St Helens & Ashton Edition
May 2012
Ghoulish Goings on at Bispham Hall! Page 20
Spring Walk in Parbold Pages 33-35
Best British Stay-cations See centre pages
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Crafty by nature… Published by Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Orrell, Wigan. WN5 7XB Advertising/Editorial Nicola Gray 01744 649722 nicolag@locallife247.co.uk Accounts/Distribution Sally Boon 01695 627999 sallyb@locallife247.co.uk For further information, visit our website www.locallife247.co.uk The June issue of Local Life will be published on Thursday 31st May. The copy deadline for this issue is Thursday 17th May. Local Life is published every month. Distribution areas will alternate each month between two separate edition areas: The St Helens and Prescot edition is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Rainhill, Eccleston, Prescot, Eccleston Park, Windle, Knowsley Village, Prescot Road and part of Nutgrove. Copies of this edition are also available to pick up free from Tesco Extra Stores in Peasley Cross and Prescot. The St Helens and Ashton edition is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Rainford, Billinge, Newton-le-Willows, Garswood, Crank, Kings Moss and parts of Ashton and Moss Bank. Copies of this edition are also available to pick up free from Tesco Stores in Haydock and Earlestown. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of this publication, including pictures, may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.
When you receive the new edition of Local Life - remember to recycle the old one.
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People who know me well know that I love arts and crafts, and can while away a full weekend making gifts for friends or a little treat for myself. Recently though my sanity was called into question by my husband as I set about filling all our disused tea cups with candle wax. My explanation that I was simply making some tea cup candles for our friends was met with a face of total disdain. So that’s why I love this time of year when the craft and summer fayres are out in full force and I can converse with people who understand me. This issue is packed full of creative ways to spend your time, so make sure you keep hold of the magazine to see what’s happening over the next two months. With the Diamond Jubilee fast approaching we have details about how local residents are celebrating the occasion. There’s a great Jacks Tracks for you to try out on p33-35 and for the keen gardeners amongst you there’s a handy guide on p46 with information on some stunning open gardens you can visit in the area. Finally, for all of you out there running around frantically trying to organise summer events and to all the schools and community groups, don’t forget one of the most important parts of your planning; to tell Local Life! We would love to give your event some free publicity so be sure to let us know! E-mail the details of your event to me at nicolag@locallife247.co.uk and we’ll let our readers know all about it. See you next time,
nicolag@locallife247.co.uk
In this issue Let’s Get Crafty in Billinge 50% off conservatory Perfect Fit Blinds! Free Membership & Diet Pack worth £35! Free Underlay Offer at United Carpets! Legends of Bispham Hall Dish of the Month – Lamb Keema British Stay-cations in 2012! Free Wine Offer at the Red Cat Jack’s Tracks to Parbold What’s On B the Best – Ford’s new B-MAX Motoring Services Angie’s Garden Diary Open Gardens feature Home Services Tell Us Once Useful Numbers
7 9 13 17 20 24 26 29 34 38 40 42 45 46 47 50
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Janet on 01744 603210 or Anne on 01744 893260. The Residents Association are hoping to raise funds through the car boot sale to put towards the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations that are being held at the Chapel End Labour Club on Friday June 1st.
Haydock Women’s Group
Wellbeing Week
If your fitness and healthy lifestyle could do with a bit of a boost, then we might just have found the kick-start that you need. St Helens Wellbeing Week is aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of people living in the town. The week-long festival starts with a promotional event in Church Square on Monday 14th May between 10am-5pm. So whether you would like to improve your mental wellbeing, try something new or need more information about a health issue, the Wellbeing Week will be packed with free events to help boost your health. For more information about the planned activities please contact Danny Woodworth on 01744 675132 or e-mail danny@tmcsh.org.uk
Bank Holiday Boot
Billinge East & West Residence Association is making the most of this May Bank Monday (7th May) by holding a car boot sale at St Mary’s Club on Trent Road between 9am-1pm. Entry for cars is just £8, anyone wanting to book a space please contact
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Haydock Women’s Group are waging a war against boredom and if May’s events are anything to go by, it looks like they’re winning! If you don’t like finding yourself at a loose end or you’re craving some company then pop along to Haydock Cricket Club, Piele Road every Tuesday and get involved. The ladies have been putting their heads together and have come up with a varied line-up for May, so there will be something that takes your fancy. On 8th May its cake day, so bake, bring, buy or just enjoy some cake, all the proceeds will go to the Multiple Sclerosis Society. If you could do with a trip out then why not join the group for a visit to Liverpool’s Synagogue and Cathedrals on 22nd May. To round up the month on 29th May you can join in the celebrations for the Queen’s Jubilee, the group will be hosting a street party, get in the party mood by dressing in 50’s style and join in the fun. For more information please contact Chris on 01942 393925 or Janice on 01942 842487.
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a brilliant opportunity for your children to make friends and learn how to work as a team in a safe and secure environment. For more information please contact Elaine on 07840 395387 or Eddie on 07706 495228.
Good Neighbours Day
Dib Dib Dib!
Garswood Scout Cubs are looking for new members to join their club, so if you have a cub searching for a new home or a child just looking for a new adventure then read on. The cub pack meets every Thursday at Seneley Green Hall in Montrey Crescent at 5.30pm and is suitable for children aged between 8-10 years. The group take part in a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities including; bat hunting, litter clear ups, arts and crafts, and badge work. The cub pack also owns and maintains its own beehive, so there are lots of activities to keep the group entertained. This is
Everybody needs good neighbours and to put this theory to good use the Friends of Henley Park are holding their annual Good Neighbours Day on Saturday May 19th. Henley Park, opposite Whiston Hospital, will be a hive of entertainment and everyone is welcome to join in the fun between 12pm - 4pm. All the family are invited to join the group and the rangers for an afternoon of fun activities including a climbing wall, face painting, plant sale and lots more. For more information please contact the park rangers on 0151 489 1239.
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Tea Party at Willowbrook
2012 is a year of celebration for Willowbrook Hospice as they mark 15 years of providing local people with palliative care. Being a big part of the community they would like you to help them mark the occasion with an anniversary tea party. You can join staff and the local community on Sunday May 20th between 1-4pm to show your support for the Hospice. There will be lots of entertainment for all the family including plant sales, gift stalls, tea and cakes and especially for the little ones a teddy bear’s picnic at 2pm with Brookie Bear. Entry is free so pop down to Cedarwood gardens at the Hospice on Portico Lane in Prescot and join in the fun. For more information please contact the fundraising team on 01744 453798.
End Labour Club in Billinge might just be the place you’re looking for. The popular street dancing classes are held every Thursday and are split in to age groups. 6-8 year olds dance from 5pm, 8-10 year olds from 6pm, 10-12 year olds from 7pm and 13-19 year olds from 8pm. Places are filling up fast, so for more details or to secure your child’s place please ring Jane on 01744 603031 or Anne on 01744 893260.
Street Dancing
Does your son or daughter like to throw a few shapes on the dance floor? If they do and you would like to find somewhere for them to practice, then the Chapel
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up her craft and gift shop. The products on sale are all carefully sourced from local traders and there is something to suit everybody’s taste. The new stock is nothing but first class in the style stakes, so if you’re looking for a thoughtful present or a gift with a difference you don’t need to look any further. The shop is packed to the rafters with gorgeous soaps, handcrafted jewellery, fair trade goods, traditional children’s toys and reclaimed handcrafted wood.
Grand Opening 10th May
Billinge Arts & Creative Gifts is a little treasure trove tucked away in a quiet corner of Beacon Road, Billinge. The quaint gift shop has recently opened in the heart of the village, supplying everything from home furnishings to inspirational gifts and cards for every occasion. The gift shop is a new venture for local resident Lesley Tracey and serves a dual purpose for her fledgling arts business. The shop is used as a base for her established Play Therapy service but Lesley decided to use the space to its full potential and set
Lesley has lots of entertaining activities planned for the near future, including weekend craft events, art exhibitions and much more so keep your eyes open for details of these. The shop is open from Thursday to Sunday and with Father’s Day just around the corner why not pop in and treat your dad to some traditional handmade fudge, or have a look at the other gifts on offer. For more information about opening times or upcoming events please give Lesley a call on 07890 128146.
Billinge Arts & Creative Gifts craft courses: Sugar Craft and Cake Decorating Taster Course Course includes 5 x 2 hour sessions during May-June
For further details on dates and prices please contact Miri on 07505 356861
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Local Life
Shop ‘til you DropÂ
Smithy Centre
Blundells Hill Golf Club would like to invite you to an exclusive shopping event on Wednesday 13th June. If you love boutique gifts or you’re searching for a present with a difference then put your comfiest pair of shoes on and get ready to shop ‘til you drop. The shopping evening will be held at the Golf Club on Blundells Lane, Rainhill starting at 6.30pm. You will be able to browse and buy jewellery from Jessie’s Jewels and baby gifts from Pink a Dink Occasions plus many more stalls. If you would like more information or would like to book a stall for your business please contact Jill on 0151 426 9040.
The Smithy Heritage Centre in Eccleston is holding an International Blacksmith’s Day on Saturday 26th May. You will be treated to blacksmithing demonstrations, wheelwrighting, basket weaving, free craft sessions for children plus you can see many more craftspeople showcasing traditional skills; there will also be a chance to buy some unique handmade gifts. The Smithy also has a permanent exhibition of original artefacts on display including, maps, photographs and documents of the area. Also included in the displays are some of the original tools from the site that were used in the forge and the wheelwright’s shop. Admission is free so pop down to the Smithy on Kiln Lane between 12pm-5pm. For more information please contact Joanne Chamberlain on 01744 730744 or email smithyheritagecentre@hotmail.com
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Olympic Flame
It’s been a long time coming, but after an absence of 64 years, the Olympics return to the UK and on Friday 1st June you can see the Olympic torch making its way through St Helens and Knowsley en route to London. The torch will be on day 14 of the torchbearers’ relay and this is your chance to see the iconic golden flame on the Bolton-Liverpool leg of its journey. Leaving the junction with Rainford Road and Bleak Hill Road at 2.10pm, the torch it will be carried into the town centre and out along Prescot Road, where it will join a convoy of vehicles to be transported along St Helens Road to Knowsley Safari Park just before 3pm. According to the official schedule, the Olympic Torch will be touring the park for 35 minutes before continuing in convoy along the Prescot Bypass and through Huyton. The Safari Park is hosting a free public event so people can view the torch, for more information please visit the website at www. knowsleysafariexperience.co.uk. Below is the official torch route;
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Rainford Road (A570 from Bleak Hill Road), Greenfield Road (A570), Dentons Green Lane (A570), Dentons Green Lane (A570) – Right Turn, Cowley Hill Lane – Left Turn, Kirkland Street (A570), Kirkland Street (A570) – Right Turn, Westfield Street (A58), Borough Road (A58), Prescot Road (A58) – To Margery Road, Convoy to Knowsley Safari Park, 14.59pm – Knowsley Safari Park, Convoy from Knowsley Safari Park to Huyton, 15.38pm Liverpool Road (A57) – From Prescot Bypass (A58) East Prescot Road
Saints Signing
Saints fans are in for a real treat on Saturday 26th May! If you’re Saints mad or you know someone who is then get yourself down to the Church Square Shopping Centre in St Mary’s Arcade because some of the 2012 squad will be in there to meet and greet the fans. The lads will be in town from 10am-4pm signing autographs and memorabilia, don’t miss it! For more information please contact the shopping centre on 01744 751710
Tap Classes
Learning to tap dance can be a great way to improve your fitness and overall dancing ability, but most of all it’s a great laugh! The Crank Village Community Association would like to welcome you to their tap dancing classes. Join them every Tuesday evening from 7.45pm at the old school hall in Crank. Everyone is welcome so strap on your dancing shoes and join the fun.
Local Life 11
Inglenook Farm on the Rainford Bypass. If you would like to inject some style in to your paintings, this oneday tutored workshop will have you whipping up a watercolour like Van Gogh in no time!
Deaf Awareness Week
Deaf Awareness Week runs from 7th to 11th May, and the Deaf Resource Centre will be out in force helping to raise awareness for the cause. The centre, based on Dentons Green Lane, provides services that support and enhance the quality of life for deaf people. According to UK statistics, 1 in 7 people have some form of deafness, these could be your friends, family or colleagues and the centre aims to raise awareness and offer support. The Centre will be holding an Open Day on Wednesday 9th May and will be visiting local hospitals and shopping centre throughout the week. If you would like more information about the Deaf Resource Centre or would like to make a donation please call 01744 23887 or email enquiries@deafresourcecentre. org
Watercolour Classes
If you enjoy creating your own artwork but could use a little help when it comes to stimulating your creative juices then pop along to the classes being held at
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Local professional artist, Joanne Boon will help you to explore exciting watercolour techniques and experimental methods with one-to-one tuition and demonstrations. The course will be held on Monday 21st May between 10am-3pm and costs £40 per person including a buffet lunch. For more information or to book your place please contact Joanne on 07955 931964 or e-mail at joannethomas81@hotmail.co.uk
Dawn Chorus Walk
If you like to be up with the Lark then the new Dawn Chorus walk organised by Fir Tree Farm on Pimbo Lane might just ruffle your feathers. The first walk will take place on Sunday 20th May starting at 5am, taking in the glorious countryside around Kings Moss. Booking is a must for this event and tickets cost just £9, which will get you a hearty breakfast after the walk. Fir Tree Farm will also be a holding a Farmers market on Saturday 19th May from 1pm-4pm, selling the very best in local produce, there will also be a variety of stalls selling unique handmade gifts, so don’t miss out! For more information about the Farmers Market or to book your place on the walk please contact Fir Tree Farm on 01744 894959 or email events@ firtreeshopandcafe.co.uk
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Local Life 13
Get in shape
With summer holidays fast approaching, it’s this time of year when we start to dig out our summer clothes and worry about how we’re going to look on the beach. But help is at hand, Newton Community Centre on Park Road South has come up with some activities that will have you strutting along the beach in no time.
Summer Fayre
For those who want to bag a bargain or two, there’s a Summer Fayre being held at Bispham Methodist Church on Saturday 12th May from 11am to 2pm. The church, which is located on the corner of Upholland Road and Crank Road, will be hosting cafe lunches, a car wash, and many stalls selling goods such as plants, cakes, books & toys. Don’t miss it!
Well, if you need to lose weight, tone up and get that bikini body you’ve always wanted. Then shimmy yourself fit with Newton Community Centre. The fresh new Zumba classes will have you looking and feeling better in no time! Join in the fun on Wednesday evenings between 6.30-7.30pm, the cost is just £4 per session, payable a week in advance. If you fancy building your body’s core strength and improving your posture, then the new Pilates classes on Friday mornings could be for you. The cost is just £3.50 per session and the classes are held between 9.30am-10.30am. For more information about the classes please contact the Centre on 01925 224731 or check out the website at www. newtoncommunitycentre.co.uk
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Jubilee Tea Dance
St Helen’s Town Hall tea dance programme will spring into action on Thursday May 10th with a Jubilee street party celebration. The themed event celebrates this special royal year in real street party style - complete with Union Jack bunting, staff in themed costumes and a special showing of the Coronation. It’s a chance for everyone to practice their ballroom, sequence and olde tyme routines - or simply to enjoy the entertainment, a friendly chat and a great cup of tea! Tickets are available at £3 per person and can be ordered by calling 01744 675492.
Nurses Reunion
A group of nurses who trained and worked at the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary in Wigan between 1966 and 1976 are holding a reunion on Friday 6th July at the Bowling Green Hotel on Wigan Lane at 7.30pm. So if you’re interested in meeting up for an informal evening with old friends and colleagues, or if you know of anyone else who worked at the Infirmary during this period please let them know
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about the reunion. The organisers of the event are; Kath (Armstrong) White, Judith (Wilding) Blan, Teresa (Winstanley) Arkwright, Jenny (Cheetham) Ramsdale, Elsie (Carter) Nicholson and Eileen (Catterall) Cook. If you’d like any further details about the reunion either email raei1967to75@talktalk.net or phone 07888 941850 or 07724 916482. If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number to editorial@locallife247.co.uk.
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Local Life 17
Beer Festival
Calling all ale fans! The Mansion House Beer Festival is gearing up for its third year at the pumps and is going from strength to strength. Based in the newly refurbished Diamond Suite venue of The Mansion House, this year’s beer festival is set to be bigger and better than ever before. With more than 35 beers, lagers and ciders available visitors will be sampling the best that British and world beer has to offer. This year’s festival will take place on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th May between 11am-11pm each day. Tickets are £5 per person and can be purchased from The World of Glass and The Mansion House on City Road. For more information please contact The Mansion House on 01744 752644 or email enquiries@themansionhouse.org.uk
Mind Your Language!
a great start. The centre is offering a wide variety of courses, covering several foreign languages including French, German, Greek, Italian and Spanish and if you’re looking for something a little bit more exotic they have Mandarin Chinese classes. The courses are held at various times throughout the week, including evenings, and range from beginners through to advanced classes. All the classes are held in a very relaxed, informal atmosphere with up to 15 students taking part. And better still, there are no exams at the end! The centre is also planning to run an English course for speakers of other languages in the near future. For more details about the cost of courses or to register you interest please contact the centre on 01925 224731 or visit the website at www. newtoncommunitycentre.co.uk.
Break It
The annual St Helens dance off is back again for 2012 and it’s bigger and better than ever! Breakdancing teams from across the country and Europe will go head to head on Saturday 26th May, in competitive “dance offs” as well as individual showcases. You’ll see all the latest and hottest moves that street dance has to offer so don’t miss out! Get yourself down to Church Square in St Helens Town Centre and get with the groove. For more information please contact 01744 675326.
Do you want to learn a new language or brush up on your existing skills in time for your holidays? If so then Newton Community Centre can help you get off to
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Longshaw Legends!
loaned to them by Dr Charles Mather. The trio have also planted thousands of bluebells near the Beacon and have scattered thousands of wildflower seeds in Billinge Woods.
It may be just a small village that people whizz by when travelling from Orrell to Billinge, but the village of Longshaw should be proud of a big-hearted family in their midst. Pictured are Cliff Stockley, and his young grandsons William (10) and Samuel (6), who have spent many hours improving the look of the local area.
It was Cliff’s father William who, when he clocked off work at Park Colliery, spent hours with Cliff exploring nature in the local woods around Garswood. And in turn William and Samuel, who go to school at St Aidans in Billinge, have benefitted from their Granddad’s interest in nature, learning all about flowers, trees, butterflies and other woodland creatures.
Between them, the Stockley family have planted thousands of daffodils and also some silver birch trees on Upholland Road, on a stretch of land kindly
Canny Cliff has also been a good customer of Billinge Garden Centre, negotiating hard for end of season stock at much reduced prices. When proprietor Andrew Smith discovered that Cliff’s efforts benefitted the local area, he generously donated stock for Cliff and his grandsons to use. Well done to all concerned!
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Local Life 19
impractical to maintain the Hall. Fortune hasn’t always favoured the estate and Bispham Hall was gutted by fire in 1978 and in 1984 came under a compulsory purchase order by the Borough Council, intended to preserve what remains.
Bispham Hall
There are ruins of magnificent stately homes all over the country; these ancient buildings are from another time long forgotten, but they have many stories entwined in their history and our Bispham Hall has its own tale to tell. Bispham Hall is a magnificent grade II listed building set back off Crank Road in Billinge; the hall has a rich history of memories wrapped up in royalism, ghosts, brownies and scouts. The history of the original Hall is shrouded in mystery; there is no mention of Bispham Hall until 1346 when it was named after the family of Bispham who acquired the estate when Roger de Bispham and Margaret De Heyton married. The Bispham family lived in the hall spanning the reign of twelve monarchs, until the original building fell into disuse. The present Bispham Hall was built around 1560 after Thomas Bispham married Elizabeth Smalshaye of Up Holland. The Hall remained in the Bispham family until Thomas, the last male Bispham, died in 1730. The hall was then passed to the Leigh family of Hindley Hall and Joanna Holt came to live at the Hall where she resided until her death in 1794. The estate was passed down through the family ranks until in 1871 it was sold to Meyrick Bankes of Winstanley Hall. Apart from a few tenants under Meyrick Bankes the Hall stood alone for many years without an occupant, until the 1st Orrell Scout Group rented part of the estate for camping. On November 17th 1948, the estate was bought by the Boy Scouts Association of South West Lancashire. The Scouts put a lot of work into restoring the building, from replacing the pine shingle roof, refurbishing floors and stripping walls of plaster. Time and money seemed to have been against Bispham Hall and it became financially 20 Local Life
On the estate there are several monuments the most famous being the Waterloo Monument .The memorial is situated in front of the hall and was erected by John and Robert Holt in 1816 after the battle of Waterloo. Public relief, admiration and enthusiasm were so prevalent that monuments were set up all over the country to the Duke of Wellington. The monument is one of the oldest in the borough and is a Grade II Listed monument with inscriptions on all four sides. Our favourite piece of Bispham history lies with its ghostly tenants. As with all old buildings Bispham Hall has its fair share of ghost stories, some of which probably stem from inventive Brownie and Scout leaders looking to calm down their charges after an exciting day in the woods.
John Riley
The most notorious ghost is that of Nellie Bispham, who doesn’t normally enter any of the buildings but allegedly haunts the woods around Bispham Hall. Nellie has spooked her way into Bispham Hall folklore, sighted by many people and has even been accused of attacking people. Although the more cynical amongst you might put these stories down to the camp fire tales, there’s no denying Nellie Bispham is something of a local celebrity - why she even has her own Appreciation Society on Facebook!
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70
UP TO
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bespoke fused glass design
morpheus glass
OFF
Open S tudio Sale Saturday 12 th & Sunday 13 th of May
At our open studio sale weekend there will be a wide range of pieces on show and many items will have up to 70% off plus all orders placed on the weekend will receive 30% off the normal RRP. All our work is handmade by glass designer Stephanie Bowen at the studio and pieces can be made to order to suit any space including splashbacks. So come and join us on the 12th and 13th of May open from 10 - 4 both days. Unit 11, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB t/f 01695 624182 w www.morpheusglass.co.uk e info@morpheusglass.co.uk splashbacks | panels | coasters | jewellery | hangings | sculptures | bowls www.locallife247.co.uk
Local Life 21
Totally Perfect Bathrooms There’s no better feeling than soaking into a hot bath of bubbles, for me a bathroom has to be spotless before I can relax and feel really clean. After years of dedicated service a bathroom can start to show a few age spots that you think no amount of elbow grease is ever going to remove! And you’d be right conventional cleaning won’t have your bathroom looking spic and span, but we know a company that can help and you won’t have to spend an arm and a leg. Total Bathroom Restoration are experts in restoring bathrooms to their former glory all over the North West, and all at the fraction of the cost of a new one! Owner Ian Read believes that almost any bathroom can be rescued from the damage caused by unsightly mould and mildew that occurs naturally over time. From his experience in property management he realised that most bathroom problems showed a consistent pattern; leaks, grout failure, mouldy silicone, chipped bath trays and cloudy shower screens. Does this sound familiar? Ian and his team now have bathroom restoration down to a fine art and can restore any bathroom to its original state whilst causing you the minimum amount of disruption. Think ice-white grout, perfect tiles and a bathroom to be proud of; that’s the service that Total Bathroom Restoration can offer to you.
Don’t take our word for it - here’s what our latest customer had to say…
Mr Summers of Newton-le-W illows told Local Life, “I wanted to take this opp ortunity to thank the team for their outstanding work”. “The job was awkward and other trades had tried and failed to rectify what was a poor initial install, despite this the team dea lt with all the issues and managed to fully restore the tiled shower enclosure with a finish far superior than the original installation”. “Despite being a messy job the Bathroom was left clean and tidy and read y to use the next day. We were grateful for your expertise in delivering exactly what was required .”
Ian says “As well as restoring your bathroom we can also help you bring to life an outdated bathroom with a few simple tricks. We can source designer taps, slim line shower trays and even help with flooring and decorating. We are really proud to be able to offer a full bathroom makeover service that we know you’ll love.” Don’t just shut the door on your dull and outdated bathroom, breathe a new lease of life into it with a Total Bathroom makeover, call the team now on 01744 322013 or 0800 542 9984. For more details visit their website www.totalbathroomrestoration.co.uk. 22 Local Life
Total Bathroom Restoration 01744 322013 or 0800 542 9984 www.totalbathroomrestoration.co.uk. www.locallife247.co.uk
Medley of Music
St Helens Gilbert & Sullivan Society will be treating audiences to a Midsummer Medley of music at St Helens Town Hall on Thursday 14th June at 7.30 p.m. You can look forward to a performance of popular songs, light opera and some Gilbert & Sullivan favourites. The concert will form part of St Helens Live 2012 – an annual event which aims to promote local musical groups and societies. Tickets cost £8 so for more information about the concert or to book your tickets please call 01744 612485.
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The Gilbert & Sullivan Society are always interested in hearing from people who would like to try out their singing voices. Some of the members also play instruments, so if you fall into this category, they would also like to hear from you. Rehearsals are on Monday evenings at the Baptist Hall in St Helens from 7.45 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.
Distributors Required
Local Life requires distributors (aged 13+) for the following areas; Windsor Road/Newton Road in Billinge, St Helens Road/Rainford Road near Windle Island, Church Road/Mossborough Rd in Rainford. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every 8 weeks, delivering in their own neighbourhoods. You must be fit, enthusiastic and reliable. Please e-mail your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
Local Life 23
Dish of the Month Lamb Keema A light and healthy supper with a taste of India Prep time: 15 min
Cooking time: 30 min
Serves 4-6
Ingredients For the Keema 350g / 12oz lean minced lamb 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander 1 large onion, chopped 1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped 115g / 4oz fine green beans, chopped into 2cm pieces 175g / 6oz mushrooms, sliced 400g / 14oz can of chickpeas, drained 400g / 14oz can chopped tomatoes 90ml lamb stock (a stock cube works fine)
2 level tbsp garlic pickle (optional) Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2-3tbsp fresh coriander, chopped For the salad Ÿ cucumber, chopped finely 3 tomatoes, deseeded and chopped finely ½ red onion, finely chopped 2-3 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
Method 1. Dry fry handfuls of minced lamb for about 4-5 minutes until browned. Drain off any fat. 2. Add the ground spices and fry for another minute. 3. Add the chopped onion, red pepper and green beans. Stir-fry for a few moments then add the mushrooms, chickpeas, tomatoes, stock and garlic pickle, if using. 4. Bring to the boil, then cover and cook gently for about 25 minutes, stirring from time to time. Remove the lid for the final ten minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid. The keema should not be allowed to boil dry though. 5. Prepare the salad by mixing together the cucumber, tomatoes, onion and fresh coriander. Season with salt and pepper then chill until ready to serve. 6. Check the seasoning of the keema and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir through the fresh, chopped coriander.
24 Local Life
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suFFeRING WITH MusCLe, jOINT OR NeRve PAIN?
What sorts of problem can you help me with? We can relieve pain that is caused by a variety of muscle, joint and nerve problems. This includes both new and old pain resulting from your job, sports, poor posture, accidents and some types of arthritis or wear & tear. We specialise in treating neck and back pain as well as pulled muscles, stiff joints and trapped nerves.
How soon can you help me? We are open six days a week and offer appointments the same or the next day. We are open Monday-Friday 8am-7pm, Saturdays 8am-4pm.
Why do we offer gentle treatments? Because we treat young children and senior citizens, we know that people prefer gentle, painless treatments.
Don’t suffer with muscle, joint or nerve pain!
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01942 498480
Why do you have a digital x-ray department? We have our own digital x-ray department at the clinic so that we can take and show you your pictures within 24 hours. This helps us to show you the underlying causes of your problem, allowing us to start treatment quickly and get you out of pain.
Mike Paull Doctor of Chiropractic
Dr Matt Birch Doctor of Chiropractic
• Consultation & Examination £59 • Digital X-ray pictures (per area) £59 • Treatment sessions (each) £35
Chris Green Sports Injury Specialist
Jenny Richmond Sports Injury Therapist
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A
t Wigan Family Chiropractic Clinic, our team of Chiropractors and therapists can help to relieve most types of muscle, joint and nerve pain.
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Local Life 25
Best of British! According to a recent survey, twice as many Brits are planning to holiday at home this year rather than go abroad! The survey, BDRC Continental’s Holiday Trends 2012, suggests that the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics were cited as the two main reasons that more Britons plan to holiday at home. Popular destination points were Cornwall, Devon, London, Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands. If you’re planning on a ‘staycation’ this year, then make sure you pick up an Alfa Travel brochure from Marken Travel in Billinge. Here are Alfa’s top tips for a great staycation this summer;
Alfa Travel specialise in quality coach holidays for the over 50’s to a huge selection of seaside and scenic resorts throughout the UK and the near Continent. The majority of Alfa’s tours use one of their own twenty Leisureplex hotels; these are situated in the prime holiday resorts of Great Britain and provide a consistently high standard which means you will not be disappointed.
T R A V E L
The holidays offer terrific value; starting at just £144 per person for a 5 day break!
Torquay and the English Rivera (8 days from £294 per person)
22 miles of beautiful coastline make up the English Rivera, and right at the heart of this unspoilt gem is Torquay. When you stroll along the sea front, enjoying the mild climate, sparkling blue waters and palm trees; you’ll be fooled into thinking you’re out for a walk in St Tropez. Torquay has got something for everyone. Families will enjoy attractions such as Paignton Zoo, Torbay Steam Railway, Babbacombe Model Village and the new Living Coasts wildlife attraction, whilst older visitors will relish the chance to explore the bustling harbour and take in the varied nightlife.
Bournemouth (8 days from £309 per person)
This jewel of a resort on the south coast is as vibrant and cosmopolitan as any other resort in the UK. There are many outstanding attractions including two piers, museums, an art gallery, beautiful parks and gardens, and a wealth of evening entertainment and, of course, those glorious beaches! Don’t miss the nearby New Forest, an area of unspoilt countryside with its famous wild ponies.
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Criccieth & Snowdonia (7 days from £304 per person) The awesome countryside scenery around Criccieth is simply breathtaking, with fabulous views of Cardigan Bay and mountain scenery too. Nearby must-see attractions include Portmeirion Village, the Italian-style village set on its own peninsula on the southern shores of Snowdonia. Portmeirion is one of Wales’ top ten tourist attractions and was the setting to the famous TV series The Prisoner. Don’t miss a trip on the Snowden Mountain Railway, which rises to within 66 feet of the summit and provide unforgettable views.
Fort William & Skye (7 days from £259 per person) The magnificent Western Highlands are on many a ‘bucket-list’, and Fort William is a perfect base to discover this area, which boasts some of the UK’s most spectacular and romantic scenery. An excursion to the enchanting Isle of Skye is not to be missed; make sure you take along your camera to capture the wonderful views. Café culture isn’t something you normally associate with Scotland, but when you visit Oban, you’ll love the lively harbour and many shops and restaurants.
Scarborough (7 days from £249 per person)
Arguably the oldest seaside resort in the UK, Scarborough is a smashing place for a family holiday, but is also a great base for those who want to explore the many attractions of North Yorkshire. If the medieval castle physically overlooks the town, the busy harbour is Scarborough’s engine room. The usual seaside pursuits dominate the South Bay area and the steep hillsides are home to many attractive parks and gardens. Definite day trips include visits to York and the North Yorkshire Moors, and also to Whitby and Pickering with its magnificent 12th century castle.
These are just a small selection of the coach holidays available from Alfa. The company’s range of modern luxury coaches picks up locally and even if you don’t fancy travelling by coach, a self-drive option is also available. For further details of more holidays please pick up a brochure from Marken Travel in Main Street, Billinge, if you are unable to come down to the office we will be happy to drop you a brochure off.
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£10 per pe rson off your next A lfa holiday! Offer only av ailable until Saturday 12th May Offer only avai lable at Marken Travel , Billinge
Local Life 27
Yoga Taster
There will be a Yoga Taster Session at Park Farm ACYP Centre on Kentmere Avenue in Carr Mill starting this Tuesday (8th May) between 10am11am. Beginners are welcome so come along on the day and meet Karen the yoga instructor. For details please contact the centre on 01744 754367 or email acypcentre@ yahoo.com.
Next Top Model
If you’ve ever fancied being someone’s muse then now is your chance! The Citadel is on the lookout for people to model for their weekly Art Class. Don’t worry it’s not nude modelling, but if you want to make the classes more interesting you are free to dress up in costume. The classes are held every Thursday from 10am-12pm and models are paid for their time. If you would like to sit for the class, or you want more information about the role, please contact the Citadel on 01744 735436.
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Music Mecca
The Citadel’s ‘Music Mecca’ project is in full swing with free weekly workshops in Street Dance, DJ-ing and Rock Band. The workshops are aimed at 10-18 year olds and are led by industry professionals. Whether your budding musician is a beginner or already has some experience, there’s something for everyone. The workshops take place every Saturday at the Citadel on Waterloo Road, Street Dance is 1pm-2pm, Dj-ing is 1pm-2pm and Rock Band is 1.30-3.30pm. All the equipment will be provided by the Citadel and who knows, your child could be in the next Diversity or One
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Direction! For further information please contact the Citadel on 01744 735436 or e-mail gavin@citadel. org.uk
Picnic in the Park
News has just filtered through that Billingers will be celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a Picnic in the Park event on Monday 4th June at Bankes Park in Billinge. The start time is 3pm and there will be stalls and entertainment throughout the day culminating in (this bit isn’t yet confirmed) a lighting up of the Beacon in the evening. The event is scheduled to finish at 10pm. The event is being organised by St Helens Council, the Billinge Parish Council, the Rangers and the Billinge Bygone Fete committee. For further information on Picnic in the Park, please contact Councillor Sue Murphy on 01942 517118, Councillor Alison Bacon on 0787 293 8085 or Councillor Joe Pearson on 01942 727833.
Local Life 29
Party Weekend!
For many, the long Jubilee Weekend of 2nd - 5th June will be a chance to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. Previous patriotic occasions have seen residents holding street parties and this occasion looks set to continue the tradition. St Helens Council Officers have confirmed that there won’t be additional bureaucratic charges to the public if they choose to get their community together to celebrate the Jubilee on their street. Even though the cost of closing roads is covered a formal application will have to be made to the Council through the contact centre, which can be done through their website at www.sthelens.gov.uk or by emailing contactcentre@sthelens.gov.uk, but you’ll have to hurry as the deadline is Tuesday May 22nd. If you’re interested in finding out tips and advice on how to hold a successful street party, then visit www. streetparty.org.uk or www.thebiglunch.com.
Spring Fayre
There’s a Spring Fayre taking place on Saturday 21st May at the Park Lane Unitarian Chapel on Wigan Road in Bryn. There will be stalls, refreshments, plants for sale and various raffles too. Car parking is available at the Chapel, which is located next to The Park near the Landgate Estate, and the Fayre runs from 10am-1pm.
Family Fun Day
Park Farm ACYP Centre on Kentmere Avenue, Carr Mill would like to invite you join them for their Jubilee Family Fun Day on Saturday 2nd June. The festivities will kick off at 1pm and there will be activities and entertainment for all the family, including a competition for children to design a crown, rides and a table top sale for you to browse. Please contact the centre on 01744 754367 or email acypcentre@yahoo.com for more details.
Wigan residents interested in holding a street party should contact the council’s Traffic Group, Places Directorate, Wigan Life Centre, WN1 1NJ or email traffic@wigan.gov.uk for an application form. Forms must be returned before 11 May.
30 Local Life
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Local Life 31
Thanks for your kind words John, hope to see you in the area again soon! Turn to pages 33-35 for our latest Jack’s Track where we visit the rolling hills of Parbold for a five and half mile circular walk.
Museums at Night
Jack’s Pack
We were delighted at Local Life HQ recently to receive a letter and picture from John Hayes, who organises a walk once a month for his work colleagues and members of David Lloyd Sports and Fitness Club in Knowsley. John was passed a copy of our March issue, which featured our Jack’s Tracks walk round Garswood and North Ashton. John says “We started and finished the walk at the Rectory Nurseries and what lovely odd little place that is, everyone in our walking group of twenty were amazed with it, and Kevin and his son Carl made us all so welcome with tea and biscuits when we finished our walk, so thank you for the lovely walk and we hope to do some more up that way from your great little magazine”.
32 Local Life
Have you ever wondered what happens in a library after hours? Well wonder no more because St. Helens Council will be opening the doors of Central Library to welcome visitors to a unique experience. The library will host a selection of short films to celebrate the annual Museums at Night festival. The special Future Shorts screening will take place on Saturday May 19th starting at 7.30pm, with a specially selected programme of 8 short films. Each film is about ten minutes long and looks at alternative aspects of love, marriage and relationships. Tickets cost £2.00 and include free refreshments. For more information about the films or to book your ticket please call Central Library on 01744 677446.
Garden Talk
Newton-le-Willows Gardeners Association will be hosting an informative talk about allotments on Thursday 24th May. If you have an interest in allotments and growing your own then Jacqui Brocklehurst’s talk ‘Eat my Garden’ will definitely be of interest to you. The talk will be held at Newtonle-Willows Sports Club on Crow East Lane between 7.30pm-9pm and is free to everyone. If you would like more information about the talks or how to become a member please contact Silvana Briers at silmike_ briers@hotmail.com
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Follow in Jack’s tracks and try this local walk! Jack’s Tracks heads off in the direction of West Lancashire, a walking mecca for those of us who don’t like our hills too steep! This is a 5.5 mile walk, taking around 2 hours 30 minutes, which encompasses the beauty of the Douglas Valley, some picture-box scenery in the pretty village of Parbold and the calm, serene waters of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. To get there; Exit the M6 at Junction 27 and head towards Parbold on the A5209. After ¾ miles you’ll drive by Wrightington Hospital on the left, carry on for a further ½ mile and then take a left turn at the Dicconson Arms into Appley Lane North. Follow this road downhill and 100 yards past the railway station you’ll go over a humpback bridge. Take either a left or a right turn immediately after the bridge, as there is a small car park in both directions.
Appley Bridge to Fairy Glen Park up and walk back in the direction you came up the hill. After you’ve been walking uphill for ½ mile, there’s a turn on the right to Skull House Lane. Directly opposite Skull House Lane, there’s a public footpath. Follow the footpath up the side of the house. Go up past the garages and follow the clearly marked footpath. After only a few yards you’ll enjoy, if it’s a clear day, beautiful views over the Douglas Valley, including the spire of Ashurst Beacon. When you get to the end of this footpath, you’ll see Worthington’s Farm on the left. Turn right down the path for 40 yards and then turn left. Follow the path across the field, cross the stile and carry on to the end of the footpath. You’ll step down four steps onto the road to Draper’s Farm. Go directly across the road and follow the clearly marked path across onto a field. Follow the path and you’ll arrive at Richardson’s Farm. Turn right through the farm gates, and after 40 yards, take a left turn at the entrance to Fairy Glen.
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Fairy Glen to Wood Lane Follow this pathway for 70 yards, go through the green steel gates into Fairy Glen, and then take an immediate left turn down some stone steps. Cross the wooden bridge and follow the path round to the left, crossing over some railway sleepers that have been laid across a muddy area. Carry on up this path and you will come to some wooden steps, go up the steps and cross over the wooden stile at the top. At this point, it isn’t that clear where to go, but you’ll need to walk straight over the field aiming towards the farm gates on the right hand side of a wooden area. A word of warning; it gets a bit muddy when passing through the farm gates, so navigate your way through carefully! Once you’ve passed through the gates, you should walk up hill following the tree-lined left hand boundary of the field. Whilst you’re crossing the field, take a look at Parbold Hall, which is up the hill to your right. Go over the crest of the hill and once you’ve reached the bottom left hand corner of the field, cross the stile. Follow that path for 200 yards and you’ll come to another stile. Cross this stile and then turn left heading downwards through a wooden area. At the end of the path, and within view of Gillibrand House, there is a gate on the left, go through the gate and follow the path. Within the next 70 yards or so, you’ll pass through the farmyard of Gillibrand House, sandwiched by two gates at either end. You should now be headed into a wooden area. After 200 yards,
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Lane. Walk past the impressive Our Lady and All Saints church and the Notre Dame convent. Take the next left into Tanhouse Lane, follow this lane ¼ mile to its conclusion and then turn left at the T-junction. Walk past the shops and through the railway crossing, and once you’ve walked over the bridge turn immediate left and pick up the canal towpath.
you’ll come across a crossroads of paths, but just go straight on at this point. As you leave the wooded area, you will pass a cottage on your left called Whitley Cottage and the beautiful views return at this point. On the left you’ll see the Douglas Valley and Parbold railway junction, and on the right hand side you’ll see the lower reaches of Parbold Hill and the spire of Christ Church. Follow this delightful path for approximately ½ mile as it turns into Wood Lane and meets up with the A5209. Wood Lane – The Windmill Turn right at this point and then cross the main road, taking care whilst doing so, and head down Lancaster
If you fancy a bit of a break from the walking at this point, there’s a cafe called Yours is the Earth right by the canalside; just across the road is a pub called The Windmill, and for something a bit different check out the Mill House Gallery, located at the side of the pub. For opening times and further information, visit www. mill-house-gallery.co.uk or call 01257 462333. The Windmill – Appley Bridge Within a ¼ mile of leaving the Windmill, you’re back out into the beautiful countryside surrounding Parbold, and you’re on the last leg (and the easiest leg) of the walk. Once you’ve passed under the main road bridge, there’s 1/3 of a mile to Chapel House bridge, Chapel House to Gillibrand bridge is a further 0.6 miles, and Hand Lane Bridge is 1/3 of a mile further on. You can see the barges negotiating the locks at Appley Locks, which is a good stopping off point, and just ½ mile further on, you’re back where you started - in Appley Bridge. Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear whilst walking. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.
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Local Life 37
The What’s On Guide Saturday 5th May
The Lego Show Following the success of the event in 2011, The LEGO Show is returning to Manchester with its biggest show ever. The LEGO Show will be at Event City at the Trafford Centre and the 3 day show will be the largest LEGO event in the UK. A great day out for all the family, the show is packed full of interactive features including workshops with LEGO designers, LEGO marketplace with new and second hand LEGO products for sale, and a display of new 2012 LEGO sets, many of which are not yet on sale. Runs until Sunday 7th May. Cost: Adult £9.50, child £7, family £29 Contact: 0161 870 9800 or visit www.thelegoshow.com Sat Nav Ref: M41 7TB
Saturday 12th May
Open Studio Weekend Glass manufacturer Morpheus Glass host an open studio weekend at their base on the Hewitt Business Park, off Winstanley Road in Orrell with stock on sale at up to 70% off normal retail prices. Refreshments available. This event also runs on Sunday 13th May. Time: 10am-4pm Cost: Free Contact: 01695 624182 or www.morpheusglass.co.uk Sat Nav Ref: WN5 7XB
Sunday 13th May
Liverpool Vintage Fashion & Textiles Fair The Liverpool Vintage Fashion Fair is being held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel opposite the New Mersey Retail Park. Discover Vintage in Liverpool ;Clothing, Textiles, Jewellery , Needle and stitch Accessories and lots more affordable Fashion in the stunning Art Deco Crowne Plaza Hotel. Time: 10am-4pm Contact: Keith/07809 236 607 or visit www. decorativefairs.com Sat Nav Ref: L24 8QD 38 Local Life
Friday 18th May
LightNight Liverpool Rediscover the city with your friends and family, as Liverpool is illuminated with unexpected happenings and exciting activities late into the night. LightNight stages over 60 free events to inspire and delight visitors of all ages. A few of the highlights are; the Rolf Harris exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery, the Candle-lit Labyrinth at the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Tate Liverpool’s 1940’s Razzle Dazzle, Liverpool Town Hall with live theatre and a Big Dance & latenight Celidh at St George’s Hall. Time: 4pm-Late Contact: www.lightnightliverpool.co.uk
Saturday 19th May
The Spellbound Forest For just two days, Cheshire’s Delamere Forest will be transformed into The Spellbound Forest, an outdoor cavalcade of art, theatre, music and dance to tell longforgotten English fairy tales, culminating in a mythical dance in the heart of the forest. Aimed specifically at families of all shapes and sizes, children between the ages of 3 and 12 will enjoy this the most. Also runs on Sunday 20th May. Cost: Adult £12.50, Child £7.50, Under 3s Free, Family Ticket (2 adults & 2 children) £35 Contact: 03000 680400 or visit www.spellboundforest. org.uk Sat Nav Ref: CW8 2JD
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What’s on Guide events key
Saturday 2nd June
Roman Weekend in Chester The Romans will re-claim the city for the whole weekend as one of the highlights of the MBNA Chestival 2012. Hundreds of Romans will be descending on Chester for a full weekend of activity, including Gladiatorial Roman Games, a working Roman village with a live archaeological dig, original Roman Kids Army, Military Displays and a Roman march through the city centre. Also runs on Sunday 3rd June. Cost: Free Time: 11am to 5pm Contact: 0845 241 7868 or visit www. chesterfestivals.co.uk Sat Nav Ref: CH1 1RF
Monday 4th June
Russell Watson Concert – Speke Hall The Voice is back. He’s more used to playing arenas than working men’s clubs these days, but on Monday 4th June - Russell Watson will perform in the ‘Last Night of the Proms’ at Speke Hall. Bring along your picnics and wave your flags to Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia, all culminating with a spectacular firework finale. Car Parks open at 4pm and the gates open at 5pm, the concert concludes at 10pm. Top of Form Cost: £35-£38.50 Time: starts at 7pm Contact: 0844 888 9991 or visit www.spekeconcerts.co.uk Sat Nav Ref: L24 1XD
Thursday 7th June BBC Antiques Roadshow BBC One’s everpopular Sunday night programme Antiques Roadshow will be filming for its 35th series at Port Sunlight in Wirral. Cost: Free Time: 9.30 to 4.30pm Contact: www.bbc.co.uk/ antiquesroadshow Sat Nav Ref: CH62 5DX
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Events and Festivals
Walks & Nature
Family
Special Interest
Sunday 10th June
Busy Bees Open Day Did you know Walton Hall Gardens have their own bee hives? North Cheshire bee keepers look after the hives that are situated in the Children’s zoo and today they’re having an open day. Come along and learn all about this exciting hobby, you can even purchase Walton Gardens honey to try for yourself. Cost: Free entry Time:1pm-4pm Contact: 01925 601617 (op 2) or visit www. warrington.gov.uk/waltongardens Sat Nav Ref: WA4 6SN
Tuesday 19th June
Cheshire County Show This is the largest and longest established two-day event of its kind in the North West. It is enjoyed by over 80,000 visitors each year. The Show is host to a wide variety of well represented sections including: cattle, light and heavy horses, vintage machinery, WI, rural life, dogs, rare breeds, cheese and wine. The Show also includes a game fair area, a play zone, a large food hall of regional producers and a food live theatre. With also over 700 trade stands, the Cheshire Show is a firm favourite for all the family. Also runs on Wednesday 20th June. Cost: Adult £16, Senior £13, Child £7 & Family (2 adults & 2 children) £32 Contact: 01565 650200 or visit www. cheshirecountyshow.org.uk Sat Nav Ref: WA16 0HJ
Local Life 39
HOW TO B GOOD
Andy Enright takes a look at Ford’s innovative B-MAX family carrier.
Yes, the fact that the Ford B-MAX has no B-pillar at the side and a huge aperture may have grabbed the headlines, but there’s so much more to this car than clever doors. The last time Ford introduced a vehicle that made its immediate predecessor (the Ford Fusion)look so instantly antediluvian was when the Sierra was unveiled, instantly rendering the old Cortina to an age of bakelite telephones and valve radios.
Ford claims the B-MAX sports a bold new interpretation of their trapezoidal grille but to this rheumy eye it looks a rather unashamed copy of an Aston Martin item. Still, if one has to crib, Aston Martin isn’t a bad source. Otherwise, the exterior of the B-MAX follows much the same ‘kinetic design’ as contemporary Fords. Certain features catch the eye. The zig-zag slash on the lower rear doors is a departure and the swage line that runs the length of the body is deeply chamfered.
The big talking point might well be the doors but under the bonnet is a really intriguing engine. Displacing just 1.0 litre and with three tiny pistons tasked with moving you and yours down the road at a respectable clip, the turbocharged Ecoboost engine punches above its weight, managing a respectable 100bhp. The B-MAX rides on the same chassis as the Fiesta and a good deal of work has gone into making sure that body rigidity is up to par and that side impact protection is also up to Ford’s commendably high standards. Parking shouldn’t be a problem with an overall length of just 406cm which slots between the 395cm of a five-door Fiesta and the 436cm of a five-door Focus. With all that glass, visibility out of the vehicle is very good too. 40 Local Life
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The interior offers plenty of room and features 60/40 split rear seats and a folding front passenger seat which together create an extensive load floor, capable of swallowing exceptionally long loads measuring up to 2.35 metres in length. The side access is particularly convenient to load bulky items such as flat-pack furniture or even a bicycle and the door aperture measures a full 150cm in width. The impression of space inside the car is boosted by the availability of a full-length panoramic glass roof.
Despite a sales record that’s second to none, building innovation and desirability into small cars hasn’t always been a Ford forte. The Blue Oval has always got the pounds and pence side of the equation squared away and that has driven fleet sales quite agreeably but family buyers looking for something distinctive have often found pickings a bit slim. The B-MAX could well change all of that, with Ford bringing the expertise that developed Galaxy, S-MAX and C-MAX models to bear in a miniaturised and even more intriguingly detailed format. The B-MAX is designed to appeal to the sort of customer who might well be interested in a C-MAX but lives in an urban area where parking spaces are tight and emissions need to be kept tightly in check. Ford refers to its vehicles in this family as Sports Activity Vehicles and while the B-MAX doesn’t seem immediately sporting, it’ll doubtless appeal to those who may not have kids but need to cart a lot of kit around in order to support sports or gear-intensive hobbies but want the creature comforts of a car rather than the stigma of a light commercial vehicle with windows.
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With its rear sliding doors that reveal no central B-pillars, the Ford B-MAX offers something unique that instantly makes its key rival, the Vauxhall Meriva, appear suddenly off the pace. Couple that with an eager 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine and you have a package that’s just too singular to overlook. For more details on the B-MAX, visit Gordons of Wallgate in Wigan (01942 823000), Polar Ford of Sherdley Road in St Helens (01744 610600), or Polar Ford of Winwick Road in Warrington (01925 651111)
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Your Local Directory of
Garden Services
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Angie is a qualified award-winning garden designer who will plan your garden to your needs from start to finish, supplying reputable contractors and the ideal plants. Call her now for your free consultation!
Award Winner
Mr T …
I am rather a fan of Alan Titchmarsh - you know the gardening bloke from the telly. Don’t get me wrong - I don’t fancy him (you’d be surprised how many ladies do though) but I think he talks a lot of sense about gardening and the wider environment, he seems a very nice man and I think his heart is in the right place. One of his passions is trying to convince the nation that it is simplicity itself to grow your own salads and vegetables, even in the smallest of spaces. I have to
say that speaking from my own experience, he is right and there really is nothing better than eating the fruits of your own labour (excuse the pun). If you’ve not tried it before, have a go at strawberries, cabbages, new potatoes, runner beans, carrots and lettuce. Its fantastic also for getting children involved in the outside and for teaching them about where their food actually comes from and what is good for them to eat. A survey by the Royal Horticultural Society last year identified that two thirds of children under 16 thought that pumpkins grew on trees. I rest my case.
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The same survey also revealed that of 82% of children who have access to a garden only 40% use it more than once a week. 30% spend time in it once or twice a month and 20% hardly ever. I not only find these figures shocking, but actually very sad. What a wasted opportunity for getting our children outside having fun, exercising and interacting with nature. Well having spouted on about the loveliness of Mr T. and seeing as it is my wedding anniversary this month, I had better mention the loveliness of Hubby. Though not a hands on gardener himself, I have to say that he appreciates all the time and effort that goes into making our garden what it is and he loves nothing better than being outside in it. Even if he does sometimes wince when he starts to think about how much money I have spent on the garden over the years. Happy anniversary Hubby! Author: Angie Barker Dip GD (Inst GD) BA (Hons) Garden Design For All Seasons Tel: 01942 522 405 Mob: 07857 008 383 www.angiebarker.co.uk
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Open Gardens
Whether you’re a keen gardener after tips and inspiration for your own garden or you just fancy a nosey around someone else’s beautifully crafted creation, then there are plenty of Open Garden events that will take your fancy. Open Gardens is a national directory that provides information for people to find out about gardens they can visit, just down the road or if you’re a bit more adventurous, right across the country. Open Gardens is about showcasing ideas, planting schemes and solutions to difficult garden problems. It’s about taking a peep at the garden of that house you’ve always admired. It’s about tea and cake in the gentle heat of an English spring or summer. So if you’re a bit of a plant enthusiast and you want to find a local event or you just want some solutions to your own garden problems take a look at the Open Gardens website at www.opengardens.co.uk
Dalton Garden Party
Dalton Gardens are hosting their annual event on Sunday 10th June between 12pm-6pm. In honour of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the garden party will include a themed flower exhibition and a photo exhibition showing the 10-year history of the Dalton Gardens. There will also be an opportunity to buy plants on the day so you can poach some ideas and create your own glorious garden. Tickets will cost you £4 in advance and £5 on the day with all proceeds going to the Dalton Parish Church fund. For further information and directions please have a look at the website www.daltongardens.shutterfly.com
Penwortham Open Gardens
Penwortham Gardens, near Preston, will be hosting their event on Sunday 24th June 2012 between 1pm - 5pm. This is the first time that Penwortham Open Gardens will be showcasing their gardens to the public. There will be at least 6 open gardens on display and also a community garden for you to
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have a wander around. If you fancy something a bit different then there will be a wild flower meadow walk and a variety of gardens with plant sales and refreshments. Tickets will cost you £3 per adult on the day and children go free. For more information please have a look at the website at www. opengardens.co.uk
The Stones & Roses Garden
The Stones & Roses Garden is a well established garden that promises you a great day out. You will find this seasoned garden at White Coppice Farm in Chorley and you can visit on Saturday 14th, Sunday 15th and Sunday 22nd July between 2pm-5pm. The garden promises wonderful views over the local countryside, where you can enjoy the sunken rose garden, fountains, waterfalls, with colour themed planting. Also on offer is a fruit tree walk to the dewpond with wild flower planting and a new rose bed and children’s play area for 2012. If this isn’t quintessentially English enough for you then why not sit down and enjoy a refreshing cream tea! Admission is £3 per adult and children go free. For more information and directions please have a look at the website at www.stonesandroses.org
Southlands Open Garden
This award winning garden can be found in Stretford near Manchester and the incredibly popular garden will be opening its gates again on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th July between 1pm-6pm. You will be able to potter around each of the many gardens, including a Mediterranean garden, woodland garden and organic kitchen garden. Then you can sit back, relax and listen to the varied programme of live jazz on offer whilst enjoying a cup of tea or coffee and a choice of superb homemade cakes and pastries. Entry will cost you £3 per adult on the day and children under 16 go free. For further information and for directions please visit the website at www.southlands12.com
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Areas Covered:
St Helens Widnes Haydock Moss Bank Rainford and all surrounding areas
It doesn’t have to be spring, to spring clean Contact your local office on
01744 644 061 0151 268 6047 and make cleaning a chore of the past!
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Tell us once poster.pdf
10/06/2011
Tell us once poster.pdf
12:22:29
10/06/2011
12:22:29
When someone has died, Tell Us Once and we’ll tell all of the relevant services within St.Helens Council plus other government agencies for you. For more information, visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/tellusonce or call 01744 676789.
Useful Numbers
Ashton
Cllr P Tushingham Cllr J Haddley Cllr N Ash Ashton Library Ashton Police Team
01942 776060 01942 487689 01942 736216 01942 727119 0161 856 7436
Billinge & Garswood
Cllr A Bacon 0787 293 8085 Cllr S Murphy 01942 743098 Cllr J Pearson 01942 743021 Billinge Medical Practice 01744 892205 Garswood Surgery 01744 621670 Billinge & Garswood Police Team 0151 777 6054 Billinge Parish Council Clerk 01744 884857 Selenley Green Parish Council Clerk 01744 892167 Billinge Library 01744 677535 Garswood Library 01744 677797
Haydock
Cllr W Anderton 0787 985 0518 Cllr Banks 01744 676109 Cllr A Burns 01744 677295 Haydock Medical Cen. (Dr Vaughan) 0844 477 8626 Haydock Medical Cen. (Dr Roberts) 01744 22272 Haydock Library 01744 677801
Moss Bank
Cllr J Fletcher Cllr Fulham Cllr C Kavanagh Windermere Medical Centre Moss Bank Library
01744 884984 01744 676109 01744 678918 01744 739645 01744 677988
Newton
Cllr S Dyer Cllr S Knight Cllr N Taylor Newton Community Hospital Dr Pitalia – Comm. Hosp. Dr Pitalia – Bridge St High St Surgery Patterdale Lodge Market St Surgery Newton Library
Rainford
Cllr A Jones Cllr B Lowe MBE Cllr D Monk Rainford Health Centre K McRae Health Centre Rainford Library Rainford Parish Council HM Government.pdf
10/06/2011
13:06:59
General Medical
St Helens Hospital Wigan Infirmary Whiston Hospital Minor Injuries Walk in Centre NHS Direct
01744 671900 01925 227669 01925 220104 01925 222731 01925 220469 01925 225755 01925 290311 01925 227111 01925 221457 01744 677885 01744 893367 01744 884891 01744 678032 01744 882855 01744 882606 01744 677820 01744 884709 01744 26633 01942 244000 0151 426 1600 01744 627400 0845 4647
Police & Councils Merseyside Police Greater Manchester Police St.Helens Council Wigan Council
0151 709 6010 0161 872 5050 01744 676789 01942 244991
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