keep an eye on our social pages for upcoming events Holts Arms (The Foot)

@HoltsArms

Holts Arms Crank Road, Billinge, WN5 7DT

Want to advertise in Local Life?

01695 628 006

...call us now on 01695 627 999

85

Recipe of the month

Buttered Brioche Pudding

If you’re looking for a little bit of food indulgence, it doesn’t get much better than this pudding. Super easy to prepare, this dish works beautifully well either on its own or with a dollop of custard or ice-cream.

Ingredients 1 brioche, sliced and buttered 60g sultanas 2 level tablespoons caster sugar 1 1/4 pint whole milk

Equipment Well greased, deep baking dish.

Method Preheat the oven to 180°c or gas mark 3-4.

Slice and butter the brioche. Put a layer on the bottom of the dish and sprinkle the sultanas over them.

Arrange a second layer of brioche over the top.

Place the milk in a pan and gently heat.

Whisk the eggs and sugar together and add the warm milk to make a creamy custard.

4 medium sized eggs

Strain the custard over the brioche and sprinkle the nutmeg over.

Sprinkling of nutmeg

Stand for 15 minutes before placing in the oven.

Serve with cream, custard or ice-cream.

Cook for 30-40 minutes until set and lightly golden.

86

Stuck for ideas for a gift this Christmas?

Our personalised frames are the perfect gift for any occasion from Christmas, anniversary gifts to new baby gifts and personalised family trees.

Your loved ones will have a keepsake to treasure for a lifetime.

For more information please contact Nicola

Crafty Keepsake Frames T: 07757 249 767 E: craftykeepsakeframes@hotmail.com Want to advertise in Local Life?

@craftykeepsakes

...call us now on 01695 627 999

87

Saturday, November 1

Sunday, November 2

Charity Fireworks Display and Bonfire

Haigh Hall Bonfire Extravaganza

Douglas Valley Lions Club’s event takes place on the Red Lion pub field , Ash Brow, Newburgh.

Haigh Hall hosts one of the region’s top bonfire celebrations from 4pm. There will be live music, Wish FM DJ, family fairground rides, food stands and of course, the big bonfire and firework finale.

The fire will be lit at 6.30pm with fireworks starting at 7pm. Admission is adults £5, under 15s £2 and underfives are admitted free.

Reservations are essential.

Refreshments will be available on the field and in the Red Lion

Tickets in advance - adult £8, children £6, family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £24.

Roby Mill Bonfire

Tickets on the day adult £9, children £7, family ticket £28.

Event held at the Don Orione Centre, Cardinal Heenan House, on School Lane, Roby Mill. Fireworks, face painting, tombola, raffle prizes and refreshments served.

Bonfire Supper (includes admission to the extravaganza) - adult £13.95, children £9, family ticket £39.95.

Starts at 6pm. Admission - £1 for adults, children go free.

Visit www.wlct.org for more information

Bonfire & Fireworks Extravaganza

Wednesday, November 5

The Holts Arms (aka The Foot), on Crank Road, Billinge, hold their regular and hugely popular event.

Bonfire lit at 6.30pm and fireworks 7pm.

Full bar available inside and a well-stocked bar with draught lager and bitter outside, as well as a selection of bottles and soft drinks. Black peas, toffee apples, sparklers, outside bottle bar, hot dogs, chilli and hotpot.

Admission - £5 for adults, £3 for children.

88

Community Family Bonfire & Firework Spectacular Held at YMCA Orrell Cricket Club, off Winstanley Road, gates open at 5.30pm, the bonfire will be lit at 6.30pm and the fireworks start at 7.15pm.

On offer will be a burger van, treacle toffee, a children’s fun house, a bar and hot and cold drinks.

Admission - £3 adults, children go free if accompanied by an adult

Highfield Bonfire and Fireworks

are advised to use public transport, with bus stops and Lea Green Station close to Sherdley Park.

Event held at Highfield Cricket Club on Billinge Road.

Starts around 6pm. Full bar and hot refreshments will also be available.

More details available by calling 01744 676731.

Saturday, November 8

Admission charges to be confirmed - pay on the gate.

Rainford Fireworks Event

Spark in the Park

The event is organised by the Rotary Club of St Helens and held at the Church Field and Rainford Cricket Club.

Bonfire is lit at 7pm and the fireworks start at 7.45pm.

The annual fireworks display in Sherdley Park is organised by St Helens Council and is always hugely popular with over 30,000 people in attendance.

Admission - Tickets are £3 in advance or £4 on the gate (under 5s go free).

Silcock’s Fair will be open from 6pm to 9pm Children’s fireworks and fire display from 7pm

Tickets can be bought from All Saints Primary, Brook Lodge Primary, Corpus Christi Primary, Houghton’s newsagents and Wendy’s Flowers.

Grand fireworks and fire display from 8pm.

Refreshments will be available with stalls selling hot food and drinks.

Visit www.nsconnections.co.uk/fireworks for more information.

There is no bonfire for health and safety reasons.

Car parking will be available at various local venues, although it is mainly chargeable. Where possible visitors

YMCA ORRELL CRICKET CLUB ‘Proud to be part of Local Life’

Community Family

Bonfire & Firework Spectacular

Wednesday 5th November Gates Open: 5:30pm Bonfire Lit: 6:30pm Fireworks: 7:15pm Burger Van, Treacle Toffee, Children’s Fun House, Bar and Hot & Cold Drinks Entrance £3.00 Adults Children FREE when with parents Supported by your Local Councillors and Brighter Borough Located off Winstanley Road, opposite Hewitt’s Business Park

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

89

Christmas

Thursday, November 6, - Sunday, November 9,

Sunday, November 16,

Crafts for Christmas

Vibrant Vintage Fair at Haigh Hall

The Crafts for Christmas events source talented makers and designers from all over the UK and bring together these small individual firms producing top quality products under one roof. Pleasurable Christmas shopping, easy parking, free cloakrooms for coats and heavy shopping, wide aisles with easy access for wheelchairs and pushchairs and coffee shops.

Great Yorkshire Showground, Wetherby Road, Harrogate, HG2 8PW. 9am-5pm each day More information and tickets: 01428 684494 or www.ruralcraftsassociation.co.uk Monday, November 10, - Tuesday, November 11,

Arley Hall Shopping Spectacular

Join the incredibly popular Champagne and Shopping evening where you can enjoy a drink or two while you shop on the Monday evening, or make a day of it on the Tuesday, have a shop and meet up with your friends for a bite to eat in the Tudor Barn Cafe. There will be around 60 handpicked stalls from all over the UK offering a wide variety of stunning gifts and treats for all of the family. The event is held in aid of Seashell Trust, a charity for profoundly disabled children.

Arley Hall & Gardens, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 6NA. Time: 6pm-9.30pm on the Monday, 9.30am3.30pm on the Tuesday, Admission: Monday Champagne reception £10 in advance/£12 on the door, Tuesday Shopping Spectacular £6 on the door.

Email tickets@arleyhallshoppingspectacular.co.uk or contact Wendy Bray on 0161 6100168 Friday, November 14, - Sunday, December 21,

Manchester Christmas Market

Don your Santa hat, dust off the mulled wine glass, and get into the festive spirit - it’s time to head down to Manchester’s world famous Christmas Market. Attracting shoppers from all over the UK and beyond, the market has put Manchester city centre firmly on the Christmas map – the Christmas Market has become not just a fabulous place to shop but also a hugely popular leisure destination in its own right. No winter is complete without a wander through the chalet-lined streets of the markets.

Manchester City Centre: Albert Square, Brazennose Street, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, The Corn Exchange and Corporation Street.

10am-7.30pm in November, 10-8pm in December, apart from Sundays, when it closes at 6pm.

Admission: Free. More information: www. christmasmarkets.com

90

50 stalls selling vintage and retro craft goods. The fair takes place in the impressive Haigh Hall with stalls up and down stairs, with a fire in the entrance hall and mulled wine in the bar. There will also be a free magic show for the children.

Haigh Country Park, Wigan, WN2 1PE, from 10am4pm. More information: www.vibrantvintage.co.uk Thursday, November 20, - Sunday, December 14

Chester Victorian Christmas Market

Shoppers will be able to revel in the choice of stalls at the free Christmas Market with over 70 traditional wooden chalets.

The market will offer a variety of quality local and regional products including crafts, clothing, jewellery, giftware and local food and drink from carefully chosen suppliers. New for this year is the 40ft sparkling Christmas Tree on Town Hall Square, which will provide a magical centrepiece to the market.

Visitors will be able to enjoy delicious hot food and drink, including hog roasts, mulled wine and hot chocolate; the perfect way to keep warm whilst enjoying the market.

Library Square, St Werburgh Street and other central locations in Chester, CH1 2HJ. 10am-6pm, seven days a week. Admission free. More information on 01244 405631.

Thursday, November 20 – Friday, December 19

Liverpool Christmas Market

Travel the world this Christmas on just one street! Featuring more than 50 of the finest craft and food stalls from across five continents, Liverpool’s new and improved Christmas Market is offering treats from as far as China and South America. There’s also a Food & Craft Village in Williamson Square.

Lord Street and Paradise Street, Liverpool.

Admission free. For more information, visit www. visitliverpool.com

...Merry

Events Guide Friday November 28, 29 and 30

Saturday, November 29, December 6 and 13

Vintage & Handmade Christmas Event

Grassington Dickensian Festival

Following the success of last year’s fair, staff at Chapel Gallery have planned a planning an equally enticing event just weeks before Christmas. The building will be full of stalls offering a fantastic range of goods from vintage, retro, upcycled and contemporary craft wares, including gorgeous vintage dresses, retro homewares and hand-crafted jewellery.

Chapel Gallery, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancashire. Friday, November 28: Stalls open from noon. Evening Event, 6pm–9pm. Saturday and Sunday: stalls open 10am–4.30pm. More information at www.chapelgallery.org.uk Sunday, November 30

Samlesbury Hall Christmas Fair

Samlesbury Hall showcases a wonderful array of traditional and contemporary crafts - a wonderful family day out. Food and craft stalls, Father Christmas, Christmas lunches, hot mulled wine and mince pies, hot turkey sandwiches and lots more.

Samlesbury Hall, Preston New Road, Samlesbury, PR5 0UP. 11am-4pm. Admission: adults £3, children £1. More information: www.samlesburyhall.co.uk

Sunday, December 14,

Croston Christmas Fair

The Croston Christmas Fair is a beautifully traditional village Christmas celebration organised by local people for the village. This traditional fair recommenced in 2008 following the decision by a number of villagers to put together Croston Village Festivities Group to plan, organise and run the day.

Croston Village, 1pm-5pm. For more information, visit www.crostonfestivities.co.uk

Saturday, November 29, - Sunday, December 21

Father Christmas at the Farm

For three Saturdays before Christmas, Grassington travels back in time for the annual Dickensian Festival. Visitors are treated to a glorious array of sights, tastes and smells from a bygone era. The village is adorned in Christmas lights, the square and streets come alive with a traditional market with shopkeepers and villagers dressed in Victorian costume. Visitors can revel in delight at the musicians, dancers, street entertainers and exhibitions of traditional country crafts.

Grassington town centre, North Yorkshire. The Postcode for the Park and Ride at Threshfield Quarry (for sat nav users) is BD23 5PA. There is no car parking in Threshfield or Grassington on the day of the event.

11am-5pm. Admission free. Email dickensian@ grassington.uk.com

Take the family down to Tatton Park Farm to greet Father Christmas and his rare breed farmyard friends, some of who are the star attractions in the nativity scene. Once the children have received their free gift from Father Christmas there is so much to keep them occupied :- an outdoor play trail and den-building area, an indoor playbarn with ride-on tractors and music from brass bands or choirs. Families will love milking the wooden cow in the shippon, story-telling and visiting Aunt Mary in her cottage.

Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6QN. Saturday and Sundays, 11am-4.30pm. Last entry 3pm. It’s free to enter, but car entry charge applies.

More information: www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sunday, December 21

Merchant of Hoghton Christmas Market

Hoghton Tower is the venue for a Christmas Farmer’s Market from 10am to 2pm. There will be lots of lovely food for your Christmas celebrations.

Admission is £1 per car to the market. Pedestrians 50p. Tea room and gift shop open.

Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, near Preston, PR5 0SH. For more information visit www.hoghtontower.co.uk or call 01254 852986.

Christmas!

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

91

Win tickets to

Farmer Ted’s Farm Park, the awardwinning tourist attraction near Ormskirk, home of Farmer Ted and Farmageddon has a brand new attraction opening this Christmas – Farmer Christmas!

See the eyes of your child/children light up in the magical world of Farmer Christmas. Visit the huge halls at Elf School and then take the Santa Express to the Magical Christmas Forest, passing the elves, reindeer and friends on the way.

When you arrive at Santa’s Workshop, your child will be given a personal audience with Farmer Christmas and will receive a free gift. This brand new attraction is sure to enthral and delight your children, and will heighten their excitement in the countdown to Christmas.

92

o see # Across 3. Rudolph, Prancer and Dancer are names of 5. Farmer Christmas is held at Farmer _ Farm Park 6. Name of school at Farmer Christmas

Down 1. Santa’s Workshop is in the Magical _ Forest 2. Market town, close to Farmer Christmas 4. Farmer Christmas opens on 29th _

The Farmer Christmas attraction will be open from 29th November to 23rd December 2014.

Name ....................................................................................................

Opening times vary, so please check the website at www.farmerchristmas.com.

Address ................................................................................................

We have three family tickets to give away to our readers; simply complete the crossword opposite and send it to the following address; Farmer Christmas Competition Local Life 247 Ltd Unit 8 – Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road Orrell Wigan WN5 7XB Or email the answers, along with your full address, postcode and contact number to crossword@ locallife247.co.uk The closing date for the competition is Friday 21st November 2014.

..................................................................................................................... ............................... Post Code ............................................................

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

93

Test Drive - by Tim Barnes-Clay

Lexus IS 300h Does a car project an image? Of course it does. It’s just like that suit you wear to the office. After all, we all like to leave an impression, especially when it comes to business.

What your car says about you Flashy, sensible, or bland: cars can signal to others what the person behind the wheel might be like.

And, for many, German cars signal that the driver has done okay for themselves.

In the corporate world how you come across is vital when it comes to winning a contract or even keeping the one you’ve got.

So when you consider that the Lexus IS 300h is pitched against BMWs and Audis, you might imagine Lexus has simply imitated the look of these ubiquitous but highstatus motors.

So it’s easy to see how cars can play a significant role in our working lives.

Well, I’m really pleased to report that the Japanese carmaker has done a lot more than that.

Lexus IS 300h stands out from German rivals On sale in the UK since July 2013, the sleek surfacing and tight, sporting proportions of the Lexus IS 300h make it stand out from, say, the BMW 3 Series or the Audi A4.

The range includes an F Sport model, on test here, which comes with sports-tuned suspension and electric power steering.

Its design is even more toned and athletic than the standard model’s features.

The cabin is clean and elegant, with an ergonomically ideal environment for when you’re behind the wheel.

94

FAST FACTS • Max speed: 125 mph • 0-62 mph: 8.3 secs • Combined mpg: 60.1 • Engine: 2494cc 4 cylinder 16 valve petrol

+ electric motor • Max. power (bhp): 220 • Max. torque (lb/ft): 163 • CO2: 109 g/km • Price: £33,495 on the road

F SPORT

The rear wheels are driven through the hybrid power train’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) – an automatic gearbox that provides smooth and seamless changes.

High quality materials and finishes are used throughout the interior to convey a contemporary, premium appearance.

Lexus IS 300h F SPORT cabin interior Many soft-touch areas have been created, including knee pads either side of the centre console.

The IS F Sport’s seats are even made using an integrated foaming method.

This ensures there are no gaps between the upholstery and the filling, giving both excellent comfort and great lateral holding.

But the latest IS does a lot more than look and feel good.

It’s the first full hybrid version of Lexus’s premium sports saloon and secures a combination of performance and efficiency.

The vehicle runs using a fusion of pulling power. An electric motor produces 141bhp and a 2.5-litre fourcylinder petrol engine delivers 178bhp.

Want to advertise in Local Life?

Range of drive modes There’s EV all-electric running, with the petrol engine switched off; Eco, for optimum fuel efficiency; Normal; and Sport, for sharper throttle response and a sportier steering setting.

Total system output is 220bhp, enabling a 0-62mph acceleration time of 8.3 seconds and a slightly less impressive 125mph top speed.

Safety is top notch too.

The IS 300h has been declared the best in its class by Euro NCAP. Five-star Euro NCAP safety rating

Lexus IS 300h F SPORT specification

With low CO2 emissions, it delivers particularly attractive benefit–in-kind tax rates for company car drivers.

You can modify the 300h’s performance by selecting from a range of drive modes.

It achieved the highest ratings in the large family category in the organisation’s 2013 safety performance testing programme, securing the top five-star rating.

So, image-wise, the Lexus IS 300h F SPORT radiates style blended with green cool.

It demonstrates you’re successful and conscientious without being boring.

The car is a gem and will stand out among the sea of German executive motors lined up in the parking spaces outside any corporate building.

...call us now on 01695 627 999

95

On The Road…

Wigan Council has advised motorists of the following roadworks taking place in the borough.

Winstanley: Carriageway resurfacing works on Pemberton Road between Holmes House until Sunday, October 26. To undertake these works safely a road closure will be in operation and diversions will be in place.

Chorley Road, Standish: United Utilities will be carrying out works to install a fire hydrant near to the junction with Water Drive Temporary traffic signals will be in operation until Friday, October 24. Similar works take place near to the junction of Mere Oaks until Sunday, October 26.

Church Lane, Shevington: United Utilities is installing a new service near to the junction with Central Drive.

Temporary traffic signals will be in operation until Monday, October 27.

L

Warrington Road, Wigan: Electricity North West works near to the junction with Hildyard Street on Tuesday, October 28. Temporary traffic signals will be in operation.

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

Billinge &

Rainford Service and MOT Centre

Interim service and MOT from £95 inc VAT Full service and MOT from £130 inc VAT

Further details can be obtained from Danny Orrell, network management team leader at Wigan Council, on 01942 489302.

Advertise here

Advertise your business in this section for £37 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

we make it our business to help yours

96

MOT - £34.95 MOT Class 7 - £38.95 Free pick up and drop off service available

£5 off



Prescott Street, Wigan: Transport for Greater Manchester will be undertaking works at the Railway Bridge on Sunday, November 2. Temporary traffic signals will be in operation throughout.

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

Ince Green Lane, Ince: Manhole cover replacements at the junction with Church Street. Temporary lights in place until Sunday, October 26.

Chorley Road, Standish: United Utilities works near to the junction with Bores Meadow. Temporary traffic signals will be in operation between Monday, October 27, and Friday, November 7.

FastPass

when you have a service and MOT at our garages Offer valid on production of this voucher Any make or model welcome

Billinge &

Rainford Service and MOT Centre

Part of SGN Autos Ltd 84 Rainford Road, Billinge, WN5 7PG and Sandwash Close, Rainford, WA11 8LY

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

Good as New I’ll get your car looking as good as new - or you’ll get your money back!

Professional quality paintwork repairs at a fraction of traditional body shop costs  Quick  Convenient

Paintwork repair specialist -we visit your home or work

Bumper scuffs Alloy wheels Paintwork scratches Minor dents

Unit 20 Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road Orrell WN5 7XB

Specialists in; • Bumper scuffs No VAT charged • Vandal scratches • Alloy wheel repairs Any written quote beaten!

• Minor dents

For your free estimate visit

www.chipsaway.co.uk or call 0800 028 7878 or 07584 684 856

REPAIRS FULLY GUARANTEED

Save £££s

on servicing costs for your German car!

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

We even pick up and drop off your motor free!

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

84 Rainford Road, Billinge, WN5 7PG

01744 895 333 or 07918 138 231 19 Tatton Court, Kingsland Grange, Warrington, WA1 4RR

01925 818 180 or 07918 138 231

Want to advertise in Local Life?

Part of SGN Autos Ltd

...call us now on 01695 627 999

97

Orrell Junction Update Improvements to the M6 Orrell interchange are on track, according to Highways Agency officials. Work at the interchange started back in August. But due to what appeared to be slow progress, there were claims that progress on the £1.7m project had slipped.

However, when contacted by Local Life, a spokesman for the Highways Agency confirmed that works are scheduled to finish in February as originally envisaged.

As part of the plans, which aim to reduce congestion, an extra lane is being added to the northbound side of the link road between the M6 and the A577 Orrell Road.

An extra lane will also be added to the end of the southbound exit slip road from the M6, and new traffic lights will be installed at the roundabout to the east of the M6. Sensors will be used to monitor the number of vehicles approaching the roundabout from each direction to improve the flow of traffic.

Engineers began the project by pumping up to 10,000 tonnes of concrete under the fifth-of-a-mile link road between the M6 and the A577, after discovering an old mining shaft less than 10 metres below the surface of the road. This meant they needed to carry out the work to improve the stability of the land before they could begin widening the road.

Project manager Philip Tyrrell said: “Anyone who regularly uses the junction will know how busy it can

98

Night time works at Orrell Interchange get at peak times, with traffic often queuing to get onto the M58. In fact, our records show it is one of the busiest motorway junctions in the country.

“The extra lane on the A577, the new traffic lights on the roundabout and the improvements to the southbound exit slip road will have a significant impact on tackling congestion at the junction and improving journeys for motorists.

“This is a major scheme which is designed to have a significant long-term benefit for both the local and regional economy.”

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

?

?

? ?

Puzzle Corner ? ? ? ?

?

Wordsearch Sudoku

?

?

? ? ?

Guy Fawkes Treason Plot Gunpowder Protestant Catholic

Safety Parliament Fireworks Hats Bonfire Sparkler

? ?

?

?

?

?

?

Whizz and bang

?

?

? ?

?

?

?

?

Want to advertise in Local Life?

?

??

Photo courtesy of Wigan World

?

Answers are on page 113 of this magazine

?

Guess where??

?

Stars November Rocket Sausages Scarf Explode

? ?

?

?

?

?

? ?

?

? ?

? ? ?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

99

100

Garden Diary - by Angie Barker

Looking forward to Christmas?

You know how we look forward to things – a holiday, a birthday, family occasion and Christmas – well for me that’s how it works with plants.

Some flowers are so special and spectacular that they don’t last long, having spent all their energy creating a fabulous display. Hubby always asks me why I bother with Poppies and Peonies and the like, when their blooms are so fleeting. And so I explain that for me, half the pleasure of growing them is the anticipation and the looking forward to seeing them in all their glory and this is part of their attraction.

Award Winner

When plants have long seasons of interest, Conifers for example, yes they give a garden year round structure but are they a tad boring? Do we hardly notice them because they simply fade into the background? And what about hardy Geraniums. Brilliant garden plants for long seasons of colour and in all sorts of situations, sun or shade. And yet their flowers don’t fall under the spectacular flower umberella and I can’t say that I spend 11 months of the year looking forward to seeing them.

Colourful, hardy and reliable as they are (just like Hubby really) noted for spectacular blooms they ain’t.

And take flowering Cherry trees – fabulous displays of pink blooms in spring but an ill timed storm and their blossom is scattered and you think why did I bother.

Bearded Irises are another case in point. Much used by garden designers at the Chelsea Flower Shows over the years and one of the joys of spring and early summer in a garden. But unfortunately they only flower for two weeks and an individual flower for only two or three days. Yet I still grow them in the garden because when they are in bloom they are completely fabulous.

So when the stunning flowers of my Magnolia are fading fast, yes the heart sinks for a moment but then it’s like Boxing Day – you start to look forward to Christmas all over again!

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.

Want to advertise in Local Life?

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

...call us now on 01695 627 999

101

Garden Services

.co.uk award winning garden design construction and maintenance

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

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

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

07946 751308

102

01942 206503

Wimborne Road, Orrell

Prices start from just £30

! ee & ce Fr up ervi ck s pi off op dr

Treat your mower to a service!

We also sell re-conditioned mowers!

Wigan Lawnmower Services

Call - 01744 895867 www.wiganlawnmowerservices.co.uk s und Gro enance t ng M a i nn d s c a p i g & L aardscapin ving H g & Pa in Fenc

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

01942 396 642 07840 369 034

Professional Lawn Treatment & Garden Maintenance

jamesfisher83@hotmail.co.uk

www.jfgroundcare.co.uk

•

•

~ Est. 2001 ~

01942 200 039 or 07950 651 956

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

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

AC U F TU N

E TH MA

SMN

T FROM

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

DIR ER

EC

R

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

Trebaron Garden Centre Southworth Road, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 0BS Telephone: 01925 220858 Lady Green Garden Centre Ince Blundell, Nr Formby, L38 1QB Telephone: 0151 929 2800 Head Office 10 Greenhey Place, Skelmersdale WN 8 9SA Telephone: 01695 51442

www.solidsheds.com

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

103

Home Services - sponsored by

www.bodtree.co.uk

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

Bodtree Systems fix all types of PC problems in the comfort of your own home

Call Catherine Now 07540 222787

104

rd s da

an

ou

C

COMPUTER PROBLEMS?

n

‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner

ADER SC TR

W ig a

Find the borough’s best online at www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader or phone 08454 040506 and ask for Wigan Council’s Good Trader Scheme.

D

E EM H

Trading Standards has a directory of local traders you can rely on.

GO O

Looking for a

S n ci l Tra din g

t

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

Carpets~Rugs~Sofas~Leather • Qualified • Fully Insured • Stain Removal • Odour Removal • Reliable Service • Quick Drying

Providing professional carpet & upholstery cleaning since 1993 Carpets Leather

Upholstery Curtains Oriental Rugs Hard Floors

For more information call:

Prices start from £30

01942 470 081

Call NOW for a FREE No Obligation Quote

07976 248105

Visit our website and check out the testimonials.

www.alliancechemdry.co.uk

info@BeesKneesCarpets.co.uk www.BeesKneesCarpets.co.uk

THE OVEN CLEANING SPECIALISTS

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

LET US DO THE JOBS YOU HATE We also specialise in the cleaning of: • Extractors • Agas/Rayburns • Microwaves • Gas/Electric Hobs • Range Units Our fully trained cleaning technicians will remove burnt on CARBON deposits, GREASE and FAT

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

CALL 0800 808 9901

Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote

Call - 01257 251221

www.gleamingfreshclean.co.uk

Mobile - 07908 770808

www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk

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

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

105

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

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

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

01942 216 735

|

07725 909 257

01942 203 804 DS Joiner 07851 225 876

Advertise here

Advertise your business in this section for £37 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

we make it our business to help yours

Number One for House Maintenance!

For all aspects of renovations and maintenance – no job too small!

• UPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & ROOFLINE

01257 422317 or 07852 202867

• BROKEN LOCKS & MISTED WINDOWS

For a free quote, call MY Joinery now. or e-mail: mtjoinery@outlook.com

www.mtjoiner ynor thwest.co.uk

• 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

106

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

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

£620

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

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 Arley Cabinet Company Ltd • Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •

www.arleycabinets.com

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

Want to advertise in Local Life?

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

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

...call us now on 01695 627 999

107

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

www.thebathdoctor.org

bath.doctor@btconnect.com

Central Heating Engineers & Installers • Boiler Servicing & Repairs • Full Central Heating Installations • Kitchen & Bathroom Plumbing 554021

Domestic & Commercial Work undertaken 30 years experience – Quality workmanship

07853 826 411 07853 071 961

www.beltinco.co.uk

Brand New Bathrooms

Boiler Installations

Central Heating Repairs Servicing & Maintenance Belvedere Barn Estate, Crank Road, Billinge

01744 893957

Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809 506515

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

Call 01695 627 999 for details 108

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

ll y te Ca oda uo t eq us fre ra fo

• Boiler Installation • Maintenance & Servicing • Central Heating Installation • System Upgrades • Power Flushing

C &D

Plumbing and Heating

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

Don’t pay more for new boilers!

We’ll beat any like-for-like quote by £100 – guaranteed!

Pay 0% interest on your new boiler!

Prices start from just £25 per month 8 year guarantee on Worcester Bosch boilers!

Subject to a filter being fitted

We accept all major credit cards

Your Local Installer

Established 1998

A Genuine Family Run Business With Friendly & Courteous Staff

Address: 434 Ormskirk Rd, Wigan, WN5 9DF Tel: Email: Web:

01942 207800 / 01942 221221 eco@premiergas.com www.premiergas.com

186237

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

SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES

Accredited Installer & Ser vice Partner • Annual Boiler Servicing • Landlord & Home Owner Gas Safety Checks • Gas Fire & Cooker Installations • Under Floor Heating Specialists • Home Efficiency Control Upgrades

10 YEARS

EXTENDED WARRANTY ON SELECTED BOILER INSTALLATIONS

Finance available

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

Telephone:

01257 421 660 Registration No.

88604

TEL: MOB:

01942 504 429 07931 766 684

www.fgwelch.co.uk Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

109

Need a new look for your home?

Skilled interior and exterior work undertaken at reasonable prices!

Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator

01942 518126 or 07545 065119 Orrell based business

Ian Martland

Painter & Decorator Established 1990

Award Winner

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

01695 632 477 | 07748 195 809

Create your Dream Home today…

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.

Call Derek today for a free consultation & quote

Call 07831 505 672

email franklindecorators@gmail.com

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

• High Quality • Superb Value • Outstanding Service Call today for your free quotation

01257 402045 or 07702 360597 www.wigandecorators.co.uk

www.ParkinsonDecorators.co.uk

Advertise here

Advertise your business in this section for £37 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

we make it our business to help yours

110

Hobson’s ROOFC

EST 1990

RE

WIGAN’S AWARD-WINNING ROOFING FIRM Call us for a free, no obligation quote for;

• Roofing Repairs • New Roofs • Re-Roofs • Roof Windows 22 Barnsley Street, Wigan

07831 764 798

www.hobsonsroofcare.co.uk

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

W.Newman ROOFING & REPAIRS

Wigan Good Trader of the Year

2010 2013

01695 627 212 MOBILE: 07774 943 706

52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND Established Over 30 Years

• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985

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

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

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

111

All electrical work undertaken

We install

Woodburners & Multi-fuel Stoves!

• Rewire specialists • Extra sockets & lights fitted • Mains board upgrades

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.

BAILEYS ELECTRICAL

01942 215 769 07739 709 005

Free quotations

View our range of stoves online at...

A.J.S.

ANDY HIDDEN Domestic Electrician

Belvedere Barn Estate, Crank Road, Billinge

01744 893957 Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809

506515

Advertise here

Advertise your business in this section for £37 + VAT a month For more information please phone

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

01695 627 999

we make it our business to help yours

Award Winner 2012/13/14

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

Now you can read Local Life wherever you are* Don’t miss a single issue of

Register online for your monthly e-issue at

www.locallife247.co.uk

*providing you have an internet connection

112

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

?? ?

?

Puzzle Corner

?

?

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

Call Ian on or

7703 01942 51 09 18 07702 80

Call Ian on

01942 517703 or 07702 801809 Want to advertise in Local Life?

- Solutions

?

?

?

?

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

07531 765 529 / 01695 628 150

Need thing somed? move

?

?

?

?

The photo on page 99 is of Parliament Street, Up Holland

?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

113

A View From The Lump Local gossip, gripes and goings-on Channelling Thoughts Is Wigan Council’s interweb page a bit too clever by half? Cllr David Huxtable, who is apparently un grand fromage at Somerset County Council, seems to think so. In a missive to Library Street’s finest, reproduced on a Q&A Section of the aforementioned site, he enquired: “Why is it so difficult to find out your postal address and postcode? I know you are into ‘channel shift’ but this is ridiculous!”

Cringeworthy jargon aside, his point has merit. Recently, the Lump had cause to write to the Town Hall, so fired up the Sinclair ZX and typed in www.wigan.gov.uk, hoping the postcode would be somewhere. Well, that was 20 minutes of my life I’ll never get back…

However, it seems Orrell resident and Wigan cabinet IT supremo Cllr Terry Halliwell doesn’t take kindly to having the site’s Kafkaesque qualities pointed out. Replying to Huxtable,

touchy Terry retorted: “May I advise you Wigan Council got a 4-star rating in the last SOCITM Better Connected Report and we were identified as being in the top 20 best developed sites in the country.”

All very well, but what about that full address for the Town Hall, a building based in the heart of Wigan? Try Google...based 5,000 miles away in California.

Suspicious Minds Is Sefton trying to take over West Lancashire? Conspiracy theorists will have a field day when they discover that in 2015, for the fourth General Election running, voters in Up Holland and Roby Mill will get the chance to choose yet another Sefton politico as the local MP. Lib Dem Daniel Lewis will follow in the footsteps of Liberal John Gibson, and Tories Alf Doran and Jeremy Myers, who all came from Sefton and all failed to get elected in 2010, 2005 and 2001 respectively.

Not that it will matter much after May 7. After all, everyone knows there are more jars of tofu in West Lancashire than Liberal Democrats.

Their sole West Lancs local election candidate this year garnered 66 votes - a soaraway success compared to the 19 votes they mustered in Digmoor two years previously. So no chance of young Daniel giving up the day job soon.

The big question, however, is will the Bus Pass Elvis Party, emboldened by their success over the Libs in a Nottingham by-election earlier this

year, put up a candidate in West Lancs this time? A local election is one thing, but being beaten by them at a General Election would certainly leave poor Nick Clegg feeling All Shook Up...

Facing The Music With the Gramophone on the blink, the Lump jumped on the omnibus and headed into town for a new needle and a quick gander at the Museum of Wigan Life’s latest exhibitions. One which caught the eye was a short film about Wigan Casino. Underneath the flickering screen, beaming out archive footage of shape-throwing teenagers in dubious attire, viewers are implored to “imagine the smells - a unique aromatic cocktail of sweat, deodorant, cigarette smoke and talcum powder.”

One can imagine a similar piece in 41 years hence: “As you watch this re-run of Booze Britain, imagine the heady mix of stale lager, urine, discarded kebabs and the sound of police sirens in the background”. My, how we’ve progressed since 1973.

And Finally…

The Lump is delighted to learn that the long-awaited War Memorial for Orrell has arrived in Manchester from the sub-continent. It will be erected soon on the corner of Moor Road/Beeford Drive. The project is funded by a grant from Cory Environmental and from the coffers of the Orrell and Billinge Network. Well done to all concerned, in particular Marjorie Price, Carol Littler and David Unsworth for their efforts to commemorate those who died for our country.

Local Life 247 Ltd Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB 01695 627 999 www.locallife247.co.uk

114

Established 1999

We’ve got it covered!

Roofing Emergency Repairs General maintenance Full re-roofs Flat/pitched Roof Conversions Velux Windows Roofline Fascias & Soffits Cladding Gutters

10 YEAR

INSURANCE-BACKED GUARANTEE

NO CALL OUT FEES Call today for a free quote

01942 665 270 0774 876 7845 or 0770 221 8867 www.protecroofingnw.co.uk

The Old Coach House, George Street, Ashton in Makerfield, WN4 8QD

Want to advertise in Local Life?

...call us now on 01695 627 999

115

Design and production by Local Life 247 Ltd Publishing • Design & Print • Leaflet Distribution