With daffodils starting to bloom and bringing a spark of optimism to these darker days, it feels like we can almost smell Spring in the air! This is one of my favourite times to start planning for the season ahead. Whether it’s tackling some garden projects, sprucing up the house, or simply refreshing things for the months to come, there’s something so satisfying about it.
I’ve finally managed to get myself a family diary and am now playing catch-up, filling it with nice things to look forward to and stepping out of our comfort zone with new experiences. For me, that’s included joining a local mums’ netball group—just as fun (and a little brutal!) as I remember! For our 7-year-old, joining
Beavers has been an incredible experience—he’s been learning amazing life skills and having a fantastic time, while I get to enjoy a lovely, quiet coffee as I wait for him.
There’s so much to get involved within our local area, and before you know it, life feels full and connected. As well as half-term events, I have scoped out some local groups and activities happening nearby in the coming weeks that are great for meeting like-minded people, sharing a laugh, and adding a little brightness to these final winter days.
THE BOOK SHELF
WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR IS IN THE LIBRARY
by Michiko Aoyama
Set in Tokyo this charming, easy-read book gives a clear, positive insight into its 5 main characters. What they have in common is a visit to the Community House library where they are greeted by the enigmatic librarian, Ms. Komachi who appears, initially, rather unapproachable - even formidable.
herself - a crab, a plane, a frying pan, a cat and a globe. None of which seem to have any bearing on their request and, although apparently random, seem to touch each recipient at an unexpectedly personal level. All rather surprising considering she is a stranger to them all.
Each of her visitors is asked “What are you looking for?” And Ms.Komachi then goes on to recommend various books including a title totally unrelated to their search. She also gives them an individual bonus felt gift handmade by
The characters are at different stages of their lives but the one thing they have in common is a tendency to self-doubt. The impact of the book suggestions helps each of them on their road to self-discovery. It also confirms the power of books and libraries to transform lives and, possibly, our own way of thinking.
Jackie McDermott - Book Club Reviewer.
THE CHATTY CRAFTERS
The Chatty Crafter group meet at the Community Centre on Church Lane, Lowton, every Wednesday morning (except first Wednesday of the month) from 10am – 12.15pm.
They’re a friendly group who enjoy a variety of crafts – and have lots of equipment for you to use, too: from die cutting machines and dies; stamping platform with stamps, inks, parchment items, an engraver and more. So it’s perfect for whatever kind of crafter you are – whether experienced or just a beginniner. With their ‘lending library’, members can even take equipment home and return it the following week.
Subs each week are £3.50, and this includes access to the equipment as well as tea, coffee and biscuits.
And as well as getting together to work on craft projects, the group also arrange occasional craft-related trips and organise themed workshops for members to get involved with.
All are welcome – so why not come down and join the Chatty Crafters at their next get-together?
The St Helens and Warrington Oddfellows friendship group is encouraging older adults in the area to try something new in later life.
The local group of around 320 mostly retired local members, organises a variety of events and activities in and around St Helens and Warrington.
“As well as our popular coffee mornings, we like to arrange things that people might not have done before such as 10 pin bowling or just visit somewhere new on a day trip.” said Julie Webster, Branch Social Organiser.
“It’s never too late to try something new,” she added, “but we know people sometimes need some inspiration or someone to do it alongside. We’ve a readymade set of friends who are all eager to keep life interesting by having a go at new and interesting activities. You never know – you might just find your new favourite pastime with us.”
Newcomers are invited to try one of the group’s upcoming events, the popular Tuesday Drop In’s at Ormskirk St URC, St Helens are on February 11th and 18th and March 4th, 11th and 18th start at 1.30pm until 3.30pm, here you can bring your chosen craft or pass time to work on, join in with some games or simply have a chat and make new friends, Cost £2.50 members £3.00 non-members which includes refreshments
Monthly Coffee Mornings at the Kaleidoscope Café inside the World of Glass Museum, St Helens are to be held on February 20th and March 6th.
Bookings are now being taken for the first coach trip of 2025, a day at Lytham Hall is planned for Thursday 24th April. With morning coffee on arrival, introduction talk, free time to tour the hall, gardens and parklands along with a soup and sandwich lunch, the day promises to be full of activity. Cost £32 members £35 guests coach pick up at Winwick Street, Warrington at 9am and Ormskirk St URC, St Helens at 9.20am.
St Helens and Warrington Oddfellows is part of one of the UK’s oldest and largest friendly societies. It aims to improve people’s lives through friendship and support.As well as social events, Oddfellows members can access a wide range of benefits, including care and welfare support and a travel club. There are also opportunities to volunteer and play a part in fundraising initiatives.
To receive a free information pack and a diary of St Helens and Warrington Oddfellows’ upcoming events contact Julie.
Get ready for an exciting half-term as St Helens Libraries brings a fantastic line-up of children’s theatre and creative crafts that will entertain children of all ages.
FEBRUARY 15th
Tales from the Lighthouse
A musical voyage full of stories, songs, and the sea from 11:00 to 14:00.
Puppet Making Crafts
Create your own puppet versions of characters from “Tales from the Lighthouse” from 12:00 to 13:15.
FEBRUARY 17th
So Unfair : Help make the world a better place. From 11:00 to 14:00.
Birdhouses for Spring Crafts
Join a birdhouse craft workshop
From 14:30 to 15:30.
FEBRUARY 18th
Once Upon a Fairytale
Help find Goldilocks from 11:00 to 14:00. Make a Suncatcher Craft Workshop
Create beautiful sun catchers
From 11:00 to 12:00.
Roald Dahl Character Craft Workshops
Special crafts inspired by Roald Dahl’s characters from 14:30 to 15:30.
And much more!
For the full list of events and to book visit us online at www.sthelens.gov.uk/libraries or visit Wonder Arts Upcoming Events
A Season of Highlights & Excitement
The winter term has been nothing short of extraordinary. Moving into our brand-new school has been transformative. Students and staff are embracing the incredible cutting-edge facilities, including six state-of-the-art Science labs, innovative Graphics and Design Technology workshops, and professional-standard theatre and sports arenas.
In October, we threw open our doors for a fantastic open day and evening. Prospective students with their families came to see what makes our school special. From meeting our staff and current students to exploring the subjects and facilities, the energy on the day was electric, with many describing the school as “truly impressive.”
In December, the festive spirit came alive during our Senior House Competition, a vibrant showcase of talent, teamwork, and creativity. Students from all four houses came together in the main hall to compete in music, dance and drama. The atmosphere was exhilarating, with cheers echoing through the room as the performances unfolded. For generations of our learners the house system has been a source of collective pride and a fantastic way to make friends and this year in our new school this proud community tradition continued. Seeing students step into the spotlight, support one another and share their passions was truly inspiring and a testament to the spirit of our school.
The festive spirit continued with our Christmas Celebration, which brought students, parents, and the local community together for an evening filled with joy. From mesmerising performances to lively Christmas markets and interactive games, the celebration left a lasting impression and brought our community closer than ever.
Countless academic, sporting and community achievements have illuminated this first term in our new school and we have found every opportunity to celebrate our vibrant student comminity. Welcoming our friends and colleagues from local business and our College and University partners for our Careers Fair was a really special occasion; and filling the stage with magic and colour the cast of Peter Pan made our first musical in our theatre a smash hit!
As spring approaches, we’re excited to keep the momentum going with more events and activities to inspire and engage.
Coming Soon:
Joining us in September?
Come Along to Friendship Day in March!
Keen To become involved in school life?
Join The Byrchall Parent Team!
Like to know more about our school?
@byrchall /byrchall
WINTERING AS NATURE INTENDED
Embracing wintering during the darker months allows us to align with the natural rhythm of the season, fostering rest, reflection, and renewal. In a world that often prioritizes constant productivity, winter offers a reminder to slow down, retreat inward, and focus on self-care. The quiet, stillness, and longer nights provide a unique opportunity to nurture creativity, deepen relationships, and engage in restorative practices like reading, journaling, or simply enjoying moments of solitude. By leaning into the season’s pause, we cultivate resilience and prepare ourselves to emerge with fresh energy and clarity when the light returns. Wintering isn’t about resisting the darkness—it’s about finding beauty and growth within it, as nature intended.
GENTLE MID-WINTER IDEAS:
Create winter traditions, like a weekly soup night, a board game evenings, or a wine & cheese night and find joy in adding something new to your routine.
Bake something simple and comforting. Something you can enjoy mid-morning or when you return from a walk.
If you don’t feel like going out,try putting some Saracococca plants (also known as Winter Box or Sweet Box) at your front door or even better inside. This evergreen hardy winter flowering shrub offers a beautiful scent and helps keep you connected to nature, which naturally lifts your mood. Light candles before it goes dark, making it feel like you’ve experienced an evening before you climb into bed early, which is why we have a winter season.
Set time aside and curl up with a good book, a warm blanket and escape into a different world.
Take an indulgent mid-afternoon bath. Add Epsom salts, essential oils, or bubbles for a relaxing soak that soothes both body and mind, like a home spa.
Listen to soothing music or a podcast to create a cozy ambiance by listening to calming playlists, nostalgic tunes, or an inspiring podcast while you relax.
Empty and clear out a draw or cupboard, don’t set the bar too high, just small consistent tasks can makes us feel like we are moving towards moving forward.
Create a gratitude journal – Spend a few minutes each day jotting down things you’re grateful for. It’s a simple way to boost your mood and reflect on the positives.
These gentle activities embrace the slower pace of winter and can leave you feeling restored.
Read more about how we can embrace the seasons with Evergreen - Discover The Joy In Every Season, By Lydia Millen
Customer Reviews
We know that advertising in the WN4 works. But just don’t take our word for it, here is what our customers have to say...
We’ve had some good leads come through. Rightio Plumbing and Heating
The advert has brought some great business our way. SQ2 Electrical
My Ashton client base has increased since advertising. Crystal Clear Ear
I’ve definitly had more business, thanks to your magazine! Move It Removal
If you would like to advertise your business please contact Sarah on 07866 389 948, or email info@wnlink.co.uk
WHATS ON GUIDE
February/March 2025
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 winter events for your diary;
Wigan’s Local Choir
Tuesday Nights, 7pm - 8.30pm Upholland High School, Wigan, WN5 7AL Sing with your local choir. Join the BIGGEST community choir in Wigan. Make new friends, improve your confidence, take part in unique, life-affirming experiences, support local charities in need, find your voice & experience the joy of singing together!
Community Cold Water Dip
Sunday 9th February, 8-10am, Sunday 13th February (Monthly) 90min Session
Three Sister’s Water Ski Club, Wigan
Blow off the winter cobwebs with a cold water nature dip. This popular event is a revitalizing activity that has gained popularity for its physical and mental health benefits. The intense cold triggers a rush of endorphins, boosts circulation, and strengthens the immune system. Mentally, it encourages mindfulness and resilience as you focus on your breath and adapt to the discomfort. Come join us for a local dip with group experienced breath work lead by Ryan. Enjoy a warm club house, changing rooms and showers for before and after your dip followed by a hot drink and time to connect and share.
(Age restrictions 18+)
Contact ryan@urbanicetribe.com for more information & ticket price.
Youth Theatre
Every Friday 5pm - 7pm
Leigh Library, Civic Square, Leigh WN7 1EB
WigLe Youth Theatre is back in a new venue - Leigh Library in Leigh town centre! We’re looking for young people to join our established youth theatre group and work towards our next full length musical production. To join just come along to rehearsal Friday 5pm - 7pm or for more information email info@wigledance.co.uk or call 01942 644 995
British Gymnastics - Gymfusion
Sunday 16th February, 11am & 2.30pm
Lowry Theatre, Salford, M50 3AZ
Be prepared to be wowed as our gymnasts perform by displaying their team skills and talent, in a fun and friendly environment. Our theme this year is Storytellers, so be prepared be dazzled by routines that leap, twist, and dance straight off the page from great tales! GymFusion perfectly demonstrates the spirit of ‘Gymnastics for All’; encouraging performance, bringing the gymnastics community together, promoting diversity, and most importantly, having fun! £22.
Wigan Beer Festival
Thursday 27th February - Saturday 1st March
Robin Park, Loire Drive, Wigan, WN5 0UH.
The Wigan CAMRA beer festival returns for 2025, a chance to try out over 80 real ales, cider and Perry, foreign & craft bar, gin bar and live entertainment, something for every taste. Transport between the Wigan stations & the festival is once again being offered by the Wigan Transport Trust. www.beerfestival.wigancamra.org.uk
Family Art & Collage Workshop
Sunday 2nd March
Haigh Woodland Park, School Ln, Wigan WN2 1PE
A session full of glueing, sticking and collage inspired by folktales about the magical trees of Haigh. Rowan, oak and willow all have their own story. Lead by artist Anna FC Smith. Activities are suitable for children aged 5-11.Adults stay with their children for this session. You need to book a ticket for the child taking part and a ticket if the adult wants to create their own piece of art. If the accompanying adults is just observing or helping their child with their piece, the accompanying adult doesn’t need a ticket. The workshop takes place upstairs in the Stables Courtyard in the Classroom space. £6.13
Easter Family Fun Day
Saturday 19th April - First Race 1.30pm
Haydock Racecourse, Newton-le-Willows WA12 0HQ
Step back into the fun of a classic British sports day with exciting events like sack races, egg-and-spoon challenges, and more, perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Little ones will be entertained with Easterthemed activities, including games, face painting while you can cheer on top-class racing action on the track in a lively, festive atmosphere.
Under 18’s race for free!
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Tuesday 11th March - Sunday 16th March
Palace Theatre, Oxford St, Manchester, M1 6FT
A brand-new production of this much-loved family favourite. This ravishing award-winning musical is bursting with unforgettable songs by the Sherman Brothers including Toot Sweets, Hushabye Mountain, Truly Scrumptious and of course the Academy Awardnominated title song, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
From £24
Why not check out; www.wiganeventsguide.com/events/ or visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/article/4336/What-s-on for more winter 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
WINTER RECIPE
2 INGREDIENT SOURDOUGH BREAD
This high protein healthy alternative to traditional ingredients isn’t only super quick and easy to make it also tastes delicious.
There is no need to buy bread filled with nasty additives when it’s this quick and easy to make in your own home.
If you don’t have a Dutch oven this still works well just in a cast iron pan with a lid, or on a foil coverd baking tray.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups self-rising flour 1 1/4 cups kefir (natural/plain) (Optional: Salt to taste)
METHOD
1. Mix the self-rising flour and kefir in a bowl until a soft dough forms. Add salt at this stage if desired.
2. Place the dough in a bowl, cover it with a damp tea towel, and let it rest for 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Dutch Oven/cast iron pan/ baking tray at 200°C (400°F) for 30 minutes before baking.
4. Flour your work surface. Stretch and fold the dough 4-5 times to develop structure.
5. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet and place it in the preheated Dutch oven/cast iron pan/baking tray. Bake for 50 minutes total.
Tip: Remove the Dutch oven lid after 35 minutes to help the crust turn golden brown.
It should be soft on the inside with a beautifully crisp crust.
MEMORY CAFE
Join us for a friendly chat and a cuppa.
Last Friday of every month, 11am - 1pm (next meeting Friday 28th February)
If you know someone with dementia or memory loss please come and join us. We enjoy group activities, create new memories, cherishing old ones and exchange ideas...as always a light lunch and refreshments will be available in addition to support from their volunteers and the group as a whole.
ALL WELCOME.
Cornerstone Family Church, Cooke St (Off Downall Green Rd), WN4 0DL
NEW KIDS CLUB
OPEN EVERY FRIDAY
FROM 6 PM TO 8 PM AT CORNERSTONE CHURCH, COOKE ST, BRYN, WN4 0DL NEXT TO ST PETER’S SCHOOL
ACTIVITIES FOR AGES 3 TO 12
FREE ENTRY
SEE YOU THERE!
ASHTON
With all surveys just about complete, a stakeholder meeting is scheduled for early February to finalise the proposed works for the grade 2 listed building.
Your local community magazine keeping everyone connected...Since 2011!
The WN4 is a great way to support & connect local people to local businesses. It has been proven that by sourcing local business cost savings can be passed directly onto your customers.
Helping them to save money and you to generate more business.
Our aim is to bring local business to local people, share events and help to build a local community where everyone stays connected.
Launched in 2011
6 editions per year
5 advert sizes, to suit all budgets
Advertising from only £50 per issue, or £300 per year.
5,000 copies every other month, 30,000 copies per year
Delivered free to local homes & businesses
Magazine drops at local pubs, cafes & high foot fall community areas
Community content including; news and events in your local area
The WN4 is distributed 6 times a year, April, June, August, October, December and February.
If you would like to share your business, service, news or local event please contact Sarah on 07866 389 948, or email info@wnlink.co.uk
WN4 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
Advertising
WN4
Body, Hair & Beauty
Page 18,34.
Crystal Clear Ear Wax Removal Page 37.
Feet to Face Page 19.
Healthy Feet By Joanne Dowd Page 18.
Reiki By David Page 18.
Cleaning Services
Maid2Clean Page 31.
Day Care Services
Bridgewater Day Care Page 39.
Education
Bloom Baby Classes Page 30.
Byrchall High School Page 15.
Care, Love, Learn Childcare Page 20, 21.
Entertainment & Leisure
ASCA TV Aerials/Satellite /Cinema Rooms Page 31.
Annies Crystals & Stones Page 33.
Bloom Baby Classes Page 30.
Garswood School of Dance Page 30.
Houghwood Golf Page 1.
Oddfellows Page 12.
The Enchanted Moon Page 25.
You Fit Leisure Centre (Holiday Inn) Page 4.
Food & Drink
Houghwood Golf Page 1.
Simms Road Inn Page 2.
The Glasshouse Page 10.
The Vinyard Cocktail Bar Page 14.
Funeral Services
Alan Jones Funeral Directors Ltd Page 5.
Garvey & Young Funeral Service Page 19.
Home Furnishings
Blinding Blinds & Shutters Page 17.
Heather Horrocks Page 35.
Home Improvements
ABC Bathroom Clearance Centre Page 31.
ASCA TV Aerials/Satellite /Cinema Rooms Page 31.
AS UPVC Page 37.
CDW Refurbishments Page 17.
Designs For Life Bathrooms Page 9.
Four Seasons Home Improvements Page 29.
Heather Horrocks Page 35.
Haldane Fisher Builders Merchant Page 38.
IJW Electrical Page 28.
JK Kitchens & Bedrooms Page 11.
Makerfield Bathrooms Page 25.
Move It Removals Page 3.
Orrell Windows Ltd Page 40.
PB Powerwashing Page 37.
Paul Hilton Electrical Services Page 37.
Paul Walsh Handy Man Page 35.
Pergolas & Awnings By Blinding Blinds Page 17.
Renu PVC Page 37.
Rightio Plumbing & Heating Page 29.
SQ2 Electrical Services Page 37.
UK Tile Protection Roofers Page 37.
Jewellers
PH Gold Jewellers
Legal Services
Page 33.
Accord Legal Services Ashton Page 7.
Motoring
Ashton Tyres & Exhausts
Page 38.
McG Auto’s Page 37.
Spraywise Cosmetic Body Repair Page 28.
Other
Fifi’s Pawfect Pamper
Page 35.
The Enchanted Moon Page 25.
Vapour Trader Page 13.
Delivered to over 30,000 homes every year in the WN4 postcode area.
The WN4 is produced by the WN Link.
Please note that every care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information within the WN4.
The WN Link assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions or consequences of any information contained within the WN4. Reproduction of this magazine, in whole or part, is forbidden without prior written permission of the WN Link. 07866 389 948 - info@wnlink.co.uk
