The slower mornings are very much welcome as we start to navigate the school summer holidays. It always takes a couple of weeks to get into my stride and I’m grateful for a loose plan to anchor us. I have just about gained control of the snack cupboard (daily rations have been implemented) as our 7 year old can eat for England!
Our favourite days, by far, are spent packing up a picnic and heading to the park with a football. The open space and promise of an ice cream make for lovely easy days. I have even managed to have a read of my book, so everyone is happy. We have been making the most of the warmer days and enjoying meals in the garden, which makes the holiday feel special, even if we sometimes have to shelter from the rain.
Ashton library closed in July ahead of vital work being carried out to preserve the building. This will be a much missed service over the holidays but it will be good to ensure a better future. For more information
on how the service will operate during the closure see details on page 26.
We share an update on the regeneration of Ashton town centre, following various meetings with local businesses, and the impact it will have on our town including plans for when this will start.
We have seen quite a few new businesses in Ashton over recent weeks/months, providing products and services for the area, and it’s great to see the town centre fully open. Be sure to check out local goods and services over the summer and keep supporting our town.
Take holiday inspiration from our “What’s On Guide” which suggests great local events to enjoy and, maybe take part in, right on our doorstep.
Bryn,
THE BOOK SHELF
THE MYSTERY OF MERCY CLOSE
by Marian Keyes
Although this starts out as a missing person story it is a brilliant mixture of private detective work, the not-so-glam world of pop stars and the chaotic life of a young woman living on the edge.
Helen Walsh has been called on to discover the whereabouts of Wayne Diffney, a member of boyband Laddz. He has disappeared at a time when the group are about to make a massive comeback and it is vital that he is found at this crucial point in all their careers.
to fit round his ex-wife and their 3 children who are all still very much in the picture.
With all this going on she is glad to focus on the job in hand and finds herself delving deeper into Wayne’s world, spending more time in his deserted house (a bolt hole from her family home). She feels an unexpected affinity with this man based on her conversations with his friends and despairing family.
Jay Parker, Helen’s ex, suddenly re-appears in her life offering this extremely lucrative missing person case. His offer couldn’t have come at a better time as her regular work has dried up, her flat has been repossessed and she is back living with her parents.
Also in her life is Artie Devlin with whom she is enjoying a great relationship, apart from having
On the surface Helen is confident and realistic but her past depression threatens to reappear and she is so afraid of being dragged back into the blackness which she had hoped was behind her. So the investigation helps her cope mentally as well as financially.
This novel is both light and insightful covering painful topics but then offering moments of outrageous hilarity and pure joy.
Jackie McDermott - Book Club Reviewer.
#OurFutureAshton
An update on some of the plans and proposals as outlined in the #OurFutureAshton newsletter.
A new multifunctional Ashton Square is to be developed to provide social activities, regular events and pop-up spaces for food and drinks.
The Public Arts Scheme had a drop-in event in April and among proposals considered were large-scale murals reflecting Ashton’s unique character. The creation of a shutter gallery along Garswood Street was also put forward for consideration.
The public realm project has ideas which incude streetscape improvements and the greening of key routes through the town centre. It will aim to make streets safer and more accessible with new street furniture and lighting.
For enhanced security and safety new CCTV cameras have been installed on Bolton Road and other key locations to provide extended coverage of the Gerard Shopping Centre.
To help gather public opinion of Ashton over the course of the project a baseline perceptions survey was undertaken amongst residents, shoppers, businesses, workers, visitors and young people. The survey will be repeated after the work has been completed to see how much perceptions have changed.
Future plans will be revealed online and at drop-in sessions. There is also a mailing list available to give information on progress.
You can find out more at: www.wigan.gov.uk/OurFutureAshton
Ashton’s Jubilee Park retains its Green Flag Status thanks to staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that it maintains the high standards of the Green Flag Award.
The Green Flag scheme recognises and rewards well managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the UK.
Councillor Paul Prescott, said: “It is recognition of all the hard work from our dedicated teams and volunteers across all of our sites.”
Congratulations to Emily Pollitt, aged 9 from St Thomas’s Primary School, who created the winning design for our new ‘Heart of Wigan’ structure in Jubilee Park!
Each structure outlines a short walk that you can take at your own pace which will help to keep your heart healthy.
There are a series of hearts in various greenspaces across the borough for you to visit.
To find out more about green spaces: www.wigan.gov.uk/greenheart
Local friendship group, St Helens and Warrington Oddfellows, is gearing up for a month-long celebration of friendship and is inviting everyone to get involved.
Friendship Month is the Oddfellows’ annual reminder of why social connections are important, and runs throughout September.
They have a number of events planned which are designed so people in the community can find out more about the Society and experience the benefits of joining a local friendship group.
Julie Webster, Branch Social Organiser, said: “There’s always such a buzz around our Friendship Month events and it’s brilliant to see new faces mixing with our existing members, sharing the joys of friendship. Socialising and companionship is so important. It’s no secret that spending a little time with friends and getting to know new people can do us the world of good, no matter what else is going on in our lives. At the Oddfellows, we know a thing or two about friendship”.
“We’ve been helping people to connect for more than 200 years. If you’d be interested in finding out a little more about us and meet some interesting and likeminded
people in the process, make sure you get our Friendship Month events in your diary.”
The group’s Friendship Month events include a breakfast outing to Toby Carvery Waterside, St Helens, on Wednesday 4 September at 9:30am, St Helens coffee morning at The Hotties Café inside The World of Glass Museum on Thursday 12 September at 10:30am.
They also have their regular Tuesday Drop In at Ormskirk Street United Reformed Church on August 13th and 20th 1.30pm3.30pm, here you can bring your chosen craft or pastime to work on, join in with some games or simply have a chat, cost £2.50 members £3.00 non-members and includes refreshments. Coffee Morning at the Hotties Café inside The World of Glass is on Thursday 15th 10.20amtill 12 noon, cost as per menu.
The Oddfellows is one of the oldest and largest friendly societies in the UK and aims to improve people’s lives through friendship and support.
With a surprise visit by Martin McCloughlan from Wigan Warriors.
Runs throughout the 6 week School Summer Holidays On every Tuesday and Thursday Between 1 pm and 4pm Tennis, Badmington, Football & Rugby Raffle and snacks available Come down and play!
FREE
Jubilee Sports Park, Wigan Road, Ashton Sign in at 12.30-12.45
Parent/guardian permission required at sign in on first day.
Byrchall High School welcomed back former students and guests to their recent alumni event which took place in June ahead of the scheduled demolition of the old school.
With the new ‘eco’ school due to open for the new term in September, it was the perfect chance to open the doors and invite past students and guests for one last opportunity to see the old school building and be part of their school’s history before bidding farewell.
The attendees which spanned several decades enjoyed an engaging day touring around the old school building and grounds, visiting their former classrooms and departments and sharing stories of their school days over food and refreshments.
The school has seen many family generations pass through its doors over the years and it has been a comforting backdrop to the landscape for those who live in the area and attended the school Along with those returning to the area, it was an emotional farewell for many.
The day concluded in the hall which was filled with historic archives and photos of former teachers and students during their time at Byrchall to enjoy and reminisce, bringing back many fond memories of their time at the school.
The school look forward to opening the new ‘eco’ school doors in September and the first student through the doors will be captured to share at future Alumni events!
Did you know you can book two bulky waste collections of up to five items in a 12 month period- totally free?
By using the Council to get rid of your old and worn furniture, appliances, white goods and much more, you know it will be disposed of responsibly.
If you give your waste to someone who is not a licensed waste carrier and it is dumped, you could face a fine or fixed penalty notice- just as if you dumped it yourself.
Bookings are available three weeks in advance, see the council website for details www.wigan.gov.uk/Resident/Bins-Recycling/Bulky-collections.aspx
FREE KIDS CYCLE LESSONS
LEIGH LEISURE CENTRE
Book now for FREE kids cycling lessons at Leigh Leisure Centre this summer!
Limited spaces available for a number of dates – with bikes and helmets available to borrow on a first come, first served basis. Bring your own bike if you can!
Ages 5-11
Each session lasts 2hrs
All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Book via Eventbrite ‘Learn to Ride’, in ‘Leigh’
Sale Way, Leigh Sports Village, WN7 4JY
WHATS ON GUIDE
August & September 2024
We have done our best to check out all the activities in our ‘What’s on Guide’. But you are always advised to phone and confirm an event, before leaving home to attend.
Some summer events for your diary;
Body Sports In The Park
Tuesday and Thursday 1pm - 4pm throughout the 6 weeks holiday)
Jubilee Sports Park, Wigan Rd, Ashton
Come down and join us for an afternoon of FREE sports in the park, why not try out tennis, badmington, football or rugby and enjoy the open space…there will also be a surprise visit from Martin McCloughlan from the Wigan Warriors on one of the days, so come on down for these local fun filled FREE afternoons. We also have a raffle. FREE drinks and snacks will be provided. Registration/sign in at 12.30 - 12.45 (Parent must give permission for play)
Summer Fair Fundraiser
Saturday 10th August
Diamond Community Support Centre, Grey Rd, WN4 9QW
Come join us for an afternoon of cakes, refreshments, stalls, games, raffle and tombola as part of this afternoon tea fundraiser for breast cancer. Why not come and sit in the sun in our newly opened courtyard space.
Edmund Arrowsmith High School Reunion (1970 - 1979)
Sunday 11th August, 3pm
The Catholic Club, Liverpool Rd, Ashton, WN4 9LH
Everyone is welcome to this reunion, including partners and those that did not attend the school for an afternoon of 70’s disco and live band featuring ex pupils - Sean Rodican, Pete Dennet, Julia Allen and Terry Norton. Join us for a drink and a catch up.
Ed Sheeran Tribute Act
Sunday 11th August, 2pm - 5pm.
Jubilee Flower Park, Wigan Rd, Ashton
Join us for an afternoon of live music and refreshments in the our lovely flower park. There will be snacks and ice creams available and a raffle to enjoy (raffle will be drawn at the end of the tribute act)
Everyone is welcome to this FREE event brought to you by the Bryn Independent Councillors. So why not bring a picnic blanket and a chair and join us for this great summers afternoon. FREE
Lytham 1940s Weekend (Lytham Green)
Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th August (10am - 5pm)
Central Beach, Lytham Saint Annes FY8 5LD
The two day spectacle will see thousands of people relive the 1940s wartime era with a weekend of forties singing, dancing, weapons displays, historic vehicles, military charities, vintage traders and more. A great day out for all the family. FREE
Ashtonbury
Sunday 25th August
Ashton Town FC, The Bartons Group Stadium, Edge Green Street, WN4 8SL
Live & Loud presents Ashtonbury music festival. With live bands and music from 1pm, a wide range of food traders, face painters and local vendors. This family friendly event is what summer is made for and all local too!
Tickets: £10 (under 12’s go free with a paying adult)
Available from the venue.
Blackpool Night Run
Wednesday 28th August, 8.30pm
Tower Festival Headland, Blackpool
Experience running under the famous Blackpool illuminations on a traffic-free promenade. Entry includes: Chip timed results, Official Blackpool Night Run tech t-shirt, Bespoke finishers medal. Entries are now open! Limited places available, find out more at www. blackpoolnightrun.com
Bryn Big Day Out
Saturday 31st August
Jubilee Park, Wigan Rd, Ashton
Why not join us for a fun filled day in the park complete with Fun Fair, local stalls, face painting and a raffle at this FREE local event brought to you by the Bryn Independent Councillors. Invite family and friends and celebrate and enjoy the final weekend of the summer holidays. FREE
Pottery Night
Every Monday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Crawford Street, Wigan, WN1 1NA
Pottery Night is our weekly session where you can come and play with clay! With the help of our ceramicist Emily, you will be supported through the whole design process. From preparing the raw clay to sculpting your creation and glazing to finally firing your work. Pottery Night is perfect for beginners or the more seasoned potter who would like a space to get creative. This session is an 18+ event, but ages 12+ can attend with a parent or guardian. One ticket is required per person attending.
Tickets available on Eventbrite.
Runway Visitors Centre
Runway Visitor Park, Sunbank Lane, Altrincham, WA15 8XQ,
This is a great day out for all the family and it is one of the North West’s most popular outdoor attractions. The park has raised viewing areas where you can stand literally just a few metres away from the planes as they go past. In addition to a large picnic area, there is a coffee house, a play area and a shop.
The Centre is free to visit, but there are parking charges.
Why not check out; www.wiganeventsguide.com/events/ or visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/article/4336/What-s-on for more summer activities. If you would like us to publicise your event, or activity just let us know. Simply drop Sarah an email; info@wnlink.co.uk
SUMMER RECIPE
PICNIC BOX SAUSAGE ROLLS
Perfect little snacks for days out and in and easy enough for the little ones to make too!
MEAT SAUSAGE ROLLS
INGREDIENTS
400g Sausage-Meat or Sausages (skin removed)
375g Pack Ready-Rolled Puff Pastry
1 x Beaton Egg to Glaze
VEGETARIAN SAUSAGE ROLLS
INGREDIENTS
320g Pack - Ready-Rolled Puff Pastry
200g Chestnut Mushroom - finely chopped
70g White breadcrumbs
60g Mature Cheddar - grated
30g Chestnuts - very finely chopped
2 Leeks - finely chopped
2 Large Garlic Cloves - crushed
3 tbsp Olive Oil
1 tbsp Sage - finely chopped
1 tbsp Brown Rice Miso
2 tsp Dijon Mustard
1 x Beaton Egg to Glaze
METHOD
1. Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/ gas 6.
2. (Meat) Blend the sausage-meat in a
food processor, or mush up with hands in a bowl. Mix in a tbsp of water and mix well.
(Veg) Put half the olive oil in a large frying pan and add the leeks along with a pinch of salt. Fry gently for 15 mins or until softened and golden brown. Scrape the leeks out of the pan and into a bowl. Heat the remaining oil in the pan and fry the mushrooms for 10 mins over a medium heat. Add the garlic, sage, miso and mustard and fry for another minute, then leave to cool slightly. Combine the mushroom mixture with the leeks in a bowl, add the chestnuts, cheese and breadcrumbs. Season lightly to taste and mix well.
3. (Both) Unroll the pastry onto a board and cut in half lengthways.
4. Divide the sausage mixture in two and spread along the length of each pastry strip in a cylinder shape, leaving a 1cm edge.
5. Tightly roll the pastry around the sausagemeat and brush the ends with the beaten egg to secure.
6. Cut each roll into 10 pieces with a sharp knife, each about 2.5cm long, and arrange on a baking sheet.
7. Brush more beaten egg all over the pastry. Cook for 25-35 mins until the pastry is puffed and crisp and the meat has cooked through.
Eat hot or cold. Will keep, covered and frozen, for one month.
ASHTON LIBRARY
Ashton Library will close on Saturday, July 27th for essential maintenance works.
However, during this time, and to reduce any disruption, a temporary library will be open in Jubilee Park from Monday, July 29
There will be no changes to opening times, which are:
Monday - Wednesday: 9am - 2pm
Thursday - Friday: 12pm - 5pm
Saturday: 9am - 2pm
Sunday: Closed
To find out more, please visit: www.wigan.gov.uk/libraries
MESNES PARK, WIGAN
Saturday 31st August 2024
19:00 - 22:00
PENNINGTON HALL PARK, LEIGH
Saturday 7th September 2024
19:00 - 22:00
Two annual events which bring traditional singalong anthems like Jerusalem and Land of Hope and Glory to two of Wigan Borough’s parks are returning later this year.
Proms in the Park, featuring music from Tyldesley Brass Band, will entertain visitors to Mesnes Park on Saturday, August 31st and Pennington Hall Park on Saturday, September 7th 2024.
With classical music fans invited to bring their own picnics, chairs and blankets to enjoy feel-good favourites – including modern songs with a twist - with family and friends, the event promises an evening of brilliant entertainment.
James Winterbottom, director for strategy and innovation at Wigan Council, said: “Our Proms in the Park events are always a great opportunity to close off the summer months with musical classics performed by the incredible Tyldesley
Brass Band. So book your ticket today and bring along your own picnic, blanket and chairs to enjoy being serenaded under the stars!”
The events are family friendly with under fours going free.
A limited number of VIP packages for eight people are available with premium site location, a gazebo, afternoon tea and prosecco included in the ticket price.
James added: “We have a limited amount of early bird tickets available so the earlier you book, the better.”
Book your ticket: www.visitwigan.com/Whats-on.aspx
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Helping them to save money and you to generate more business.
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FAST-TRACK YOUR JOB SEARCH
THE REGION’S BIGGEST CAREER’S EVENT’S
Meet top employers face to face and apply directly for thousands of vacancies across the North West.
Preston Career Fair
August 28th from 10am - 2pm Deepdale Stadium, Preston PR1 6RU
Wigan Career Fair
August 29th from 10am - 2pm DW Stadium, Wigan WN5 0UH
Chester Career Fair
11th September from 10am -2pm
The Grosvenor, Eastgate St, Chester CH1 1LT
Manchester Job Show
September 13th & 14th September Trafford Centre, Manchester M17 8EH
For more career fairs and locations go to: https://www.ukcareersfair.com/events
WN4 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
Advertising
WN4 Page 34.
Body, Hair & Beauty
Crystal Clear Ear Wax Removal Page 33.
Feet to Face Page 10.
Healthy Feet By Joanne Dowd Page 29.
Cleaning Services
Maid2Clean Page 25.
Day Care Services
Bridgewater Day Care Page 39.
Education
Bloom Baby Classes Page 32.
3R’s Tuition Page 31.
Entertainment & Leisure
Bloom Baby Classes Page 32.
Oddfellows Page 12.
Food & Drink
Sky Blue Pet Foods Page 27.
Simms Road Inn Page 2.
The Glasshouse Page 25.
The Vinyard Cocktail Bar Page 17.
Funeral Services
Alan Jones Funeral Directors Ltd Page 5.
Garvey & Young Funeral Service Page 38.
Home Furnishings
Ashton Upholstery Page 23.
Blinding Blinds & Shutters Page 17.
Heather Horrocks Page 27.
Selecta Carpets Page 7.
Home Improvements
ABC Bathroom Clearance Centre Page 33
ASCA Satellite TV Page 31.
AS UPVC Page 37.
Ashton Bedrooms Page 27.
Aspire Fencing Page 26.
Awnings and Pergolas by Blinding Blinds Page 17.
Blinding Blinds & Shutters Page 17.
CDW Refurbishments Page 19.
Combi Doctor Plumbing & Heating Page 11.
Dave Abbott Electrical Solutions Page 37.
Designs For Life Bathrooms Page 13.
Fireclass Page 4.
Garolla Doors Page 38.
Heather Horrocks Page 27.
IJW Electrical Page 33.
JK Kitchens & Bedrooms Page 15.
JM Locksmiths Page 23.
Karndean Design Flooring Page 7.
Makerfield Bathrooms Page 19.
Move It Removals Page 18.
North West Timber Treatments Page 1.
Orrell Windows Ltd Page 40.
PB Powerwashing Page 37.
Paul Hilton Electrical Services Page 37.
Paul Walsh Handy Man Page 29.
Pergolas By Blinding Blinds Page 17.
Renu PVC Page 37.
Selecta Carpets Page 7.
SQ2 Electrical Services Page 37.
UK Tile Protection Roofers Page 33.
Jewellers
PH Gold Jewellers
Legal Services
Page 29.
Accord Legal Services Ashton Page 9.
Motoring
Ashton Tyres & Exhausts Page 24.
Coffey’s Car Cleaning Page 26.
McG Auto’s Page 37.
Other
Fifi’s Pawfect Pamper Page 29.
Vapour Trader Page 3.
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