Local Life - St Helens - December 2016

St Helens Edition December 2016
4 pages of festive recipes
Win a Christmas hamper
Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Puzzle Corner What’s On Motoring...
locallife247.co.uk

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Memorable
year
Prescot Chiropody Clinic
In a hundred years or so, when historians look
back at the early 21st Century, they’ll almost
certainly pick out 2016 as a year which had it all.
It’s hard to know where to begin. Politically, it
has been a tumultuous year, on both sides of the
Atlantic. Culturally, there was the passing of so
many icons of our age. And to top it all, we almost
had a Marmite shortage. I ask you - could it really
have got much worse than that?
New year of course brings new hope but we live in
febrile times. So it makes those ‘normal’ things seem
all the more special. Which neatly brings me to one
of my bugbears...
In recent years, automation has, if not killed, then
certainly got in the way of our natural instincts. For
instance, we now talk less because we are glued
to our mobiles and tablets and are less active
because we drive more. Yet the very things which
are supposed to enhance our lives can, and do, have
the reverse effect. For example, we now have access
to more information than ever before, but are
mistrusting of the authorities. We also have more
cookery programmes on TV than ever, yet there will
be young people graduating this year who barely
know how to boil an egg (or even make a Marmite
butty).
For my own part, I will be striving once again to
exercise more and spend more quality time with
my nearest and dearest. If those two things can be
done in tandem, then so much the better...
David Sudworth, Editor

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In this issue
Win a Christmas
hamper
Regulars
12 Eating Out Guide
34 Class From The Past
36 Puzzle Corner
38 Planning
43 What’s On
50 Test drive
22
Christmas
feast
28
Tony the
tiger
Sections
6 Local News
12 Food & Drink
43 Leisure
52 Home Services
Next issue - January 2017
Advertising deadline - Tuesday, 16 December
Published - Friday, 6 January
Local Life 247 Ltd
Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park,
Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01744 649 722
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Jack’s Tracks visits
Haigh
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Test Drive - Abarth
124 Spider
Publisher: Chris
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
Sales: Clare, Nicola sales@locallife247.co.uk
Editorial: David sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk
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Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
Accounts: Sam accounts@locallife247.co.uk
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Lights fantastic
Details of local Christmas lights switch-ons have
been revealed. They are as follows:
Rainford, Church Street:
Thursday, December 1, at 5pm
Windle, Dentons Green Lane:
Friday, December 2, from 4pm
Thatto Heath, Thatto Heath Road:
Friday, December 2, from 4pm
Newton-le-Willows, High Street:
Sunday, December 4, from 5pm
Billinge, Pingot Road/Main Street:
Friday, December 9, from 6.30pm
Bold, The Pasture:
Saturday, December 10, from 5pm
Times shown indicate when the Christmas lights
will be switched on, so people are advised to arrive
before then to see what else is going on.
Festive singalong
The Mayor of Prescot’s charity Christmas concert
takes place on Thursday, December 8, from 7pm-
8.15pm. It will be held at Prescot Parish Church,
Church Street. It features appearances from Evelyn
Community Primary School & Staff Choirs, St Mary &
St Paul’s Primary School Choir, Prescot Parish Church
Choir, Knowsley Ladies Choir and Brassworks
Quintet. Tickets £5 on the door - accompanied
under 16s go free. All proceeds donated to the
Mayor of Prescot’s Charities.
Tree lighting
Eccleston Parish Council is inviting local residents
to the tree lighting ceremony at Eccleston Library,
Broadway, on Thursday, December 1, at 11am. The
children of St Julie’s Catholic Primary School will be
in attendance for carol singing. All welcome.
Rainhill Garrick Society presents...
‘JAMES & THE GIANT PEACH’
a fantastic adventure journey
by Roald Dahl
Adapted by David Woods - Directed by Rosetta PARKER
Showing on
5th, 6th, 7th January, 2017
& Saturday Matinee
Evening Performance Starts 7.15pm
Matinee Performance Starts 2.15pm
Ticket prices adults £6 Concessions £5
Doors open at 6.45pm; Matinee 1.45.
For tickets call
0151 430 9431
or pay at the door.
Rainhill Village Hall, Dane Court, off Weaver Avenue, Rainhill, L35 3LU
Parking FREE After 6pm
www.rainhillgarrick.co.uk

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Celebrate Christmas
with the Beauty By Helen French Team
The Christmas
Beauty Event
Throughout December receive a gift
for yourself with every purchase of a gift voucher
Purchase £50 gift card and receive an
extra £5 gift voucher for yourself
Purchase £100 gift card and receive an
extra £10 gift voucher for yourself
There are lots of Clarins and Environ festive treats
beautifully wrapped and ready for giving
Merry Christmas from
All at Beauty By Helen French xxx
01744 736170
www.beautybyhelenfrench.co.uk

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Choral celebration
St Helens Choral Society invites you to a Christmas
celebration at the United Reformed Church,
Ormskirk Street, on Saturday, December 17.
Providing the music will be conductor Stephen
Newlove, organist Michael Wynne, soprano Sarah
Rowley, tenor Tim Kennedy and bass Quentin
Brown. Tickets are £10, or £1 for under 16s via
info@sthelenschoralsociety.org or by calling 01695
625500.
Die Hard screening
The film Die Hard is being shown at Central Library
on Wednesday December 14, from 7pm. Tickets are
£4 (£3 concessions) via sthelenssmallcinema.org
Distributors Wanted
Local Life require distributors aged 13 and above
for this edition of our magazine. Distributors will
typically work for 2/3 hours every eight weeks. The
areas we currently require distributors is as follows:
Whiston Two Butt Lane, Amanda Road & St
Winifred Road
Eccleston Park Scholes Lane, The Meads, Lowther
Crescent & Grebe Avenue
Eccleston Wokefield Way, Alder Hey Road,
Oleander Drive & Alpine Close
If you are interested, please email your name,
address, landline number and date of birth to
sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

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Green Belt to be lost
Land in Windle, Eccleston and
Rainhill needs to be given up for
development.
That’s the stark view of St Helens Council planners
if they are to hit housing and employment land
targets.
A report, endorsed by councillors, says that the
current amount of St Helens land currently classed
as Green Belt (65%) is the highest in Merseyside.
Sites which are being considered as spots for
possible development include:
• Land between the East Lancs Road and
Ecclesfield Road/Lynton Way/Crantock Grove
(pictured)
• Higher Barrowfield Farm, Houghton’s Lane,
Eccleston
• Land at Eccleston Park Golf Club, Rainhill
Road, Eccleston
• Land south of Gartons Lane and the former St
Theresa’s Social Club, Gartons Lane, Bold
The plan also seeks to safeguard land for future
development, including a plot south of Mill Lane,
west of Hall Lane, east of Norlands Lane and north
of M62 at Rainhill
The report admits that the council does not
currently have a five year supply of housing land
available. Experts believe this makes the council
susceptible to ‘rogue’ planning applications for sites
which would, under normal circumstances, never
get the go-ahead for development.
The report continues: “There are insufficient suitable
brownfield sites to accommodate our housing and
employment needs now or for the new Plan period
of 2018 to 2033. Therefore it is necessary to release
greenfield sites for development, including in the
Green Belt.
“The issue of Green Belt release is highly
controversial and the proposed approach, while
aiming to plan positively for socio-economic
growth for the people and businesses of St Helens,
is likely to be met by a lot of opposition and
lobbying against the plan.”
Takeaway ban near schools?
Plans are also afoot to ban new takeaways from
opening up within 400 metres of schools.
The proposal, which forms part of the council’s draft
Local Plan, would not apply to new outlets within St
Helens or Earlestown town centres. However, plans
which would lead to two takeaways next to each
other would fall foul of the policy. Council chiefs say
the policy would help “make it easier for people in
St Helens to lead healthy, active lifestyles.”
The whole of the draft Local Plan, including
proposed development on Green Belt, will be
open for consultation as of noon on Monday,
December 5. It will close at noon on Monday,
January 30. Copies of the form can be downloaded
a www.sthelens.gov.uk/localplan. In addition
hard copies will be available in local libraries.

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12
Eating out
guide
Advertise
here
£30 + VAT
Call 01744 649722
Houghwood
In a perfect setting, Houghwood’s
restaurant has panoramic views
across the golf course and over to
the Welsh hills. A modern British
menu is served Wednesday to
Sunday. 5 star food hygiene rating.
01744 894754
Crank Road, St Helens, WA11 8RL
houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk
Lovels Bistro
Tasty food, happy times and great
value - you’ll not be disappointed
with the quality, taste and service.
We’re more than just a great
wedding venue.
01695 624 426
Holland Hall, Lafford Lane,
Up Holland, WN8 0QZ
hollandhallhotel.co.uk
Rigby’s Coffee Shop
Enjoy a trip out to Pimbo Garden
Centre and tuck into a wide
selection of delicious home cooked,
locally sourced, food served seven
days a week at Rigby’s Coffee Shop.
01695 622601
Pimbo Garden Centre, 32 Pimbo
Lane, Up Holland, WN8 9QQ
pimbogardencentre.co.uk
Plantation Restaurant
From wholesome breakfasts and
a delicious lunchtime menu to
traditional Lancastrian afternoon
teas, the Plantation Restaurant at
Warbreck Garden Centre is the
place to go.
01695 722960
Lyelake Lane, Lathom, L40 6JW
warbreckgardencentre.co.uk
Fifteens @ The Fox
This quirky and popular pub dates
back to the 17th century and offers
fabulous home cooked food using
recipes developed by our chefs. The
real ale selection is superb too.
01695 628178
Fifteens @ The Fox, Roby Mill,
Up Holland WN8 0QF
fifteensatthefox.com
Quattro’s
A family run Italian restaurant
situated on the Rainford By-pass at
Bickerstaffe. Being just off the slip
road of the M58 makes this an ideal
location for meeting friends and
business lunches.
01695 720800
54 Rainford Road, Bickerstaffe,
Ormskirk L39 0HF
quattros.co.uk
Delph Tavern
Award-winning CAMRA freehouse
with a fast growing reputation for
excellent quality food at reasonable
prices. Traditional British classics
served, plus some exotic surprises
too. Food served Wed-Sun only.
01695 622239
Tontine, Orrell, WN5 8UJ
facebook.com/TheDelphTavern

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Tell Us Your Story!
Local Life is always on
the look out for news
stories from the
local communities
we serve. Are you
raising money for
charity? Are you
a member of a
community group
with something
to shout about?
Maybe you’ve got
an unusual talent, or have a claim to fame? If so, let
us know and you could be appearing in the next
edition!
Simply contact us with the details by emailing
sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk
Winter Warm packs
Older and vulnerable folk can get their hands on
free Winter Warm packs at St Helens’ libraries during
January. The packs will be available at the following
locations from 10.30am-12.30pm:
Thursday, December 1: Peter Street Library
Friday, December 2: Billinge Library
Monday, December 5: Newton-Le-Willows Library
Tuesday, December 6: Chester Lane Library
Wednesday, December 7: Haydock Library
Thursday, December 8: Rainford Library
Monday, December 12: Thatto Heath Library
Tuesday. December 13: Moss Bank Library
Wednesday, December 14: Parr Library
Thurs, December 15: Garswood Library (2pm-4pm)
Friday, December 16: Rainhill Library
Wednesday, December 21: Central Library
Introducing Café Millais
at The Millennium Centre (St Helens) Ltd, Corporation Street, St Helens.
Serving
Hot & Cold
Food
Daily 8.00am
till 4.00pm
Free
pot oF tea &
MinCe pie
with every meal over £4.00 on
production of this voucher
*Available between the hours of 12pm to 2pm
This offer supersedes any previous offer

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Turf’s up!
With the Ruskin Drive sports complex now almost complete,
Gareth Leonard speaks to its former groundsman of 46 years....
The face of Ruskin Drive is now changing
forever. For its former head groundsman
Johnny Topping, it’s just the latest in a series
of stories from the turf.
Johnny’s career began in 1964 as a 15 year old
junior gardener in one of the two greenhouses
which once graced Ruskin. Back then the skills
required were largely hand orientated - a far cry
from the hefty machinery employed today. In 1975
cost cutting measures forced the closure of the
greenhouses which prompted Johnny’s transfer
onto grounds. This was a time when the standards
of flower box keeping and border managing were
eye wateringly high and Ruskin Drive was in as prim
and proper a condition as almost any sports venue
the nation over: “There used to be people who
came from Canada during the spring to take photos
to take them back to Pilks in Canada,” says Johnny.
“Ruskin used to have the finest collection of Cornish
Elm trees in the country.”

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Percy. Never Mr Kelsey. He was a gentlemen he was.”
He also speaks fondly about Johnny Laitham and
Darren Ellis with whom he worked latterly.
He reserves a special mention for Geoff Jones, his
colleague of 35 years: “We never had an argument,
always had a good laugh, worked well together”.
He speaks equally fervently when recounting the
tales of the glory days of Ruskin. Johnny recalls
hoisting flags up and down the flagpoles which
stood proudly by the play area: “They used to host
Triple-A events on the athletics track. We also had
the BBC 2 crown green bowls final on number one
and three greens; the Percival Room used to be a
putting green; where the first team football pitch is,
that used to be a velodrome and that was dug up
during the second world war to plant vegetables”.
The groundsmen - the number of who peaked
at 24 in the ‘60s - were also responsible for other
Pilkington’s owned sports venues at City Road and
Ravenhead. Johnny was even sent to night school
for four years to hone his craft. That is not to say
a lifetime on the grounds was all sun cream and
dandelion clipping. Johnny’s list of injuries include
rope burn, twisted ankles, sprained wrists and
most cringingly of all a broken knee cap which he
suffered when struck by a falling branch when 40
feet up a tree.
Johnny became head groundsman in 2000 not
long after which Saints adopted Ruskin Drive as
their training facility. During this era, in which Ian
Millward and Daniel Anderson were the Saints
supremos, Johnny would learn that diplomacy and
fire fighting were key requirements of his job.
Like with any career the relationships built up with
ones colleagues leave a firm imprint in ones mind.
He said: “Tom Watts was the first head groundsman
I remember. Percy Kelsey was after him. Always
In 2011, Johnny was forced into retirement through
ill health. Shortly after that, he was struck down by
a stroke, leaving him unable to go more than ten
paces without a two-minute rest. Frozen shoulder,
knee aggravations and spondylosis in the neck as a
result of a lifetime of heavy lifting are all wounds of
his trade which niggle him to this day.
But given the affinity he has for his time at Ruskin
Drive, it’s clear Johnny wouldn’t have changed it for
the world...
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Competition
Win a
Christmas
Hamper
Our popular Christmas hamper competition
is back! Will you be the reader who takes
home a luxury Christmas Hamper? Filled
to the brim with luxury produce, this Christmas
Hamper is perfect for an indulgent Christmas.
Most of the food in the hamper is sourced from our
local village farm shop, Windy Arbour in Billinge,
and we thank them for supplying it at cost price.
Windy Arbour carries a great range of tasty local
and regional produce, particularly in the run up to
Christmas.
The finished contents of the hamper was still being
finalised as we went to press, but we can tell you
that each hamper will include Christmas cake,
chocolates, mince pies, cheese, shortbread, wine,
real ale, Christmas pudding, sweets and lots more
besides. Even if you’re not a foodie,
these expertly wrapped hampers
would make a wonderful present
for someone special in your life.
To win one of these hampers
simply visit our website (www.
locallife247.co.uk), click on the
‘Free stuff’ header, then click on
‘Enter Competitions’, complete your
contact details and answer the question:
Your entry MUST be with us by Sunday 11th
December, and the lucky winner will receive their
hamper by the weekend of 17/18 December 2016.
Crossword Competition Rules
Only one entry per household. Entrants must be over
16 years of age. The winners will be notified within
14 days of the closing date. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot
accept responsibility for entries that do not reach us.
Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate
relatives are not eligible to enter this competition.
Good luck to all who enter - and a
Happy Christmas to all!
What is the name of the village where
Windy Arbour Farm Shop is located?

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chairs for Christmas?
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Call - 01744 893785
or 07710 487977
Opening times: Mon - Sat 10 til’ 5 Sun 11 til’ 4

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Fantastic selection of dining
room sets, sideboards and other
occasional furniture
Delivered to your
doorstep within
48 hours
and thats
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Visit us today we’re
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Barrows Farm, Carr Mill Road,
Billinge, WN5 7TX
www.billingefurniture.co.uk

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Girls allowed!
A group of glamorous local ladies
who have battled cancer are looking
for others to join their singing group.
The Patients’ Choir is made up of people who have
either been treated at The Lilac Centre in St Helens
Hospital or at Whiston Hospital within the last 5
years.
They are looking for new members to go along
and join in every Monday from 6pm-7.30pm at The
Millennium Centre in St Helens.
Julie Steward, from the group, said: “We are a very
friendly, welcoming group. We chat and sing to help
with our wellbeing and share information through
our shared experience of cancer.
“We do occasionally perform at charity events too. “
If you would like to go along, just turn up or ring
Bernie Whelan on 0151 5202435.
• Supply
• Fit
• Repair
Call us today for a FREE on site quotation
TEL 01744 883 511
www.garagedoorsnw.com
16 Standish Drive
Rainford
St Helens
WA11 8JY

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Food & Drink
Prepare
the perfect
Christmas
feast
By Ed Bolla
Serving up the ultimate roast on December
25 can be a bit of a slog.
Getting the turkey, potatoes, gravy,
stuffing, Brussels sprouts and all the other
essentials to the table on time often feels like
a logistical nightmare. But don’t despair, it is
possible to enjoy cooking on Christmas Day
without turning to the sherry early - it just takes
organisation.
Many of the recipes we’ve picked out for you can
be prepared before the big day rolls around. So
if the prospect of catering for the extended
family is already setting your pulse
racing, take a deep breath and
have a read. You’ll soon see
that a little preparation
can guarantee a
successful, stressfree
Christmas
dinner.
Salted Maple-Roasted Parsnips
Serves 6 - 8
Ingredients
600g parsnips, peeled and quartered
2tbsp vegetable oil
3tbsp maple syrup
3 thyme sprigs, leaves picked
Sea salt
Method
Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/Gas mark 7.
Put the parsnips in a large roasting tin with the oil,
maple syrup, thyme leaves and some sea salt flakes.
Roast for 35-40 minutes until soft and sticky.
Scatter over a few more sea salt flakes before
serving.

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Serves 6 - 8
Ingredients
900g Brussels sprouts, trimmed
2 onions, finely chopped
2tsp vegetable oil
50g butter
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1/2 vegetable stock cube, crumbled
250ml double cream
1tsp freshly grated nutmeg, plus extra to serve
200g vacuum-packed chestnuts, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper
Method
Creamed Sprouts with
Chestnuts
Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil, add
the sprouts and cook for three to four minutes until
slightly tender.
Drain and rinse under cold water.
Meanwhile, very gently fry the onions in the oil and
half the butter for about 10 minutes until soft. Add
the garlic and stock cube and cook for two minutes,
stirring, until everything is combined.
Remove from the heat.
Roughly chop the sprouts by hand or in a food
processor, then stir them in with the onions and the
rest of the butter, along with the double cream and
nutmeg.
Put back on the heat and cook until the cream is
bubbling. Season to taste.
Toss in the chestnuts and sprinkle over a little extra
nutmeg to serve.

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Ginger & Orange-Glazed
Baby Carrots
Serves 6 - 8
Ingredients
900g baby carrots, washed and scrubbed
50g butter
25g piece ginger, peeled and finely grated
2tbsp clear honey
Zest 1 orange
Salt and pepper
Method
Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil and add
the carrots. Simmer for five minutes until slightly
tender, then drain.
In a wide pan, heat the butter until melting, then
add the carrots, ginger, honey and orange zest.
Cook over a medium heat for 25-30 minutes,
turning them gently every now and then, until the
carrots start to go golden and sticky.
Keep turning every now and again until all sides are
browning.
Season well before serving.
Triple Nut & Apple Stuffing Balls
Makes 16
Ingredients
2tbsp linseeds
1 red onion, halved
1tbsp olive oil, plus extra for greasing
200g mixed nuts of your choice (we used a
combination of pecans, hazelnuts and pistachios)
400g can cooked green lentils in water, drained
50g breadcrumbs
Small bunch sage, chopped
1 small apple, grated
Salt and pepper
Method
Put the linseeds in a small bowl and mix with
two tablespoons water, then set aside for five to
10 minutes, until the water thickens to a gluey
consistency.
Meanwhile, place the onion in a food processor and
whizz until finely chopped.
Heat the oil in a frying pan, tip in the onion and cook
for five minutes, until softened.

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Festive Red Cabbage
Serves 6 - 8
Tip the nuts into the food processor and whizz until
coarsely chopped.
Sprinkle three tablespoons of the nuts over a plate
and set aside.
Add the lentils, breadcrumbs, sage, apple, linseeds
(and any liquid in the bowl), onion and plenty of
seasoning to the processor.
Pulse to blend the mixture until just combined -
don’t chop too finely or the stuffing will lose its nice
nutty texture.
Line a baking tray with foil and grease with a little oil.
Remove the blade from the processor and oil your
hands.
Scoop out walnut-sized chunks of stuffing, roll into
balls, then roll on the plate of chopped nuts to coat.
Place on the prepared baking tray. Can be covered
with cling film and chilled for up to two days, or
frozen for two months.
Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/Gas mark 6.
Unwrap (if chilled) and bake for 25-30 minutes until
the nuts are a little darker and the balls have firmed
up slightly - they will be softer than traditional
stuffing balls, but will firm up after a few minutes
cooling.
If you’re cooking from frozen, bake for 35-40 minutes.
Ingredients
1tbsp vegetable oil
2 large onions, finely chopped
1 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
150ml red wine
1 red cabbage (about 900g) shredded
2tbsp dark brown soft sugar
2 Bramley apples, peeled and chopped
Salt and pepper
Method
Heat the oil in a large, flameproof casserole dish,
add the onions and cook on a medium heat for
eight to 10 minutes, then add the star anise and
cinnamon stick.
Pour in the wine and let it simmer until slightly
reduced.
Add the cabbage, sugar and apples, and stir well.
Season well, cover and simmer on a low heat for
three hours, stirring every now and again.
Once the cabbage is tender, check the seasoning.
Serve in a bowl with the star anise and cinnamon
stick on top.
Can be made one to two days in advance, or frozen
for up to four months - simply reheat on the hob
before serving.

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Tunnel vision
Claire Moorhead is giving a talk on the Williamson
Tunnels to members of Prescot Historic Society
on Thursday, January 26. It starts at 7.30pm in the
parish church, Church Street. All welcome.
Living with diabetes
People living with diabetes are being invited to a
talk at St Helens Town Hall on Wednesday, February
1. Dr Gill Hunt, a clinical psychologist at St Helens
Hospital, will discuss the emotional impact and
living with the condition. It starts at 7.30pm. Free
admission - call Diabetes UK on 0151 480 0821 for
any further details.
Party time
Kendricks Cross and Rainhill Women’s Institutes are
joining together for a Christmas party. It will be held
on Tuesday, December 20, at Rainhill Village Hall,
Dane Court, from 7.30pm. For further information,
including membership details, call Ruth on 0151
430 0696.
Member call
The Probus Club of Rainhill and Prescot is looking
for new members. The group, which celebrates
its 25th anniversary in 2017, meets on the fourth
Tuesday of the month at the Millennium Centre,
View Road, Rainhill. Call George Connolly on 0151
426 0030.

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Class from the past
This month’s Class from the Past is from Nutgrove
School. It’s believed this photo was taken in
the 1920s. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?
Remember, if you have a photo you’d be willing to
share, contact us today by emailing sthelensnews@
locallife247.co.uk
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Hertford House, Hertford Street, St Helens, WA9 1BF
www.1ststopsecurityproducts.co.uk

35
Pupils’ success
Eccleston Lane Ends pupils won a
local competition to come up with
ideas for a new Gulliver’s theme park.
The company has just bought a 333-acre site
in Yorkshire, so challenged the children to plan
and design a brand new theme park for the
development. As part of the challenge they had to
market and promote the new theme park, including
a launch event and a grand opening.
Eccleston Lane Ends Primary were crowned the
winners, with Willow Tree Primary School and
Wargrave Church of England Primary School
coming in second and third. Longton Lane, St
Anne’s Sutton, Sutton Oak, Queen’s Park, St Austin’s,
Oakdene, Holy Cross, St James and Carr Mill schools
also took part in the challenge.
Natalie Armstrong, primary education coordinator
at St Helens Chamber, said: “The Primary
Enterprise and Innovation Challenge is designed
to teach pupils team working, problems solving
and decision making; skills that will benefit them
throughout their education and future careers.”

36
Puzzle corner
Sudoku
Answers are on page 53 of this magazine

37
Conveyancing
made simple
Conveyancing is the term used for dealing
with the legal side of moving home.
Katherine Ball, Conveyancing expert at local
firm of solicitors, I E Legal Solicitors, explained: “For
most, it’s the single biggest transaction we will ever
deal with. Not only are we talking about a large sum
of money, but the property you buy will need to be
enjoyed as your home for many years.
“The actual legal transfer of the property is by far
and away the easy bit. This is done by what we call a
‘Transfer Deed’, which in most cases is a simple form
that is registered at the Land Registry. However, a
pitfall is that each property in England and Wales has
its own ‘title’, what lawyers call the documents which
establish who owns what. This ‘title’ is a lot more than
just ‘42 Acacia Avenue’ - it can include things such
as easements, rights of way for you to go over other
land, rights of other people to go over your land,
rights for the local council to demand payments,
obligations to pay money such as ground rent.
Signing a transfer deed is not what conveyancing is
about - it’s about making sure that when that deed
is signed, every person knows what they are going
to get, and every person gets what they should. And
horror stories abound about cases where people
have bought gardens
with pipes under that
the homeowner can do
nothing about, or bought
a home without planning
permission that needs to
be knocked down.”
Katherine Ball,
Fortunately, expert conveyancers
conveyancer
I E Legal Solicitors deal with
property transactions all the time. Their experts
understand all the issues which may arise, and can
take steps to undertake all the necessary searches, as
well as knowing how to interpret the documents and
the title. But how for much?
“Actually, to get the benefit of professional legal
expertise from us costs as little as £350, depending
on the property value,” said Katherine.
“Unfortunately, there are other charges, that are out
of out hands, including estate agents’ fees and stamp
duty. But by coming to us, you get the benefit of
professional expertise, and local knowledge, at the
best possible price.”
For a no-obligation quote, contact I E Legal on 0345
467 0217, visit the website, or just pop in!
Looking For Expert Legal Advice?
• Low Cost Divorce • Low Cost Conveyancing • Business Law & commercial property
• Disputes & litigation • Accident claims • Low Cost Wills and Probate
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Call FREE on 0345 467 0217
20 Eccleston Street, Prescot, L34 5QE www.ielegal.co.uk

38
Planning Matters
Eccleston
15 Bleak Hill Road: Demolition of existing porch,
rear extension, chimney and erection of single
storey front extension with single storey rear
extension and flat to pitched roof on existing
garage. (ref: P/2016/0801/HHFP) A decision is due
by January 2.
2 Willow Cottages, Catchdale Moss Lane: Single
storey rear extension projecting 2.5m from the rear
(6m in total overall) ,3.4 m high overall and 2.2m to
the eaves (ref: P/2016/0827/HHPA). A decision is
due by December 26.
Eccleston Park
37 Park Avenue: Prior notification for
demolition of detached, derelict dwelling (ref:
P/2016/0786/DEMPA). A decision is due soon.
Rainhill
Forge Fitness Rainhill, 456 Warrington Road:
Retrospective planning permission to develop
the existing site premises for the purpose of
running a private fitness centre including boxing
training, at the specified location, and change
of use from general industrial to leisure. (ref:
P/2016/0811/FUL). A decision is due by January 4.
346 Warrington Road: Single storey side extension
(ref: P/2016/0820/HHFP). A decision is due by
January 6.
Windle
46 Lynton Way: Demolition of existing front porch
and erection of single storey front extension
along with single storey side extension (ref:
P/2016/0800/HHFP). A decision is due by January 2.
For more information on these plans, visit www.sthelens.gov.uk

39
Christmas fair
Rainhill’s Reeve Court, on Stratton Drive, is holding
a Christmas fair on Saturday, December 3. The
fun starts at 12.30pm and there will be a host of
attractions including tombola, raffles, hot food,
carol singing, Santa’s grotto and a licensed bar. To
book a stall at the fair, or for further information, call
0151 430 4000.
Book folding
A Christmas book folding session is being held at
Rainhill Library, View Road, on Thursday, December
8, from 2pm-4pm. Go along and get the chance to
make something wonderful from old books. Free
event.
Daredevil’s talk
An adventurous fundraiser will be regaling St Helens
National Trust members with tales of her exploits
on Thursday, December 15. The talk’s title - called
Arctic Dog Sledding - gives a flavour of grandmother
Pat Ascroft’s favourite ways to raise awareness of
Mencap. Now in her late 70s, she has been an active
fundraiser for several years - but always favouring
expeditions. Previous adventures have seen her
trek, cycle and sail in places such as the Dead Sea,
Himalayas, Great Wall of China, the Ganges, Africa,
Patagonia and Iceland. She will be talking about her
most recent and scariest challenge - a five day dog
sledding event in Lapland. It starts at 2.30pm in St
Thomas’ Church, Westfield Street,. Free entry for NT
St Helens members and volunteers - £1 for visitors.
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40
Tony the tiger
David Sudworth meets the man who helped transform voluntary
and public services in St Helens
On the wall of Tony Richards’ office are several framed photographs. Each
one means something to him.
“They’re a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how difficult it was at times
to get here,” he says with his trademark cheery laugh.
Tony is of course talking about the Millennium Centre, St Helens’ one-stop shop for
local NHS and voluntary sector organisations. At 73, many of Tony’s contemporaries
spend more time at the golf club than in the office. But notwithstanding the fact he’s
not a fan of the game, I sense Tony would get bored quite quickly anyway.
“I’m a people person, I’m fascinated by people and like being around them,” he
beams.
Which is just as well as he’s had to persuade a lot of people to get on board with his
vision which, when first revealed, had a lot of obstacles.

41
Born in the Dayhulme area of Manchester to
Norman and Vera Richards, the family moved to the
St Helens area when Tony was aged three.
“We moved to a house on St Helens Road in
Rainford. Dad was eventually made group secretary
of 11 hospitals in the area.”
He attended Bleak Hill Primary before being sent
away to boarding schools in Wirral and North Wales.
Upon returning to the town, Tony’s first job was
as a junior clerk at the old Westminster bank on
Hardshaw Street. He met his wife, Diana, and they
got married at Eccleston Parish Church over 40
years ago.
The old Rivoli Theatre
“They weren’t happy at
all with me! ”
He eventually became chief officer for the old St
Helens & Knowsley Community Health Council.
Having retired around 1999, he took up the
chairmanship of the St Helens & District Blind
Society - which is when the seed for what is now
known at the Millennium Centre was sown.
“The society had a lot of money, about £160,000 in
the bank, but didn’t really spend a lot other than
organise coach trips to Blackpool and a Christmas
meal. I was really keen to find out what people
wanted, so we did a survey and the big thing
which came back was that people wanted a centre
that was accessible. The old centre was in Parr but
nobody went there as it was so out of the way.
“That was when the search for a potential site
started. I remember driving round the town centre
not long afterwards and saw that the old Rivioli
Theatre was up for sale. So I called the estate agents.
They told me it was on the market for £240,000 but
the brewery wanted to get rid so they’d look at any
serious offers. So I offered £97,000 to which the
estate agent scoffed at. But a little while later, I got a
letter saying the offer had been accepted, but they
wanted a deposit of £10,000. This meant I had to call
an urgent meeting of the society - they weren’t very
happy with me but Canon John Pennington was on
With Canon Byworth and Canon Pennington
Just before building commenced

42
The opening of Millennium House in 2001
Meeting Prince Andrew in 2006
the committee and suggested that they’d make up
the deposit. I got on to my solicitor straight away
and asked him to form a limited company!”
After a few ups and downs - and a bit of lighthearted
cajoling - everything fell into place. The
centre was built over three phases and has truly
established itself as a key service for the people of
St Helens.
“The problem was that, in St Helens, each service for
older and vulnerable people worked in its own little
area. I wanted to bring them under one roof so they
could be referred to another agency easily; because
it’s rare that a person has only one issue.”
Speaking to Tony it’s clear that while his
background is very much public sector, he has an
entrepreneurship, drive and flamboyancy which
you tend to find more in the world of business.
“Well, when I retired I set up a company, Arcoframe,
but I leave that to my son, Charlie, these days. They
try to keep me away as much as possible!” he laughs.
It’s fair to say Tony has done it all. An Honorary
Freeman of St Helens and MBE to boot, he’s been
decorated at the highest level. Does he ever
consider retirement?
“I don’t think so, I enjoy doing what I do. I come in
here a few days a week and love keeping in touch.
It’s a passion and, if you have a passion, there’s
nothing to retire from, is there?”
Jennifer playing opposite Jimmi Harkishin (Dev
Alahan)
Celebrating the start of phase three

43
Events & Leisure
What’s on
Manchester Christmas
Markets
Up until Monday 19th December 2016
More than 300 beautifully festooned stalls and
chalets in nine separate markets spread across
the city centrel. All Christmas Market Sites will be
open 7 days a week from 10am, and close between
7.30pm-9pm.
Manchester City Centre – various venues
Liverpool Christmas Markets
Up until Thursday 22nd December
Over 45 decorated wooden chalets selling festive
crafts and gifts. Sample the ever popular delights
of a Continental Christmas with the licensed bar
selling Glühwein, German beers and other seasonal
specialities.
St George’s Plateau
Roald Dahl Tremendous
Adventures
Monday 21st November to Sunday 4th December
Step in to the Christmas mansion and into
Roald Dahl’s magical world as his extraordinary
storytelling weaves itself through the grand
staterooms and into the bustling servants’ quarters.
Christmas decorating and kitchen demonstrations
too.
Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6QN
www.tattonpark.org.uk
01625 374400
Season’s Greetings
Wednesday 23rd November – Saturday 3rd December
Enjoy the Christmas celebrations with the
archetypical dysfunctional family. This black
comedy, written by Olivier and Tony Award winning
playwright Alan Aykbourn, and performed at Wigan
Little Theatre is about an average English suburban
family having the Christmas from hell.
Wigan Little Theatre, Crompton Street, Wigan
WN1 3SL
www.wiganlittletheatre.co.uk
Makers Market & Vintage
Sunday
Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th November
Visit Ormskirk Town Centre and the town’s Chapel
Gallery to discover a variety of handmade, retro
and vintage wares! There are also special creative
activities planned for families. A great family fun
day out!
Chapel Gallery, St Helens Rd, Ormskirk L39 4QR
www.chapelgallery.org.uk
01695 571328
The Lanterns at Chester Zoo
Weekends of 25/27 Nov, 2/3 & 9/11 Dec, plus 16-23 Dec
Your favourite animal lanterns are back at Chester
Zoo for the 5th year. Stroll through the enchanted
forest and catch a glimpse of Santa on his sleigh.
Please book early to secure your tickets for this
popular show for all ages.
Chester Zoo, Chester CH2 1LH
www.chesterzoo.org.

44
Victorian Christmas Weekends
Weekends of 26/27 November, 3/4 & 10/11 December
Visit Speke Hall, decorated for a traditional Victorian
Christmas, enjoy lots of family activities including
donkey rides and Christmas trails, listen to carols in
the Great Hall and see Father Christmas. 11am-4pm.
The Walk, Speke, Liverpool, L24 1XD
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Handel’s Messiah
Sunday 27th November
A performance of Handel’s Messiah at Spendmore
Lane Methodist Church in Coppull. Professional
soloists sing main parts and a small orchestra of
professional musicians accompany. Part 1 starts at
2.30pm with Parts 2&3 at 6pm following a buffet tea
provided by the church. Free of charge.
Spendmore Lane, Coppull PR7 5BX
01254 830854
Winter Celebration
Sunday 27 Nov 2016
Visit the National Wildflower Centre for a Winter
Celebration. The centre will have festive workshops
for all the family to enjoy and much more. The
Cornflower Café will be open as usual serving some
fantastic festive fare. 11-4pm. Free event.
National Wildflower Centre,
Roby Road, Liverpool L16 3NA
www.nwc.org.uk
0151 738 1913
Leigh Christmas Festival
Wednesday 30th November & Thursday 1st December
Situated at Leigh Sports Village stadium, this year’s
event will be a showcase of over 70 local businesses
with stalls offering everything from handmade
stocking fillers to gorgeous original gift ideas for
the whole family. 3pm-9pm
Leigh Sports Village, Sale Way, WN7 4JY
FB/Leigh Christmas Festival
Christmas Celebration
Friday 2nd December
Join ChorusUK (Manchester) and Sheffield Pops
Orchestra as they produce their festive spectaculars
‘Christmas Celebration’ featuring the songs Happy
Holidays, Stop the Cavalry and Do You Hear What I
Hear? 8-10pm. Tickets £11-£22.50.
Royal Northern College Of Music, 124 Oxford
Road, Manchester M13 9RD
www.rncm.ac.uk
0161 907 5555
Winter Arts Market
Saturday 3rd December
Merseyside’s largest arts and crafts market with
over 200 incredible artists, designers and makers.
Includes other activities such as a vintage fair, kidfriendly
craft workshops and live music. £2 entry,
kids go free. 10am-7pm
St George’s Hall,
Liverpool Cathedral, St James Mount, L1 7AZ
www.winterartsmarket.com
Rainford Christmas Fayre
Saturday 3rd December
Rainford’s 3rd Christmas Fayre takes over much of
Church Street. Market stalls and local shops will be
selling Christmas gifts and crafts, and there will also
be food, a fun fair, donkey rides, Santa’s Grotto and
festive live music. 11am-3pm.
Church Road, Rainford WA11 8HE
Standish Christmas Market
Saturday 3rd December
This market runs from 11am-8pm and will feature a
range of market stalls, an indoor craft fair (running
from 11am-5pm), a special Santa’s Grotto, live music
and entertainment, a Snowglobe, a Christmas Trail
around the village and a beer tent!.
Market Place,Standish WN6 0HN
07877 869700

45
Chorley’s Santa Express
Saturday & Sunday 3/4 10/11 & 17/18 December
Chorley’s Santa Express is back to whisk families
through the town centre to Astley Park to meet
Santa at Astley Hall. Every child who meets Santa
will receive a special Christmas gift and there will
be some festive face painting and arts and crafts
in Astley Farmhouse too. £7 children (u-12’s), £3
adults. Tickets must be booked in advance.
www.chorley.gov.uk
Faulty Towers: The Christmas
Dining Experience
Sunday 4th to Wednesday 7th December
When the audience become diners in the ‘Faulty
Towers’ restaurant, pretty much anything can
happen – especially with two-thirds of the show
improvised. Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve a
‘70s-style 3-course Christmas dinner with crackers,
pudding and a good dollop of mayhem.
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ
0843 208 6000
www.thelowry.com
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang - The
Musical
Tuesday 6th December - Sunday 15th January 2017
Chitty Chitty, Bang Bang will have audiences of
all ages flying high with its mixture of madness,
intrigue and exuberance. Starring Jason Manford,
Michelle Collins and Phill Jupitus, this fun-filled
production promises laughs and magic galore.
The Lowry, Salford Quays M50 3AZ
0843 208 6000
www.thelowry.com
Christmas Sparkle
Thursday 8th & Friday 9th December
Two festive concerts in the majestic Wigan Parish
Church comprising of a showcase of Christmas
songs and carols performed by various choirs,
soloists and instrumentalists. All profits go directly
to Living with Live project. Doors open 6.40pm. £6
adult, £4 children, Under 2’s free.
Wigan Parish Church, Crawford Street, Wigan
07814 193335
www.smithsacademy.co.uk
Cleopatra
Friday 9th – Saturday 17th December
A traditional fun-filled panto from Chorley Little
Theatre featuring traditional fun filled panto
characters. The teenage Princess Cleopatra is
preparing for when she will take over as ruler of
ancient Egypt when bumbling explorers spoil the
plans by accidentally releasing an ancient enemy.
Chorley Little Theatre, Dole Ln, Chorley PR7 2RL
www.chorleylittletheatre.com
Tickets from Malcolm’s Musicland or from
theatre.
Aladdin
Friday 9th December – Sunday 8th January
The spectacular adventure panto is full of magic
and mystical tales of a foreign land, guaranteed
to make memories the whole family will treasure.
Expect genies by the lamp-load, belly-busting
comedy, and, just maybe, a real flying carpet.
Manchester Opera House, Quay Street,
Manchester M3 3HP
www.manchestertheatres.com
Snow White
Saturday 10th to Saturday 31st December
Join them for a festive family adventure into an
enchanted fairy tale forest and meet all of your
favourite characters along the way with this year’s
spectacular pantomime Snow White and the Seven
Dwarfs.
Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool L1 1JE
www.liverpooltheatres.com

46
sponsored by
Haigh
Circular
by Chris Pearce
For Wigan kids in the 1970’s Haigh Hall was
by far the best attraction in the town. After
decades of decay since, a private/public sector
partnership, helped along by a volunteer group called
Friends of Haigh Country Park is breathing new life
into the place. The hall itself, a Grade 2 listed building,
is being transformed into Haigh Hall Hotel and the
250 acres of surrounding grounds now boasts a new
play area, a high ropes attraction, a new crazy golf
course and the Kitchen Courtyard, a base for artisan
food and drink producers. This 5 mile walk will give
you an opportunity to check out the progress so far in
restoring this historic country house and grounds.
Park on or near to Higher Lane (WN2 1EA) and
stroll in the direction of Haigh Hall. Once you have
crossed a bridge, turn right down a bridleway.
Follow the path past a house and round a left
hand bend. Walk for 0.7 miles, skirting the edge of
Crawford’s Woods, until you eventually arrive at the
handsome St David’s church, built in the 1830’s and,
along with its lych-gate and stone wall, listed as
Grade 2 structures by Historic England.
Cross over the busy Haigh Road and continue in
the same direction. When Haigh Road reaches a
sharp bend left, carry on in the same direction
down Toddington Road. This road transforms into a

47
Blackrod
Tucker’s Hill Brow
Red Rock
Freezeland
Farm
Toddington Lane
Riley Lane
Meadow Pit Lane
Toddington Farm
School Lane
P
Copperas Lane
Haigh
Windmill
St David’s
Church
Haigh Road
New Road
Haigh
Hall
Leeds & Liverpool Canal
Aspull
Haigh
Country
Park
New Road
Higher Lane
Wigan Road
Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear while walking. While 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.

48
direction and then look
out for a gate on the left.
pathway just as the magnificent views open up over
Winter Hill. Keep left and follow the track downhill
and turn right 200 yards later.
Follow this winding track gently downhill until you
reach Freezeland Farm; after the old farmhouse
and just before the new barn conversion, take a 90
degree left turn through a newish gate, which is
part of some new fencing. Bear left, then cross the
double stile and keep in the same direction along
the left hand perimeter for 650 yards until you
come to a steel gate with a stile alongside. Hop over
the stile and then head right towards the corner of
the field. Carry on round the right hand perimeter
of the field and after 150 yards you’ll come to an
opening on the right; cut through to the next field
and then walk straight across that field until you
climb up onto a tarmacked path. Turn left and
follow this path to the main road at Little Scotland.
Go through the gate
and walk towards the
wooded area; go through
the woods and exit via a
bridge over Arley Brook.
Bear left up the hill and
head for the left hand
corner of the field. Cross
into the next field, carry
on in the same direction
and you’ll eventually
arrive at Meadow Pit
Lane. Turn right for 100
yards and then cross over
the road and hop over the stile. Walk uphill on the
left hand perimeter of the field right to the top, over
the stile, bear left and you’ll walk round a house to
a single track road.
Turn left and walk up the road and you’ll eventually
arrive at a car park; turn right directly after the car
park and follow the road downhill until you reach
Haigh Hall. Walk round the Hall and down the
majestic driveway away from the hall. Once you
reach a ‘Whistle’ sign bear right off the main path.
Eventually you’ll reach an enclosure with a seat
outside; take a sharp left into the woods and you’ll
eventually surface opposite a Georgian house. Turn
right and you’ll end up by the bridge where you
started the walk.
Cross the road carefully and head down the
footpath opposite, bearing right past the garage
onto a track. Follow this track until a stile on the left
hand side appears. Cross the stile and head across
the field diagonally to the right, looking carefully
for the stile. Hop over that stile and head round
the field, heading again for a stile on the far side of
the field. Cross this double stile and head directly
towards the steel gate near the farmhouse. Go
through the gate, past the farmhouse in the same

49

50
Test drive
Abarth 124 Spider
by Tim Barnes-Clay
The Abarth 124 Spider is cast from the same die as the Fiat 124, and to
improve it Abarth has used the same tactic as it did to change the Fiat 500
into the Abarth 595. In other words, it has added lithe looks, noise and, most
importantly, muscle. The Abarth 124 Spider uses the same platform as Mazda’s MX-5
and Fiat’s 124. However, while the Fiat has been constructed to be more of a cruising
vehicle, the Abarth is more hardcore – and the most performance driven of the three
brands.
The Abarth uses the same 1.4-litre, four-cylinder turbo-charged petrol engine as
Fiat’s 124 - except in the Abarth it produces 170PS, compared with the Fiat 124’s
140PS. The Abarth’s power unit spins with the proper Italian sports car vigour you’d
hope for. It feels wayward and entertaining at high revs - and you’re aware of the
turbocharger when you push on. The sports car is quick to respond and the gear
change is rapid and exact.

51
The best thing about the 124 Spider, though, is
the noise it makes. Popping burbles emit from the
quad tailpipes when doing the 0-62mph gallop, as
I found out testing the car at Silverstone Circuit,
in Northamptonshire. The two-seater Abarth will
reach the magical figure in 6.8 seconds, on its way
to 143mph. Fold the roof, via a simple fastener, and
the Abarth 124’s sound is even more delectable.
For an added dose of pleasure, the Abarth 124 has
a Sport setting. Hit the button and things become
louder, tighter and faster. The throttle feels more
insistent, and weight is also added to the steering,
making you feel even more united with the road
– or race track. The 124 Spider feels most pleased
driven hard, with the tail-end hunkered down over
the rear wheels. Even when you go too brutally
into a bend and lose traction for a jiffy, the Abarth
124 continues to play nicely. Working out what
the rump of the car is going to do soon becomes
second nature.
On the whole, the Abarth 124 Spider is a grin maker,
although your beam might falter for a moment
when you see the price-tag - £29,565. Yes, it’s a large
lump of cash, but once you’ve heard the melodious
facts
Fast
0-62 mph: 6.8 secs
Combined mpg: 44.1
Engine layout: 1368cc 4-cylinder turbo petrol
Max. power (PS): 170
CO2: 148 g/km
Price: £29,565
tailpipes, felt the performance and experienced the
handling for yourself, you’ll appreciate that this car
is worth every single bank note.
Mobile car valeting
Tel: 07803 053 715
e: cjvalet@yahoo.co.uk
www.cjvaleting.net
Treat your car
to the professional touch

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www.dglwindows.co.uk
A5209
Standish
Shevington
B5250
J27
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
A49
Wind Turbines
Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
..and general
Energy Savings
and we’ l provide you with a
detailed report showing the
returns available from your
own solar panels
(10% typical return)
Visit our showr om at
Unit 4a,
Cricket Str et Busine s Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
52
Home services
Decorators,
plumbers, builders...
CALL PAUL
LOCKSMITHS
ESTABLISHED 2000
• Emergency Door Opening
• UPVC Door Lock Repairs
• UPVC Door Lock Changes
• UPVC Door Lock Upgrades
• Wood Door Lock Changes
• All Work Guaranteed
www.bodtree.co.uk
COMPUTER PROBLEMS?
Broadband broken, computer slow
printer packed up, virus/spyware or
your keyboards gone kaput
Bodtree Systems fix all types of PC problems
in the comfort of your own home
Call Catherine Now 07540 222787
No Call Out Charges • Local Company • PC Experts
Tel: 01744 778381 - 01942 418763 - Mobile - 07540 222787
A Registered Insured NCFE Certified Company
Call Paul For A fast, Reliable, Professional Service
TELEPHONE MOBILE
01744 526 589 / 07932 718 362
WWW.CALLPAULLOCKSMITH.CO.UK
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service
For more information call
01744 649 722
Gel
Nails
norma ly £20
now £15
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
T
Y
R
E
S
Natalies @ Studio 84
84 Rainford Road, Bi linge WN5 7PG
Telephone: 07814 619 400
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Closed Thursday & Sunday
CAR & VAN SERVICING
Mo sy Lea Road
...and motorcycles too
FREE
Car Health Check
Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Book
your FREE
home survey
for all residents of Croston and Bretherton
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Ca l now on
Keep me until you need me!
01772 603923
REPAIR & WELDING
Saving money is
the clear benefit!
Slash your electricity and
water heating bi l
Protect your household from
future energy price rises
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
Ca l us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
we make it our business to help yours
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
Specialists in boiler installations, repair & maintenance
All work fully warranted
Email ops@hotmail.co.uk
Book a boiler health check for £65
& get a carbon monoxide
alarm (RRP £29) FREE!
Call the team on
01744 892437
01744 602931 or 07756 274503
7 Albany Avenue, Eccleston Park, L34 2QN

53
We don’t
cut corners!
we clean them
Advertise here
Advertise your business in this
section from £35 + VAT a month
For more information please phone
01744 649 722
MultiSkilled Handyman
Roofing & Roofline- repairs and replacement
Decorating, Building, Gates supplied & fitted
Plastering, Gardening
For all your home improvements - No job too small
PlC MAINTENANCE
07847 394040 ~ 01744 606938
Puzzle solutions
01744 644061
www.dailypoppins.com
DRB CONSTRUCTION
• Full Refurbishments
• Garage Conversions
• New Kitchens & Bathrooms
• House Extensions
All work is
Fully Insured
& Guaranteed
For a free quotation please call
01744 606642 / 07801 950009

Open:
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories,
Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved
forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and
embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that
cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working
with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect
every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding
Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...
Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety
Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road,
Wrightington, WN6 9RS
Dennis Goulding
(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
Telephone: 01257 427 000
Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon
www.dglwindows.co.uk
A5209
Standish
Shevington
B5250
J27
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
A49
Wind Turbines
Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
...and general
Energy Savings
and we’ l provide you with a
detailed report showing the
returns available from your
own solar panels
(10% typical return)
Visit our showr om at
Unit 4a,
Cricket Street Busine s Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
54
M H Roofing Ltd
Established over 15 years
Friendly advice and competitive rates
No job too small
• High Performance Felt Flat Roof Systems
• Storm Damage and Insurance Work
• Slating and Tiling full roofs
• Poiniting and Guttering • Fascia Boards
Call 01744 884117
or 07702 693225
www.mhroofingltd.co.uk
Fully Insured & Insurance
Backed Guarantees
MARDEC
Painters & Decorators
Internal and external work
Domestic or commercial
jobs welcomed
Free inspirational
advice & quotes
No job too small
Established 1992
01744 894 431
07931 282 896
01744 606642
07801 950009
Extension, loft/garage conversions, UPVC windows & doors,
damp proofing & DPC, wall ties – all aspects of building
work Flat/pitched re-roofs, gutters, fascias & soffits,velux
windows, all general roof repairs
www.daleroofingandbuilding.co.uk
AABRON
LANDSCAPING
SERVICES
• Raised Beds • Artificial Grass
• Lawns Re-Turfed • Driveways & Patios
• Fencing, Flagging & Block Paving
• Gardens Designed & Constructed
Free fixed-price quotations provided
All genuine like-for-like
quotes beaten!
01744 606 080 / 07780 801 341
51 Sandringham Drive, WA9 3TQ
www.aabronlandscaping.co.uk
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service
For more information call
01744 649 722
Gel
Nails
norma ly £20
now £15
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
T
Y
R
E
S
Natalies @ Studio 84
84 Rainford Road, Bi linge WN5 7PG
Telephone: 07814 619 400
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Closed Thursday & Sunday
CAR & VAN SERVICING
Mo sy Lea Road
..and motorcycles too
FREE
Car Health Check
Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Book
your FREE
home survey
for a l residents of Croston and Bretherton
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Ca l now on
Keep me until you need me!
01772 603923
REPAIR & WELDING
Saving money is
the clear benefit!
Slash your electricity and
water heating bi l
Protect your household from
future energy price rises
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
Ca l us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
we make it our business to help yours
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S

55