Try out a tasty Tandoori at Standish Tandoori
See page 11
Wigan boss set to be first GM Mayor
May 27th 2015
Issue no 254
Lord Smith favourite for the historic post of Greater Manchester Mayor
W
IGAN Council leader Lord Peter Smith is odds-on EXCLUSIVE favourite to become the first-ever Mayor of by Courier Greater Manchester when the Leaders of all the Editor Manchester authorities meet to choose between him and Mark Ashley the only other candidate, Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd, next month. Manchester authority
A source close to the selection process told the Courier that Lord Smith had a ‘significant advantage’ in support at the crucial vote, for an ‘interim’ position that has come about as part of the new Conservative government’s election commitment to devolution in England and developing the ‘ N o r t h e r n Powerhouse.’ And Lord Smith’s departure to the historic interim Mayoralty post will see Wigan’s Deputy Leader Councillor David Molyneux given the responsibility of leading Wigan Borough Council during a challenging two years for our local authority. Sources close to the council also indicated that the post of Deputy
WIGAN council leader Lord Smith
Leader will be offered to Councillor Chris Ready, the Aspull and New Springs Cabinet member for Culture. Lord Smith acquitted himself ‘extremely well’ at recent meetings in
with distinction in the past few years, having been closely involved in the ‘devolution’ negotiations with the previous Government which developed a feeling in London that Manchester’s senior politicians could be trusted with taking the Northern Powerhouse forward. Wigan’s leader emphasised his personal commitment to the reform of public services in what will be a massive unified authority area: “I want
before elections for the Mayor take place in 2017. Both Lord Smith and Mr Lloyd will be interviewed for the post in detail on May 29th. The current Deputy Leader of Wigan MBC, Coun David Molyneux, will cast the Wigan vote in favour of Lord Smith. Coun Molyneux is the popular choice among Labour group members to take over the reins: one source told us: “David is well-liked by his peers and very effective in committee and in developing strategy to cope with the reductions in funding that we will face over the next
Manchester when he faced questions from councillors from across the region as part of the interview process for the job. He is a clear front runner, having led the combined greater
STANDISH SERVICE STATION Unit 135 Bradley Hall Ind Est Bradley Lane, Standish
COMPLETE BEDROOM
FROM ONLY £789.00
FROM ONLY £1199.00
COMPLETE BATHROOMS
SLIDING DOORS
FROM ONLY £439.00
01257 422 899
COMPLETE KITCHENS
FROM ONLY £399.00
Unit 6, East Chorley Business Centre, Eastway, Chorley, Lancashire, PR6 OBJ T - 0800 587 9160 T - 01257 249888 E - info@sundowninteriors.net | W - www.sundowninteriors.net NOW OPEN: Saturday 10 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Sunday 12 Noon - 4.00 p.m.
NEW LEADER: Councillor David Molyneux
to work on reforming our public services as many of the poorest people and families in Greater Manchester have been left high and dry, not seeing the benefits of recent successful economic policies in the area.” Lord Smith will hold the post for two years
Government’s five years. “He conducted ‘The Deal’ roll-out and strategy with great aplomb, and has a proven track record as a senior Cabinet Member.” STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
1
• We service and repair all makes & models including Fleet customers • MOT testing on Class 4 & 7 catalyst & diesels • Motorhome servicing & repairs • Airconditioning servicing
We have the office of fair trading code of practice and are a member of the Wigan Trading Standards giving the customer complete peace of mind.
HAVE YOUR VEHICLE SERVICED FROM AS LITTLE AS
£95.00 plus VAT
Wigan boss set to be first GM Mayor
2
Courier
NEW DEPUTY Leader? Councillor Chris Ready
All Saints Church Appley Bridge
THE WIGAN COURIER -
STORY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 The new Deputy Leader is likely to be Chris Ready, another very experienced councillor and Cabinet Member who has worked on a variety of portfolios in his career as a councillor. Our source said: “ Chris Ready is a people person he cares as much about the people affected by the council’s policies as he does about the policies themselves, and is not a distant local politician, but a hands-on type who will get out there and get his hands dirty for the cause.”
ON Saturday, June 6th, 11am to 1pm, there will be a coffee morning in church to raise funds for Christian Aid. Contact Ann Edwards on 01257 254913 for more details. THE Friends of All Saints’ School are planning a joint School and Church Summer dance to be held on Friday, 10th July at The Paddock at Derby House. Please do your best to give this event your support. The profit will be split between the Church and the Friends. It is intended to organise a BBQ. Tickets costing £25 are available from Nicola or Julie Crawshaw on 07812 091505 or 07968338863. SUNDAY 5th July is the Junior Church Picnic at Worden Park, Leyland. Contact for more details: Cath Rainford. ALL Saints G.F.S. group is for girls aged 7 years and over. It is held every Friday 7 – 8.30 pm. Come and join whenever you can - call 251411 or 255531 for more details.
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
AS a former coaching inn The High Moor Restaurant in Wrightington near Wigan has been welcoming travellers since 1642 so it certainly knows more than a thing or two about offering genuine hospitality.
400026
Top award for popular High Moor Restaurant
ceilings and inglenook fireplaces while the menus incorporate the best of traditional British cuisine with a modern twist and a hint of international flavour.
Now the restaurant’s enviable reputation for superb food and outstanding wines has earned it a Highest Quality Assured VisitEngland Taste Accreditation and Loves Local Award from Taste Sympathetic renovations have Northwest. retained its character and style “At The High Moor we are with large windows, beamed passionate about providing our
customers with top quality dishes and good natured service in our beautiful surroundings,” said Chef Patron Simon Jones. “We are delighted with VisitEngland TasteAccreditation achieving the Highest Quality Assured rating and strongly support this initiative that champions the whole experience of dining out. Thanks also to our local suppliers for helping us to achieve this award with their excellent produce.” The High Moor joins other successfully accredited dining venues in the North West and can distinguish itself to customers with a presence on www.tastenw.co.uk as well as Taste Northwest’s mark of quality promoting quality assurances in food and service. “We’re pleased to showcase great eateries such as The High Moor that offer great food combined with an inviting environment and a commitment to excellent customer service – an all round winner for food lovers,” says Mark Loynton, Managing Director of Taste Northwest. Additionally, The High Moor will now be able to take part in Taste Northwest’s Talented Young Chef and Host initiative
by hosting a dinner, helping promote young people in hospitality. The assessment criteria for securing the VisitEngland Taste Accreditation and Loves Local Awards is based on the quality of food, use of locally and regionally sourced produce and ingredients, as well as excellent customer service. Scoring is based on: First and last impressions of the exterior, Bar and restaurant facilities and décor, Cleanliness in all areas, Hospitality and service efficiency, Food quality and presentation, Imaginative creative dishes using seasonal produce and or ingredients and Use and mention of locally or regionally sourced produce and or ingredients Each participating business receives a written report and overall score after the mystery assessment by Quality in Tourism the assessment service for VisitEngland.
Our picture shows High Moor Award winners Head Chef Norman Price, Nicola Holland, Daniel Francis, owner Simon Jones, Rachael Prudence, Joanne Chatterley, Tom Evans and Susan Hart.
It’s ‘Shoe-time’!
KIND-hearted pupils at Winstanley Community Primary School have ‘kicked off’ The Brick’s Tin Sculpture Challenge in style with a metal masterpiece that aims to give hunger the order of the boot.
2
The young can collectors are now in with a great chance of winning £1,000 for their school in the competition. And they’ve thrown down the glove (or should that be sock?) to other schools, by saying ‘can you match this?’ Homelessness charity The Brick has launched the challenge for schools, colleges and youth groups in Wigan Borough to create their own sculptures entirely from tins of food. The challenge aims to raise awareness about the plight of people in crisis in the borough and all the tins used will be donated to The Brick’s Food Bank to help relieve pressure over the difficult summer months. The Winstanley wonders have brought in their own tins from home before expertly constructing their model shoe. It comes with the slogan ‘Give Hunger The Boot’. The Brick’s Operational Manager Louise Green said: “What a fantastic start to our competition! The children at Winstanley CP School have really done themselves proud. We are thrilled that they have risen to our challenge in such amazing style. It’s going to be a hard one to beat. We want to see many more schools, colleges and youth groups getting involved.” The Brick has teamed up with the Wigan Warriors and Wigan-based Houses For Homes to create the challenge. There are three categories - primary schools, secondary schools and colleges/youth groups and three top prizes of £1,000 up for grabs for the best sculptures. “We know that work is under way on sculptures at Rosebridge High and the Wigan Youth Zone and we can’t wait to see the
results,” said Louise. “We’re very excited about the competition and we’ve extended the closing date so more children and young people can take part.” Would-be ‘canstructors’ have until Friday June 26th to build their sculptures and send a photo of it over to The Brick. All the entries will then be voted for by members of the public over social media. The winners in each category will each receive £1,000 and their are second place prizes of Wigan Warriors’ Community Days. The prizes will be awarded at a Warriors’game once the judging has finished. Each week, The Brick distributes more than 150 food parcels to families and people in crisis in our borough. Each one contains enough essential items for three days. The charity sees demand increase over the summer months when the borough’s schools are closed. “It’s sad to think that children in our borough will go hungry over the summer months because they will not be getting a free school meal but it is a fact of life,” said Louise. “It’s really important that we get our food bank well stocked in advance because we have been faced with empty shelves in previous years. The competition is also really important because it is encouraging our children and young people to take an active role in helping others in our borough who, often through no fault of their own, find themselves in difficult financial circumstances.” To be in with a chance of winning these fantastic prizes, schools, colleges and youth groups first must register to take part. You can do this by calling The Brick on 01942 236953 or email louise@thebrick.org.uk For more information on the work of The Brick and how you can help visit www.thebrick.org.uk Our picture shows Winstanley CP School’s Boot Sculpture.
Popular John O’Neill is new Honorary Alderman
3
Courier
THE WIGAN COURIER -
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
AT a meeting of the Wigan Metropolitan Borough Council, specially convened for the purpose and held on April 22nd, the Council passed a resolution.
We will transfer: Your LP collection to CD Your special videos to DVD Your old Cine films to DVD
This was that Mr John O’Neill J.P. who is a distinguished past member of the Council get the title of Honorary Alderman of the Metropolitan Borough of Wigan.
John was first elected to Wigan Council for the Langtree Ward in May 1990 and later the Shevington with Lower Ground Ward. During his time he has served on most Committees in an ex-officio capacity. John became a Cabinet Member in 2000 and Deputy Leader of the Council from 2002 to 2008. He was a school governor at Shevington High School from 1997 to 2005 and Standish Community High from 1996 to 2004 and represented the Council on the Standish, Aspull and Shevington Township Forum. Since retiring from the Council, John has been undertaking work with Wigan Borough in Bloom, Greenheart Regional Park, Wigan Borough Environment and Heritage Network to name a few. The resolution to confer the title of Honorary Alderman was moved by Labour colleague Councillor George Davies who said: “John’s record is outstanding, not only credited with Greenheart, Wigan In Bloom and his driving force for Lancashire Day, but his local history must not go a miss.” “I am honoured to move the resolution to my former teacher, former deputy leader of the Council, a local historian and a true gentleman. “ “Best wishes go to John and his wife Barbara on their future projects.” Deputy leader of the Council Councillor David Molyneux who seconded the resolution said: “John O’Neill is a tremendous
400026
ambassador for the Borough, he has immersed himself so much in local heritage that he could teach more to Wiganers about there own history, he deserves this honour.” Shevington Councillor Damian Edwardson said of his colleague: “John O’Neill is a man of passion for his community and I salute him that he is only in it to make things better for everyone. And finally The Mayor Councillor Phyll Cullen said: “John has given outstanding and valuable service to the Council and the community at large.” Our picture shows Barbara and John, receiving his Aldermanship from the Mayor Councillor Phyll Cullen and her consort John Cullen.
Standish Video & DVD 26a High Street, Standish 01257 426937 / 07774 775877
Election fever at the Fledglings
WOODFOLD Fledglings held their own election day at the nursery recently.
The process started by finding candidates (children) who were interested to take on a role and what they wanted to do to support the other children in the setting. They all (children) then at carpet time explained what they wanted to do to help in the nursery. Then it was decided on who they wanted to elect to do the role by posting their votes in the ballot box. They were all very keen to be involved in the process of the election. The candidates roles were to support the children being kind to each and resources tidied away appropriately. WELL DONE!!! to all the candidates and to the three children that were elected with the most votes. Our picture shows the winning candidates.
Southport Country Fair 29th to 31st May 2015 The Leisure Lakes, Mere Brow, Southport MAIN ATTRACTION Mr Showtime
STEVE COLLEY ex-World Trials Champion Motorcycle Stunts (Sat & Sun) Opening Times: 10-5pm Admission Prices Friday Adults: £3.00 (Half Price) Sat/Sun Adults: £6.00 Child: £2.00 Family: £16.00 Senior Citizens: £5.00 Visit www.garden-festivals.com to buy online or for Advance (Cheaper) Tickets call
01704 212734 email: info@garden-festivals.com
Trials bike champion ‘Mr Showtime’ to be found guilty of thrilling the crowds at the Southport Country Fair
In the high-octane, high-risk world that is international trials bike riding Steve Colley has won just about everything there is to win
And now the Isle of Man based rider will be show-casing his incredible skills at the 9th Southport Country Fair at the Leisure Lakes, The Gravel, Mere Brow, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 29 - 31, 2015. Steve, who is known as ‘Mr Showtime’ for his ability to really make things happen when it matters, began his career a two-times winner of the BBC Junior Kickstart competition. Other titles gathered along the road and down the years have included: 3 times British Solo Trials Champion, 4 times winner at Scottish Six Days Trial, 11 times winner Manx National Two Day Trial, Winner 2007 Tough One Trials Challenge, 3 Times winner Paris Bercy Trials Master Indoor and 4 times winner Val De Isere Mountain Pursuit Trial. ‘Mr Showtime’ – who is appearing on Saturday and Sunday only - is equally at home riding his bike over
3
cars and even buses indoors as he is up and down seemingly impossible mountain courses. “This is my first time at Southport,” he said, “But I understand it’s a very friendly and knowledgeable crowd I am hoping to give them something they will remember for years to come.” Also new for 2015 are a Falconry Display and other Birds of Prey (Friday and Saturday only), budgerigars and parakeets courtesy of the Southport Budgie Society, a display from the Southport Original Cruisers Motorcycle Club. While for those who tastes are a little more historic there will antique and Egyptian artifacts stalls. As usual there will be a packed programme of events over all three days including: air-rifle shooting with proceeds going to the Royal British Legion, alpacas (Sunday), Creature House – featuring reptiles, homing pigeons and bees - Donkey Rides and a Show (Sunday), ferret racing, gun dog demos and ‘scurry’, Pony Club Games and musical pony rides (Friday - provisionally), SideSaddle displays (Sunday) and the Show’s very own Fun Dog Show (Friday and Sunday).
Other Attractions
4
Next edition
Courier
The next Courier is published on
Wednesday June 16th
Final deadline for advertising copy:
Monday June 14th - 1pm The ONLY independent newspaper in
• Wigan • Standish • Shevington • Scholes • Aspull • Wrightington • Highfield • Ince • Orrell • Appley Bridge • Winstanley Advertising & Editorial
Tel: 01257 400026 Fax: 01257 400078
Suite 107, The Standish Centre, Cross Street, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0HQ
www.standishmedia.co.uk info@courier-online.net
Local and General Election report
THE WIGAN COURIER -
WIGAN Boroughs 3 MPs Lisa Nandy, Yvonne Forargue and Andy Burnham extended their majorities in Wigan, Makerfield and Leigh in the General Election on Thursday May 7th.
Lisa Nandy strengthened Labours control of Wigan with a comfortable win giving Wigan constituency one of the Labour partys safest seats.
Councillor Michael McLoughlin, Wigan Central ward said: “I would like to say a special thanks to the council officers for their skills in managing the elections so well. To Lisa Nandy MP, Dave Calder, my councillor colleagues George Davies and Lol Hunt and the Local Labour Team who ran a highly efficient campaign splendidly, and a big thankyou to the residents of wigan central who voted Labour in the local and general elections.” Councillor colleagues George Davies and Lol Hunt, Wigan Central ward said: “Wigan had a fantastic win throughout the borough, we can only
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
echo the statement from our colleague Michael McLoughlin that the people of our wards are a credit to Lisa and the team for a brilliant result.” I would like to thank all those in Standish who voted in last week’s General and Local Government elections, and particularly those who voted for Lisa Nandy, our MP, and for myself as Local Candidate for Standish. Debbie Parkinson, Labour Party Candidate in Local Elections for Standish said: “Although personally disappointed, I was pleased to see my vote as the Labour Party candidate more than double. This was especially satisfying as we were able to do this without stooping to telling untruths about my opponents, instead concentrating on the issues that matter to people’s lives, - a Veteran’s hub, more apprenticeships, a freeze of the Council Tax – issues none of our current Standish Councillors felt able to support. It was lovely to meet so many people during the campaign and I will continue to work within our Standish
Community, and look forward to be able to bring two defibrillators to the town centre, helping save lives of those who may suffer a cardiac arrest.” Lisa Nandy MP said: “We had a great campaign locally and I would like to thank all of the local Labour team, all of our members and council candidates, for their hard work. We have never taken a single vote for granted and it is a real honour to be re-elected to represent the people of Wigan.
Standish with Langtree Local Election Sir, May I, through your column, thank the many residents who voted for me in the Standish local election held on May 7th 2015. I stood as the Conservative candidate in Standish for the first time, and I was encouraged by the number of votes I received without making any spurious claims or promises I would be unable to keep. Though I was not elected, I was impressed with the number of votes I received; 1,848 which is 305 more than the elected councillor last year and only 151 behind the one elected this year. I would say this is excellent for a first attempt. If any residents would like to help me and the local Conservatives in the run up to next year's election, when incumbent Gareth
Fairhurst is up for re-election, please contact me at Ray4Standish@outlook.com. When I decided to stand for council I had no idea you were allowed to lie on leaflets to hoodwink the public into voting for you. It was my belief that statements on election leaflets must be factual and true, but to my and others dismay this was not the case and falsehoods were blatantly printed claiming the Conservatives, Labour and UKIP had all lied on our leaflets and were in support of more houses, which of course is simply not true. Once again many many thanks to all who voted for me and a special thanks to my team behind the scenes; headed by my son Neil. Ray Whittingham Conservative Candidate for Standish
Councillor enters the record books IN this years local elections Councillor Chris Ready had the biggest vote and the biggest majority with 3534 votes cast, giving him a whopping 2108 majority which is the biggest victory across the borough for decades.
Mayors charity cheque
Chris has been a Councillor for the ward he was born in since 1996 which is Aspull, New Springs and Whelley. The popular Councillor is also a long established cabinet member for Wigan. When asked what was his secret for his huge success he said: " It was a great victory not only for me but the support I get from my wife Susan and daughter Kelly is testimony to my victory. I have a big team of helpers and
supporters who help me in rain or shine." "It's a massive privelage for me to represent people I have known all my life. People who know me know I am a workaholic and I continued doing my work for the borough and all it's residents straight after the election was declared. We face a tough five years with the Torys in charge but we've got to get on with the job and do our very very best for all residents of the town. My promise to all residents is I will continue to work on their behalf never promising but always doing my best. Thanks to all my supporters. Councillor Chris Ready. Our picture shows Chris after his win.
McLoughlin, Mike Sheila Ramsdale, David Calder, George Davies, Lisa Nandy and Lawrence Hunt.
Blood Donor Sessions
We will be holding a blood donor session at Wigan and we would very much appreciate your support in helping to raise awareness amongst your readers.
Wigan DW Stadium, 21 Loire Drive, Robin Park, Wigan, Lancashire, WN5 OUH Monday 1st & 15th June 2015 Times: 13.15-15.30 and 17.15-19.30
Both new and regular donors can make an appointment to donate, or to find out more information about giving blood, by calling 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk
Lisa Nandy
Member Of Parliament For Wigan Will be holding Advice Centres by appointment on the following dates from May to August 2015 29th May
Lamberhead Green Library, Abraham Guest High School Specialist Sports & Arts College, Greenhey, Orrell, Wigan
8th June
Wigan Life Centre North Site, The Wiend, Wigan
12th June
Shevington Children’s Centre, Shevington Community Primary School, Miles Lane, Shevington, Wigan
26th June
St Cuthbert’s Primary School, Thorburn Road, Norley Hall, Wigan
3rd July
Standish Library, Cross Street, Standish, Wigan
27th July
Wigan Life Centre North Site, The Wiend, Wigan
THE Mayor of Wigan, Councillor Phyll Cullen was presented with a cheque for £428.00 for the Mayor’s charity by Councillor George Davies, Councillor Ron Conway and Michael Winstanley all members of the Mayor of Wigan’s charity committee.
The money was raised from the Easter raffle which was organised by the committe. The Mayors charity is for the cancer care unit at Wigan Infirmary for new equipment for patients. Our picture shows Wigan’s Mayor Councillor Phyll Cullen, Councillor Ron Conway, Michael Winstanley and Councillor George Davies at the cheque presentation.
Our pictures show Lisa with Wigans Labour team in the town centre and the night of the result with
400026
31st July
Ince Clinic & Community Centre, Manchester Road, Ince, Wigan
10th August
Wigan Life Centre North Site, The Wiend, Wigan
14th August
Beech Hill Children’s Centre, Beech Hill Avenue, Beech Hill, Wigan
21st August
4
Lamberhead Green Library, Abraham Guest High School Specialist Sports & Arts College, Greenhey, Orrell, Wigan
PLEASE RING 01942 242047 TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Ted backs CPR in Wigan workplaces 5
Courier
COMEDIAN Ted Robbins is urging workplaces in Wigan to teach their employees how to carry out CPR after having his life saved whilst ‘at work’ performing on stage.
New statistics from the British Heart Foundation (BHF) reveal overwhelming public support for learning the life-saving skill at work.
Nearly three-quarters (73%) of people in Wigan and the surrounding areas agree that CPR should be taught in the workplace as part of a staff induction. Ted, a presenter on BBC Radio Lancashire, had a cardiac arrest while performing a staged version of Phoenix Nights at the Manchester Arena, and a member of the audience helped to save his life by performing CPR. Ted Robbins said: “If it wasn’t for the quick actions of that audience member, I wouldn’t have survived when I collapsed on stage. “Cardiac arrests can happen at any moment, in the workplace or at home and they devastate thousands of families every year. “That’s why I passionately believe that people should know how to perform CPR so that they are confident to step in and help if a friend, family member or colleague suddenly collapses. “Employers have a duty to empower their staff with these skills and protect their workforce should the worst happen. “It’s an easy skill to learn in under 30 minutes and yet one day it may help you save someone’s life.” More than half (54%) of people in Wigan and the surrounding areas think companies should do all that they can to ensure all their employees are trained in CPR.
THE WIGAN COURIER -
There is also greater expectation that public-facing workers know this skill, with the majority of people believing that all gym staff (70%), airport (64%) and train station workers (51%) and hotel staff (51%) should be trained in CPR. Currently, less than one in ten people survive an out of hospital cardiac arrest in the UK, of which there are more than 30,000 every year3. The BHF is urging workplaces across Greater Manchester to help create a Nation of Lifesavers with its innovative Call Push Rescue training programme, which takes under 30 minutes and allows workplaces to be completely self-sufficient in training their staff via a DVD. The programme teaches people to recognise a cardiac arrest and perform CPR, by practising on a manikin. Victoria Gaffney, North West Regional Manager at the British Heart Foundation, said: “Fortunately Ted was one of the lucky few who survive a cardiac arrest because he had people close by who knew CPR. “But sadly for more than nine out of ten people, they aren’t given that fighting chance because people aren’t confident to step in and help. “If we are to improve survival rates in the UK and catch up with rates seen in other countries, more people need to know this life saving skill. “If all workplaces in Wigan taught their employees CPR, we could give everyone in the area a far better chance of survival if they suffer a cardiac arrest.” Workplaces and businesses can order Call Push Rescue training kits at: bhf.org.uk/lifesavers. No instructor is needed as all of the techniques are taught using the DVD.
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
Our picture from the British Heart Foundation shows Ted Robbins.
Skils are looking for volunteer drivers!
SKILS are looking for someone with a few hours spare to drive the people from SKILS to and from activities or possibly join them on one of our numerous day trips. It is a 16 seat disability accessible mini bus.
We would need to have confirmation that the driver has the D1 on their licence. Anyone with the old licence who took their test before 1997 will
automatically have the D1 on their licence alternatively anyone with a new licence may have took the extra test. We would love to welcome a driver to our bubbly and passionate team! A lot of the main trips are within the borough such as dance, drama, crazy golf down at Haigh hall and many more! Please see our website for more details: www.skilscic.co.uk Contact Sam Broxton to discuss further: 07872 180 162
5
400026
6
Imagine Courier
THE WIGAN COURIER -
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
Canon Sharples Church of England Primary School and Nursery
A complete Kitchen from start to finish
IMAGINE Kitchens are a thriving kitchen business based in Shevington, Wigan. Business owner Billy Davies and his team provide their customers with high quality, bespoke services from designing to installing the finest kitchens in the area. Imagine Kitchens are now Wigan Council award winners in the Good Traders Scheme. The scheme is run by Wigan Council to recognise the best traders in the borough. Billy and his team of qualified fitters have just received a ‘Certificate of Excellence’ which is in recognition of consistently high standards of customer feedback in 2014. At Imagine Kitchens they 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. Their 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 they also offer a supply only service. 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. Imagine Kitchens are open 6 days a week for customers convenience to take a peak and to obtain some styles and ideas. For further information on their services visit the webiste www.imaginekitchenswigan.com Book a FREE design appointment call Billy on 01257 403003 or Mobile: 07835 639759.
400026
Telephone: 01942 776188
NURSERY PLACES for 3 year olds still available for
Dont just take our word for it, Imagine Kitchens, Wigan really do go that extra mile for all of our customers. Here are just some of our satisfied customer comments.
September 2015
Our purpose built nursery offers high quality early years learning for 3 and 4 year old children. We offer flexible sessions and optional top-up to full school day. Provision at our school is wide and varied with a range of out of school activities which enhance academic and social development.
To Billy and team Thanking you for a great design & excellently fitted Rod & Denise Parkinson Just wanted to say a big thank you. There was always great attention to detail and all work was to the Highest standard. Billy thank you for your guidance & support and for my amazing kitchen Linda Bird Thank you so much for our lovely kitchen. All the workforce were so professional and helpful. STANDARD OF WORK 1ST CLASS Wouldn't hesitate in recommending you to anyone. Jill & John Maguire For customer care, that is second to none. Much appreciated Jim & Karen Shovelton
Please contact the school to discuss the options available
www.canonsharples.wigan.sch.uk
Quality kitchens at realistic prices
6
7
Courier
THE WIGAN COURIER -
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
The
400026
Selection of Great Real Ales changes regularly!
White Crow
The Home of Real Ale in Worthington, serving the community for more than 300 years...
FAMILIES ALWAYS WELCOME AT THE WHITE CROW Our Promise to you and your family and friends - Nothing but home cooked traditional pub food that suits everybody!
NEW THIS SUMMER
We now sell FIFTEEN delicious flavours of Frederick’s Ice Cream - Lancashire’s finest now available in tubs at the White Crow!!
CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE
QUIZ NIGHT
EVERY THURSDAY
FREE ENTRY - PRIZES TO BE WON AND THE FUN STARTS AT 9PM For Derian House and Hindley 12th Wigan Boys Brigade -
Dan’s favourite charities
OUR SUPER KIDS’ MENU
Quality, Healthy food for your family Cheeseburger, Chips & Cucumber
Spaghetti Bolognaise & Garlic Bread h
Stonebaked Cheese & Tomato Pizza (V)
Giant Battered Fish Fingers & Chips & Cucumber Jacket Potato & Baked Beans (V)
THE WHITE CROW has been awarded a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence for the number of customer reviews rating us as ‘Excellent’
Baked Lasagne & Garlic Bread
Homemade Breaded Chicken Goujons, Chips & Cucumber
FOOD HYGEINE RATING
THE WHITE CROW has been given a five-star rating by the Food Standards Agency for its high standards of cleanliness in food preparation
ALL MEALS JUST £5-95 INCLUDES ONE SIMPLY FRUITY DRINK
OPEN ALL Day, EVERY Day including all Bank Holidays!
7
Add on to any Kids Meal: Novelty Character Ice Cream - £2- 95
8
Courier
College tutor has book published
THE WIGAN COURIER -
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
HIGHLY acclaimed aromatherapist and awardwinning tutor Beverley Higham, is delighted to have her first book “Inspirational Aromatherapy” published by Balboa Press. Beverley has been inspiring students and staff at Wigan & Leigh College for 25 years and has worked with many leading professionals in the world of aromatherapy.
The book is a collection of all Beverley’s writings taken from her experience and passion for aromatherapy. The book includes delightful extracts from
400026
inspirational moments, achievements and aromatic adventures in the Alps of Provence. Beverley says, “I was born an aromatherapist! My mother used to take me on urban safaris around Manchester and the ship canal, where I discovered a natural world of wildlife and nature right on my doorstep”. Beverley found the time to write the book in her busy schedule, by taking a “500 words before breakfast” approach. This allowed her to continue with her tutoring role but also to continue developing her range of natural organic beauty products, with her business partner at Posionshop UK, introducing fresh, 100% organic body and spa products.
Beverley set herself a goal to collate her writing a few years ago and is delighted to have achieved what she set out to do. Beverley explained, “I wanted to bring all my wonderful experiences together to make my mark. I was able to design the cover myself and the book has its own website where I will continue to write a regular blog”. The book has already been read worldwide, as far as Japan, Italy and Greece. The book is available on kindle and I-book. Beverley said, “If I can do it anybody can. I will continue with my writings and hopefully will do another book in the future”. Our picture shows Beverley with her book.
Ready for organising our visit and he even bought me a few pints, the beer is defiantly better then in Auckland but that might be because Chris bought it, free beer always taste better. The friends of Haigh are doing a fabulous job and its great when volunteers
like John and Barry give their time freely." Our picture shows John Hulme, Chris Ready, Stephanie Grainier and daughter Heidi, Barry Cusick, Michelle Kirkpatrick, Shaun, Megan and Chloe Bird and Jake Kirkpatrick.
No place like home for Shaun
SHAUN Bird with his wife Megan and daughter Chloe recently visited his home town of Wigan. Shaun left Wigan 20 years ago to started a new life in Australia and now resides in New Zealand.
Time for Me Beauty Salon Proms Package 2015 Spray Tan with Full Set Of Acrylic Nails OR Shellac Fingers PLUS Weekend Eyelashes
Only £45.00
He was born in Clifton Street, Wigan with mum and dad Kath and Tommy bird along with sisters Karen and Michelle. Shaun planned his visit around the bank holiday weekend event organised by friends of Haigh Country Park. John Hulme Chair of the friends told the Courier: "This is a great accolade for the friends that Shaun travelled thousands of miles to visit his family and spent the day with us at Haigh Hall. We all wish Shaun, Megan and Chloe all the best for the future and we hope to see them again in the near future." Shaun told the Courier: "Wigan is were my heart is and visiting Haigh Hall brought back all my childhood memory's, it was great to show Megan and Chloe all the wonderful things Wigan has to offer. I would like to say a big thanks to Chris
Dedicate a daisy 2015 Cross Street, Standish. Tel: 01257 424243
PEOPLE from Wigan and Leigh are being invited to Dedicate A Daisy to remember a loved one and support Wigan and Leigh Hospice.
In return for a donation the name of a treasured friend or relative will be handwritten onto a wooden daisy which will be planted in the Hospice gardens or can be taken home straight away. The Hospice is currently raising £60,000 for the Counting on Care appeal to support the cost of modernising the 14-bed Inpatient Unit and making it dementia-friendly.All proceeds from Dedicate A Daisy will go towards the appeal. Maxine Armstrong, Fundraising and Lottery Manager, said: “Dedicate A Daisy is a simple and meaningful way to support our Counting on Care appeal. A lot of people tell us that they would like some sort of memorial to their loved
one at the Hospice so dedicating one of our beautiful wooden daisies will give families that opportunity. “The daisies will be planted together in our gardens in remembrance until September when everyone who has dedicated a daisy will be able to take it home with them to keep.” The redesign of the Inpatient Unit will focus on improvements to the 14 bedrooms and to the corridor and bays leading to the bedrooms. New signage, flooring and lighting will help people with dementia to better navigate the Inpatient Unit and feel more comfortable in their surroundings. Artwork will be based on local scenes to help with reminiscence while new décor, including bedding, carpets, curtains and furniture will be introduced to all bedrooms so that patients with dementia feel less disoriented in unfamiliar surroundings.
Other improvements, such as handrails along the corridors and contrasting colours to help distinguish each bedroom bay, will also be built in. Chief Executive Alan Baron said: “Our Inpatient Unit is 18 years old now so inevitably it is in need of some modernisation. This, combined with the increasing number of patients and visitors we are seeing with dementia, led us to launch our appeal. “We’ve been working closely with our local Alzheimer’s Society to really understand what changes we need to make in terms of lighting, flooring, signage, artwork and décor to make the Inpatient Unit as comfortable and therapeutic as possible for people living with dementia. All of these improvements will not only radically improve the Hospice experience for people with dementia but also for all our visitors and patients.” Daisies will remain planted in the gardens until Sunday, September 6th when all those who have made dedications will be invited to a ceremony at the Hospice where they will be able to collect their daisy. You can Dedicate A Daisy by filling in one of the leaflets which are available in the Hospice, in Hospice shops and in supporting businesses across the Borough. You can also email the Hospice team on fundraising@wlh.org.uk, telephone 01942 525566 or download one from www.wlh.org.uk. Our picture shows Wigan and Leigh Hospice staff with the Daisies.
8
9
Courier
THE WIGAN COURIER -
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
9
400026
AM Flowers win third award Courier
10
THE WIGAN COURIER -
The Rigbye Arms Country Inn & Restaurant
A warm welcome awaits you Lunchtime ‘LITE BITE’ Menu 1 Co ur se £5 .9 9 2 C our s e s £ 8. 9 9 3 C ou rs e s £ 11 . 99 S er ve d Mo nd a y to Fr id a y 12 No on ti ll 2 p. m.
‘EARLY BIRD’ Evening Offer
2 Co ur ses £ 12. 9 9 fro m our M ain Men u PL U S ki d s e a t ha l f p ri ce fro m K i d s M en u Mon day to Fr iday 5 p. m. t il l 6 . 30 p .m . (Does n ot i nc lude Bank Hol idays)
View all our menus & opening times online www.r igbyear ms.com 2 Whittle Lane, Wrightington, Wigan, WN6 9QB
0 1 2 5 7 4 6 2 3 5 4 www.rigbyearms.com
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
AM FLOWERS, family business run by sisters Angela and Julie have been based in The Stables Courtyard at Haigh Hall for the past 20 years and are keen active members of The Friends of Haigh Group, they are as passionate about Haigh Hall as they are about their business.
This latest award saw them beating over 120 exhibitors last Sunday at the Great Northern Wedding Show to come out worthy winners of the "Best Stand" in the Show. Angela and Julie go on to say that the award was just the icing on the cake after weeks of hardwork
making up over 50 new designs for the show.
400026
This award is voted for by the brides and grooms on the day, so to see that our work is appreciated makes us very happy. AM Flowers were also notified that they have been shortlisted into the last five in The Great Northern Wedding Awards in not one BUT TWO categories, Best Florist AND Best Venue and Event Dressers. This is an amazing achievement to have been shortlisted in TWO categories says Angela, we are so appreciative to all our brides, past, present and future who have voted for us, it means the world to us. The winner will be announced on June 1st. We really want to bring this award back to Wigan and to Haigh Hall!!!!!!!
Fun at the community centre
MANNED by enthusiastic volunteers, the Community Centre, the community hub for Standish, is based on Moody Street, off Church Street, just a very short walk from the centre of the village. As well as being available for private hire, the Centre is widely used by local Groups and Organisations for their regular activities.
Facilities available include a large Hall with fully fitted kitchen and lounge area attached, as well as a Committee
St. Wilfrid’s Church Summer club theme
WHY not come and be a Polar Explorer and be part of God’s big expedition?
St Wilfrid’s Church, Standish is once again to hold their annual Holiday Club - this year’s theme is “Polar Explorer”, come and join Sir Random Finds & Bare Feet.
The week will feature games, craft activities, drama, song, Bible stories and lots of fun as children go on a daily expedition through New Testament characters. The holiday Cub runs from 09:15 am to 12:30pm on the 10th to 14th August. It is open to children of primary school age, that is reception to year 6 and ages 5 – 11. The charges are £25 for each child, £35 for two and if you have more then please speak with a leader. Our Enrolment Night is Monday 22 June 2015, in St Wilfrid’s Parish Hall, Church Street, Standish [adjacent to the Church] from 6:00pm – 8:00pm We look forward to greeting you.
Room/Boardroom for smaller activities or meetings. A small private Car Park is attached. All parts of the building are WiFi enabled and both function rooms have Hearing Aid Induction Loops fitted. Opening hours are essentially to the users' needs, though tea, coffee and snacks are available in the lounge area, Monday to Thursday, 10am to 1.30pm. Events include Mondays Rhythm Group which is an inter-active music group for babies and toddlers and Pleasant Hour an over 60's group, lip readers, Zumba, Lace Makers. Tuesdays see Active Living, Parkinsons Group, Oddfellows, F2G4 exercise group and Christian Workshop.
The charity already supports over 1400 primary school children in the North West who are falling behind on their reading by recruiting, vetting and training reading helpers.
Local literacy charity calls for action
BEANSTALK, a literacy charity that supports children from across the North West is making an urgent call out in Wigan for people who could play a positive role in transforming the life of a child in the local area.
10
On Wednesday you can join the Yoga or Art Group and Thursdays will be Slimming World, Quilters, Friendship Group and Standish Forum. You can join in on Fridays with the very popular Tea Dance which takes place every second Friday of the month. Members of the public are welcome to drop in any time the Centre is open. New bookings are always welcome and friendly and helpful volunteers will be happy to advise and show visitors around. For more detailed information on the different user groups and times please contact 01257 421048 or visit www.standishcommunitycentre.org.uk
Each volunteer works with three children on an individual basis, twice a week for a school year. This one-to-one support and consistency is invaluable to the children that Beanstalk supports and provides them with the basis from which to lead a happy and successful life. Becoming a reading helper with Beanstalk is a rewarding and fun experience with a large number of reading helpers staying on for many years. Charity representative Rebecca Carter stated ‘we are really grateful to the volunteers that give their time to our important cause, we urgently need more volunteers in Wigan so that we can help even more children’. You can find out more about becoming a Beanstalk reading helper by getting in contact with us on 01204 275120 or visiting www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/reading-helpers
Join a warm and friendly group near your home........
Thursday - The Community Centre, Standish - Karen Moody Street, Standish * New Time* at 9.00 a.m.
Wednesday Standish - Barbara Standish High School, International Language Centre, Kenyon Road, Standish at 5.30pm and 7pm Tuesday Shevington - Barbara Shevington Methodist Church, Gathurst Lane 3.30pm, 5pm and 7pm
Thursday Parbold Village Hall, Parbold - Carol at 6.00 p.m.
Standish Tandoori celebrating 23 years
11
Courier
CURRY doesn’t just taste good, it’s also good for you, and at this little gem in the heart of Standish you will find out just how good it is! writes Michelle Hafez.
The best place to go for this delicious Indian food is the one and only STANDISH TANDOORI which is located in Pole Street in Standish.
Head chef and longstanding owner Shamsur Rahman is celebrating 23 years in Standish serving the community and giving his support of sponsorship to local football and cricket teams. Shamsur isn’t surprised to hear that curry does you good as he has long sworn by certain spices for curing ailments. He says: “Many of my favourite dishes are health boosters and that makes them taste even better!” He also insists that a super strong Vindaloo is the best way of shifting flu or a particularly stubborn cold.
THE WIGAN COURIER -
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
Historically his family come from the Sylhet, in the far north of India in what is now Bangladesh and the people who live in the villages nearby are very well known for living a long, long time and enjoying good health. He says he is sure that the food and spices used in Indian food is something to do with it. Scientists have long wondered why old people in the Indian sub-continent have one of the lowest rates of Alzheimers disease in the world. Now boffins in South Africa have isolated the classic, brilliant yellow spice turmeric as an important ingredient in the fight against degenerative disease of the mind. Bhuna and balti are thought to be good for the brain. So while you are eating your delicious Standish Tandoori you are looking after your health at the same time. You can actually ring up to order or go to the Tandoori and wait with a FREE cup of coffee whilst your meal is freshly prepared and cooked while you wait. Mr Rahman and his dedicated staff have also
received numerous awards for their excellent preparation and cooking of the food which include Master Chef Award and Roll of Honour Awards. Once you visit the pristine takeaway you will be made very welcome and left to browse the extensive menu. Also if you want any advice on what to try the ingredients of the dishes will be explained to you. Popular dishes include: Starters from £1.50, Karahi from £5.45, Plain Curry from £4.95, Vindaloo from £4.95, Madras from £4.95, Bhuna from £4.95, Biryani or Pilau from £5.95, Korma from £4.95, Dhansak from £4.95, Samber from £4.95, Kashmir/Malayan from £4.95, Dupiaza from £4.95, Rogan Josh from £4.95, Bangalor from £4.95, Methi from £4.95 and can be served with side dishes from 50p and Indian Breads & Rice from £1.30 The Tandoori also have House Special dishes from £5.95 and English & Continental dishes from £4.10 Also on offer is the set meals which can be for one, two or four people. These are: A. Set Meal For One Person - £9.50 - Mix Kebab, Papadum, Vegetable Bhaji, Chicken Tikka Masala, Pilau Rice, Naan Bread, Onion & Mango Chutney. B. Set Meal For
400026
Two Persons - £18.95 - Mix Kebab, Karahi Lamb, Onion Bhaji, Bhuna Chicken, Vegetable Bhaji, Pilau Rice, Naan, Papadum & Chutney. C. Set Meal For Four Persons - £35.95 - Samosa, Mix Kebab, 2 Chicken Chat, Chicken Karahi, Chicken Tikka Masala, Prawn Bhuna, Lamb Rogan Josh, Onion Bhajis, 2 Vegetable Bhaji, 4 Pilau Rice, 2 Naan Bread, Papadum, Onion & Mango Chutney. You can also request a dish that can be prepared on request for any special dietary or allergy needs. You will certainly be satisfied with the reasonably priced dishes, the vast variety of choice and the attention in preparation and cooking the perfect dish for you. If you haven’t experienced Standish Tandoori yet do it now! get yourself that tasty Tandoori treat, you won’t be disappointed. They are open 7 days a week including bank holidays from 4.00 p.m. till midnight. A home delivery service is not offered as they like you to have your food freshly cooked. PLEASE DO NOT CONFUSE STANDISH TANDOORI WITH ANY OTHER TAKEAWAY.
Welcome to the place of Taste and Hospitality
STANDISH TANDOORI INDIAN TAKEAWAY THE ASSOCIATION OF HIGH CLASS FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS HAS BEEN AWARDED TO STANDISH TANDOORI AND THE MASTER CHEF & ROLL OF HONOUR AWARDS • FREE coffee while you wait for main meal • Open seven days a week, including Bank Holidays • Opening hours: Mon-Sun 4.00 pm. till midnight
TELEPHONE: 01257 423737/423317 20 POLE STREET, STANDISH, WIGAN (Opp. Aldi) 11
Courier
12
Blinds
UK WINDOW BLINDS
Top quality Blinds at Low prices
SUPERSALE
VERTICAL BLINDS 4 from £99 Also full house from only £150. Ask for details
5 Year Guarantee
CONSERVATORY, ROOF AND SIDE BLIND SPECIALIST
UP TO 55% OFF Our Stunning UK VERTICAL Special Collection 40% OFF WOODEN BLINDS - Must be seen 50% OFF Aluminium VENETIAN BLINDS - Over 140 colour options
ROLLER BLINDS Less than HALF PRICE - MASSIVE CHOICE
CHOOSE AT HOME - LARGE SELECTION ABSOLUTELY NO PRESSURE OR OBLIGATION FREE MEASURING, FREE FITTING!
Telephone Anytime:
01942 714882 Building
THE WIGAN COURIER -
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
Electricians
Skip Hire
Plastering
EX-NORWEB ELECTRICIAN G 32 yrs experience G Rewires G Showers G Alarms G Security Lights G No job too small
NO JOB TOO SMALL
FREE ESTIMATES
Fitted Bedrooms
ARLEY
BEDROOMS & KITCHENS
Email Ainscoughskiphireltd@hotmail.co.uk or add us on facebook
Plumbing/Heating
www.arleycabinets.co.uk
01942 246190
We won’t be beaten on price and service!
Windows and Doors
S p e c i a l is t s i n r ep l ac e m en t do ub l e g l a z ed u n it s
Gidlow Lane, Wigan, WN6 7BN
Mon-Fri 8am-4.30pm
Sam e SerDay vice
01942 247339 / 01942 866200 07912 085 001
Telephone: 07838 251505 www.getplastered.biz
Large Selection of Finishes ALL Made to measure Latest Gloss Finishes
Ainscough Skip Hire
Mini, Midi, Maxi, Builders
• Local business offering friendly, reliable service at honest rates. • All types of interior plastering work
Tel: 01942 234454 Mob: 07950 756305
400026
Sat 9am-12noon
Ring with sizes for free estimates
FITTED BEDROOMS
FREE DESIGN & QUOTE
8am - 8pm 7 days 01942 470 085 0800 328 8573
TELEPHONE 01942-824396 OR VISIT OUR FACTORY SHOWROOM UNIT 10 SWAN MEADOW INDUSTRIAL ESTATE
Fitted Kitchens
www.steamywindows.net
Wanted
•Traditional • Modern • Contemporary • HAND-BUILT BESPOKE FITTED KITCHENS Appliances at unbeatable prices 100s of appliances on display
MA KITCHENS LTD
701 Ormskirk Rd, Pemberton, Wigan 01942 213327 Open 6 days www.makitchens.co.uk
Joinery
S.M.J. JOINERY
• Covering all aspects of Joinery • Kitchens • Building • Property Repairs • No job too small • FREE estimates
Cleaning STANDISH CLEANING SERVICES • Industrial • Commercial • Domestic • Daily & Weekly Office Cleaning • Windows • Walls • Dry Foam Carpet Cleaning • Reliable Staff
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTATION
T: 01257 422977 M: 07801 695447
Plans
PLANS DRAWN G Building regulations and planning permission submitted G Free estimates G 20 years experience
Phone David
01942 821812 07411 644949
Take a break from cleaning Our services include: • Cleaning • Ironing • Laundry • Collection of Shopping, Prescriptions WE ALSO NOW OFFER COMPANIONSHIP FOR THE ELDERLEY OR INFIRM Please call for more details of visit our website
01942 369316/03330 124 642 www.acleanbreak.co.uk E: stephen@acleanbreak.co.uk Cleaning in Wigan since 2005
TELEPHONE 07938 950529
Landscaping
STONESCAPE
Roofing
ASHTON’S ROOF CARE Property Maintenance Call Billy on 01257 423620 or 07879 881927
NATURAL STONE PAVING SUPPLIERS
Why choose expensive concrete imitations for your patio when you can enjoy the latest beauty of real NATURAL STONE for less? New Natural Sandstone Paving Slabs £15.00 sq mtr New Natural Limestone Paving Slabs £15.00 sq mtr Choice of colours and sizes available from stock also MASSIVE STOCKS of Circle Features, Stone & Granite Cobbles, Stone Walling, Copings, Rockery, Decorative Stone, Troughs, Slates, Bricks, Reclaimed Yorkshire Flags & Much More. At Trade Prices: New Oak Railway Sleepers (Untreated) £20 Old Oak Railway Sleepers (Grade A) £15 All our products are top quality and everything is available ex stock. Why not let our expert design and installation team create your Dream Garden or Driveway. Our work is second to none. Call now for a FREE NO OBLIGATION quotation from the experts. Full masonry workshop facility on site, we can make you just about anything in beautiful natural stone. Please enquire. Visitors welcome to view our display areas. Delivery service available.
OPEN 6 DAYS THE STONE CENTRE Prices ex. VAT CEMETERY ROAD, LOWER INCE, WIGAN, WN3 4NN. TELEPHONE: 01942 866666
For Sale
• Flat Roof Specialists • PVC gutters & fascias • Competitive Rates • 30 Years Experience
Skip Hire
FOR SALE TWO Pushchairs: Mothercare Travel System and Car Seat £25 ono and Babies R Us Stroller with rainhood £15 ono Tel 01257 426168 /075479 30559
WALK IN SKIPS - ALL SIZES/TYPES
OVER 75% OF ALL SKIP CONTENTS RECYCLED
• Council Approved Contract/Recyler • Weightbridge • Direct Tipping Facility • Satellite Tracked
12
• Fully E.A. Licensed Materials Recycling Facility • 1 Tonne Skip Bags • Grab-Hire • Suppliers of Stone, Sand, Soil and Recycled Materials
J. DICKINSON & SONʼS (HORWICH) LTD Telephone: 01942 496097 W: www.jdickinson.co.uk E: info@jdickinson.co.uk
Recycling Facility, Rivington View Business Park, Blackrod, BL6 5GR
TO ADVERTISE IN OUR CLASSIFIED SECTION PLEASE CALL MICHELLE HAFEZ ON 01257 400026
Courier MOTORS Courier
13
THE WIGAN COURIER -
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
TEL: 01257 400026 to advertise in the motors section
SEAT improves Ibiza spec
THE NEW facelifted 2015 SEAT Ibiza was unveiled at the Spanish brand’s home motor show in Barcelona. The car goes on sale later this year priced from around the £11,500 mark. Although we’ll see a completely new Ibiza as early as
2016, this updated version of SEAT’s compact hatchback debuts a more efficient engine line-up, extra safety equipment and new connectivity technology. The Ibiza’s latest design is a subtle evolution of the previous car – the main changes include
Motor-Diag DIAGNOSTIC & SERVICE CENTRE
Vauxhall Specialist
Servicing to any make or model Service lights reset Timing Belts Brakes Engine Management & A.B.S. faults Service inc. parts/labour & VAT from £70.00 Timing belts supplied and fitted from £90.00
Call Mark 01942 498444 Chapel St., just off Queens St, Wigan. All major credit cards accepted
new LED running lights, as well as two new alloy wheel designs and two paint colours – both seen here on SEAT’s show stand in Barcelona. There are also more customisation options now available. Like the previous Ibiza, the car will be available in three body styles, including the fivedoor version, a sportier threedoor SC model and a more practical ST estate. SEAT’s efforts with the exterior might be small, but it’s addressed the Ibiza’s interior tech more thoroughly, equipping this facelifted model with its second-generation Easy Connect system and even more gadgets. Compared to sister cars like the Volkswagen Polo and Skoda Fabia, the old Ibiza was lacking connectivity features, but with the option of Mirror Link – reflecting certain apps on your smartphone on the car’s central screen – a DAB radio and voice control as part of SEAT’s MediaSystem plus option, the Ibiza is now on a par with rivals.
Service & Repair Centre NOW OPEN • • • •
Servicing (part or full) MOT preparation Brakes, Discs & Pads Tyres (for all brands & budget tyres) • Exhaust Systems • Diagnostics
• • • • • • •
Valeting Buffing Alloy Wheel Refurbs Full Re-Sprays Restoration Smart Repairs Courtesy Car Available
CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE Telephone: 01257 472 552
The rear of 25A High Street, Standish (behind In Good Taste & La Mamas)
www.standishautobodies.co.uk
Review courtesy Auto Express, your No1 stop for news and information about the motor trade
www.autoexpress.co.uk
It’s all wrapped up in a new interface that SEAT says should make it easier to use than onboard kit in previous Ibizas, with Apple and Android phones supported. On top of this, there’s also a more safety kit, including a new ‘Tiredness Recognition System’ to monitor driver fatigue on the move, as well as what SEAT calls Multi-Collision Brake – this automatically slows the car down after a crash, and if the airbag is deployed it’ll even apply the brakes and flash the hazard lights to warn other drivers.
Updated engine and suspension
While this extra safety is great, the Ibiza has always been at the sportier end of the hatchback market, and SEAT hasn’t forgotten this with the updated Ibiza. As a result there’s a retuned suspension setup with the option of adaptive dampers, and a new engine line-up. The entry-level model gets a 74bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol. If you want a bit more power you can opt for either a 94bhp or a 104bhp 1.0-litre Eco TSI unit – the latter available with SEAT’s DSG dual-clutch gearbox – which is a turbocharged version of the regular 1.0 petrol. If you want even more efficiency, the 94bhp 1.0 Eco TSI Ecomotive betters this by another 10mpg, kicking out just 94g/km CO2 emissions, meaning free road tax. The 74bhp 1.4 TDI is the most frugal in the range, offering official fuel consumption of 83.2mpg combined and 88g/km CO2, while the 89bhp (also available with a DSG box) and 104bhp TDI turbodiesel units hit over 74.3mpg. There’ll be three trim levels on offer in the UK from launch, kicking off with the entry-level S version. SE models get air conditioning and a colour touchscreen as standard, while the sportier FR version features some racier design touches. Prices are yet to be announced, but expect the new Ibiza to start from around £11,500 when it goes on sale in the UK later this year.
Courier SPORT
400026
Away day woes haunt Warriors
W
Paul Finch is
ELL, WIGAN’S Jekyll and Hyde season continues in the most spectacular fashion imaginable. For most of 2015, we seem to have been watching two different teams in Cherry and White: the boys at home, who effortlessly sweep all before them, and the boys away, who look disjointed, disorganised, defensively weak and error-prone, and frankly are far too nervous when away from the familiar surroundings of the DW for a professional team. Somehow, this hasn’t created a major problem in the league – they currently sit second in the table (probably because other leading clubs have also displayed up and down form, and because Wigan have so far played nine home matches in the Super League competition, as oppose to six away). However, it was only a matter of time before this amateurish level of inconsistency would have a serious consequence, and now unfortunately, that has occurred. Wigan’s 12-16 defeat in the Challenge Cup to Hull KR last week featured a performance by the Warriors which wasn’t the worst I can remember in the history of this great club, but in terms of its manner and timing was certainly up there among the worst. The scale of this defeat will also add salt to the bitter wound of an early Cup exit. Okay, losing 12-16 is not that bad a defeat in itself, but two weeks earlier Wigan crushed the same opposition to the tune of 60-0. Now, I can’t remember the last time a club turned around such a deficit in under a fortnight. It’s truly extraordinary. Though Rovers had certain key players back in the shape of Terry Campese and Josh Mantellato, I honestly don’t
believe these returnees from injury should have made that much difference. Anyway, Wigan are now out of the Cup at the first hurdle, with all the unpleasantness that will entail. But it could also be about to get serious in the league as well. At the time of this writing, Wigan’s next four matches are away. Okay, the Magic Weekend on May 30 is at the neutral venue of Newcastle United, but then the Hull KR Cup game was at a neutral stadium too, and on this
ON SATURDAY 25th April Wigan RUFC hosted its first casino night, organised by Howard and Claire Taylor. Pier Fun Casinos set up their top package in the club’s Prospect lounge, bringing a little bit of Vegas to Douglas Valley.
It was a fun evening and Wigan RUFC would like everyone enjoyed the thrill to thank their sponsors : of gambling without the Murr Elektronik, RJW risk of losing money. Plumbing Services, L.C. The top prize of £100 of Union Fitness personal training vouchers and a bucket of champagne was won by ex- president Frank Morgan, to cries of “ReDraw, Re-Draw...”
13
The Insider
Wigan Warriors from the Inside Out...
are several old adages in Wigan’s favour here: good teams don’t become bad teams overnight; class is permanent, form is temporary, etc. So this isn’t something the team can’t fix. But personally I feel that these defeats away from home are psychological in origin, which is sometimes a
“...definitely missing the regular, fulltime presence of Sean O’Loughlin...”
occasion the opponents on the day will be leagueleaders Leeds. But it’s not as if any of the other looming fixtures are likely to be much easier. Wigan face Catalan away on May 23, Huddersfield away on June 7 and St Helens away on June 12. This would be a stiff test for anyone, and yet the stakes couldn’t be higher. With no Cup run to fall back on, the very last thing the Warriors want now is to see their top four hopes whittled away too, and that could be the outcome unless they find some steel from somewhere. Of course, the good thing about hoodoos is that they eventually break, and there
bit of an intangible problem. The 42-14 defeat on March 6 at Castleford, which is always an intimidating place to go even as a fan, was one of the worst I’ve seen a Wigan team suffer in the last 30 years. And though they managed to defeat Wakefield at Belle Vue on April 23, they still looked shaky with ball in hand and feeble in defence, and managed to leak 22 points to a team so low in the rankings that it’s coach, James Webster, would be sacked less than a month later. But it’s clear to me that the coaching staff at Wigan are doing as much as they can be expected to. The tactics and strategies
are in place, and the team is nothing if not fit. All of this is proved by the superiority the Warriors have displayed at home. Their victories over Saints and Warrington on April 3 and 16 respectively were very sweet indeed, and demonstrated supreme skill and commitment to the cause. Shaun Wane is further digging deep by threatening to swing the axe in response to the Cup exit. And with exciting talent like Matt Bowen, Rhodri Lloyd and James Greenwood jockeying for selection, and the likes of Ben Flower, Tony Clubb and Iain Thornley hopefully back from injury soon, he’ll have plenty of options. But I still think that some soul-searching may be required by the players themselves, particularly those with some experience under their belts. It can’t solely be down to the head coach to devise strategies for victory and to take command of team preparation. By the same token, he isn’t the one out on the pitch who is missing tackles, fumbling the ball, throwing passes to no-one and giving away cheap, daft penalties. I can’t help feeling that some strong on-field leadership and game management is required at Wigan at present. In that regard, the Warriors are definitely missing the regular, full-time presence of Sean O’Loughlin, but it isn’t as if there aren’t other senior players who could and should step up to the mark. Now would be a very good time for it.
Wigan RUFC hosts Casino Night
Landscapes and Union Fitness for supporting the event and helping to make it a success.
No wonder heʼs smiling....£100 winner Frank Morgan is pictured with the shadowy figure of Martin Rigby aka Burt Reynolds...
Courier
14
Courier SPORT THE WIGAN COURIER -
Winstanley College honours its sporting achievers
WINSTANLEY COLLEGE’S successful sporting season has been celebrated at the College’s annual Sports Awards.
The college has excelled in sport this year, with victories in the regional rounds of competitions, including a phenomenal 49 students qualifying for the Association of Colleges (AoC) Sport National Championship Finals in Bath, where they represented the North West.
The College’s teams at the championship included: men’s and women’s football, men’s and women’s hockey, women’s doubles tennis and a female rugby player. In addition, students Laurie Clark, 17 from Horwich and Annabel Rowlands, 17 from Standish, won the women’s tennis doubles. As well as these wins, the College picked up an impressive 22 bronze medals overall from the National Championships! The Sports Awards, which were held at the Mercure Wigan Oak Hotel, were a
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
great way to recognise and appreciate the College’s sporting ability and elite. The most prestigious award of the evening ‘Sports Person of the Year’ went to Kyle Shelford, 18 from Orrell, who made his debut for Wigan Warriors 1st team this year. Laurie and Annabel were both runners up for the award following their success in tennis. The evening was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Anne Baxby, Head of Sport at Winstanley College said: “We have had an outstanding season and it is great to
recognise the hard work and dedication of our players and teams in this way.” The College’s many other successes of the season were also announced at the event. These included the Women’s Football team winning their league, and the College’s Men’s 2nd Football and the Women’s 1st Netball teams both getting into the Play-Off Finals for the North West League. Other great results included: the Mixed Hockey and Women’s 2nd Team Netball finishing 2nd place in their leagues while the Netball
G Printed one side G Any number G Ideal for handing out G Ideal for in-store promotions G Ideal for postal promotions (leaflet fits inside 1/3 A4 envelope)
Leaflets are printed on good quality 120 gsm paper, ideal for putting through letterboxes
Price List
200 leaflets: £28-00 plus VAT 400 leaflets: £44-00 plus VAT 800 leaflets: £64-00 plus VAT 1200 leaflets: £88-00 plus VAT Other sizes and print options available - just ask
What we need from you
Your Words, any Pictures you want to include, and........ er....... THAT’S ALL! We’ll do the rest
Same Day Turnaround
Courier
01257 400026
Order before 9-30am, delivered before 5pm. Order after 12 noon, delivered before 12 noon next working day (subject to demand)
Call
for further information or to make an order
Wigan’s Good News Paper
The WIGAN
1st team, Women’s and Mixed Hockey and Women’s Volleyball also got through to the Quarter Finals of the National Cup. Our picture shows students at the College’s annual Sports Awards event. Top row: Lucy Bradley, Laurie Clark, Kira hambleton, Molly Coburn, Beth Blakeley, Annabel Rowlands, Victoria Rumsey Bottom row: Kyle Shelford, Dan Simpson, Cameron Scott, Conal Gallagher, Ben Hatch, Michael Speight, Kieran Macnamara.
St John Rigby rugby side signs off
ST JOHN Rigby College Rugby League team played their last game of the season against Salford City College at the AJ Bell stadium (home of Salford Reds and Sale Sharks) and came away as impressive 56 – 4 winners.
FULL COLOUR A6 LEAFLETS
400026
From the moment they arrived at the stadium the 19 players were treated to a full professional experience. Entering via the player and coaching staff entrance the students walked into a dressing room with fully presented kit. The match itself was officiated by professional referees and linesmen who commended both teams on their full-blooded yet gentlemanly approach to the game. For many of the 2nd year students this was their final game in SJR colours and the victory was a fitting end to their
time representing the College. Ramone Samuels was named player of the match and Alan Hunte, former St Helens RFL legend and current Salford City Reds under 19’s coach awarded his trophy to him. Pete Robertson, the lead on the Rugby Performance and Excellence Programme at St John Rigby College said, “This was a commanding display from an excellent group of young men. The lads displayed great skill and sportsmanship throughout the game. “To end the season with a 56-4 win against such a strong unit shows the thorough way we have approached the drill, skill and training we work on with students throughout their time at the College.” College Principal Peter McGhee said, “St John Rigby College has a pedigree of producing exceptional sportsmen and women. Many of our
former students have gone on to play sport professionally at National and International level. It is testament to the quality of coaching our students receive that they are able to compete and beat some of the best teams in the country.” If you are interested in the Performance and Excellence Rugby course at St John Rigby College please speak to Peter Roberston on 01942 214797 or email Our picture shows the winning squad: Ramone Samuels, Declan Gregory, Patrick McLoughlin, Lewis Tolen, Liam Burrows, Sam Wells, Daniel Rodgers, Ben Leaford, Joe Knight , Ryan McCraken, Patrick Daven, Alex Chipper, Jack Phrophet, Jack Swann, Harry Talbot, Lewis Martindale, Benedict Ratchford, Connor Evans, and Cameron Dermott.
College soccer star plays for England
WINSTANLEY COLLEGE student and England Women’s Football star, Megan Finnigan, will be battling it out with her team in Iceland this June to become international champions.
The talented 17-year-old, has been playing football since she was just seven years old.
Over Easter she travelled with the England team to Ireland for the qualifiers, where they beat Hungary 4-1 before winning the final game against Holland 2-0 which meant they topped the group with six points.
14
The win ensured that they qualified for the finals and the team are now getting ready to compete in the international championships in Iceland which start on June 17th. The England team will face Germany, Spain and Iceland in their group. Megan said: “Getting through to the qualifiers in Ireland was exciting. For a while it looked like we might not make it through to the finals but I’m so happy we did. Now it’s just a matter of training hard, along with studying for my AS-level exams, so that we play our best in Iceland.” Our picture shows Megan playing in the qualifiers in Ireland (she is playing in the number 6 shirt).
15
Courier
Courier SPORT The Shevington Sharks players making waves!! THE WIGAN COURIER -
SHEVINGTON SHARKS former young players are creating headlines in the world of Rugby League.
The club was very proud when two ex-Sharks, Kyle Shelford (Wigan Warriors) and Ricky Bailey (St Helens) represented England Academy in their fixture against France on May 16th, with Kyle having the fantastic honour of Captaining his country. Sharks’ spokesman Steve Dillon said: “It’s a tremendous achievement by both players and they should be very proud of what they have achieved so far in their young careers. “Well done from everyone at Shevington Sharks.” Our picture shows Ricky
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
on the left and Kyle on the sporting their right England sweatshirts. In other exciting news for the Sharks, ex-player and current Warrington Wolves Under 19‘s captain, Sam Wilde, signing a full time professional contract with the Wire. Said Steve: “This goes to show how the good coaching Sam had in his junior rugby days at the Sharks, and all the hard work and dedication that Sam has shown over the last number of years, has paid off, and this is a deserved thoroughly result.” And current Under 16’s player, Pat Sharks McCarroll has just finished his season with Widnes Vikings U16s and they have been so impressed with Pat they have offered him a 2 year
Academy contract at the club, which is superb news and recognition for commitment Pat has shown throughout his fledgling rugby career great news for Pat and his mentors at the Sharks club. Our pictures show Sam in the primrose and blue of Warrington and Pat in his red Sharks kit. Sharks Cubs training has recently begun again Thursday at every Standish High School on the all weather pitch from 6-7pm. They train alongside the Under 7’s and Under 8’s and we have been getting fantastic numbers coming along and enjoying their first involvement with Rugby League. Said Steve: “All our teams, at all age groups, are important but we do like to encourage the
younger children to come along and give Rugby League a ‘go’ with the Sharks. “The future is looking good with the new Under 7’s having a fantastic start to their season this year.
“We are always on the lookout for more potential players to come along and join the Sharks from Cubs to Open Age. Everyone will be made very welcome. So please come along,
400026
and if you need any further information please see our Facebook page, Twitter account @ShevingtonShark or our w e b s i t e : www.shevingtonsharks.co .uk .
St John Rigby student’s England Honours
ST JOHN Rigby College student Mayumi Pachecho is making waves for the England U17s football team.
Mayumi, whose club team is Liverpool Ladies FC has just returned from Cork, Ireland where the 2nd Elite UEFA round was held. The squad managed to come away with two wins over Hungary and Netherlands but lost to the hosts, Ireland.
The final round will be played in Iceland and the first game will be against two-time winners Spain. Mayumi, former Our Lady Queen of Peace student has already made a huge impression in her short footballing career, becoming Liverpool Ladies’ youngest player at 16 years old and winning last season’s Under 17’s Players’ Player of the Year. “It’s an honour to reprepresent both my club and my country and I’m very lucky that I get to travel all over the world and play. I’d like to say a special thank you to St John
Rigby College for supporting me with my A Levels whilst I also pursue my footballing career.” Principal, Peter McGhee, said, “It is a pleasure to work with Mayumi as she achieves great things on and off the football pitch. She has an exceptionally positive attitude and applied herself wholeheartedly to everything that she does. St John Rigby College has successfully supported and continues to support a number of elite athletes who choose to study here. “Our Performance and Excellence Academy is a perfect way of providing those who want to pursue a career in sport with the qualifications they need and a flexible timetable for their dedicated training. “This is just one of the many ways in which we seek to fulfill our mission of valuing and meeting the needs of individual students, celebrating learning and raising aspirations.” Our picture show Mayumi in action for England.
craftsmans PROJECTS LTD
bespoke building contractors and developers
Master Builder Of The Year
Winner 2012 - NorthWest Region
A family run business, established in 1996, offering you an individual approach to your project, domestic or commercial. Personal service, providing a unique level of building design and construction quality throughout the Northwest.
Safety Award Winners
We are proud to support Wigan & Leigh Hospice
www.craftsmans.uk.com
15
The Standish Centre, Cross Street, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0HQ tel: 01257 426 361
Courier
THE WIGAN COURIER -
advertise in full colour at NO extra cost - call 01257
400026
FULL MARBLE SUITE INCLUDES FREE FIRE
FROM ONLY £590
*FREE FITTING VALID UNTIL END OF JUNE 2015
16
* Pictures for illustration purposes only
* Conditions apply
16