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Although we have been lucky enough to be treated to a few (very welcome) warmer days over the past weeks, I have already begun to turn my attention inward. A few seasonal changes to our home is all it takes to put me in the mood for the months ahead. I love to acknowledge this time of year with a new scent and have already started to place candles around the house ready to make it look, feel and smell cosy and inviting as the nights draw in. Sunday walks and a roast with family and friends are already in the diary. I don’t know if it’s just me but I am so excited to get the slow cooker out again for some nourishing one-pot dishes.
pulled together a list of a few of the more local ones so you don’t have to travel too far to join in the fun.
Many places are starting to turn their attention to Christmas and sharing details of some of their festive offerings. Whether they offer seasonal food, a winter wonderland, or a Christmas jumper quiz there is so much to look forward to.
Our shops are already bursting with Halloween decorations and, with so many local places offering pumpkin picking and fun events for the kids, we have
If you have a local event, coffee morning, keep fit class, walk and talk groups, or any other activity just let us know and we would love to share the details with like-minded people. Staying connected through the darker months is what the community is all about.
THE
BOOK SHELF A TERRIBLE KINDNESS
by Jo Browning Wroe
This beautifully written novel begins with the graduation of William Lavery from the Thames College of Embalming. He is at his first ever ‘swanky’ event to celebrate with his girlfriend Gloria, uncle Robert and Robert’s partner, Howard. During the course of the evening news comes in of a horrific landslide in the Welsh coalmining area of Aberfan. A waste tip has slipped down the hillside engulfing a school, nearby houses and more than 140 children and adults.
What happens over the next weeks makes William look back at his rather sad childhood reflecting on incidents he has tried to forget. His father died when he was only 8 and, encouraged by his mother, the youngster began to train in a chorister school where he proved to be an outstanding chorister and performer. Following a rift with her he decides to follow in his father’s footsteps joining the embalming world although his love of music never left him.
William immediately volunteers and, later that night, he and 2 other men drive to Wales with child-sized coffins and supplies required to prepare bodies for recognition by distraut family members. They all immediately get to work with the help of local people deeply traumatised but still more than willing to do whatever is necessary.
The overwhelming grief experienced in Aberfan had such an emotional impact on him that it re-awakened memories of his childhood trauma. As some of his life experiences re-surfaced he had to deal with hidden emotions and, wonderfully, he reconnected with those he had turned his back on. One of these is Martin, a fellow chorister who involves William in the Midnight Choir a local group set up to connect and engage homeless people. This is the beginning of William’s step back into the world he had given up on.
Jackie McDermott - Book Club Reviewer.
HERE FOR YOU
As part of the ‘Here for You’ campaign, Wigan Council are hosting events at their Life Centres, libraries and local community venues to ensure that local people are getting all of the support they are entitled to during this cost of living crisis including the winter fuel allowance.
We know that both locally and nationally, many of us are missing out on income we’re entitled to claim.
This might be because you don’t know you may be entitled, you might have difficulty completing forms or you might just not be sure where to turn to for support.
That’s why they are hosting drop in events across our borough with teams of friendly expert people ready to help.
They are here to complete benefit checks to make sure that you are in receipt of all current entitlements based on your circumstances and to help you complete any necessary claim forms for benefits you might not realise you’re eligible to apply for.
Whatever your situation, you’ll be continually supported throughout the entire process.
Both national and local support offers can change quite regularly, so it’s always worth checking what the current offer is and if you are eligible, even if you may have been refused support before or think you won’t be entitled to any help.
The details of their upcoming events are shown below, so please go along and join them. Their team of friendly, expert advisers will be able to discuss the support that is available and help you to make a claim.
If you would like further details regarding the upcoming events or can’t make an event and would like to discuss how they can help you, please contact the Council on 01942 489 015.
Family Hub, Mornington Road, Hindley, Wigan WN2 4LG 17 October 2024, 12pm to 4pm
Jed’s Pantry, St Stephen’s Church, Balcarres Ave, Wigan WN1 3UP 8 October 2024, 9am to 11am
Leigh Library, Civic Square, Market Street, Leigh WN7 1EB 26 October 2024, 10:30am to 1:30pm
Leigh Life Centre, Civic Square, Market Street, Leigh WN7 1EB 9 October 2024, 10am to 4pm 16 October 2024, 10am to 4pm 23 October 2024, 10am to 4pm.
The Brick Food Pantry, 65 Water St, Wigan WN1 1DN 29 October 2024, 10am to 3pm
Wigan Life Centre North, College Ave, Wigan WN1 1NJ 10 October 2024, 10am to 4pm 17 October 2024, 10am to 4pm 24 October 2024, 10am to 4pm.
PUMPKIN PICKING
Roby Mill Pumpkin Patch - FREE
Saturday 5th to Sunday 27th October
Johnsons Farm, Lafford Lane, Upholland The Patch will then be open most days until Halloween. You need to book FREE tickets for their busiest periods; these being weekends and the half term week (21st-25th).
Grange Farm Pumpkin Festival
12th, 13th, 19th to 27th October
Grange Farm, Stonecross Lane South, Lowton, WA3 1JU
Pick your own pumpkin from the Grange Farm Pumpkin Patch, enjoy a fun fair, maize maze scavenger hunt along with children’s entertainment and games. Food and drink huts will be serving Halloween themed goodies along with a licensed bar plus lots more!
Winstanley Park Pumpkin Patch & Spooky Walk
Saturday 12th to Thursday 31st October
Rylance Mill Farm, Winstanley Rd, WN3 6DD
Get your pumpkins and enjoy food, drinks and face painting, then join the spooky Halloween walk. Tickets are required for
the Spooky Walk and will take place from the 21st October. See Facebook: ‘Winstanley Park Event’
Kenyon Hall Farm Weekdays in October until the 20th Then 25, 30th and 31st October.
Winwick Ln, Croft, Warrington WA3 7ED Visiting Kenyon Hall Farm’s pumpkin patch is more than just a seasonal outing; it’s a tradition waiting to be started. With over 15,000 pumpkins ready this year, it’s going to be a spectacular one!
From autumn flavours and delights, one of the highlights of a visit to Kenyon Hall Farm is indulging in the treats available on-site. The farm’s cosy café serves up warm apple cider, creamy hot chocolate, and homemade pies that taste like they were baked by your grandmother. Don’t miss out on their pumpkin-themed goodies and hot drinks!
General Admission
Standard £2.95, Child (under 18 months) free.
As autumn begins St Helens and Warrington Oddfellows Friendly Society still have a full calendar of events for everyone to enjoy.
Their regular Tuesday Drop In’s at Ormskirk Street URC, St Helens are growing in popularity each week, here you can bring your chosen craft or pass time to work on, join in with various games or simply have a chat and make new friends. Sessions start at 1.30pm until 3.30pm, at only £2.50 members and £3.00 non-members which includes refreshments, these are great ways to spend a cold, wet autumn afternoon. Upcoming dates are 1st, 15th, 22nd October, 12th, 26th November and 3rd December.
St Helens Monthly Coffee Mornings at The Kaleidoscope Café (formerly the Hotties Café) inside The World of Glass Museum run from 10.30am until 12 noon and are 10th October, 19th November and 5th December, cost as per menu.
Other upcoming events are the Charity Afternoon in aid of Willowbrook Hospice on Tuesday 8th October at Ormskirk Street URC, 1.30pm-3.30pm. There will be a raffle, name the teddy, tombola and bottle stalls along with a huge collection of crafts to purchase. Tickets cost £5 includes cake and unlimited tea/coffee.
Monday 21st is a Cabaret Lunch and shopping trip to Oswaldtwistle Mills. Time for shopping, a 3 course lunch and entertainment by Martin Gregory Lambert. Coach pick up Winwick St, Warrington 9am, URC St Helens 9.20am. Cost £43 members, £45 non members.
Tuesday 10th December brings a fun filled afternoon with ‘Halifax Bingo’ Steal a Prize. Bring a wrapped gift to the value of £2, roll a dice to win a prize by stealing a neighbours. This is a very easy but fun game and is always extremely popular. Cost £2.50 members £3.00 non- members (plus wrapped gift) includes refreshments and Christmas treats.
Thursday 12th December is party time with the annual Christmas Lunch Party starting at 12.30pm at The Unison Club, Bishop Road, St Helens. Enjoy a served choice of starter and dessert with the main course being a Christmas Carvery all followed by tea/coffee and mince pies. Fun, games and dancing follow along with the Christmas Raffle with all proceeds going to the chosen charity of the year Willowbrook Hospice. Cost TBC approx. £35
Autumn has long been one of my favourite seasons, first and foremost as I am back on Grandma duties and having my grandson for two days helps bring structure to my week.
The thing that make’s me smile… The comfort of having a good book on the go. The local library is like an escape for me and one of my favourite places to go and spend time. I love discovering a new author and currently working my way through Peter May’s crime collection.
I have already started buying Christmas presents for my grandchildren, I pick things up throughout the year and by the time December arrives, I have little hampers for them all. This takes the pressure off at Christmas and I love the surprise of pulling things out I have forgotten I have bought.
I walk daily come rain or shine, my late husband used to say ‘there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes’, so I wrap up and get out there, the colder the better! On my grandma days I bundle them up and we go and feed the ducks.
My favourite winter food is a good stew. I usually make this on Sunday along with a couple of jacket potatoes so I have something quick, easy and hearty on days when I need an easy tea. Cooking for one means I do not have to compromise and sometimes beans on toast hits the spot!
Coffee, just as I like it helps me get going in the morning, I have been known to take my cafetière on holiday with me! Its a little luxury I would definitely take to a desert island.
I am always glad I have taken the time to plant my spring bulbs, knowing how grateful I feel to see colour on my patio after the dark winter. I have just bought some new daffodils and tulip bulbs from the church fair ready to plant in the coming weeks.
My favourite room in the house is my kitchen, where I have recently replaced the family dinning table with a couple of comfy chairs and coffee table. This suits my life now and my grandchildren still have a small table to sit at. If I’m not eating from a tray in front of the TV (guilty pleasure) I eat at the kitchen breakfast bar.
I always look forward to my mid-winter cruise with my friend Christine, we have been going together for the past 5 years and we return just as my Spring bulbs are starting to come up.
Next summer, three years after the Jurassic World trilogy concluded the enduring Jurassic series evolves in an ingenious new direction with Jurassic World Rebirth. So, the Welsh Reviewer has looked back on the last re-boot, Jurassic World...
INTRODUCTION
Jurassic World, originally released in 2015, 14 years after Jurassic Park 3 (2001). Jurassic World is a reboot of the Jurassic Park trilogy and proved to be a major success which brought the franchise back to life.
PLOT SUMMARY
Jurassic World is set on the same island as Jurassic Park, Isla Nublar, but with all new staff and owners/investors. Jurassic World begins with the appearance that nothing could go wrong and there is a gradual build-up of the storyline to the day when (surprise, surprise) everything goes terrible wrong. The creation of a hybrid dinosaur, the Indominus Rex which then escapes from its enclosure and starts on a major killing spree. This however is just the first domino to fall in the chain of events to come in this high-octane film. Operations manager Claire Dearing has invited her two nephews to the park for an enjoyable all-access trip to Jurassic World while their parents go through a divorce. However, when they go missing, she calls upon velociraptor trainer and ex-navy soldier Owen Grady to track them down and prevent them from falling victim to the blood thirsty dinosaur. However, due to the Indominus Rex causing havoc, the park and their guests are all put at risk.
CAST & THE DINOSAURS
This film follows Claire Dearing played by the brilliant Bryce Dallas Howard and Owen Grady played by Chris Pratt. Claires nephews Zach (Nick Robinson) and Gray (Ty Simpson) are 2 of many brilliant side characters like: Masrani played by the late Irrfan Khan (the new owner of the park), Vic Hoskins (Vincent D’Onofrio) and the only returning cast member from the original films Dr Henry Wu (BD Wong). As well as new human characters there are new dino faces like the raptor squad: Blue, Delta, Charlie and Echo; with Blue (the beta) playing a larger role in the later 2 sequels. As well as the raptors there is of course the Indominus Rex the hybrid dinosaur which goes on a killing spree to see where it is on the food chain and the original T Rex (Rexy) from the first film who becomes a major part at the climax of the film.
TRIVIA & SUCCESS
Overall Jurassic World was a major success at the box office and remains a popular film today. The film won 15 awards and had 58 nominations. I also want to acknowledge both Colin Trevorrow for rebooting the franchise so well and Michael Giacchino for such a good soundtrack for the reboot.
FUN FACT
There are numerous cameos including Jimmy Fallon as the safety instructor, Brad Bird the director of The Incredibles makes a brief appearance too. Also, the director makes a cameo as the voice of the famous Mr. DNA from the first film.
CONCLUSION
Overall, I am a personal fan of the Jurassic Park/World franchises and found the reboot of Jurassic Park an enjoyable film as it has perfect balance of story and action and plenty of dinosaur enjoyment. I would rate the film a 4.5 out of 5 and it’s a great watch! See, www.jurassicworld.com for more details on Jurassic World Rebirth.
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
WHATS ON GUIDE
October & November 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 autumn events for your diary;
Book & Pudding Club
First Monday of the Month, 7.30 pm
The Vale, Orrell WN5 0LH
Like reading books, talk about them and eating pudding? Then they have got you covered! Launching on Monday 7th October and part of a network of 23 groups up and down the country, it’s part of the book taster.
Monthly membership includes a hot drink and a pudding
Sign up at: www.thebooktaster.com
Halloween Wreath Workshop
17th October, 6.30 pm
Relish Cheese & Wine, 43 Hallgate, Wigan WN1 1LR
A Halloween Wreath making workshop, where you will taught the basics of wreath making, over a 2 hour session, ending it having crafted your very own halloween wreath. Glasses of wine can be purchased on the night for £5 and platters can be purchased if you would like food on the night too.
Enjoy a night of hits from the 60’s. A great evening of singing and dancing with one of the most popular bands of the North West. Refreshments available and a raffle will be held.
Tickets £6 - Call 07913 382 258
Gypsy Darlings Disco Bingo
Saturday 26th October, from 8 pm - late Brian Boru Club, Bryn St, Ashton, WN4 9AX
With a £150 jackpot up for grabs and lots of onstage games, spooky dance offs, giveaways and more, why not pop down and enjoy this disco fun filled bingo night.
Tickets £10 (in Bingo books) available behind the bar.
Kids Halloween Party
26th October, 2 pm - 5 pm
The Bathsprings, Wigan Rd, Ashton WN4 0DD
Join us for an afternoon of music, party games and snack pack and treats…
Arley Hall Winter Light Trail
30th November to 24th December, Entry times from 4.30 pm to 8 pm Arley, Northwich, Cheshire CW9 6NA
As darkness descends, join us on our enchanting journey, as we weave a captivating light trail through the woodlands at Arley estate. Immerse yourself in our mesmerising mile long trail, with stunning lighting elements and fabulous interactive light play, all set to music. A timeless experience to be enjoyed by all.The start/finish area will have tasty hot food and drinks for before or after the trail. On the route you will find mulled wine and marshmallows for toasting on fire pits.he trail will take approximately 60 - 90 minutes. Tickets from £10.
Highfield Christmas Market
7th December, 12 pm to Late Billinge Road, Highfield WN3 6BL
Kick start your festivities season with the return of Highfield Christmas Market. Expect to see food, a bar, kids games, nativity trail, live music, crafts and gift stalls and a grotto where Santa will be waiting to see you.
Santa Sunday Lunch
Sunday 8th & 15th December
Mercure Hotel, Penny Ln, Haydock WA11 9SG
Take your place at our table for a fantastic feast of festive flavours in the run up to the big day. Get the whole family into the Christmas spirit by joining us for a three course set Sunday lunch. As well as a delicious three course meal, there will be entertainment for the children and Santa will pay a visit!
Adults £28 (£10 deposit), Children £23 (£10 Deposit)
Rockin Country Christmas
Saturday 14th December, 8 pm to late. Brian Boru Club, Bryn St, Ashton, WN4 9AX
Join us for an evening of country Christmas. Wild Horse Country featuring Paul Taylor and Katie Bell for country music and line dancing. Doors open from 7 pm. Tickets £7 each, or 2 for £12. www.brianboruclub.com
Comic Con Halloween
26th October. 10 am - 4 pm
Haydock Park Racecourse, WA12 0HQ
Its time for Halloscream and a monster mash. This is Halloween based but fun for all. Maybe a twist but up to you. Super Zombie Man, Darth Ghost or Scary Disney, you decide. Classic duck apple surprise, ghost hunt, cosplayparade, props for Halloween and more. Under 4’s free, 5-9 years £2.50, 10-15 £6, Adults £10 (+ booking fees). visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk
Why not check out; www.wiganeventsguide.com/events/ or visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/article/4336/What-s-on for more autumn 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
AUTUMN RECIPE PARSNIP & PEAR SOUP
A velvety-smooth soup that comes together in a flash, perfect for chilly weeknights.
MEAT SAUSAGE ROLLS
INGREDIENTS
2 parsnips
2 pears
500ml vegetable stock
A little butter/oil
A drizzle of cream
METHOD
1. Peel and chop the parsnips then add them to a pan with a little butter and soften on a medium heat for a few minutes.
2. Then add the chicken stock and simmer until the parsnips are soft.
3. Peel and chop the pears and add them to the saucepan to cook gently for 5 minutes.
4. Blitz the mixture using a blender or a food processor.
5. Drizzle over a little cream if you wish and a little black pepper (optional).
I topped mine with toasted seeds, chilli flakes and some fresh parsley but it’s delicious on its own or mopped up with crusty bread
CULCHETH EAGLES U16s
Clucheth Eagles U16s rugby league (Soon to be 18s) are looking for new players!
They are looking for lads in the first & second year of college.
Training is on a Thursday night in Culcheth.
For more information contact Stacey on 07584 287 800
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.
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Advertising from only £50 per issue, or £300 per year.
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The WN4 is distributed 6 times a year, December, February, April, June, August and October.
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 Page 34.
Body, Hair & Beauty
Crystal Clear Ear Wax Removal Page 32.
Feet to Face Page 28.
Healthy Feet By Joanne Dowd Page 31.
Phil Parr Hypnotherapy Page 29.
Cleaning Services
Maid2Clean Page 33.
Gee Tee’s Page 17.
Day Care Services
Bridgewater Day Care Page 39.
Education
Bloom Baby Classes Page 32.
Byrchall High School Page 1.
Care, Love, Learn Childcare Page 20, 21.
3R’s Tuition Page 35.
Entertainment & Leisure
ASCA TV Aerials/Satellite /Cinema Rooms Page 25.
Bloom Baby Classes Page 37.
Freyar’s Cavern Page 33.
Garswood School of Dance Page 30.
Oddfellows Page 12.
Food & Drink
Sky Blue Pet Foods Page 35.
Simms Road Inn Page 2, 3.
The Glasshouse Page 25.
The Vinyard Cocktail Bar Page 38.
Funeral Services
Alan Jones Funeral Directors Ltd Page 5.
Garvey & Young Funeral Service Page 38.
Home Furnishings
Ashton Upholstery Page 29.
Blinding Blinds & Shutters Page 26.
Heather Horrocks Page 35.
Selecta Carpets Page 7.
Home Improvements
ABC Bathroom Clearance Centre Page 32.
ASCA TV Aerials/Satellite /Cinema Rooms Page 25.
AS UPVC Page 37.
Ashton Bedrooms Page 27.
Aspire Fencing Page 30.
CDW Refurbishments Page 28.
Designs For Life Bathrooms Page 11.
Fireclass Page 4.
Garolla Doors Page 38.
Gee Tee’s Page 17.
Heather Horrocks Page 35.
Haldane Fisher Builders Merchant Page 19.
IJW Electrical Page 32.
JK Kitchens & Bedrooms Page 13.
JM Locksmiths Page 27.
Karndean Design Flooring Page 7.
Makerfield Bathrooms Page 26.
Move It Removals Page 18.
Orrell Windows Ltd Page 40.
PB Powerwashing Page 37.
Paul Hilton Electrical Services Page 37.
Paul Walsh Handy Man Page 30.
Pergolas & Awnings By Blinding Blinds Page 26.
Renu PVC Page 37.
Rightio Plumbing & Heating Page 31.
Selecta Carpets Page 7.
SQ2 Electrical Services Page 37.
UK Tile Protection Roofers Page 37.
Jewellers
PH Gold Jewellers
Legal Services
Page 31.
Accord Legal Services Ashton Page 9.
Motoring
Ashton Tyres & Exhausts Page 19.
Coffey’s Car Cleaning Page 30.
McG Auto’s Page 37.
Other
Fifi’s Pawfect Pamper Page 35.
Vapour Trader Page 15.
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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
