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Courier The WIGAN
Local hospice awarded grant
email: info@courier-online.net
Financial boost for Wigan & Leigh Hospice
Wigan’s Good News Paper
April 16th 2013
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Issue no 217
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WIGAN AND LEIGH Hospice has been awarded more than £500,000 of funding by the Department of Health to support the construction of a new outreach centre.
The Minister of Care and Support, Norman Lamb, announced the allocation of £60m funding for hospices across England to improve the physical environment in which they provide care. A total of 176 grants were awarded by the Department of Health to support a wide variety of projects, and Wigan & leigh Hospice was successful in its bid. The hospice has been awarded £510,000 which will support the building of a new outreach facility within its grounds in Hindley. The centre, which will be called Woodlands, will house therapy and counselling services, outpatient clinics, and provide a base for it expanding community nursing team. The new hospice in your Home service, which is set to launch later this year, will also be houses in the facility.
Welcoming the announcement, Dr Alan Baron, Chief Executive of Wigan & Leigh Hospice said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded this grant, which will help us to better support more local people with life-limiting conditions beyond the current 1,000 patients a year that we currently care for, as well as their friends and families. “By launching our new Hospice in your Home service we can support more patients and their families in the place they feel most comfortable. The new building will help us to realise this goal but it will also provide modern state-of-the-art facilities with a beautiful outlook over local woodlands.” This is the third capital grant programme delivered by the Department of Health and administer by Help
Story continues and Artist Impression of the Woodland Centre on Page 9
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Thistle Society visits York
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By Kathleen Merchant
Rotary hold Stroke Awareness Day
WIGAN ROTARY Club has joined up with Stroke Association UK to hold a Stroke Awareness Day on Saturday April 20th.
This sixth annual event will be held at ASDA super-market at Robin Park, Wigan, from 10am- 4pm. Medically trained members of the Rotary Club of Wigan will be offering free blood pressure checks to the public.
High blood pressure, which is not always recognised by the patient, is the biggest risk factor in the cause of strokes, and can be easily treated and controlled by medication. All people who volunteer to have their blood pressures estimated on that day will be given their respective readings and advice to consult their general practitioner for a further check and/or treatment as appropriate. The Rotary Club of Wigan want to encourage the people of Wigan to take this great opportunity to have a free check on April 20th and help themselves and Rotary’s efforts in the prevention of strokes in our community so come and meet us at ASDA.
Write a story competition
THE ACADEMY OF Children’s Writers are pleased to announce their 28th annual Write a Story for Children Competition.
For 27 years this has been recognised as the most prestigious competition for unpublished writers of children’s books in the UK. The first prize will be a cheque for £2,000, there will be a second prize of £300, and £200 will be awarded to third place.
Entries many either be short stories up to 2,000 words or the opening 2,000 words of a longer story or novel. Closing date for entries is April 30th. Details of winners will be sent to all entrants by the end of May 2013. Entry forms, together with further details, are available from the website: www.childrens-writers.co.uk or from Write a Story for Children Competition, Academy of Children’s Writers, PO Box 95, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, PE28 5RL, on receipt of a stamped addressed envelop.
A FEW members of Wigan Thistle Society travelled to York to see the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra.
We set off mid morning to give ourselves plenty time for sightseeing and shopping. The weather was horrid – wet, windy, and very cold. This did not deter the shopping however and we had a great time in the shops – we explained to the men it was the best way to keep warm.
At tea time we enjoyed a lovely meal at a beautiful olde worlde restaurant in Low Petergate. After being fortified by a delicious meal and wine we hopped into a taxi to take us to the Barbican where the orchestra, whose patron is HRH The Princess Royal, was to play that night. The warmth of the concert hall welcomed us and we were in immediately aware of the happy chatter in the foyer as friends met up with friends, and we too joined in with greetings
to the many friends we knew who like us had travelled quite a journey to see the orchestra who only make a visit to England once a year. And did we enjoy the concert? What a great time we had. Encouraged by Blair Parham the Conductor we clapped our hands and stamped our feet in time to the lively pieces played by the 120 strong orchestra but also listened intently to the beautifully emotive music so skilfully interpreted in one item by Yla Steven who composed the haunting slow air “John M. Mason” which she dedicated to their late Musical Director John Mason who died in 2011. Tenor Denis Haggerty engaged us all with the cheery “Thistle of Scotland” and “Bonnie Strathyre” while Mezzo Soprano Arlene Rolph delighted us all with “The Last Rose of Summer” and “Sandy o’er the Lea”. The City of York Pipe Band was very impressive in all their performances the young Highland Dancers were and the delightful compere Jim McColl, M.B.E. had us all rolling about in our seats with laughter. The orchestra
MS Society AGM
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS Society hosts their annual AGM meeting at Wigan Cricket Club, Bulls Hey, Wigan at 7.30pm on Wednesday May 29th.
Refreshments will be serves and quiz will be held.
Bands for All concert
ORGANISERS of last year’s hugely successful Diamond Fest gig have announced plans for a town centre concert for the borough’s best unsigned bands called Bands For All.
Building on the back of last year’s musical celebration in the town centre for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, the gig will replace the annual summer festival at Haigh Country Park - Haigh Fest.
Leisure and culture provider WLCT and Wigan Council’s town centre management will work together to arrange the town centre gig “Bands for All” this August until new funding can be found for Haigh Fest. Town Centre Manager Mike Matthews, said: “Last year’s town centre concert for the Diamond Jubilee was a huge success. This
If you wish to find out about the branch committee or to give your input and ideas join the AGM. For more information dial 01942 323836
event will have added benefit in supporting the broader programme of events planned for Wigan Town Centre over the summer period. “We replicated the winning formula of Haigh Fest by giving the borough’s best up and coming bands a chance to shine on stage and it’s something we really want to do again this year.” In 2010 a central government contribution via the Performance Reward Grant – which funded Haigh Fest - ceased. In 2011 Haigh Fest took place on the back of a private sector concert promotion called “Haigh Live” organised by Cuffe & Taylor Event Management by using the same stage, infrastructure and related equipment following their A List celebrity concerts. WLCT has been unable to secure new funding streams or private sector interest to deliver a music concert at Haigh Country
Park for 2013. Stuart Murray, Chief Executive of WLCT, commented: “We remain committed to developing opportunities for youth bands and musicians within the borough and supporting live music performance generally. “Haigh Fest’s spirit will live on as part of the Bands For All town centre concerts. We will continue to work to find long term funding to enable Haigh Fest to once again return to Haigh Country Park.” If you’re interested in applying for Bands for All please send in your demo and band information to: Mike Matthews, Town Centre Unit Manager, Economic Development, Places: Economy, Waste and Infrastructure, Wigan Council, Wigan Life Centre, College Avenue, Wigan, WN1 1NJ.
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leader Bill Cook made thoroughly sure we enjoyed every minute of this most talented orchestra. The orchestra is entirely managed and run by the players on a voluntary basis. It has no professional staff and receives no grants. It is a registered charity with aims of promoting the playing of orchestral Scottish Fiddle music. Since it was founded in 1980 it has raised more £1 million pounds for numerous other charities.
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Design an Easter Planter
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Courier
Museum of Wigan Life
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LOCAL SCHOOLS in Aspull, New Springs and Whelley were recently invited to Design an Easter Planter.
APRIL events at April 2013, from at Wigan Archives on Wednesday 24 April the Museum of 10.00am –11.00am. Meet at the cemetery 2013, 10.00am-3.00pm Wigan Life. gates.
Family History Tickets Wigan Archives cost £2 Workshop on Service. booking essential. Monday 22 April “Carry On Cleaning” Admission free. 2013, from 1.00pm – 2.30pm We will transfer: at Leigh Local Your LP collection to CD Studies, Turnpike Centre. Your special videos to DVD Workshop costs £5, Your old Cine films to DVD booking essential. Standish Video & DVD Carved in Stone a 26a High Street, Standish Tyldesley Cemetery Walk on Tuesday 23 01257 426937 / 07774 775877
Students from Aspull Church, Canon Sharples, St. David’s, Holy Family and Our Lady’s primary schools were presented with a plant pot, compost and plants by Cllr Ron Conway and Jimmy Roberts of Aspull, New Springs and Whelley Community Forum and were invited to take part in the challenge.
Students from each school rose to the challenge and produced beautiful, colourfully painted pots, each with an Easter theme. Cllr Ron Conway said: “It is always a pleasure to visit the schools and meet the staff and students. The students had obviously had fun and put a lot of effort into their designs and were keen to show us their finished pots.” Pictured are Cllr Conway and Jimmy Roberts presenting certificates to the delighted students.
Easter success at Penson Street
WIGAN Council’s Voluntary Youth Service based at Penson Street Community Centre held an open day on Easter Saturday. Debbie Shaw, the centres administrator said: “The event was aimed at bringing together some of the best voluntary projects in the area, representatives were from Food Positive, The Brick, Beech Hill book cycle, cookery projects and environmental projects and the event was a great success for all especially our youths.” Local Wigan Central Councillor George Davies who supported the open day said: “Promotion in Voluntary Services is a goal we all support, a big thank you to Debbie, Jenna, Simon and the team at Penson Street for a fabulous event.
THE Village
Debbie, Jenna, Simon and the team
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Letters to the editor
Dear Sirs,
The UK’s meningitis charities have joined forces and written to Prime Minister David Cameron. In 2011, Mr Cameron said that the idea of children dying from preventable diseases is unthinkable in this day and age and pledged to save lives in the developing world by ensuring vaccine availability.
Yet UK children are still exposed to a deadly disease which can kill them in hours or leave them severely disabled. This is Meningitis B, the most common form of meningitis in the UK. It kills more children aged under five than any other infection. Thankfully, help is in sight. In January, a new Meningitis B vaccine – Bexsero® – received a licence from the European Commission. It is the first Meningitis B vaccine licensed for use in the UK and can save thousands of lives. Over the next few weeks, the UK Government is considering whether to introduce this vaccine into the Routine Childhood Immunisation Schedule, so it will be given to children through the NHS. We are determined to ensure this lifesaving vaccine is introduced as soon as possible, and the support of your readers is crucial for achieving this. We also want to make sure the vaccine isn’t delayed by the major changes currently taking place in the NHS. On average, 1,870 cases of Meningitis B occur in the UK every year – every one life-changing, regardless of the outcome. One in 10 people who contract the disease will die and one in three will be left with devastating after-effects, such as limb loss or brain damage. So, with every day that passes until this vaccine is introduced, many more lives are destroyed. We believe the lives of our children must be made a priority. Only when the Meningitis B vaccine is introduced into the immunisation schedule will it change the meningitis landscape forever, saving lives and preventing children facing a lifetime of suffering. We will continue campaigning for vaccination and raising awareness of the disease and its symptoms. And we urge everyone to be aware of this issue and support the need for a Meningitis B vaccine. Yours, Chris Head, CEO Meningitis Research Foundation. 01454 281 811 www.meningitis.org Sue Davie, CEO Meningitis Trust & CEO Meningitis UK. 01453 768000/0117 947 6320 www.meningitis-trust.org or www.meningitisuk.org
Dear Sirs,
Monday April 8th saw the start of the new Campaign at the British Heart Foundation, to…. Fight for Every Heartbeat.
A MULTI-MILLION pound road improvement scheme has “transformed traffic conditions” in and around Wigan town centre, THE newly formed Standish Women’s Institute had according to council officials.
Success at Standish WI
another very successful evening on 11 April when more than 60 ladies attended the meeting.
Members enjoyed a fascinating talk by Major Alan and Major Linda Taberner, both medics in the TA, on their experiences in combat in Afghanistan. Next month’s meeting will be held on 9 May at 7pm at St Wilfrid’s Parish Hall, Standish. The speaker will be Bob Pickersgill on The History of the Saxaphone. New members welcome. For more information please telephone Diana on 01257 404078. Follow Standish WI on twitter @StandishWI and on Facebook.
Folk song-writing legend comes to Wigan Church
LEGENDARY folk singer-songwriter Steve Ashley is performing a solo concert at Wigan Parish Church as the latest in a series of successful Acoustic Roots sessions on Saturday May 4th.
With a string of highly-acclaimed solo albums to his name, Steve Ashley is a folk-rock singer of international renown.
For 40 years, his songs have won the respect of critics, and inspired many leading folk artists to perform them, including: Fairport Convention, Anne Briggs, Wizz Jones, Phil Beer, Martin Simpson, Grace Notes and St Agnes’ Fountain. Steve also has what New York’s Variety magazine described as ‘one of the funniest of dry stage raps’. A former member of The Albion Country Band, Ragged Robin and his own Steve Ashley Band, Steve has also performed orchestral concerts with the late Robert Kirby (Nick Drake) and occasionally with members of Fairport Convention. For tickets and more information call David Cartlidge on 01942 824291. Doors open 8pm
As you may or may not be aware, coronary heart disease is the UK’S SINGLE BIGGEST KILLER. BUT the fight against heart disease is not one we will give up on. Our researchers won’t stop working until we beat heart disease. We are appealing to you to help us to win this fight. You can help us to do this by donating some of your lovely things for us to sell in your local British Heart Foundation shop in Wigan. We gratefully receive unwanted items such as clothing, shoes and bags, accessories and jewellery, cds and dvds, toys, books and homeware. Any items of clothing you may not consider saleable are ST. WILFRID’S Parish Church and Standish still recycled and can still raise vital funds. We offer a free collection Methodist Church are combining efforts to assist service which can be arranged by calling 01942820155. with charity collection in the Standish area. To give you an idea of what your lovely things mean to us; Do you From May 12-May 18th, the churches will be collecting for have nine books on a bookshelf at home that you no longer read? Christian Aid Week. They could fund an hour of scientific research. The collections will provide funds to help poor communities across One pair of good quality shoes you’ll never wear? They could help the world, to transform lives. us to provide information and support from a cardiac nurse on our Heart Helpline. Is your wardrobe fit to bursting? 22 dresses can fund a BHF heart nurse for the day. We love the things you bring and desperately need them to continue our vital work to save lives, to FIGHT FOR EVERY HEARTBEAT. Do you have any unwanted furniture or electrical items? MOUNT ZION celebrates the 141st Sunday We also have furniture and electrical stores. You can contact them School Anniversary on Sunday April 28th. on 0844 334 1414 to arrange a collection. To mark the occasion the church, on Enfield Street in I would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community Pemberton, will hold a Holy Communion service will take place for their on-going support in donating items to our shop and their at 10am, followed by Morning Worship at 10.45am. help in our fight against heart disease. The church will also host a Young Preple’s Service and Yours, demonstration at 3pm. Kath Ashcroft A Warm Invitation is extended to friends, old and new, to come Shop Manager, British Heart Foundation along and celebrate this special day in the life of the church.
Standish Churches collect for Christian Aid Week
Mount Zion marks Sunday School Anniversary
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Saddle Success: One month on
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It’s a month since the full Saddle relief project was officially opened. Research and monitoring by the council during the first month suggests the work has cut journey times and eased congestion. Feedback from the public and local businesses has also been positive. The £12 million scheme included the construction of the first major road to be built in Wigan Borough for decades and work to relieve congestion around Saddle Junction. The routes out of and into Wigan town centre have been rebuilt with traffic redirected. Cllr David Molyneux, Deputy Leader of Wigan Council, said the
work had alleviated issues that have caused persistent problems for motorists for years. He said: “After a month, it’s clear the work around the Saddle relief project has made a real difference to the journeys of thousands of drivers coming into and leaving Wigan. Most of our roads were built over a hundred years ago and were never designed to cope with the demands we now have in the 21st century. “Over the years we’ve done what we can to make improvements – as far as budgets will allow. This has been an ambitious project, designed to transform traffic conditions around Wigan town centre for the better. And I think it has done just that. “Of course it is early days but so far the scheme seems to be working. This should improve the quality of life for Wigan’s commuters and make the town centre a more attractive destination for investment.”
The Brick Open Day
HOMELESS charity The Brick has moved.
The charity has moved to Rowbottom Square, Arcade Street (off Library Street) Wigan, and has organised an Open Day. Members of the public are invited to look around the new premises on Wednesday April 24th between 9am and 4pm and join staff for a brew and a cake.
WIGAN SPORTS CLUB Ideal for Wedding Receptions Parties, Christenings & Funerals provide your own buffet or use our facilities
Contact Judith
01942 241581 or 07751 021883 WIGAN SPORTS CLUB, BULL HEY, PARSONS WALK, WIGAN
Busy months ahead at St. John’s, Abram
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Church Chatter... Courier
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What’s on at St. Peter’s Church, Hindley
ALPHA – This course started on April 8th and runs weekly for the next few months.
If anyone is interested in learning more about your faith, please sign the sheet at the back of Church. We are now taking bookings for the Parish Weekend which will be held at Abbot Hall between the 31st Jan and 2nd Feb. Please see Dave or one of the Wardens to book your place. Pew Cushions – Mrs Reader (Sheila) & Mrs Vicar are starting to raise money to buy Pew Cushions. Mustard Seed Food Bank. We are looking for helpers to organise produce donated to the Food Bank and/or help distribute food parcels. Many thanks for all the contributions. At the moment we
have enough Pasta & spaghetti but are short of long life milk, peas, sugar & tuna. Our Junior Choir takes place on the 2nd & 4th Thursday’s at 7pm. Anyone wanting to join should come and see Jim or just come along. You do not need to read music. Please be prompt as Sarah, our Head Chorister, is starting to teach you some fun ‘warm-ups’ starting this week. The Adult choir practice will start at 8pm. New members are needed – no need to read music, just come on a Thursday evening. Church Factor, our music group, meet on Friday at 7pm. Please come for a prompt start. London Marathon – David Walsh is running the Marathon in memory of his Dad Brian to raise money for Macmillan Nurses. His sponsor form is at the back of Church.
St. Andrew’s charity coffee mornings
THE Breakfast Coffee mornings hosted by St. Andrew’s Social Committee are continuing to go from strength to strength.
The committee’s last coffee morning raised £95.60 for Diabetes UK. Their
next
coffee
morning will take place on Friday April 19th, in the Parish Centre on Woodhouse Lane, Springfield, in aid of Epilepsy Action. Another coffee moring will be held on Friday May 24th at the Parish Centre. All proceeds from this coffee morning will go to Christian Aid. St. Andrew’s Social Committee are also
organising a Beetle Drive on April 22nd at St. Andrew’s Parish Centre, 7pm start. Cost will be £2 per adult and £1 per child, payable on the door. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring own pens or pencils. Light refreshments will be provided.
Church Youth Club set to launch
ALL Saints’ Church, Appley Bridge, and the Vale Methodist Church, Shevington Vale, are set to launch a joint new youth club.
The club is set to launch on Wednesday May 1st for young people aged 1013 years old.
The Churches are searching for a Youth Worker to attend weekly and to develop relationships with the children of both churches. Contact the Rev Simon Glynn on 01257 462350 for more information. All Saints’ is also looking for a volunteer to be Sidesperson or a Reader. If you feel you could contribute please contact Ann Edwards by dialing 01257 254913.
Messy Church
ST LUKE’S Church, Orrell, will be holding a Messy Church event on Friday April 19th from 4.30pm6.30pm in the Church Hall, Lodge Road, Orrell.
Learn about the Christian faith
through crafts, celebrate in worship and share a meal. The Messy Church programme has proved to be to be a great success. Everyone is welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For further details phone 01695 623 410 or email st.luke.orrell@btinternet.com
St. John the Baptist host Ukuele concert
ST JOHN The Baptist at Kirkless Street in New Springs is hosting a Ukuele concert, performed by Wigan Ukuele Club.
The church is looking to raise money to extend the Garden of Remembrance (for the burial of cremated remains) because the existing garden is nearly full.
Wigan Ukulele Club will play on Thursday the 25th April starting at 7.30pm in church to raise funds for the project. This is a project that will benefit the whole community in that area. Entrance is £4 which includes light refreshments. Tickets are avaialble from Vince McCarthy 01942 243453.
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Abram St. John’s the Evangelist Church, Warrington Road
ST. JOHN the Evangelist Church, Abram is hosting a Wedding Fayre on Saturday April 27th.
Local cake makers, florists, dressmakers, photographers and hairdressers, amongst others, will be on hand to talk to couples. Visitors can also look around the church and have an informal talk with clergy about a church wedding.
Rev Ann Stein from St John the Evangelist said: “The main aim of this fayre is to show how a wedding can be organised without being too expensive, which is especially important in today’s climate. We are very happy to be working with local businesses to show that you can find everything that you need for your wedding – local to the area” Revd. Ann added: “We also hope that the informal atmosphere will also encourage couples to pop in to ask questions about marrying in church, which is now easier than it has ever been before. There will also be plenty of information on offer to take away.” For more information about the fayre contact 01942 208828. Abram Village Summer Party will take place on Saturday 8th June, 1pm in the grounds of St. John’s on Warrington Road. There will be music, children’s entertainment, food and stalls. The event has proved very popular over the last couple of years and stall bookings are now being taken for 2013 from plants, to jams, to gifts to brica-brac, plus many more. If you would like to hold a stall please email abramchurch@yahoo.co.uk for further details
Volunteers wanted!
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Courier
WIGAN British Heart Foundation (BHF) Shop is appealing to local people to volunteer this spring.
Volunteering with the BHF for just half a day a month could fund one of BHF scientists to carry out their life-saving research for an hour.
The Foundation currently provide the salaries for around 500 post-doctoral scientists who work in research teams right across the UK on projects which to get a better understanding of how to diagnose, prevent, treat and cure heart disease. Giving your time doesn’t just benefit the Wigan BHF Shop either; it can also be great for your CV and help in the hunt for a new job. The Shop gives volunteers the opportunity to learn
Cross Street Arts present ‘OaP-Art’
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new skills, gain full training and also have a guaranteed interview for any paid position that becomes available within the Shop. Teresa Utley, Area Manager for Wigan, said: “Our CROSS Street Arts present ‘OaP-Art’ Tapestry Group. Joyce graduated in printed textiles, volunteers are at the heart of the charity and we simply a retro exhibition of work by Joyce then worked in industry designing jacquard fabrics and tufted carpets. wouldn’t be able to continue our lifesaving work The exhibition can be seen at Cross Street Gallery without them. We have volunteers who enjoy their time Coulton. Joyce is a local artist who uses many disciplines Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 12-4pm until the with us so much they have been volunteering with us within her work and is a member of The British 10th May. for more than 20 years.” Wigan BHF Shop offers a wide variety of roles from merchandising clothes, shoes and accessories to window dressing and working behind the till. The shop is always in need of more stock. The Wigan MP Lisa Foundation operates a free collection service which can Nandy writes for be booked on 0844 334 1400 or for larger furniture and electrical items, visit bhf.org.uk/free. the Courier To find your nearest BHF Shop or Store call 0844 412 5000 and for more information on volunteering BY THE Thanks to stunning successes reading practice. time this opportunities visit bhf.org.uk/volunteer like this many people know about A lot of football clubs do column is published we’ll the Latics performance on the community work on the side, but know whether the Latics football pitch. it’s unusual for it to be such a are on their way back to But what they may not know is strong part of the ethos. Wembley or if the FA how much the Club and the At a time when many young players do behind the scenes to Cup dream is over. people are really struggling to get support our local community. Whatever the outcome, the Every year the Latics work with good jobs, the Latics have march to the semi-final at nearly 10,000 people of all ages in responded by launching a new Wembley has covered the Latics in Enterprise Academy which uses Wigan. glory and pushed the profile of the the model of a professional One of the biggest beneficiaries town even higher on a national from this are Wigan’s children, football club to teach and inspire stage. Recent successes on the pitch who can take part in a range of young people about business. More than 300 local young have given the whole town a boost. sports and exercise programmes, More than 2,000 Latics fans and get opportunities to meet the people so far have gained a made the trip down the M58 to players. business qualification as a result. Even better is the work the Club watch as Latics gave Everton a The team does the town proud does helping children with reading football lesson. and has earned this semi-final spot. The Latics last reached the home and writing in 30 schools across Let’s hope they see off Millwall of football when we won the Wigan. I’ve seen for myself how much and take Wiganers back to Football League Trophy in 1999 but the return, after a breathtaking more motivated children are to Wembley for the final. For their work on and off the victory over Everton, is fully learn when one of their heroes deserved. turns up at school for a spot of pitch, they deserve it.
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LYNNE TINDALL, discovered a new talent for card making after her Stroke in 2005 and for the last two years, has been a tremendous voluntary support to Think Ahead Stroke Group teaching these skills to other Stroke Survivors and Carers.
Lynne said: “It’s now 8 years since I had my Stroke and for a while after this I was paralysed from my eyes down on both sides, but with positivity and determination I fought to get my life back on track and do the best I can with what I have.
“The support I have received from groups like Think Ahead has been tremendous and I am delighted to be able to give something back to the local community. It’s wonderful to mix with people who have gone through what I have gone through and it gives me great pleasure to see everyone getting so much enjoyment out of these sessions. You lose everything after Stroke, but now that I am involved with Think Ahead, I feel I am worth something.” Throughout the three months prior to Christmas, Lynne and her daughter Prudence, created and sold unique Christmas cards and wine glass charms to generate
the magnificent sum of £513 with the support of local businesses, Sherrington’s Coffee Shop in Hindley and Platt Bridge Health Centre Pharmacy. Mike Aspinall, Chair, of Think Ahead said: “we are grateful to Lynne for the time she volunteers with us and are delighted that Lynne and her daughter chose to raise money for our local Stroke charity”. Lynne added: “just because we are Stroke
Survivors it doesn’t mean we are ready for the scrap heap, we still have life in us and there is something there for us all with Think Ahead. Come on, get out there and start to live life again!”. Anyone requiring additional information regarding Think Ahead’s long term “Living With Stroke” programme should visit their website or telephone the Office on 01942 824888.
Leading painter exhibits work in Borough One of the leading British abstract painters of this generation, Gillian Ayres, is showcasing her exhibition, “Works on Paper”, at the Turnpike Gallery, Leigh.
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The exhibition presents 40 woodcuts, etchings, monoprints and gouaches and is now open until the end of May. Gallery opening hours are Tuesday - Friday 10am- 5pm and Saturday 10.30am -3.30pm.
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Standish Community Forum Chairman’s Report 2012 THE WIGAN COURIER - WIGAN’S ONLY FREE NEWSPAPER THAT COVERS LOCAL SPORT
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ONCE AGAIN, I wish to express my sincere thanks to the Forum committee for their tremendous help and support throughout 2012. Help and support from Wigan Council is now very poor due to the constraints placed on their budget by central government Housing and c o m m e r c i a l development in
Standish is still a major concern for residents. Although the Ashfield Park proposals have gone quiet, the conclusions from a government inspector indicate that Standish must brace itself for the provision of a share of the housing to be provided by Wigan. The 2 meetings arranged to help with the public consultation concerning possible sites were both influenced by protesters. It seems that the proposed sites are now to the north of Pepper Lane, part of the
Bradley Hall Industrial Estate and the former golf course. C o m m e r c i a l development sees the former ATS tyre depot converted to yet more fast-food outlets, and a proposed new food hall and car park are planned on the Chadwick site on High Street.
Still no concrete proposals for the ugly Langtree Garage site as yet. 2012 was a momentous year nationally, with the staging of the Olympic and the Games celebrations associated the Queen’s with
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Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Monument and Gardens
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union flags along the shop fronts, and to mark the Jubilee year, the Forum distributed some 2,400 inscribed leather bookmarks to the pupils at our 4 local schools. Personally, the highlight of the year was the construction of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Monument and Gardens which replaced the untidy ‘rose garden’ at the junction of High St and Grove Lane. As this is at the southern entrance to our township, it exclaims to the world— “WOW—THIS IS STANDISH”. I cannot thank enough our many local sponsors, or indeed the dedicated team of committee members who worked tremendously hard to
bring it all together. We were able to mark Lancashire Day around the monument with the official opening by the Queen’s representative, the Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, and the dedication by Rector Andrew Holliday. The formalities were followed by a Lancashire Hotpot lunch in the Globe and I was delighted that the event was supported by many of those involved in the project. Press coverage was encouraging and the project earned a landscaping award from North West in Bloom as well as an ‘Urban Design Award’ from Wigan Council. Both awards are currently on display in the Library.
It is the intention of the Forum to continue with these ‘gateway constructions’ at the entrances to Standish, beginning with Almond Brook Road. Standish in Bloom. I take this May opportunity to say a huge thank-you to all our members, as well as the many volunteers for their work in this important area in the work of the Forum. Thanks also for his guidance to Damian Jenkinson our borough– wide co-ordinator. The colourful floral displays around the centre of the are very township welcoming and show that Standish is a thriving community and open for business. Our efforts earned us a ‘Silver Gilt Award’ from the prestigious North West in Bloom, and in a raffle held at the presentation ceremony we won a half-barrel planter which has been installed outside the Medical Centre. Our efforts in Standish also contributed to Wigan gaining a silver gilt award in the Britain in Bloom competition. Other Projects. The heritage plaque on the former Clinic was deemed to be inappropriate for the new
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medical practice, so a new one has been ordered and should be installed shortly. A grant was obtained for the reprinting of our 3 walks booklets, but these are costly to produce coloured with photographs, and we were unable to obtain match funding. The ‘50 Facts about Standish’ booklet is reprinted on a regular basis. I feel that the Annual Achievement Awards, traditionally presented at this AGM, need to be reconsidered in the future. Funding is going to be a problem within the foreseeable future. Fortunately the Chairman managed to obtain a grant from the Standish United Charities to cover our running costs, but with the Community Centre and the Library asking for more financial input amid a climate of change there is uncertainty all around. Once again my thanks go to a wonderful team and I look forward to another successful year. Graham Wilcock Chairman
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In tune with Hospice
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the Hospices- the leading charity supporing hospice care throughout the UK. Together, hospices in the UK care for 360,000 people each year, including patients and their families and carers. The majority of this care is provided in peoples’ own homes, but people can also access day care, in-patient care and outpatient services within hospice buildings. Hospices are reliant on voluntary donations to run their vital services and collectively have to raise more than £1.5 million every single day from their local community. Due to the exceptional demand for this scheme, the vast majority of projects were awarded a proportion of the full amount requested. In these challenging times, investment in hospices is vital so they can modernise and expand in order to meet the growing needs of the communities they serve.
A FUN-LOVING Ladies Barbershop Group has presented a cheque worth £500 to Wigan & Leigh Hospice.
The Riverside Harmony Chorus, based in Wigan, held a sell-out concert at the Diamond Club in Ashton in Makerfield which raised a magnificent £500 for for the hospice.
Chairperson Dorothy Jelly said: “We had a full house for our concert and people were very generous when they knew the excellent cause we were raising money for.” Hospice Communications Officer Edwin Matthews commented: “This is a terrific, kind and generous donation. “We would like to thank the Chorus for organising the night and to everyone who supported it in any way. I wanted to join the Chorus, but they didn’t seem too keen.” Musical Director, Anne Marie Borneuf added: “Barbershop singing is a wonderful way to have fun and this concert was a great way to raise money for the Hospice. We are looking for new members and if you would like to know more about us, ring Dorothy on 01744 26988.”
Massarella’s Manager is a ‘Tough Mudder’
THE Manager at Massarella’s Restaurant in Golden Days Garden Centre is taking part in the ‘Tough Mudders’ challenge for Help for Heroes on Saturday May 4th.
This is a “hardcore 12 mile-long obstacle course designed by the Special Forces to test your all-round strength, stamina, mental grit, and camaraderie.
With the most innovative courses and 700,000 inspiring participants worldwide to date, Tough Mudder is the premier adventure challenge series in the world. This is the second time Steve will be taking part and raised just over £500 for help for Heroes which he hopes to beat this year. Please call into Massarella’s where you can sponsor Steve and also enjoy a cup of tea & a freshly baked scone.
Wigan & Leigh College student scoops top national award
WIGAN & LEIGH College student Joseph Rendle has been awarded a prestigious national award in recognition of his aptitude to study.
The 18-year old from Hindley, Wigan, has a visual impairment known as congenital bilateral aniridia, which is an eye condition that results in decreased visual acitivity, light sensitivity and a rhythmic eye movement. He also suffers from hypotonia, a muscle weakness which means he can become extremely tired if doing physical activity. Despite his condition he went on to complete
his Level 2 Diploma in Travel & Tourism last year, and passed his City & Guilds World Wide Travel exam with distinction. This prompted his Inclusive Learning Officer at Wigan & Leigh College to nominate Joseph for the City & Guilds ‘Medal for Excellence’, which he then went on to win. Joseph is one of 80 people across the UK to have been given this award this year, which is designed to recognise the achievements of learners, lecturers and trainers, and also those who overcome the odds to reach their goals. He will now automatically progress through to the City & Guilds Lion Awards, only 14 of which are handed out each year to celebrate exceptional achievements.
Amanda Higson, Cath Hurst OBE, Christine Lewis, Joseph Rendle, Elizabeth Shea, Julie Worthington
Joseph said: “It was a really big surprise to learn that I had been nominated, and I didn’t expect to win, so it was an even bigger shock when I did. I put in a lot of hard work, so it is fantastic to be recognised on a national level Divisional Manager for Travel & Tourism, Diane Griffiths, added:
“The College and the department is so proud of Joseph. He thoroughly deserves this prestigious award which highlights his commitment and dedication on the programme. “This is a great example the fantastic support that learners receive while studying at Wigan & Leigh College.
We have a dedicated team of tutors and inclusive learning staff who are there to guide students throughout their time with us.” Joseph is continuing his education at Wigan & Leigh College and is now studying on the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health & Social Care.
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Imagine Courier
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YOU really have to see Imagine Kitchens to believe it! Billy and his team provide their customers with high quality, bespoke services from designing to installing the finest kitchens in the area. Here at Imagine Kitchens we have built up a great reputation in assisting families and homes with a friendly, reliable and very honest service to give them that new kitchen that they are looking for to complete their home. Our service is a start to finish professional and personally overseen procedure were everything needed to refurbish your kitchen is done by our fully qualified tradesmen. This includes: • Fully Fitting Service • Electrics • Plumbing • Plastering • Tiling • Painting If all the above is not required we also offer a supply only service. Also if you’re looking for a new bathroom you’ve come to the right place. At Imagine Kitchens we pride ourselves in offering a
huge range of quality, affordable bathroom products in a variety of styles. Whatever your requirements you’re sure to find what you are looking for, from designer suites and stunning freestanding baths through to quality shower enclosures, taps and accessories. As customers of Imagine know, the company caters for all tastes incorporating modern and contemporary to traditional and practical but far more importantly they always focus on the quality of the product and installation. There is a wealth of exquisite stock to view and all kitchens are made to order and built by cabinet makers, no mass production here! The kitchen of your dreams is available under one roof, all it takes is a no fuss 30 minute home survey with none of the pressure of the hard sell tactics. We are open 6 days a week for customers convenience to take a peak and to obtain some styles and ideas. For further information on our services visit our webiste www.imaginekitchenswigan.com Book a FREE design appointment call Billy on 01257 403003 or Mobile: 07835 639759.
Thanks for all you helpful advice & guidence Thanks for a job very well done on time by excellent craftsmen who were pleasent efficient and very tidy. Will use again in the next house Thanks again Ann & Keith Middleton"
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Appley Bridge WI round-up By Anne Foley, Press Secretary
MELANIE Killilea from Hotter Shoes came to give us a talk on shoes.
We all know how important it is to have shoes to suit our outfits.
More important though is to have a shoe that fits all day like a slipper. Melanie showed us how Hotter shoes can give both style and comfort. Each year in Appley Bridge WI we have a bursary were members have the opportunity to go on an educational course. This year Dorothy Payne won, and she chose to go on a glass painting course. Our picture (above) shows Dorothy with a sample of her work. On April 10th speaker Graham Farrell spoke to the group on “A day in the life of a working magistrate,”.
Game Show night fundraiser
ST. WILFRID’S Church Lads’ and Church Girls’ Brigade are hosting a Game Show-themed evening.
For a night of fun, games, quizes and to compete in your favourite TV game shows get down to the Labour Club on Friday April 19th at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £5 adults and £3 children, including a hot pot supper (vegeterian option available on request) and hot dog for children.
For ticket and further information dial 07725
472589
The Brigade are also hosting their May Bank
Holiday carboot at St. Wilfrid’s Junior School,
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Gates to the school field open at 8am until1pm. Cars cost £5 and vans cost £8. No traders.
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Wigan Soroptimist hosts annual Charity Ball SOROPTIMIST International of Wigan hosted their twelfth annual Charity Ball at the the D.W. Lounge, last month.
Catherine Calderbank, Rob Mannix, Rev Pauline, Penny Wareham, Dan Manning
Wigan to raise more than £3,000 on the night as 40 raffle prizes were won and 4 auction lots bid for with incredible results. This will go into the Charity Fund, and President Louise’s chosen charities of The Christie and The Psoriasis Association will benefit because of the kindness of people. Wigan and Leigh Hospice will also benefit as, amongst other things, Dave Guest always donates his fee there. Many other local, national and international charities supported the Ball. There was a lot of laughter, a lot of fun and friendship and an excellent outcome of what was a wonderful night.
160 guests attended the ball, including the Mayor of Wigan, Councillor Myra Whiteside, her Consort Mr John Hurst, whilst the BBC’s Dave Guest was M.C. for the evening. Following a Champagne Reception and a wonderful meal, there was opportunity to dance the calories off to the accompaniment of live music. During the evening, the great generosity of sponsors and supporters enabled S.I.
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Easter at Haigh Country Park
EASTER Sunday drew the crowds to Haigh Country park, where, in the stables courtyard where there were several stalls and activities, such as Egg decorating, Face painting and a Victorian antique game.
Despite the freezing temperatures, the stalls were well
attended throughout thanks to the many people who have the afternoon.
The Friends of Haigh country park group would like to take this opportunity to thank all those people who supported them, and made the raffle and tombola the success it was. Easter weekend also saw the Reopening of the Crazy golf. Although still under development, members are pleased to now have all 18 holes open and would like to offer their
flocked to the course and donated so generously to their funds. The gorup would also like to thank the hard working volunteers that have made it possible for the crazy golf to remain open through the school holidays. Friends of Haigh Country Park plan to continue to open at weekends, weather and volunteers permitting. The next public meeting will take place
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Shevington WI keep fit
MEMBERS of Shevington WI went home feeling considerably fitter after an evening of exercise at their monthly meeting.
The speaker, Christine Wallwork, took the ladies through various exercises aimed at improving health and balance. Phew! The exercise was followed by tea and cakes.
The next meeting will be on Wednesday April 24 when Major Alan and Major Linda Taberner will be speaking on ‘An operational tour in Afghanistan’. The meeting starts at 7.30pm and is held at the Methodist Church, Gathurst Lane, Shevington. New members welcome. Contact the President, Sylvia McHugh on 01257 401963 for details.
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SUMMER GREEN FEES Midweek 9 Holes 18 Holes Adults £8.00 £10.00 Member Guest £6.50 £8.00 Juniors (Under 16) £6.50 £8.00 Senior Citizens (60+) £6.50 £8.00 Weekends and Bank Holidays Adults £9.00 £12.00 Member Guest £7.50 £10.00 Junior (Under 16) £7.50 £10.00 Senior Citizen (60+) £7.50 £10.00
Douglas Valley Golf Club, A6 Blackrod By-Pass, Blackrod, BOLTON, Lancs BL6 5HX. Tel: 01257 474844
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Courier GARDEN Top ten gardening jobs for Spring
SPRING has arrived and the frequent sunny days provide the opportunity for an increasing range of gardening tasks.
Now is the perfect time to get busy in the garden. Hopefully now the winter weather has left us and the days are longer, the next few months can be spent working in the garden, before enjoying your hard labour in the summer. This time of year it great for preparing seed
Shevington garden competition
beds, sowing seed, cutting back winter shrubs and generally tidying up around the garden. To help you with your gardening work here is The Royal Horticultural Society’s top 10 gardening jobs you should to this month: 1.Plant shallots, onion sets and early potatoes 2.Protect new spring shoots from slugs 3.Plant summer-flowering bulbs 4.Lift and divide overgrown clumps of perennials 5.Top dress containers with fresh compost 6.Mow the lawn on dry days (if needed) 7.Cut back Cornus (dogwood) and Salix (willow) grown for colourful winter stems 8.Weeds come back in to growth - deal with them before they get out of hand
Source: Garden World Images
9.Start feeding fish and using the pond fountain; remove pond heaters 10.Open the greenhouse or conservatory doors and vents on warm days
Gardening Tips for Spring Gardening Tips By Damian Jenkinson
Mr Foster of Naylor Farm Avenue in his award-winning front garden
By Ted Unwin
IT’S SPRING again– and for many people thoughts are beginning to turn to the outdoors and to their gardens.
While tidying up and planting out, you may be dreaming of getting a well deserved ‘pat on the back’ for all your hard work. Shevington Best Garden Competition is an opportunity for you to do just that.
This competition is jointly run by Shevington Community Association and Shevington Gardening Club and is open to all residents of Shevington and district, including Shevington, Shevington Moor, Shevington Vale, Crooke, Lower Ground and Appley Bridge. Entry is free, and you may enter any or all of the
following categories:best front garden, best back garden, best hanging basket, and best commercial premises display. The competition is sponsored by Bewley’s Hardware so there are some very worthwhile prizes for households gaining the first three places of each category. The winner of the Commercial premises class will receive an engraved shield which they keep for twelve months. Entry forms will be available in Shevington library and in many local shops around the area from May. The judges plan to visit all of the gardens entered during the last week of June and the first week of July - weather permitting. If you would like more information please speak to Eileen Longmore on 01257 402097.
The garden of Mrs O’Regan of Whitehall Avenue won a special one-off prize for a Jubileethemed garden in 2012
Wigan Council’s In Bloom co-ordinator and BBC Young Gardner of the Year runner-up
April is a busy month in the garden and, with the days getting longer, you should have more time to get the essential tasks done.
As the soil starts to warm up (even if we don’t!), all sorts of
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seeds will start to germinate. While this is great for your annuals and vegetables, it’s not so great in the borders as weeds will start to show their heads above ground. It’s important to treat them early to stop them getting out of hand. Use a hoe, handweeder or, as a last resort, weedkiller. Your lawn will also start to spring into life over the next few
weeks. Remember to raise the cutting height of your mower blades for the first cut, gradually lowering them to the desired height over the new few weeks. It’s also a great time to treat any moss patches that may have grown over the winter by scarifying the lawn. Treat any weeds whilst you there and give it a good feed. This will save a lot of work further on in the
summer. Apply a fresh layer of mulch to your borders and tie in any shoots along supports or canes as they start to grow and apply a general fertiliser to ensure strong and healthy plants over the summer. To find out more about Wigan Borough in Bloom please visit www.wiganboroughinb loom.co.uk
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Tribute to Wigan’s first female councillor
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A PLAQUE honouring Wigan’s first female councillor was unveiled on Friday 5th April – the first official recognition for one of the most important women in the town’s history.
M&S volunteer army to clean local beaches
MARKS & Spencer is calling on its customers and employees in Wigan to volunteer to help their local community by cleaning Britain’s beaches and canals.
Members of the public can get involved in events at locations including Birkdale beach. With the support of the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) and the Canal & River Trust (CRT), this year’s M&S Big Beach Clean-up will take place between April 22nd and 28th and it is hoped around 8,000 people will get involved. The target is to clear more than 15 tonnes of litter – more than the weight of a double decker bus.. The cleans will take place at 113 beaches (open to M&S employees and customers) in the UK and Ireland and 50 canal locations (M&S employees only). Customers that register in advance at www.mcsuk.org/foreverfish will receive £5 off voucher when you SPEND £30 or more on M&S food and drink on the day of their beach clean. For more info go to: www.marksandspencer.com/plana
Stop, look and Listen with Schools’ Challenge 2013
Martha Hogg was elected in 1920 – becoming one of only a handful of women councillors in Britain and the first in Wigan. She became active in politics after seeing first-hand the terrible conditions the poor were forced to live in. Martha was a midwife and worked in the povertystricken communities of industrial Wigan, which were later immortalised in George Orwell’s book The Road To
Prizes for the winning designs include a school minibus for one year, £1,000 for the winning school, ipad mini’s each or bikes for the family, and Toys R Us vouchers. Every school that registers to take part in the Arnold Clark’s Schools’ Challenge 2013 will receive a free road safety pack. Schools in Wigan and Ashton have received their Schools’ Challenge Pack and have until April 26th to register at www.arnoldclark.com/schools-challenge.
local history enthusiast Tom Walsh that has kept her memory alive. He’s been campaigning for a number of years for Martha to be officially recognised and will finally get his wish on Friday. Tom said: “I’m delighted the council agreed to place a plaque in the chamber dedicated to Martha. She is one of the most significant women in Wigan’s history and is arguably of national importance. “They were very few women involved in politics when she was elected and most of them were drawn from the aristocracy or the better-off middle-classes. Martha was a working woman who was so moved by her experiences as a midwife she decided to go into politics to do something about it. “When she died, Wigan came to a standstill to recognise her contribution. Yet there has been no lasting memorial to her. It’s
fantastic this is now being put right.” The plaque was unveiled by the Mayor of Wigan Borough Cllr Myra Whiteside. Among those who attended were Martha’s great-grandson and an 84-year old man she delivered while working as a midwife. Cllr Whiteside said: “Martha Hogg was a true trail-blazer for the women of Wigan. It’s clear she had a deep social conscience and a strong commitment to helping the poor and that’s what drove her pioneering political career. “It’s a matter of regret it has taken so long for her to get the recognition she so richly deserves. But at least now there will be a fitting tribute to her.” Our photograph of Martha Hogg is courtesy of Wigan Archives Service, Wigan Leisure Culture Trust.
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WIGAN school children are being asked to design artwork for the outside of a vehicle, by automobile firm Arnold Clark.
School children in years three- six are being invited to enter the competition for a chance to see their design brought to life, and applied to a car at their local Arnold Clark dealership.
Wigan Pier. She was shocked by what she saw and joined the Labour party – standing first in 1919 and then again, successfully, in 1920. At that time it was still highly unusual for a woman to become involved in politics, particularly a working-class woman like Martha. She was born into poverty in 1872, leaving school at thirteen and working in a factory until her marriage. After that, she trained as a midwife, working in some of the poorest communities in the country. Once she became a councillor, Martha played an active role on the council, serving on a number of committees. Sadly, her trail-blazing contribution to local politics has been largely forgotten. It is only the work of
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WHETHER YOU need more space but can't do add a bedroom, add a bathroom too. You won't increase the value of your afford to move, or want to sell your house on, it property by much if you put in a bedroom without one. REVAMP YOUR KITCHEN OR BATHROOM makes sense to make the most of the property you Most experts agree that if you can only renovate one room in your property have. you should make it your kitchen. Kitchens have become the focal point of a Since house prices began to fall more than two years ago, many British homeowners have found themselves trapped in negative equity or forced to sell at a loss. So, as an alternative to moving home, an increasing number of homeowners have decided to push up the value of their property by turning to home improvements. Recent statistics show that more than half of all British homeowners are currently engaged in sprucing up their homes. Here are a few ideas to boost your property value - BUT REMEMBER USE GOOD QUALITY LOCAL TRADESPEOPLE AND COMPANIES RATHER THAN RELYING ON YOUR OWN SKILLS OR SOME CHEAPSKATE COMPANY...
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One thing that will usually add value to a property is extra storage space. Adding a garage, with a bedroom over it, can add as much as 15% to the value of your home. However, this will usually set you back around £10,000. Adding a bathroom as well will be more. Also, once again, there are pitfalls to be wary of. Adding a stand-alone garage will usually pay for itself, whereas converting a garage into a 'living' room very rarely does. It’s a storage thing. Increasing storage space in a home can help raise the value, but not at the expense of a bedroom.
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house and it's often claimed a good kitchen can sell the whole property. A large, well-appointed kitchen may add about 12% to the value of your house - but large, well-appointed kitchens are very expensive. Fitting a kitchen from scratch, including the removal of old fittings, flooring and wall tiles, can cost fom upwards of £14,500 for a terraced property to £50,000-plus for a top-of-the-range kitchen in a detached house. If you can't afford to install a brand new fitted kitchen, just improving the superficial appearance of the one you have can add a few thousand pounds, by judicious use of new cabinet fronts, decoration and new fittings. Similarly, bathrooms are more or less guaranteed to add value to a property. Fitting a new bathroom can cost between £5,000 and £10,000 for a basic suite, with prices soaring up to around £20,000 for a luxury job. However, experts predict this could add as much as £25,000 to the value of your property.
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Makerfield MP has the fighting spirit
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Well Makerfield MP, Yvonne Fovargue did exactly that almost three years ago. In May 2010, Yvonne was elected MP for Makerfield following her predecessor, Sir Ian McCartney, who stepped down as MP after 23 years in Parliament. Local to the Borough, Yvonne was Chief Executive at St. Helen’s Citizens Advice Bureau for more than 20 years, and although she is now an MP it is a subject still close to her heart.
Success
By Hannah Smith
STEPPING into a new job can be hard, especially if the previous employee had held their professional position for more than 20 years, was highly-regarded amongst colleagues and the community, and was awarded a knighthood for his services.
Standing up for consumer rights and credit consumers, Yvonne campaigned against the Government to amend the Financial Services Bill, in a bid to see a cap on the cost of payday loans. Rogue lenders encourage people who cannot obtain credit to take out loans with high charges which they cannot afford to replay. Yvonne’s campaign succeeded, giving the Financial Conduct Authority greater powers to protect customers from high interest rates. At a local level, Yvonne’s campaigned with residents of Hawkley Hall and Winstanley against the release of the Green Belt land for housing. In July 2012, Government-appointed Planning Inspector, Kevin Ward, suspended his examination of the Wigan Core Strategy after he concluded that insufficient land had been identified for the Borough’s housing needs to 2026. Although the case is ongoing, Yvonne met with Mr Ward again. Having considered the written evidence and taking account of discussions at the hearing sessions the inspector concluded that there was a significant issue with the potential supply of land for new housing. Mr Ward is yet to make his final recommendation following the meeting, however it looks hopeful that the Green Belt land will remain.
Promotion
Yvonne’s hard work as not gone unnoticed by the Leader of the Labour Party, Ed Miliband, who handed Yvonne a promotion in January. Yvonne accepted Miliband’s promotion and is now working on Transport Team as Shadow Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport. Her portfolio includes: buses, taxis, light rail and tram, traffic management, regional and local transport, natural environment – including biofuels,sustainable travel – Walking and Cycling,
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accessibility and equalities and alternatives to travel. My new role aims to promote the alternatives of traveling other than using a car”, explains Yvonne. “I’m currently working with businesses to help promote the use of public transport as a means to travel to work. “We are fortunate in the Borough to have a good public transport system and I’m working with local public transport providers to help continue this system.” Although being in opposition since becoming an MP in 2010, Yvonne is hoping Labour can get back into power in 2015 and is standing as Makerfield MP in the next election. She praises the good community spirit seen in her constituency to help them through a difficult time. “Although I deal with a lot of serious, hard-hitting issues, there are a lot of great community groups in my constituency. This community spirit is what we need to get us through this difficult time. “Many of my constituents are rallying round for local charities such as Oasis Food Band. Although we shouldn’t need food banks in this day and age, we are having to and so charities like this are vital.”
Family
Yvonne’s world has completely changed since becoming an MP. Spending most of her time in the North West, living in Warrington and working in St. Helen’s, Yvonne had only visited London a handful of times. How times have changed. Now Yvonne now finds herself commuting to London weekly, working in the capital city three days a week. But, judging by her office windowsill which is laden with family photographs, Yvonne prefers to spend her time in her constituency, where she lives with her husband. “Since being elected as Makerfield MP there has been a seamless transition. The same hard-working staff still work in the office and so this helped the transition. “I wanted to stand as Makerfield MP as I felt I could represent the area well as I was local, so I knew the area well. I’m here to represent the people of my constituency to make their lives better.” Although Yvonne stepped into the shoes of one of Labour’s most prolific politicians, her success at local and national level has shown that she is one of Labour’s future stars.
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New social care e-marketplace sessions
ORGANISATIONS and businesses involved in providing any level of social care service are being urged to get involved in Wigan Council’s new online ‘marketplace’ which will radically improve the way local people buy and sell support. Free sessions explaining how the emarketplace works and what people need to do to get their organisation included are being run across Wigan borough until May.
The new system, run by Wigan Council, will be a locally-focused online marketplace which will bring together individuals, support brokers, organisations and businesses to buy and sell support. The council will use the emarketplace as the main route for the purchase of support services and expect the number of sellers and the range or provision to increase significantly, offering local people more choice and control over the support they receive. Project manager, Deborah Gent, said: “The e-marketplace is an exciting development in social care for suppliers, brokers and clients. At this stage we are urging any provider organisation to come along to one of the information sessions where they can view the e-marketplace and find out about how to become approved to feature on it, and how to upload their free advertisement. “We would like to see all Wigan
groups with something to offer – from care organisations to community, social or special interest groups, however large or small - have a presence in the emarketplace.” The e-marketplace will enable providers to easily target and personalise their marketing to social care clients, determine the market price of their support and set their prices accordingly. Selling will become more convenient as they will be able to sell social care support any time and any risks associated with selling online will be minimised. Importantly, having a presence in the e-marketplace enables providers to demonstrate their quality compliance. Brokers and clients will benefit from being able to easily search for and buy the support they need and want, buy items that they could not ordinarily find and access a range of community activities 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from anywhere with internet access.” Eight workshops are being held for providers at: 9.30am and 1.00pm on 9th and 17th April at Lowton Civic Hall, Lowton and 9.30am and 1.00pm on 10th and 18th April at Robin Park Arena in Wigan. E-mail: emarketplace@wigan.gov.uk to book a place or request further details, or phone Deborah Gent on 01942 489512
Borough’s best traders announced
THE BEST three ‘Good Traders’ across Wigan Borough have been announced.
The top 40 businesses signed up to Wigan Council’s ‘Good Trader’ scheme, ran by the trading standards team, attended the annual awards ceremony where they were each presented with an award for excellence in customer service.
Three of those companies went on to win special prizes, with Hobson’s Roofcare winning the best ‘Good Trader of the year Wigan,’ Atherton Tiling Solutions named ‘Good Trader of the year Leigh’ and Brian King Flooring taking the ‘Best newcomer’ title.
Winners were judged on the quality and volume of customer feedback they had generated in the last 12 months and on their contribution to providing a high quality service. Good Trader of the Year Wigan winner, David Hobson, said: “The scheme gives customers peace of mind; knowing that every business enrolled is accountable to Wigan Trading Standards and has committed to dealing fairly and honestly with their customers. “Since joining the scheme in 2008, we’ve generated a lot of custom – allowing our business to grow.” Deputy leader of Wigan Council, Cllr David Molyneux, commented: “These awards are a fantastic way of supporting our local businesses through recognising
and rewarding those who demonstrate exemplary workmanship and excellent customer service. “I’d like to thank and congratulate all those involved for setting such a high benchmark for best practice in Wigan Borough.” If you’re a trader who’d like to find out about joining the scheme or a resident who needs a trader they can trust, learn more by visiting: www.wigan.gov.uk/Services/BusinessRe generation/TradingStandards/TraderRegis ter/GoodTraderScheme.htm Our photograph shows, from left- right, David Hobson of Hobson’s Roofcare, Stephen Lyth of Atherton Tiling Solutions and Brian King of Brian King Flooring.
Were your savings affected in the 2007 to 2009 Credit Crunch? Promised the highs but only got the lows? EVERYONE has heard about the payment protection insurance scandal but did you know that the mis-selling of financial products goes much further and has occurred with many other products that you may have been advised to invest in. Gross mis-selling by commission hungry advisors is sadly a fact of life and you may have been an unknowing victim to this. Products such as INVESTMENTS LINKED TO SHARES. WHOLE OF LIFE COVER, ENDOWMENTS, LIFE COVER, MORTGATE PROTECTION, PENSION PLANS, LIFE COVER AND ISA’S have now been found to have been mis-sold as the risks were not fully explained. Even worse is the reality is that these products can often be pushed onto us when in the most vulnerable situations like retirement (tax free lump sum), bereavement (insurance payouts / inheritance), accidents (insurance payouts) and redundancy. Have you had an investment and received less money back than you paid in or substantially less than you expected ? A recent article in the Daily Mail newspaper highlighted many of the thousands of savers who would have been better off if they stuck with a basic savings account. Given the various failings in the sales process at the vast majority of companies there is a strong chance (though not guaranteed) that you are owed compensation. YOU MAY HAVE BEEN ILLADVISED BYASALES HUNGRY BANK ADVISOR TO INVEST IN ONE OR MORE UNSECURE PRODUCTS LINKED TO THE STOCK MARKET THAT HAVE NOW LOST YOU MONEY. The recent economic turmoil has seen investments that you may have considered to be safe in cautious funds slashed in
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value when you thought they were “sound” or “structured” investments. Wigan Claims Advice Centre on Hallgate in Wigan have worked for years in conjunction with Industry experts in legal and other professional disciplines so as to enable its clients to receive the best possible representation in their claims for recompense. They can now offer a No Win No Fee service in this highly specialized area. Claims can be made against financial loses and misguidance on investments where FSA guidelines have been breached unbeknown to our clients. We are currently obtaining refunds from many high street banks and investment companies and have recently secured various high value compensation claims against Lloyds TSB (Scottish Widows Option Bonds). 01942 826866 / 01942 821249 31 HALLGATE – WIGAN – WN1 1LR 01942 826866 / 01942 821249 31 HALLGATE – WIGAN – WN1 1LR Drop in with your details or request a home appointment and they will look into your claim with no obligation. They are located on Hallgate in Wigan (opposite café select and mr. chips) and open 9.30am til 4.30pm Monday to Saturday. Why not pop in for a no obligation chat and see what they can do for you. Drop in with your details or request a home appointment and they will look into your claim with no obligation. They are located on Hallgate in Wigan (opposite café select and mr. chips) and open 9.30am til 4.30pm Monday to Saturday. Why not pop in for a no obligation chat and see what they can do for you.
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Wigan Borough is the place to do business
Courier BUSINESS
WIGAN Borough has been recognised as one of the top towns in the UK to do business.
Wigan firm help school football team
A LOCAL Primary School football team have been given new football shirts, thanks to to a donation made by Wigan-based firm, Belmont Packaging.
Hindsford CE Primary School Football Team, who play in the Atherton and Tyldesley Sports Association, were given a grant by Belmont Packaging, a company which specialist in the printing and converting of corrugated fibreboard products for the food and beverages. The football team, which comprises of year five and six pupils, were in need of new kits after the kits had become worn. With the help of Belmont packaging, much-needed equipment could be purchased in addition to a new kit. Miss Dempsey, Acting Headteacher, said:“As a school, we are extremely grateful to Belmont Packaging for their generosity. The football team was
delighted to receive their new kit. “It has given them further motivation to play and has raised their self-esteem and pride when they go to play against other schools.” Belmont managing director, Sean Moloney, added: “Living Art is a small but growing part of our business and we expect to recruit a number of local people in the coming months to support this and other successful divisions of Belmont Packaging Ltd. “It is great to be able to give something back to the community, as we aim to do each year via our work with local charities and clubs from profits generated, – especially with local kids. What better way to help than future generations doing something they love and can be proud of.” Our photograph shows Hindsford CE Primary School Football Team wearing the new kits supported by Belmont Packaging
New findings produced by Duport – a company specialising in business performance reports – reveal how the borough has seen a record number of companies formed in the last year, before claiming number 56 in Duport’s league table of the 100 top UK towns for net company growth. During 2012, more than 360 new businesses registered in the area, compared to just 265 in 2011. These positive statistics suggest business confidence is returning to the town, which was further confirmed when 40 local businesses discussed expanding their industries at a Wigan Council event in support of the fourth round of the government-backed Regional Growth Fund. Cllr David Molyneux, Deputy Leader at Wigan
Council, said: “It is very encouraging to see that Wigan is seen as a place to do business. “Our business community plays an extremely important role in the borough, helping to create jobs and boost the economy. The council remain committed to providing a wealth of support to make sure they continue to prosper and grow. “We hope to continue to build on our recent success and develop a thriving local economy which is desirable to even more businesses in the future.” Peter Valaitis, managing director at Duport, also commented: “Wigan has certainly suffered during the recession, but a record number of business start-ups and increased net company growth suggest the town may be getting back on its feet. “The new developments that are planned could well give the area a further boost, helping it gain momentum in years to come.” More information and statistics from the Duport report can be found at www.duport.co.uk/wigan
Health and Wealth networking lunch
THE Wigan Federation of Small Businesses branch is hosting a Business Health and Wealth Networking Lunch.
The Wigan, Warrington, Widnes and St. Helen’s branch are holding the event for its members at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, Winwick Road, Warrington on Tuesday May 7th at 12noon.
Branch Members and guests are invited to attend this event - incorporating lots of opportunities to network amongst fellow local business owners. Please confirm your attendance or for more Information contact the Branch Secretary by e-mail: elaine.moore@fsb.org.uk or dial 07912 086634.
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Standish builder crowned winner of building excellence
THE WIGAN COURIER - WIGAN’S ONLY FREE NEWSPAPER THAT COVERS LOCAL SPORT
BUSINESS REVIEW
Dean Wood Golf Club Up Holland, Wigan
VACANCIES FOR 2013
We can now offer NO ENTRANCE FEE for 5 day membership Our 5 day membership equates to just £59 per month!! We can also offer discounted Entrance fees for Family/Group membership We are still offering discounted rates for 18-30yr olds
Please contact Ray Benton on 01695 622219 Email: secretary@deanwoodgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.deanwoodgolfclub.co.uk
Our 120 seating function room is available for hire
Join Dean Wood Golf Club this Spring
Old Prospect Brewery renovated by John Greenhalgh Joinery
Working for more than 25 years in the building trade, John Greenhalgh Joiner has a wealth of experience.
Starting his trade as an apprentice at Norman Knowles joinery manufacturers in Standish, a workshop producing bespoke windows, doors, staircases and church furniture, John branched out and founded John Greenhalgh Joiner.
Since the establishment of John Greenhalgh Joiner in 1987, John has worked as a subcontractor for a local building company, as well as working and managing projects from shopping centres, office complexes, prestigious private new-builds and listed building renovations. As a main contractor the John has carried out conversions, extensions and renvovations. Priding the business on honesty, quality and keen eye for design, John
Greenhalgh Joiner endeavours to minimise any inconvenience, and complete any project as quickly and painlessly as is practical. A long serving member of the quality assurance association and the trading standards good trader scheme, John focuses on delivering a quality product and service within the budget constraints of the client. John’s expanded his company four years ago by employing his son Jake, who has a HNC in construction. The good work of the business has not gone unnoticed, with the company winning three out of four nominations for building excellence for best domestic extension. John Greenhalgh Joiner won two awards at the recent Wigan Council Building Excellence and Urban Design Awards. The business was awarded first place in the Best Domestic Extension category for their extension work to the Old Prospect Brewery, Standish. John Greenhalgh Joiner also won the overall building excellence at the awards for work at Old Prospect Brewery, Standish. John was up against Morris Homes for Worthington Park Standish, Andy McCabe for Chestnut Farm Aspull and Whitfield and Brown’s Health Care Centre, in Leigh, Lambert Walker Conservation and Restoration Ltd for their work on the Pavilion Cafe, Mesnes Park, and Walter Carefoot & Sons for the construction of St. James’ Catholic Primary School. The business was awarded the overall award after the judges noted the care taken to construct a traditional masonry extension in keeping with the existing building.
SPRING is the perfect time to join a local golf club and enjoy the great outdoors.
The are over 4 million golfers in the UK and the UK has the most golf courses after the USA. Golf is very popular as it is fun, sociable, not too strenuous and can be enjoyed by people all ages. Dean Wood is friendly attractive golf course situated in Upholland, Wigan. The club offers golfers of all standards the chance to hone their golfing skills. With a clubhouse, regular events and competitions, Dean Wood is proud of its history and reputation as one of the best courses in Lancashire. The first nine holes were designed by the renowned golf course architect and 5 times Open Champion James Braid. For more information about membership please go to www.deanwoodgolfclub.co.uk or call 01695 622219.
Kitchen of Old Prospect Brewery, Standish
John Greenhalgh receives award from Deputy Leader of Wigan Council, David Molyneux
Early Birds celebrate tenth anniversary The children’s activities for the week included a multi-sports day with ProKicks, laughs and magic tricks with Terry De Maxin children’s entertainer, new experiences with Zoolab, where they were introduced to a snake, a tortoise, a frog, a giant snail. Children also went on a Treasure Hunt round the nursery, had a Teddy Bear’s Picnic, attended a Fancy Dress Party and played on ‘Andy’s Bouncy Castles’. They also attended their local library to
EARLY BIRDS Private Day Nursery in Coppull has celebrated its tenth anniversary.
Staff at the nursery lined up a funpacked exciting party week with ten different activities planned – one for each year. Early Birds Nursery opened 10 years
ago on March 3rd 2003 by Claire Botham and is managed by Rebecca Applegate. The nursery has gone from strength to strength and has only limited vacancies due to it’s excellent reputation. Parents of children at the nursery praised the nursery and its celebrations and the children haven’t stopped talking about their fun-packed week since!
celebrate World Book Day. The week was rounded off with an exciting helium balloon release on Friday afternoon when everyone released their very own balloon with it’s own special tag so they could tell whose had flown the furthest, including Carmen Morgan, aged 2, whose family have been with Early Birds since they opened in 2003. If you find a balloon, please give Early Birds a ring on 01257 791089
Wigan Mayor opens show homes
SHEVINGTON house-hunters were welcomed to a show home launch at Taylor Wimpey’s Oakwood Meadows development by Madam Mayor Myra Whiteside.
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A host of council members, estate agents and househunters gather for the grand opening of both the Stratford and Tarvin show homes. Anthony Mansfield, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey Manchester commented: “We were thrilled that the Mayor was able to join us for the launch of our show homes on this exciting new development.”
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All types of fencing work undertaken including heavy duty closeboard, heavy duty waneylap, concrete, rock face & plain. Flagging, drainage, land clearance, any sensible prices will be beaten. Quality workmanship. 20 yrs exp. Ring John for a free quote
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OPEN 6 DAYS THE STONE CENTRE Prices ex. VAT CEMETERY ROAD, LOWER INCE, WIGAN, WN3 4NN. TELEPHONE: 01942 866666
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• Flat Roof Specialists • PVC gutters & fascias • Competitive Rates • 30 Years Experience
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Classified MOTORS
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Changes to the Nissan Leaf for June
THE UPDATED Nissan Leaf will have a starting price of £15,990 when it arrives in showrooms in June.
updated Leaf electric car, which will be built in the UK and goes on sale in June. And for the first time the batteries can be leased, which drops the purchase price to Nissan has revealed as little as £15,990 the a new pricing after structure for the Government’s £5,000
TEL: 01257 400026 to advertise in the motors section
electric car grant. Customers can still buy the car outright though, meaning the maximum you can now pay is £25,490 (after the £5,000 grant) for a top-spec Tekna model. If you choose to lease the batteries, prices start
from £70 a month depending on the length of the contract and the mileage covered per year. There are now three trim levels to choose from – Visia, Acenta and Tekna – costing £20,990, £23,490 and £25,490 respectively
if you buy the batteries outright. Choose to lease the batteries and that drops to £15,990, £18,490 and £20,490 respectively. The cheapest battery-leasing contract is £70 a month, which is for a minimum of 36 months covering a maximum of 7,500 miles a year. Fifteen d i f f e r e n t combinations are available though, so if you choose to keep the car for just 24 months, covering up to 10,500 miles you’ll pay £95 a month, while the most expensive plan is £129 a month – that’s a 12 month contract covering up to 15,000 miles. A number of s i g n i f i c a n t improvements have been made to the LEAF too, including an extension of the range from 109 miles
to 124 miles. That’s achieved through i m p r o v e d aerodynamics, an updated regenerative braking system and a heating system that’s 70 per cent more efficient. The suspension has also been tuned to better suit UK roads, plus there’s a bigger 370-litre boot, a higher-quality interior trim and the time taken to charge the batteries has been halved. Alliance partner Renault has been leasing the batteries of its electric cars the Twizy, Zoe and Fluence - from the start, but it has yet to reveal whether it will now offer its customers the chance to buy its electric cars outright.
Road leads to Shanghai
THE SHANGHAI Motor Show 2013 takes place on 20 April, and it's shaping up to be one of the most relevant Chinese shows for UK car buyers.
It is the home show for Chinese car makers such as Brilliance, BYD, Chery, Dongfeng and Great wall, however many global car brands are choosing to launch
new cars in Shanghai, reflecting the growing importance of China. The BMW X4 concept will be revealed at Shanghai. The SUV will of course sit between the X3 and X5, and is due on sale early next year. The X4 won't be the only new SUV launched at the show. The Citroen DSX Wild Rubis concept car previews a new Audi Q5 rival for the Citroen DS family and Mercedes is
expected to launch the GLA, an SUV based on the A-Class. Ford will unveil a new global concept in Shanghai and there will be a facelifted Skoda Superb, too. An updated Porsche Panamera will also be revealed, and the range will now include a new plug-in hybrid version that can go from 062mph in just 5.5 seconds yet still has an official fuel economy of 91mpg. It has an
electric-only range of between 11 and 22 miles. Maserati will unveil the Ghibli, a BMW 5 Series rival designed to help boost its sales m a s s i v e l y . Controversially, the Ghibli will be the first Maserati to have a diesel engine. There will be plenty of exotic cars at the Shanghai motor show, too. The one-off 220mph Icona Vulcano supercar will be launched at the show, and Bugatti is expected to reveal its Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse convertible, which is thought to have a top speed north of 250mph.
If you prefer something even more luxurious, there will be a longwheel-base version of the Rolls-Royce Ghost. Future technology will be previewed in a clutch of concept cars. The Nissan Friend-Me will have a unique centre console designed to share information equally
among the cabin's occupants. Nissan calls this 'Four Seat, One Mind Connectivity'. The Suzuki Authentics concept car is a four-door saloon that may give clues to how production Suzuki cars will look in the future. The Detroit Electric SP:01 looks uncannily like the Tesla Roadster, which itself it derived from the Lotus Elise. A former Lotus exec, Albert Lam, is behind the Detroit and it will be on show in Shanghai. The show is held every two years in the Pudong district of Shanghai, alternating with the Beijing motor show. Both shows take place in the spring.
For more motoring news, don’t forget to pick up the latest copy of Auto Express from a supplying outlet.
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Review courtesy Auto Express, your No1 stop for news and information about the motor trade
www.autoexpress.co.uk Parkes Standish Motors Family run business since 1978
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Kelly’s Heroes pass the test
Courier SPORT
The Wigan Borough Get On Track graduates with mentors Neil Danns, Charlotte Hartley and Lynsey Johnson and Rob Burrows from WLCT.
WIGAN’S first ever group of young people to take part in an inspirational training and motivational project pioneered by an Olympic legend have passed with flying colours.
The Dame Kelly Holmes (DKH) Legacy Trust’s Get On Track course uses the power of sport to get young people active, motivated and ready for work. Outstanding student Jamie Davis receives his trophy from mentors Charlotte Hartley, Neil Danns A group of 36 young and Andy Mouncey. people from Wigan, all aged between 16 and 25, signed up for the course at their local Job Centre just over eight weeks ago. The course is aimed at young people who are not in education, employment or training and during it they have learnt new skills, tried exciting new experiences and benefited from the power of self-belief. Mentored by a host of champion athletes, the Charlotte Hartley with Get On Track graduates Dean Atherton, Matt Townson, Melissa Wilkinson, young people have learnt Ruth Yenulevich, Christopher Wilkinson and Jordan Kay.
will remain with them for the rest of their lives. They have a host of new skills but more importantly they have a new outlook on life. The project has taught them that with the right outlook and attitude, they can achieve remarkable things.” One graduate who is already reaping the rewards of his new-found skills is 23 yearold Jamie Davis from Wigan. At the awards ceremony Jamie was presented with the Outstanding Achievement Trophy by his mentors champion skateboarder Neil Danns, hockey star Charlotte Hartley and ultrarunner Andy Mouncey. Jamie was particularly taken with the wrestling session held at the famous Aspull Olympic Wrestling Club. During the session Jamie natural talent was spotted by legendary coach Roy Wood. Now Jamie hitting the mat every day training alongside world-class athletes from around the world. “I’ve never ached so much in my life!” said Jamie. “But it is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I am training alongside wrestlers from Canada and Japan and it’s really exciting. I’ve always wanted to give it a go but didn’t know we had such a famous club in Wigan. Thanks to Get On Track I’ve been given this chance to take it as far as I can and that’s what I intend to do. Get On Track has given me the motivation to give anything a go and I can really say it’s changed my life.” WLCT hope to be recruiting for the next Get On Track course soon. For more information contact WLCT’s Sports Development Unit on 01942 404982 or e-mail SDU@wlct.org.
Wigan Cosmos invited to play at St James’ Park
Runcorn edge a narrow contest Picture special by Marc Taylor
Wigan Robin Park lost narrowly to promotion chasing Runcorn Town 1-0. The Robins made the visitors work hard for there victory and one defensive lapse was all that Ben Kay storms forward with the ball. separated the two sides, the Robins dominated possession over the 90 minuntes but couldn't turn this into an equaliser. The Robins have two more home games left in the 2012/13 season, on Tuesday 16th April they host Bacup Borough and on Tuesday 30th April Norton are the visitors for the last game of the season, both games kick off at 7.45 at Robin Joe Hull advances forward for Robin Park Park Arena.
about sports coaching, tried their hand at a host of different sports, from athletics to wrestling, gained valuable qualifications and experienced the world of work firsthand through job placements. WLCT (Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust) became the first organisation in the North West to partner with the DKH Legacy Trust to deliver Get On Track. WLCT was chosen by Manchester-based charity GreaterSport to pioneer the project in the region. Course co-ordinator Lynsey Johnson from WLCT said: “This has been a huge success both for the young people involved and for the partners who have delivered the course. “We have provided an exciting and stimulating set of activities that will make the young people we have worked with ready for the next step in life. We have all been really impressed with the enthusiasm of the young people, they have stayed the course and succeeded in every task we have set them. Everyone involved with the course is really proud of them and we know they will go on to even greater success.” The Wigan team were all present at a swish awards ceremony at Wigan’s DW Stadium this week where they received their certificates for passing the course. Some have already found jobs and further training courses but all the Get On Track graduates will receive further help and support from the project’s follow-up programme Stay On Track. Speaking about the Wigan course, Dame Kelly Holmes said: “We have heard plenty of good things about the young people and their achievements and I’m really proud of all of them.” /more... Dame Kelly commented: “We think Get On Track is one of those experiences that
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NEWCASTLE UNITED has invited amateur side Wigan Cosmos to play at St James’ Park as an apology after more than 250 Toon Army fans ran riot on their pitch last Sunday. Their Sunday league fixture was disturbed by a large number of Geordies who disembarked from coaches ahead of their fixture with Wigan Athletic. Between 250 and 300 fans invaded the pitch, tore the nets from the goals posts, dropped their trousers and stole the match ball while chanting, “we’re Newcastle United, we do what we want”. A statement was posted on the Wigan Cosmos website strongly condemning the behaviour. Since then, Wigan Cosmos manager John Pendlebury has revealed Newcastle have been in contact and have offered them a once-in-a-lifetime chance to play at their 52,000 capacity stadium. John, 35, a school supervisor from Wigan, said: “I was contacted by someone from Newcastle who said they would like to offer us the opportunity to play an admin team at St James’ Park and some ex-players. “They were quite upset about what had happened. They wanted to try and put right what those fans had done.” The North East club were not originally planning to reimburse the South Lancashire Counties Premier Division side for the
damage. But after online pressure they finally caved in and offered to give them the £200 for damage caused. Now they’ve also gone a step further with the latest goodwill offering. John added: “The response has been incredible, it’s heart-warming really. “It shows what genuine football fans are capable of and the passion they have for their club. Newcastle should be proud of their real fans.” An account was also set up on the Cosmos website, with the amateur club already receiving £400 – cash likely to be spent on travel to Tyneside for the game. John said he had been humbled after a writer from the Newcastle True Faith fanzine had got in touch with him and donated money. John said: “These lads work an hour during the week to get £5 to play football on a Sunday. They pay that money for the privilege of playing. “So to see all that just vandalised was hard to see. The damage cost £200 which to a millionaire club like Newcastle is small change when you think about the wages they pay. “But the Newcastle fans have been unbelievable, they’re working class people too who were ashamed of what some of their so-called fans had done.”
Back to winning ways Courier
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Rugby Union Roundup by Geoff Lightfoot
Wigan 34 Ashton-on-Mersey 10 South Lancs & Cheshire Div 1 Saturday April 13th WIGAN banished their recent woes rattling up six tries to rediscover the expansive, attacking style which has regularly been on show at Douglas Valley this season. Playing with a strong breeze at their backs, Wigan at first failed to utilise their advantage and spent much of the opening quarter in their own half. Ashton pressed and took the lead with a 12th minute penalty. Though Wigan subsequently turned the tide territorially, with centre Steve Peacock prominent, their play was characterised by anxiety and mistakes abounded. As a dreary half came to an end Wigan snatched the lead. Peter Rigby dispossessed the Ashton scrum half at a lineout and charged in at the corner, Andy Whittle converting from the touchline. After the break Martin Gambles combined with Whittle, the outside half crossing near the posts and added the conversion. The introduction of John Lloyd and Lee Roby into the 2nd row proved crucial as both carried the ball purposefully with young prop John Foster having a noticeable impact on entering the fray. With confidence returning a patient build up stretched the Ashton defence leaving a gap for Gambles to slip through for a touch down. Ashton rallied with a converted try but their respite was brief as Whittle put Peter Rigby through a gap. With the visitors wilting Wigan capitalised with two late tries as the game ran into an extended period of added time, Mike Rigby breaking free on the blind side with John Lloyd powering over from short range. Glossop 48 Orrell 0 South Lancs & Cheshire Div 1 Saturday April 13th GLOSSOP had the advantage of the wind in the first half and when Orrell conceded a scrum10 metres from their line the home side opened the scoring with a converted try with a penalty extending the lead to 10-0 Glossop went further ahead through some good play across the backline and although there was a suspicion of a forward pass the try was given with a third coming just before the break, the conversion affording Glossop a 24-0 lead at half time
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After the restart, although Orrell failed to use the wind to their advantage, they were forcing Glossop into giving away a number of penalties and eventually one of home side was yellow carded but with John Statter also in the sin bin both sides were down to 14. Glossop scored their fourth from the resulting penalty to gain a bonus point before adding a fifth, a drive up field pushing the Orrell scrum back over their own line. Orrell did make some good breaks, running the ball and twice when it appeared that they would score, the last pass was knocked on. With less than two minutes remaining Glossop went in for their sixth. Aspull 84 Preston Ghoppers 5 10 Raging Bull Div 4North Saturday April 13th AN EASY win for Aspull running in a total of 14 tries. Chad Boyce was the pick of the bunch with four with Danny Arnold and Andrew Sedon crossing for two apeaice. Other try scorers were Aidan Clark, Oliver Parker, Darren Whitfield, Ian Robertson, Andy Hair and David Vall.
THE 92ND Annual General Meeting of Wigan Rugby Union Club will be held in the Clubhouse on Tuesday 7th May 2013 - all members are cordially invited to attend the meeting which begins at 7.30pm. The following amendments to the Club Constitution have been proposed by Gordon. Unsworth and seconded by NedGray: 7.2 With the exception of the Senior Coach, 1st XV Captain and 1st XV ViceCaptain the Rugby Sub-Committee will be elected annually at the Club’s Annual General Meeting. 7.3 The Senior Coach, 1st XV Captain and 1st XV Vice-Captain will be appointed annually by the Executive Committee in consultation with The Rugby SubCommittee. However, any member of the Club may make recommendations to the Executive Committee in respect of these appointments. Other Notices of Motion or Agenda items must also be received by the club secretary Martin Rigby in writing by 6pm on Saturday 27th April 2013. Copies of the Agenda and the Minutes of the 2012 AGM will be available on the evening of the meeting.
MILITARY VETERANS RFC: IT’S PORTUGAL OR BUST
AS CHAIRMAN of the Military & Military Veterans RUFC, Stephen Hawkins receives several enquiries each day from people who are interested in the concept of Military Veterans' Rugby. Last week, out of the blue, he received an email from Portugal, inviting the club to enter a team for the International Veterans Rugby Tournament in Cascais, Portugal. The tournament takes place in September 2013, and Stephen told the Courier he would dearly like to enter a team: “My ability to do so depends on both recruitment and funding, and the club needs help with both. Though based in Wigan, our membership consists of Veterans from all across the region. We are looking to recruit members who have served in the Military, and want to be part of a Military Veterans Club.” The Military & Military Veterans RUFC is affiliated to both the Civilian and Army RFUs, and carries insurance from both these affiliations. Call Stephen Hawkins (Chairman) on 07968 928739 for more information, or to join the club, or e-mail him through the Courier: info@courier-online.net.
SATURDAY 13th April 2013: The day Wigan Athletic rewrote the history books to become the first ever team to reach the finals of every English cup competition. It was an enthralling day, from the 7pm start and five-hour coach journey right through to the final whistle. Whilst the national media have (in my opinion) wrongly focused on the behaviour of the Millwall supporters, Latics fans descended on Wembley in their thousands to impeccably support their team. Two delicious goals, from Maloney and
Sam Oliver looks forward to another trip to Wembley
M c M a n a m a n respectively, secured our place in the FA Cup final against either Manchester City or Chelsea. The result also means a shot at the qualifying stages of the Europa League next season. I still can’t quite believe it! Let’s just hope we can do it all
again in four weeks’ time. Away from the excitement of the FA Cup, the Latics still have the unenviable task of steering clear of relegation. At the time of writing, we currently lie in 18th place with 31 points from 31 games. And it has to be said, the Cup run has certainly sparked some life into our league performances. The game against Norwich at Carrow Road provided three well-deserved points courtesy of a late Arouna Kone
Courier SPORT
Pat Richards stretches out to score in the corner in the derby match victory against Saints at the DW.
Ince winger Ryan Eccleston makes yards up the middle of the pitch against Hemel.
Matthew Meaden leaves the visitors’ defence trailing in his wake in the Challenge Cup tie against Hemel Stags
Wigan flanker Mike Rigby is wrestled to the ground by a Vale of Lune defender with teammate Stephen Peacock in support.
Picture special by Marc Taylor
Ince Rose Bridge took on Hemel Stags at Wigan RU’s Douglas Valley ground in the third round of the Tetleys Challenge Cup. Hemel, newcomers to the rugby league’s professional ranks for the 2013 season, had too much pace and power for Ince Rose Bridge and ran out 50-18 victors. Despite the scoreline, it was a spirited effort from Ince who left the pitch with heads held high having scored four good tries.
screamer; Jordi Gomez played in the Ivorian before launching a fierce low drive that beat the dive of Canaries goalkeeper Lee Camp. Another crucial goal was Shaun Maloney’s brilliant 94th minute free kick against QPR which Harry Redknapp called ‘the cruellest blow of my managerial career’. It secured a point for the Latics through a 1-1 draw, though the opposition played with 10 men for the majority of the game following the sending off of QPR’s Bobby
Zamora. Wigan struggled to make their extra man count and QRP thought they had won it through Remy’s sublime breakaway goal. But Maloney replied in injury time with a Beckham-esque curling shot that flew into the top corner; a goal that pretty much condemned our relegation rivals to Championship football next season. Overall, we’re still in a comfortable position if we make the most of these two games in hand. It will be crucial to
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get something out of Wednesday’s clash against Manchester City, or else we could be playing ‘catch-up’ if other teams around us start putting points on the board. But with an FA Cup final on the horizon and the promise of European football, people up and down the country are finally starting to take notice of Wigan Athletic; the club in a small, working-class rugby town who consistently defy the odds. Whatever happens in the next few games, we can hold our heads up high and be proud of where we’ve come from. In Bobby We Trust!
Liam Farrell’s progress is brought to a shuddering halt by the Saints defence at the DW
Tim Grundy leads the charge for Wigan in the Lancashire Trophy defeat to Vale of Lune.
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Courier
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