Local Life - St Helens - March 2017

LocalLife
St Helens Edition March 2017
Rainford’s
battle
Win tickets to see
Olly Murs
Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Garden Diary Food Home Services
locallife247.co.uk

2
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Get
connected
Whenever I tell people I’m from Local Life
magazine, the reply is usually: “That’s a
great little magazine, that is...”
It’s a common refrain, but what makes us so
“great”? As editor, I’m bound to say it’s the quality
of the writing... but even I have to admit that is only
partially true.
The real reason is that we are always thinking of
ways to improve the magazine for our readers and
our advertisers. This month, you may notice a slight
change. We’ve tweaked the style and have launched
a brand new Events2Go section.
Over the years, we have collected news of events
in a very traditional way - mostly looking at local
community noticeboards and of course receiving
items of interest via email and, to a lesser extent
these days, by post.
Our Events2Go platform takes this a step further.
Now, you are able to upload of events and images
directly to our website at www.locallife247.co.uk
for free. You’ll also find on there a comprehensive
‘What’s On’ guide for the local area and beyond.
And we’ve also launched a Facebook page for
Events2Go, which keeps you updated with a
selection of events across the area. Simply search
‘Events2Go’ in Facebook and give us a ‘like’.
So now you can not only keep up with everything
in this magazine, but you can now do it ‘on the go’
online. And all for free!
See you next time, or maybe before that online?
David Sudworth, Editor

5
In this issue
Feel fab at
fifty
22
Win tickets for
Olly Murs
Regulars
18 Planning
30 Class From The Past
38 Events2Go
48 Puzzle Corner
Sections
6 Local News
22 Health
34 Travel
38 Leisure
59 Jack’s Tracks
63 Garden Diary
66 Test Drive
54 Food & Drink
63 Gardening
66 Motoring
69 Home Services
40
An uphill
battle?
50
Jack’s Tracks visits
Worsley
Next issue - April 2017
Advertising deadline - Tuesday, 28 March
Published - Friday, 7 April
Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park,
Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01744 649 722
Publisher: Chris
LocalLife
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
Sales: Clare
sales@locallife247.co.uk
Editorial: David sthelensnews@locallife247.co.uk
Design: Dylan, Peter design@locallife247.co.uk
Distribution: Sally sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
Accounts: Sam accounts@locallife247.co.uk
Local Life is published every month and distributed into
the following areas on an alternate monthly basis.
59
Test Drive
Audi Q2
This issue is delivered to over 12,000 private homes and
businesses in Rainford, Billinge, Garswood, Moss Bank,
Haresfinch, Carr Mill and selected areas of Haydock.
The next issue is delivered to over 12,500 private homes
and businesses in Rainhill, Eccleston, Prescot, Eccleston
Park, Windle, Prescot Road and parts of Nutgrove and
Sutton Heath.
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Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither
the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any
party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or
other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written
consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.
locallifemagazine247 @locallifemedia events2go

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Views sought
Garswood folk are being asked for
their views on the future of two
community hubs.
Seneley Green Parish Council has issued a
questionnaire about Seneley Green Parish Hall, on
Montrey Crescent, and Billinge Road Community
Hall, (pictured) which is next to Garswood Surgery.
Parish councillors stress that although there are
no plans to close either hall, they want locals to
have their say on potential improvements. They
also want to know whether residents think the
Parish Hall, the older of the two buildings, should
be retained in the long-term by the parish council
despite probable maintenance costs/issues.
Ken Cleary, chairman of the parish council,
told Local Life: “Both halls are increasingly well
used and we budget for them every year. We
wanted to know what locals think about the
buildings in the long-term, which is why we have
put out this survey.” Download a form at www.
seneleygreenparishcouncil.org or call the clerk,
Carole Bolton, on 01744 892167.

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Stags wanted
Players aged 16 and over are needed to join
Garswood Stags Rugby League Club. The new
Fourth Division side trains every Tuesday and
games are played on Saturday afternoons. Call into
the Stag pub, on Station Road, for more information
or call Johnni on 07512 272032.
2019 kick off
A multi-million pound sports complex next to
Winstanley College should be open by September
2019. The ground, currently a farmers’ field will
be home to Orrell Rugby FC and Winstanley Park
Cricket Club. Community groups will also be able
to hire it out.
Boss apologises
The boss of a charitable trust has
apologised for “misrepresenting”
Billinge. Vidhya Alakeson, chief
executive of Power To Change,
which supports community
businesses, said in an article about rebuilding
communities that Billinge had turned into “a
dormitory for commuters to Manchester or
Liverpool.” She added: “The heart of the town - its
shops and pubs - (has) disappeared.”
Following an outcry from locals, Alakeson said: “I
can only apologise for misrepresenting Billinge.
What I wrote was what I heard when visited but I
got it wrong so I am sorry.”
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Activity centre for village?
Part of a Rainford business area
could be transformed into an indoor
activity centre.
Sandwash Business Park, on Sandwash Close, may
be converted after a planning application was
submitted to St Helens Council.
Papers lodged with the council’s planning
department state that Solarking is poised to leave
the park. Its boss, Andrew Mikhail, also owns the
premises, which has eight attached units.
The papers explained: “Solarking have already
downsized operations at the business park, which
is now far too big a property. It is unknown as
to the future of Solarking at present due to the
discontinuation of government initiatives in the
solar panel and renewable energy field.
“It is proposed that the business park will be
converted into an activity centre that will include
a trampoline park, indoor climbing area, kids play
area including soft landing zone, duel platform and
zip lines/obstacle course following safety wire.
“The centre will provide excellent employment
opportunities for local residents, while delivering
specialist activities for visitors.
“Up to 3 units have been empty for a period of time.
As Solarking are leaving the business park, the eight
units have become vacant. The demand for this
type of plot size and floor space is minimal.”
A decision is to be made by St Helens Council soon.

11
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Church to shut
A church in the centre of Billinge is set
to close.
Wesley Methodist, on Main Street, will shut,
although no timeframe has been given.
News of the closure came to light after St Helens
Council was forced to find an alternate venue for
election day, as the church is used as a Polling
Station. In future, voters will have to use Billinge
Chapel End Primary School, on Carr Mill Road.
It comes as the future of two churches in
neighbouring Orrell were thrown into doubt.
Orrell Methodist Church is in talks with developers
about using its site, on Church Drive, as a potential
location for a health centre.
Meanwhile, Salem Church, on Church Street
in Orrell, has confirmed it will be closing this
September after 200 years.
Nobody from Wesley Methodist Church was
available for comment as Local Life went to press.
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Rainbows make Rainford blossom
Children from Rainford Rainbows planted a tree
to mark 30 years of the movement. The Mount Fiji
Cherry Blossom, donated by St Helens Council, has
been installed at Scarisbrick Road Park. And the girls
even donned their wellies to stomp in the soil to
ensure the tree was firmly in place!
Alice Hudson, aged five, said: “I loved planting our
tree. I especially enjoyed digging a hole for it, then
filling the hole back in, and getting super muddy!”
Ava Hudson, aged six, added: “I really loved planting
our tree. I loved tying a tag to the tree with our name
on, so everyone can see it. And I loved letting go of
our balloons seeing them all in the sky, and someone
will find our balloon and read the nice message I
wrote.”
Rainbows leader Julie Moran said: “I am so very
proud of our Rainbows for taking part in this special
memorable event. The messages they wrote on their
balloons for people to read if they found it were so
lovely and thoughtful. They are an inspiration.”
For more information about the Rainbows, email
2ndrainfordrainbows@gmail.com
Planning Matters
Crank
Land between 297- 307 Higher Lane : Outline
application (all matters reserved except for access)
for the erection of two dwellings with associated
access arrangements (ref: P/2017/0034/OUP). A
decision is due soon.
Garswood
Land between 97 and 107 Birch Grove: Erection of
three dwellings (ref: P/2017/0045/FUL).
Haydock
Tesco, Bellerophon Way: Installation of two ANPR
cameras (ref: P/2017/0097/FUL).
Moss Bank
Land adjacent to 22 Sandy Lane: Erection of a
detached dwelling. (ref: P/2017/0152/FUL).
For more information on these plans, visit
www.sthelens.gov.uk

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22
Health & Fitness
Feel fab at 50
and beyond
By Miona Martic
Nearly half a million women
in the UK will turn 50 this
year - including TV favourite-turnedfitness-fanatic
Davina McCall, plus
Kate Garraway and Ulrika Jonsson.
But far from feeling past their
heyday, 82% of women are
winding up, not down, as they
approach this landmark birthday,
according to a new survey by
Boots UK.
The poll, which quizzed 1,002
women turning 50 this year,
suggests we’re really embracing
middle-age and beyond, with
over a quarter (27%) admitting
they plan to travel and see more
of the world, and one in five (19%)
revealing they’re now doing more
exercise than ever before. Exciting
career aspirations were also a priority for
a fifth of women at 50, while one in seven plan
to take up volunteering.
However, while in general it seems women are feeling very
positive about entering their 50s, more than nine out of 10 (92%) admit to
having concerns about their health.
“Women turning 50 now feel younger than their previous generations,
with most viewing this time in their lives as a threshold of new
opportunities and experiences,” says psychologist Dr Linda
Papadopoulos. “That said, turning 50 heralds a decade of

23
transition, with many physical
and psychological changes on
the horizon, and there are some
women who are feeling less certain
about their next life chapter.”
Here, three 50-something experts
share their insights for optimum
wellbeing when celebrating the
big five-oh...
Boots Pharmacist Liz
McPherson gives her top
tips on dealing with some
common health concerns
“Dropping oestrogen levels
[associated with menopause]
can cause hot flushes, sleep
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that exerts actions that mimic oestrogen, and
some women feel this helps give them relief from
symptoms. Joint pain that gets steadily worse with
age can be a sign of osteoarthritis. Mild symptoms
can be managed with
regular exercise, weight
loss, suitable footwear
and joint supports, but for
more severe symptoms,
speak to your GP.
Deteriorating eyesight at 50
is very common; age-related long-sightedness, also
known as presbyopia, is a natural part of the ageing
process. It can be corrected easily by wearing
glasses or contact lenses; visit Boots Opticians for
an eye test and advice on frames that suit you.
“It’s natural for your metabolic rate to slow down
as you get older, so maintain a healthy balanced
diet and take regular exercise to help counteract its
effects,” she adds. “If you have high blood pressure
or have had previous heart conditions, an at-home
blood pressure and atrial fibrillation monitor can
help you monitor for any irregularities. Sometimes
atrial fibrillation is intermittent, so regular home
screening can help give you peace of mind and help
spot any potential problems. Always visit your GP if
you have any concerns.”
Author, life coach and yoga instructor
Smita Joshi, talks about embracing
the freedom of an empty nest
“When your children leave home, the silence of
the gap left behind by what seemed like a ‘full’ life
can sometimes become deafening. You may have
thought you knew yourself intimately, but now, at
this new stage of life, with the sense of loss that
children leaving home can make, old and buried
aspirations and desires
now feel like regrets
or unfulfilled longings.
To feel fulfilled in your
own being, develop a
nurturing
relationship
with your innermost self
- peace and contentment are rooted in this central
aspect of who you are. Experiment with different
forms of exercise, dance, yoga, meditation and
mindfulness. Learn to paint, perhaps do a degree.
Travel across India or China by rail. Try out different
things until you find the one, or two, that are a
direct expression of ‘you’. Do things that unleash
your happy hormones.
“Whatever you do, make it something that puts you
in direct touch with your deeper nature, expresses
you, and brings you radiance and joy. Turning 50 is
nothing to be afraid of, and remember, there are
things you can now do that you may not have been
able to before, whether because of work or home
priorities. You can now embrace all the passions you
left behind.”
Janey Lee Grace, author of Look Great
Naturally... Without Ditching The
Lipstick, says looking good really is
about what’s on the inside
“I think as you age, it becomes so much more
important to feel comfortable in your own skin. I
can absolutely assure you it’s the ‘energy’ of a person
that really shows beauty, not whether or not they
have wrinkle-free skin or the perfect pout. Having
said that, few of us can accept everything going
south and our once youthful looks descending into
wrinkle-dom, so how we can embrace our age and
still look and feel great? I believe it’s all down to
the natural approach, it IS possible to look and feel
great without resorting to chemical concoctions
and invasive treatments.
“Eat well, as unprocessed as possible, but be realistic
- of course the odd glass of wine is OK, and the odd
pudding. Ditch the chemicals in your skincare and
personal care products. It’s easier than it sounds;
just because you have always ‘sworn’ by that night
cream doesn’t mean it’s the only one for you. Your
state of mind is critical. Give yourself the gift of time
out to relax and de-stress and find something that
makes you happy.”

25

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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 on sthelensnews@locallife247.
co.uk or call us on 01695 627999.
Rates going up
Ratepayers will be paying over £50 a year more
in Council Tax. St Helens councillors have voted
to increase bills by 4.99%. Residents living in the
Garswood and Seneley Green parish area will pay
the most - from £1,065.90 for those in a Band A
property. Rainford is a close second with minimum
£1,060.68 per year, followed by Billinge at £1,059.02
Choral members plea
St Helens Choral Society has launched an urgent
plea for men to join their organisation. The group
needs males who can sing tenors and/or bass. No
previous experience is needed, but the ability to
read music would be an advantage. Rehearsals are
held on Mondays, 7.15pm-9.16pm at the United
Reformed Church, King Street, St. Helens. For more
information, visit www.sthelenschoralsociety.org.
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Frank’s on a Mission
A Garswood-born man has written
a book on his life growing up in the
village.
Frank grew up in Garswood and he hopes his book
will help raise money for his former Sunday School,
St Andrew’s Mission Hall on Montrey Crescent.
The book recounts several of Frank’s memories
about his early life, including the local pits, the
outbreak of World War II and activities around The
Tilesheds, a pond off Strange Road.
“It was thought that the pond had got its name
from tiles having been made on the site in years
gone by and the craters left when the clay was
removed filled with water, creating a pond. It was
large enough to attract swans on a regular basis.
It was on one of
their visits when,
coming in to land
on the pond, one of
the swans became
entangled with
a telephone wire
and was strangled.
Apparently, its
carcass was given to
a local family to eat.
We were not a bit
pleased as we felt it
should have been given a permanent burial place
in the grounds of the Tilesheds with a plaque to
mark the event.
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“The Tilesheds had a cottage and its only form of
heating and lighting was by a coal fire, paraffin
lamp and candles. The cottage and the Tilesheds
have all now gone without trace.”
Speaking about his reason for writing the book,
Frank, who went to school in Ashton and now lives
in Standish, said: “The Mission Hall was not only our
place of worship it was also the changing room for
visiting football teams. The home team got dressed
at home. However, the Mission hall was the hub
of village activities which included Saturday night
dancing for those who were old enough, which
attracted people from neighbouring villages.
“Sunday school lasted about 45 minutes. Taking
the boys were two devoted men, John Pendlebury
and Billie Ralphson. Two ladies taught the girls; Miss
Heyes, a school teacher by profession, and Miss
Hazeltine, an office clerk. Mr Pendlebury was Sunday
school superintendant who, when attendance
was low, would tour the village rounding up any
absentees that he could see. His task however was
somewhat forlorn as ‘Johnny’s coming’ preceded
him faster than he could walk hence it became a
joke to the boys to let him see you and then run.
Mr Pendlebury was a very imposing person he was
about 6ft 5ins tall and always carried a cane typewalking
stick.”
Frank’s book is priced around £6 and will be
available from St Andrew’s Mission soon.

30
Andy’s gruelling challenge
Rainford soldier Andy Reid is set to
undertake a mammoth challenge in
memory of fallen comrades.
Andy Reid, from News Lane, lost limbs after being
blown up by a Taliban bomb while serving in
Afghanistan in 2009.
He will now cycle 400 miles, complete 125 miles
of kayaking and climb 17,500 ft alongside another
Afghanistan veteran Glen Hughes, who is recovering
from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The event -
called Warrior Challenge - is in memory of six soldiers
who lost their lives when their armoured vehicle was
caught in an explosion
in Kandahar Province
in 2012. Five of the
men were from Andy’s
regiment.
Monies raised from the
event, which lasts from
June 16-29, will go to
ABF - The Soliders’ Charity and Style For Soliders,
which makes clothing for injured servicemen.
For more information and to donate, visit
warriorchallenge2017.com
Class from the past
This month’s Class from the Past is from St James
School, Haydock. It’s believed this photo was taken
in the 1950s. 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

31

32
Business opportunity
Wayfarers Shopping Arcade is a
Grade II listed building and one of
Southport’s retail treasures.
It is beautifully maintained, lovingly restored and a
vibrant shopping arcade which is right at the heart
of the town.
And now there are attractive, affordable units
available within the arcade particularly suited to
small independent retailers or those thinking of
starting a new retail venture.
You could open a successful retail outlet in
Wayfarers from as little as £75 (plus VAT) per week
which is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
People who run their retail business in Wayfarers
tend to live locally and enjoy working within a
supported community. Many of the smaller units
have been the start of very successful business
ventures where retailers have started small and
grown to occupy much larger premises.
Most retail businesses now trade on line but find

33
having a retail outlet good for raising the profile
of their business by having a high-street presence.
Occupying a unit within Wayfarers ticks all these
boxes. You can trade on line and have a prestigious
shop without having to pay a high rent or rates.
People travel from far and wide to visit Wayfarers
because it has the most wonderful relaxing
atmosphere although it is within busy Lord Street
and the crowds in the town centre. Wayfarers is full
of character and bursting with interesting niche
shops and one of these could be yours.
Special events and historical exhibitions are
regularly to be seen in Wayfarers, including
displays of paintings, photographs or sculptures.
Occasionally there is musical entertainment all to
encourage customers to make regular return visits.
Like to research more information? Then visit www.
wayfarersarcade.co.uk You can also follow them on
Facebook and Twitter.
Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, Lord Street,
Southport PR8 1NT. Open Monday – Saturday
9am – 5.30pm, Sunday 10am – 5pm.
Historic setting
Originally called the
Leyland Arcade, after a
Southport MP, Wayfarers
opened in October 1898.
It was the idea of John
Humphrey Plummer, a
Victorian entrepreneur,
who at the time owned
most of the shops on
Lord Street.
A splendid example of Victorian architecture with
its domed glass roof, intricate iron work, stained
glass and mahogany shop fronts that can all still be
seen today. In its past ,it has housed brass bands, a
large aquarium, a bandstand and since the 1970s
has been home to a bronze statue of local legend
and Grand National champion Red Rum, who
trained on Southport beach.

34
Travel
Having been off the tourist destination list for
quite a while, Croatia has fully reasserted
itself as a prime destination.
Its seemingly endless coastline along the Adriatic
Sea is full of rocky coves, idyllic islands and
medieval towns.
There are so many places to choose from, it
can be hard to know where to start. Luckily,
Billinge-based Marken Travel has teamed
up with Jet2holidays to provide you with
a tempting choice of destinations.
But first, more about the country itself.
Thanks to its location, many resorts
have an Itallian-inspired cuisine.
For instance, Istria is famous for
its mouth-watering black and
white truffles, served
with fusi pasta. And
the sheer choice
of handcrafted
Cream of
Croatia

35
souvenirs, in lace and silver at the market in
Gundulics Square, Dubrovnik, make this a
destination filled with charm and elegance.
In terms of locations, many are drawn to Pula, on
the Istrian Riviera. Make your way to the town
centre and you’ll see remarkable sights such as a
perfectly-preserved amphitheatre, as well as more
Roman feats of architecture such as grand temples,
forums and arches.
Pula offers its visitors a diverse taste of Croatian
culture. What’s more, this terracotta-topped
landscape plays host to annual festivals, some top
beaches and all the water sports you could wish for.
Pavement cafés and chilled bars just seal the deal.
Poreč is a popular holiday resort in Istria and is
frequently named the top resort in Croatia by the
Croatian National Tourist Office. Porec’s history
extends to prehistoric times. The largest settlement
during this period was called Picugi, which was
home to an Illyrian tribe called the Histri (which is
Open Day at Marken Travel
20th March 12 ‘til 5pm
Incentives available!
Call in for details.
where Istria gets its name) in around 800 BC.
These days, Poreč mixes beautiful natural scenery
with architectural heritage and plenty of seaside
fun. Expect rocky beaches scattered with pine
trees and magical views, and marvel at stunning
Byzantine mosaics further inland. It’s a historic
haven with plenty of modern twists.
Holiday in Croatia
Adriatic Cruise - from £829pp
MS Afrodita calling at Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar & Croatian islands
including Manchester flights, 7 nights, H/B
Departs 30th September, 2017
Porec - from £578pp
Hotel Valamar Diamant 4*
including Manchester flights, 7 nights, H/B, Room with balcony
Departs 7th September, 2017
Other dates available; call Marken Travel for details
BOOK NOW
FOR JUST
£60pp
Independent Travel Specialist
200 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PE Telephone: 01744 893291 www.markentravel.co.uk

36
Croatian Checklist
Language: Croatian
Currency: Croatian kuna
Time difference: +1 hour
Cost (average) of a beer: £3.40
Cost (average) of Cappuccino : £1.60
Cost (average) of 3 Course meal: £20
If however you are wanting to sample more than
one destination, then a cruise is for you. Marken
Travel and Jet2holidays offer a seven-day cruise
or a 14-day cruise and stay. This cruise takes in
destinations such as Korcula, the birthplace of
explorer Marco Polo, the UNESCO-protected city of
Split, the beautiful old town of Dubrovnik and the
gorgeous Pucisca, on Brac Island.
As you can see, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Croatia.
But by choosing Marken Travel and Jet2holidays,
you’ll be in good hands and ensure you’ll be seeing
the best of this very beautiful country.
Marken Travel
200 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PE.
Telephone 01744 893 291
Manufacture ~ InstallatIon ~ servIce ~ repaIr
Call Us Today For A Free Quotation
Tel Number 01744 25038 / 07976 317846 / 07976 317688
Hertford House, Hertford Street, St Helens, WA9 1BF
www.1ststopsecurityproducts.co.uk

37

38
Upload your event for FREE at
www.locallife247.co.uk/events
Follow us on Facebook
events2go
Quiz Night with Hotpot
Friday, March 10, 7.15pm
Rainford in Bloom is raising funds by hosting a Quiz
Night with the inclusion of a hotpot supper.
Rainford Village Hall, Church Road, Rainford, St
Helens, WA11 8HB. Contact: 01744 883497.
Saturday Breakfast
Every Saturday, 9am – 11.30am
Pop-up breakfast cafe with assorted commercial
and charity stalls every Saturday morning at St
Luke’s Church Hall in Orrell.
St Lukes church hall, 10 Lodge Road, Orrell, Wigan,
WN5 7AT. Contact: 01695 627999.
The Damnation of Faust
Saturday, March 11, 12.30pm – 4pm
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra raise the
roof in Berlioz’s ground breaking choral-orchestral
spectacular
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Hope Street,
Liverpool L1 9BP. Box Office: 0151 709 3789
Artisan Market
Sunday, March 12, 10am – 3pm
Over 40 stalls - unique art and craft, award winning,
local produce, music and fun. The cafe and shops
will be open from 9am.
Inglenook Farm, Moss Nook Lane, Rainford, St
Helens, WA11 8AE. Contact:01744 886812
Brass for St Rocco’s
Sunday, March 12, 3pm
The Leyland Brass Band are at Warrington’s Parr Hall
to raise money for St Rocco’s Hospice.
Pyramid Parr Hall, Palmyra Square, Warrington
WA1 1BL. Visit: www.pyramidparrhall.com
Pamper Evening
Wednesday, March 15, 7pm – 9.30pm
Have a midweek pamper and raise money for
Garswood Primary School. Refreshments, beauty
and craft stalls and treatments included in the £5
ticket price.
Downall Green Independent Methodist Church,
Victoria Road, Garswood, WN4 0RG. Contact
01942 712106
Vegan Spring Fair
Saturday, March 18, 10am – 4pm
Everything vegan-friendly, from vintage to vinyl
and chocolate to cheese. Eight rooms of goods,
therapies, information and talks plus more.
St Helens Town Hall, 8 Corporation St, St Helens,
WA10 1EF. Contact: phoenixapparel@live.com
Welcome Home – 1925
Saturday, March 18, 7.30pm
A night of murder, intrigue and deceit. £19.50 (inc.
2 course meal and glass of wine) plus booking fee.
The Atkinson, Cambridge Hall, Lord Street,
Southport, PR8 1DB. Tickets: 01704 533333.

39
Cilla & The Shades of the 60s
Saturday, March 18, 7.30pm
Starring Liverpool-born singer Victoria Jones (BBC’s
The One & Only) as Cilla, singing songs including
‘You’re My World’ and ‘Anyone Who Had a Heart’.
St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St
Helens, WA10 1LQ. Tickets: 07742383176
Open House
Saturday, March 18, 10am – Noon
With lots of activities and games, St Aiden’s Open
House is an energetic way to start the morning.
There is an offer of breakfast/elevenses with
magazines and newspapers on offer to read while
you enjoy your cup of tea! The event welcomes all
ages, with games and activities suitable for all.
St Aidan’s Parish Church, Billinge, WN5 7HD.
Vintage Craft Fair
Sunday, March 19, 10am – 4pm
Vintage and retro clothing, accessories, home wear,
furniture, jewellery, collectable, china and more.
Plus live entertainment from Bexi Owen.
Mercure Hotel, Manchester Road, Blackrod,
Bolton, BL6 5RU. Contact: 07787 316234.
Artisan Food and Craft Fair
Sunday, March 19, 11am – 3pm
You can expect to find anything from cheese, fresh
bread and chocolate to jewellery, local artwork and
scarves.
Rainford Parish Council, Council Offices, Church
Road, Rainford, St Helens, WA11 8HB. Contact:
makinandmoore@outlook.com
Start Spreading
The News!
Our new Events2Go platform lets you tell
thousands of people about your event.
Whether it’s a charity do, sportsman’s dinner, wedding fair
or coffee morning, we can help you publicise your event
• Upload your event to our online calendar
• Get it promoted on social media
• Reach up to 130,000 homes in our mags
For FREE publicity for your event visit
www.locallife247.co.uk/events

40
Competition
Win tickets for
Olly Murs
To celebrate the launch of Events2Go, the
new local events guide, we have two pairs
of tickets to be won to one of the biggest concerts
in the North West this year, superstar Olly Murs –
performing live at Haydock Park on Saturday, August 11
Since Olly shot to fame on X Factor in 2009, he has crafted four
multi-platinum albums and produced four Number One
singles with total record sales exceeding 10 million.
His latest studio album 24 HRS was released
recently and became his fourth consecutive
LP to reach the top spot on the UK charts,
becoming the most successful solo artist ever
to come from the X Factor.
Olly told Local Life: “I’m really looking
forward to playing Haydock Park. It’ll be
one of the first chances I’ll get to play
tracks from 24 HRS in the sunshine so
will be a special show to share with
my fans. I love a day out at the races
too so can’t wait to get in the crowd
during the day to place a cheeky
bet!”’
Olly is the first act announced for Haydock
Park’s summer season. Alongside a showstopping
headlining performance by some of the
world’s biggest artists, the action kicks off earlier in
the day with a six race card - giving fans the chance
to witness powerful equine athletes who are stars
in their own right, and enjoy the thrilling drama
and spectacle of them racing for glory.

41
The events are renowned for combining a fun
filled evening at the races with a spectacular
evening concert in the informal and relaxed openair
setting of the hallowed turf. Having welcomed
over 200,000 fans of live music to their events in
2016, this year is set to continue the incredible
success.
The racecourses have world-class customer
facilities, featuring an array of award winning
restaurants that cater for all tastes, be it Fine Dining
through to delicious bistro food, so you can be sure
of a fantastic evening.
Tickets are priced starting from £37.50 adult/£15
child (under 18) at www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk.
Please note child tickets are limited and all under
18s must be accompanied by an adult. All T&Cs are
available at http://haydock.thejockeyclub.co.uk.
There will be hospitality packages available to suit
all budgets.
Competition 1
What is the name of Olly’s new album?
To win a pair of tickets to Olly’s Haydock concert,
visit: locallife247.co.uk/free-stuff/competitions/
Enter your answer, your details and click on ‘Enter’.
Closing date 31st March 2017
Competition 2
To win a pair of tickets to Olly’s Haydock concert,
search Facebook for ’Events2Go’
‘Like’ and ‘Share’ the Events2Go page
Closing date 31st March 2017
Competition rules are publicised on our website:
locallife247.co.uk/contact-us/rules
The new
local events guide
You can get event updates by reading our Local Life magazines every month,
by searching our website locallife247.co.uk, or by liking the ‘Events2Go’
Facebook page.
Event organisers can upload event details and a poster/picture to our
website FREE:
locallife247.co.uk/events/community/add

42
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Carl Taylor: 01942 712 535
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Email: info@dactjoinery.co.uk
Website: www.dactjoinery.co.uk
Call today for a free
no-obligation quote

43
Farmers Market
Sunday, March 19, 10am – 4pm
Local artisan food and drink with a splash of vintage
homemade crafts, Plus all the fun of the farm with
our animal antics. Admission is free.
Greenslate Community Farm Greenslate Road
Wigan, WN5 7BG. Contact: 01695 221950.
Jacqui’s Rhythm Katz
Sunday, March 19, 8pm
A swing and jazz band playing a wide variety of
favourite tunes from the swing era, Latin American,
pop and modern classics.
Briars Hall Barn, Briars Lane, Lathom Ormskirk,
L40 5TH. Contact: 07710756894.
Dance Club
Wednesday, March 22, 7.30pm
Go along to Little Longborough Dance Club, meet
people and keep active, physically and mentally.
Rainford Village Hall, Church Rd, Rainford, WA11
8HB. Contact: clarepark08@yahoo.co.uk
Mother’s Day Crafts
Thursday, March 23, 3.30pm – 4.30pm
Join Garswood Library as it celebrates Mother’s Day.
Make a beautiful card and design your own gift.
Space is limited. Booking is essential.
Garswood Library, Station Road WN4 0SA.
Contact: 01744 677797
1940s Night
Friday, March 24, 8pm
With special guest GI Jive. Food will be provided
and all proceedings will go to the Helen Marie
Charity for local sick children.
St Mary’s Social Club, Trent Road, Billinge, Wigan,
WN5 7QT. Contact: 01744734155
Heritage Trail
Saturday, March 25, 10am – 2pm
Meet near Wilkinson’s for a short official opening of
the newly refurbished Newton Heritage Trail, then
join in to walk the 10k route of Newton-Le-Willows.
Earlestown Market, Oxford St, Newton-le-Willows,
WA12 9AQ. Contact: newtonheritagetrail.com
Spring in the Garden
Monday, March 27, 8pm
Rainford’s Gardening Club is hosting a variety of
talks, demonstrations, Q&A sessions and more.
Rainford X North End Club, 16 Bushey Lane
Rainford, WA11 7LN. Contact: 01744 883497.
Chill and Chat
Wednesday, March 29, 11am
Sit and listen to poems being read or even read
your favourite poem out to the crowd. Chill and
Chat meets on the last Wednesday of each month.
Haydock Library, Church Road, WA11 0LY. Contact:
01744 677801.
Great Up Holland Bake Off
Friday, March 31, 7pm
Take your best bakes and win prizes for best in show.
If you’d like to take part please be there for 5pm.
St Thomas the Martyr Church, Church Street, Up
Holland, WN8 0ND. Contact: 01695 721038.
Cedar Farm Farmers Market
First Saturday of the Month, 10am – 4pm
Produce includes local beef, pork, lamb, haggis,
cheeses, pies, flowers, fruit and veg, wine, cakes and
more Free parking available.
Cedar Farm, Back Lane, Mawdesley, L40 3SY.
Contact: 01282 772896.

44
Spring Eggstravaganza
Saturday, April 1, 10am – 3.30pm
Orrell Egg Crafters invite you to their Spring event
to see how the crafting is done. There will also be
cake and gift stalls at the event.
Salem United Reformed Church, Church Street,
Orrell WN5 8TG. Contact: 01942 216552.
Beauty and The Beast
Saturday, April 1 – Sunday, April 23, 6pm
Get ready to go on an adventure and follow Belle
as she falls in love with the most unexpected of
princes.
St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street,
St Helens, WA10 1LQ. Tickets: 07742383176
The Signatures Northern Soul
Saturday, April 1, 7.30pm
The Signatures Northern Soul Band and Soul singer
Paul Stuart Davies host a night of Northern Soul
Live.
The Citadel Arts Centre, Waterloo Street, St Helens,
Merseyside, WA10 1PX. Contact: 01744735436
Charity Afternoon Tea
Sunday, April 2, 11am – 4pm
Raising awareness and money for Action for
Pulmonary Fibrosis. Entry is free however donations
would be appreciated.
St James Church Hall, St James Road, Orrell,
Wigan, WN5 7AA. Contact: 07720865129.
The Addams Family
Thursday, April 6 – Saturday, April 8, 7.30pm
A musical adaptation which organisers say
guarantees both tears and laughter.
The Atkinson, Cambridge Hall, Lord Street,
Southport, PR8 1DB. Tickets: 01704 533333.
Hope and Consolation
Saturday, April 8, 7.30pm
St Helens Choral Society with music from across
Europe.
United Reformed Church, Ormskirk Street, St
Helens, , WA10 2JZ. Contact: 01695 625500
Spring Craft and Gift Fair
Sunday, April 9, Noon – 4pm
Children’s crafts including face painting, angel card
readings, and craft stalls.
Birchley St Mary’s Club, Trent Road, Billinge,
WN5 7QT.
Creative Crafts
Thursday, April 13, 10.30am – 12.30pm
A family activity, recommended for children aged
seven and above. What you make is yours to take
home. Tickets are £13 and must be pre-booked.
National Trust, Tatton Park, Knutsford, WA16 6QN.
Contact: 01625 374428
Easter Shopping Fair
Friday, April 14 Noon – 5pm – Monday, April 17,
10.30am – 5pm
Free admission to the Tenants Hall packed with gifts
for everyone, specialist food producers plus craft,
fashion and home furnishings.
Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6QN.
Contact: 01625 374400.
Superhero Family Fun Day
Saturday, April 15, Noon
Jump across the giant assault course or have a go at
the craft table, making superhero-themed goodies!
Haydock Park Racecourse, Warrington Road,
Newton-le-Willows, WA12 0HQ. Contact: http://
haydock.thejockeyclub.co.uk/events-tickets

45

46

47
Bruno Mars
Sunday, April 17, 10am – 2pm
The appearance marks Mars’ first full-length tour
since 2013. Support from Anderson.Paak.
Liverpool Echo Arena, Kings Dock, Liverpool.
Tickets from £42. Book online at www.echoarena.
com
Salt of the Earth
Wednesday, April 19 – Saturday, April 29, 7.30pm
A coming of age story with characters we can all
recognise. Written by John Godber. Directed by Tara
Haywood.
Wigan Little Theatre, Crompton Street, Wigan,
WN1 3SL. Contact: wiganlittletheatre.co.uk
Sammy & The Snow Leopard
Sunday, April 23, 2pm
When a parcel arrives, Sammy finds himself on a
crazy adventure, involving stuffed animals...
The Citadel Arts Centre, Waterloo Street, St Helens,
Merseyside, WA10 1PX. Contact: 01744735436
Variety Show
Thursday, April 27 – Saturday, April 28, 7.15pm
A variety show with songs and laughter performed
by members of St Helens District Scouts and Guides.
Please note that tickets are not available from the
theatre.
St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation St, St Helens,
WA10 1LQ. Tickets: 07742383176
Afternoon Tea
Wednesday, May 10 2pm-4pm
Orrell & District Townswomen’s Guild will be holding
an Afternoon Tea for charity at St Luke’s Church Hall.
Tickets will be £6.
St. Lukes Vicarage, 10 Lodge Road, Orrell, Wigan,
WN5 7AT. Contact: 01695 623691.
Space
Friday, May 19, 7.30pm
The Liverpool Indie legends return following their
Give Me Your Future tour last year.
The Citadel Arts Centre, Waterloo Street, St
Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1PX. Tickets from £15.
Contact: 01744735436.
Flower Festival
Wednesday, May 25 – Monday, May 29
Flower Festival – ‘The past to the present 1867 –
2017’. Admission by programme available on the
door. Refreshments available in the church hall.
Rainford United Reformed Church, Higher Lane,
Rainford, WA11 8AL. Contact: peter.gregory@
me.com
Moonlight Walk
Saturday, June 10, 9pm – 2am
Entry is £15 for adults and £5 for children (all online
entry fees include processing fees.) Includes live
entertainment and the chance to ‘get messy’ with
a colour splash.
Willowbrook, The Living Well, Borough Road,
St Helens, WA10 3RN. Contact: events@
willowbrookhospice.org.uk
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The Physical Therapy Studio, (Behind Wilkos), 46 Claughton St, St Helens, WA10 1SN

48
Puzzle Corner
WORD SEARCH
Find the hidden words
T A F A S T W T P Y
S C H R I S T I A N
E H H U D E T E R A
G O O U C N R S A F
G C S L E N T U D F
T O C H I C K N E T
B L L S A D E D T S
L A M B N H A A E P
Y T W C L A I Y R R
R E R R O L L T B I
H O P O I N G E S N
E B A S K E T D D G
H C O S L R O M B W
EGG
BASKET
CHOCOLATE
LAMB
SUNDAY
CHRISTIAN
CHICK
PARADE
ROLL
CROSS
SPRING
HOLIDAY
FAST
LENT
HOP
1
7
CLUE: Go by dawn
4
9
7
2
3
Trace a path through all the
letters to find the word or
phrase that fits the clue.
8
9
SUDOKU
WIGGLE WORDS
7
6 2
2
3
4
8 6
8
4
1
3
5
4
M O O N
A T I L
O F L I
D T H G
2
7
LOGIC PROBLEMS
Three child film stars were contracted to
different Hollywood film
companies. Can you
identify the three, work
out their ages at the time
and say which company
each was with?
CLUES
1. The Warner Bros star
was older than Annie
Taylor
2. Hughie was younger
than the starlet named
Rose
3. Emilys’s contract was
with Paramount
All the puzzle solutions are on page 71 of this magazine

49

50
An uphill
battle?
David Sudworth meets the Rainford families who are fighting
plans for 1,100 homes on village Green Belt
Community campaigns are, at best, charmingly amateurish. At worse they can
descend into chaos.
It’s not surprising. The sheer self-discipline needed to keep the momentum going
over months and sometimes years can test even the toughest political operators.
Most ‘normal’ people though are nothing of the sort. They have to juggle every day
life while suddenly being thrust into the spotlight.
James Wright is a case in point. By day, he’s a sales manager for a medical firm, and
has a wife and young child. Yet he’s now the de facto leader of Rainford Action Group.
Set up a few months ago to fight Green Belt development, his evenings are now very
much spoken for.
“I always make sure I’m back for bath time,” laughs James. “Family is important to me.”
Luckily for James, Rainford Action Group isn’t just any other group of well-intentioned
but ultimately out-of-their-depth individuals.

51
The slickness of their campaigning machine has
taken St Helens Council by surprise. Their members
are distinctly ‘on message’, with press releases
and photo calls aplenty. They have also utilised
social media to mobilise their core support. And
they don’t fall into the usual traps of being too
prescriptive about what they’d class as ‘success’.
“It’s not for us to do the planners’ job for them,” says
James.
“We know that some homes would have to be built,
but it’s the sheer scale of what is being proposed for
Rainford which is unfair. Our core message is that
it’s unworkable, unreasonable and unecessary.”
But for all the group’s refreshing professionalism,
they recognise their task is a big one.
St Helens Council says it needs to build homes,
and lots of them, over the next 30 years. Its reasons
range from a shortage of housing, a projected
“It’s not for us to do the
planners’ job.”
population growth (which the group hotly
disputes), and a need to widen its Council Tax base
to plug a widening hole in the council’s coffers.
Rainford is by far the biggest target of the so-called
Green Belt grab, with 1,100 homes planned over
the next 30 years. By comparison, Billinge has been
pencilled in for 163 homes on Green Belt at Ash
Grove Farm, Beacon Lane.
And there’s the rub. While campaigners from
different areas seek to support each other, they are
effectively in competition. 600 fewer homes in one
area means that another part of St Helens would
have to take a hit. Planners complain of having very
little wriggle room when it comes to delivering
Government housing targets.
One council insider told Local Life: “We are between
a rock and a hard place. Landowners around
Rainford were queueing up to offer their land for
development. And it’s in a place where developers
want to build.
Ray with a Winston Churchill lookalike
Action Group chairman James Wright
“The Government got rid of the funding to clean
up brownfield sites and there actually aren’t that
many of them left anymore. It’s a myth that there’s
hundreds of acres of brownfield land just sitting
there.”
For James and his colleagues, they believe that
the whole character of the village is at stake: “I’m
from Litherland and came to live here six years ago.
We’re currently on Heyes Avenue but are moving to
Higher Lane. I’ve never felt like an outsider because
people here are so friendly. You become one of
them very quickly. So when I saw the plans - it was
actually my mother-in-law who told me about them
- I was shocked.”
Despite anger from residents, not everyone is
wholly against the plans. Some business owners
have privately stated that more homes (and
therefore potential customers) would be good for
their livelihoods.
But even then, views are mixed. Vicki Towey’s
family has lived in Rainford for generations. As
well as being an Action Group member, she’s also
a business owner: “I do children’s parties and as a
business owner I don’t think it is good for Rainford.

52
I want children to be able to go out and
explore green fields.
“When you look at the whole map of
proposed sites across St Helens borough,
you can see how disproportionate it is
towards Rainford. The flooding is bad
enough now and the thought of more
homes is really worrying people.”
Marj Hart lives near one of the proposed
sites on Higher Lane. She’s also had
experience of being flooded.
A farmer’s daughter, she moved to
Rainford from Shaley Brow Farm in
Crank around 40 years ago. “Most of the
land around here is owned by the national Church
Commissioners or Lord Derby. The farmers are
tenants so it’s not them who are trying to sell the
land. “
Rebecca Leche, from Damson Grove, is also on the
Action Group committee. She’s concerned that any
new homes won’t address the village’s future needs:
“They’re unlikely to build bungalows or sheltered
housing. But that’s what we need as we have an
ageing population.”
Apart from the planning-based arguments, there
has also been a war of words between Green Belt
campaigners and some borough councillors.
This started last year when the planning application
for Florida Farm North at Pewfall was submitted,
and has now spilled over into a wider row about
development across St Helens.
James with Vicki Towey, Marj Hart, Rebecca Leche and parish
council chairman Diane Nichols
Rainford Parish Council chairman Diane Nichols
is particularly concerned: “It doesn’t give people
confidence in the consultation process.”
However, for now it is that process which has to run
its course. A second draft of the Local Plan is set to
be published in late summer, followed by a further
round of public consultation. If all goes smoothly, a
plan will be in place by October 2018.
James and the wider Action Group team know
that they have another one-and-a-half years of
“Flooding is bad
enough now”
commitments ahead of them. But for James’ part,
he is more than up for the challenge: “I care about
Rainford, and that’s why I’m doing
this along with a really dedicated
team. The village’s infrastructure
struggles as it is. The library is
now down to minimum hours,
you struggle to get a doctor’s
appointment and there is no NHS
dentist in Rainford.
One of the proposed building sites off Higher Lane
“The council needs to find
innovative solutions. Concreting
over the Green Belt isn’t being
innovative, it’s just lazy planning.”

53

54
Food & Drink
Energy to burn
By Keeley Bolger
Dieting is a divisive subject, not least with the
current debate surrounding clean eating,
but chef Tom Kerridge is open-minded.
The cheerful TV foodie has lost 11st over the course
of three years on his self-devised regime, bidding
bye-bye to big boozy sessions with his ‘naughty boy
chef mates’, exercising daily and skipping certain
types of carbohydrates like potatoes and rice, in
favour of high-protein food like meat and eggs, as
well as plenty of leafy greens.
Now, he’s sharing his recipes with the world in his
latest cookbook, Tom Kerridge’s Dopamine Diet: My
Low-Carb, Stay-Happy Way To Lose Weight.
“There are so many different diets and so many actually, all your best mates become your biggest
things that appeal to so many different people,” he support system. “There are more of them that will
says, in his distinctive Gloucestershire burr. “This diet embrace and understand it, and probably join you
is high-protein led, and might not suit somebody on the journey than you think.”
else. “The key to it is finding the one that suits you,” Losing weight has changed his life in all sorts of ways,
adds the 43-year-old.
not least because he says he has energy to burn.
The fact he was able to stick to his diet - the first he’s He says his new lifestyle has made adjusting to being
ever tried - for so long was partly because it embraces a father to 14-month-old son Acey easier, and he and
an unlikely snack. “Pork scratchings contain no Beth have made a pact not to work on Sundays.
carbohydrate - they’re all protein,” he explains with “Being a dad helps you keep focused on staying
a chuckle. “I’ve lost the best part of 11-stone while healthy. You’re consciously aware of what you’re
eating pork scratchings. That’s got to be the perfect eating and what you’re doing, because although I
diet, surely!”
don’t mind coming last in the sports day race, I want
Kerridge made a pact with himself to become to be just last - I don’t want to be miles left behind!”
healthier before reaching his 40th birthday.
says Kerridge.
“You think it’s hard to say to your “In fact, actually that’s not true - I want to win it!”
peer group, ‘I’m going on a diet’, Inspired? See the two tasty meals, on pages 56 & 58,
but it’s just that first step because, from Kerridge’s new book to try at home...
Tom Kerridge’s Dopamine Diet: My Low-Carb, Stay-Happy Way To Lose Weight by Tom
Kerridge is published in hardback by Bloomsbury, priced £20.

55

56
Lamb shank hot pot
Method
Heat a good splash of oil in a large flameproof
casserole over a medium-high heat. Season the
lamb shanks with a little salt then fry them two
at a time until deeply and evenly coloured. Don’t
hurry the process - searing the meat properly helps
to create that deep, delicious flavour. Drain off the
rendered fat. Set the lamb shanks aside.
Serves 4
Ingredients
Vegetable oil, for cooking
4 lamb shanks (about 200g each), French trimmed
(get your butcher to do this for you)
6 small onions, halved
1 garlic bulb (about 8-12 cloves), peeled and sliced
1 large swede, peeled and diced
150g crumbled goat’s cheese
1tbsp cracked black pepper
2tsp thyme leaves
500ml lamb stock
4 large turnips (about 200g each), peeled and thinly
sliced
50g butter, diced
Sea salt
Turn the heat down a bit and add a splash more oil
to the casserole, followed by the onions, garlic and
a pinch of salt. Cook gently for about 10-12 minutes
until golden and softened. Remove from the heat
and return the lamb shanks to the pan, placing
them on top of the onions with the bones pointing
upwards.
Preheat the oven to 150C/Fan 130C/Gas 2. In a
bowl, combine the swede, goat’s cheese, pepper
and thyme, then pack it around the lamb shanks.
Pour in the stock. Fan the turnip slices in a circle
over the swede and around the lamb shanks then
dot with the butter.
Put the lid on or, if that’s not possible because the
shank bones are poking up too high, cover with
foil and seal tightly. Cook in the oven for one-anda-half
hours, then remove the lid or foil and return
to the oven for a further one-and-a-half hours until
the lamb is soft, covering with foil if it browns too
quickly. The turnips will be crispy on the top.

57
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58
Pepperoni pizza omelette
Serves 2-4
Ingredients
250ml passata
2tbsp tomato puree
3 garlic cloves, grated
6 large free-range eggs
2tsp dried oregano
A drizzle of olive oil
150g sliced pepperoni
2 balls of mozzarella (about 125g each), drained
2tbsp fresh oregano leaves
30g Parmesan cheese
A small handful of basil leaves
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Method
To make the tomato sauce, heat the passata, tomato
puree and garlic in a saucepan over a medium heat.
Simmer to reduce until the sauce is nice and thick.
This will take eight to 10 minutes. Remove from the
heat, season with salt and pepper to taste and leave
to cool.
Preheat the oven to 200C/Fan 180C/Gas 6. In a bowl,
whisk together the eggs and dried oregano and
season with salt and pepper.
Heat a little olive oil in a 24cm non-stick ovenproof
frying pan over a medium-high heat. Pour in the egg
and stir until it is almost fully cooked, removing the
pan from the heat when the omelette is still a little
runny and wobbly in the middle.
Gently spread the tomato sauce all over the
omelette. Cover with the pepperoni, then tear the
mozzarella into pieces and scatter it over.
Sprinkle with the oregano and then place the pan
in the oven for eight to 10 minutes, until the cheese
has melted and the ‘pizza’ is set.
Remove from the oven and immediately grate the
Parmesan over the top. Scatter over the basil and
serve at once, directly from the pan.

59
Continuing our recent, unofficial theme of
‘Places You Never Realised Are Actually Very
Pretty’, we headed over to Worsley for this month’s
outing.
Situated next to the thunderous M60 Manchester Ring
Road, it’s hardly the first place which springs to mind.
But once the din of the traffic ebbs away, it can be a
very uplifting, snap-happy stroll.
We started this walk from the Worsley Court House
pay and display car park. It’s located just off Junction
13 of the M60, on the B5211, Barton Road (postcode
M28 2PB).
Once suitably booted up, we head out of the car park
and across the main road, taking the path past the
Packet House overlooking the Bridgewater Canal
sponsored by
Worsley
by David Sudworth
(look for the Bridgewater Dental Surgery sign). This
takes you over a small footbridge and then up some
steps which emerge on Worsley Road.
But before you get there, I guarantee you’ll have
stopped a good few times to survey the beautiful
homes nestled along the canal. The most majestic is
the Packet House itself. This Grade II listed building
dates back to 1760 and the half-timbering was
added around 1850 by the 1st Earl of Ellesmere. The
bridge nearby is known as Alphabet Bridge. It got
its name from children at a local school who used
the bridge daily and practised their alphabet on the
26 planks that made up the span. There are still 26
planks, so you have the option of keeping up the
tradition as you cross.

60
When on Worsley Road, we cross over and went
right until we turned in to Mill Brow by the side of
Hunters Estate Agents. Walk up the brow, which is
a bit steep, and continue until you reach the steps
that go down in front of Old Warke Dam. You pretty
much go down the steps, across Worsley Brook and
up to your right, following the path until it brings
you on to the lane.
It’s nice to see though that not all traces of its past
have been erased, for just past the bridge, you are
greeted by the platforms of the old Worsley Station,
a grand old building by all accounts made of white
brick with red and black detailing. It also had two
First Class and two Second Class waiting rooms and
a glass canopy.
Here you go straight across, taking the footpath
round and into the woods. Continue along until you
pass over the footbridge across Kempnough Brook.
Here turn right and follow the path until you reach
the Lodge (confession time; we actually stopped for
a few minutes prior to reaching the Lodge to have a
play on the rope swing we saw in the woods!)
Once you’ve unnecessarily burned off any lingering
energy you had left, dig deep and carry on. Passing
the lodge, take the foot path on your left and follow
this until you reach Route 55 of the National Cycle
Network. Once down the steps and on the cycle
path, turn right, walking towards the bridge at
Worsley Road. You’re now following the route of
the old Manchester-Wigan Railway, which closed to
passengers in May 1969.
The line, which had been in use since 1864, was
built to serve local coal pits, with stations at Leigh
and Pennington.

61
About 500 yards past the old station you
take the steps down to the pond and
keeping to the left continue through the
park known as Dukes Drive. The path starts
to curve right, which you follow until it
reaches the canal. At this point we opted
to go right, heading back along the canal,
but you can go left, head over the canal
bridge, and back up the other side of the
canal. Staying on our route we kept to
the footpath by the canal. This nice path
changes to a rough path as you leave
Dukes Drive, and becomes quite narrow.
FB
Power Lines
NCR 55
A575
Worsley Woods
Nature Reserve
FB
M60
Kempnough Brook
Lodge House
A572
A572
Old Warke Dam
Pylon
Junction 13
Worsley Court House
P
Postcode
M28 2PB
FB
Worsley
Mill Brow
Worsley Brook
Packet House
Monument
Barton Road
The Green
Bridgewater Canal
Worsley Road
Sindsley Brook
Remains of Worsley Railway Station
NCR 55
Worsley
Golf Club
M60
Dukes Drive
B5211
Power Lines
Parrin Lane

62
You can at this point step down to your right and
follow the track that takes you all the way up onto
Worsley Road.
At this point go left, passing the lovely row of
cottages, before turning left into The Green.
This is yet another beautiful find, oozing in period
charm and elegance. From here continue down and
over to the bridge, taking in the view of the Packet
House. After a few minutes taking photos we cross
the main road and head back to the car park.
In all, this four mile walk is a real find. Not your
average Jack’s Tracks outing, but nonetheless a
worthy addition to our series. On a perfect sunny
day, it would be an excellent stroll. But even during
the worst of winter’s offerings, you could do a lot
worse than Worsley.
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.
Worsley Green
Although a picture postcard these days, it wasn’t
always the case at Worsley Green. Until the early 1900s,
it was Worsley Yard, the centre of an industrial complex
that became busier with the advent of the Bridgewater
Canal. It included a boat building yard, motor mill,
timber yard, nail makers, wheelwrights, basket-makers
and a warehouse. It is still possible to see the imprints
in the grass where railway sidings ran.
On the Green is a monument to Francis, 3rd Duke of
Bridgewater, known as “The Canal Duke”. This was
constructed from the base of the Work’s Yard chimney.
It was originally a fountain and the base carries a Latin
inscription, which reads: “A lofty column breathing
smoke and fire. Did I the builder’s glory once aspire.
Whose founder was that Duke who far and wide. Bridged
water through Bridgewater’s countryside.”
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63
Ringing the
changes.
by Angie Barker
Award Winner
You know that feeling when you get so
familiar with something that it starts to
get boring? That is when you need to make some
changes - like when you decide to decorate your
living room. A new sofa, a splash of paint, some new
cushions (we ladies love our cushions) can instantly
revive a room and make it feel new and exciting –
you want to show it off.
Well its the same with gardens. The number of
people I meet in my travels who tell me that their
garden has looked like that for twenty years - and
no wonder they’ve stopped using it and just mow
the grass to keep it in check but find it a real chore.
A garden does not need a complete makeover to
breathe new life into it and spring is the perfect
time to make small changes. Here are some ideas:
• Change the shape of your lawn – this is an instant
transformation and will create new planting
opportunities. Straight lines look contemporary
while curves are relaxing and can help to disguise
an awkward shaped plot
• Create a herb garden with your favourite culinary
flavours
• Take out a few of your existing plants and buy
new ones – with different colours and texture.
You can give your old plants away to neighbours,
friends and family
• Enhance your seating area with new paving, or
buy rattan furniture which you can leave out all
year round. Add stylish pots and plant Phormiums
and Bamboo for a contemporary, lush look
• Start a veggie plot – this can even be done in pots
and grow bags
• Create a haven for wildlife. Log piles and nest
boxes and bird tables are so easy to place in the
garden and children love being involved
• Screen the ugly shed in the corner and the
wheelie bins and erect some trellis with pretty
climbers to scramble over it
• Create a focal point. Place a large urn or bird bath
in gaps in planting or at the end of a path
Find a project that interests you and suddenly your
garden will have a new lease of life. As for Hubby
and me, yes we’ve been together for a long time
now but boring? …never!
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Call Angie now for your free consultation!
Angie Barker Dip GD
(Inst GD) BA (Hons)
Garden Design For All Seasons
Tel: 01942 522 405
Mob: 07857 008 383
Award Winner
www.angiebarker.co.uk

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66
Test Drive
First impressions when approaching the
new Audi Q2 are good. Like all Audis, it
manages to stand out, even if it doesn’t try anything
spectacular design-wise. In the more daring ‘Vegas
Yellow’, it makes quite a visual impact though, and
is unmistakeably Audi in appearance. The large
grill and muscular body
are complimented by
a sloping roof line and
contrast C-pillar which –
in S-Line trim at least – is
nicely offset in metallic
silver. Sadly, on the
smallest alloy wheels it
looks puny, so bigger is
better there.
The interior is more
of the same, being
Audi Q2
by Tim Barnes-Clay
almost identical to that which you’d find in the A3
hatchback. That’s no bad thing though, as Audi
makes some of the most pleasant interior spaces on
the market today, and feels decidedly upmarket if
it’s kitted out with a range of technology options,
such as the virtual cockpit.

67
We tested the Audi Q2 in 150PS 1.4-litre petrol
guise. It provides plenty enough power for all types
of road, being capable of overtaking on motorways
and A-roads, yet remaining suitably quiet when
pottering through towns and villages. If your annual
mileage is quite low, this is a fine engine to go for,
as you’re unlikely to need anything more than this.
While the engine is quiet, the S-Tronic automatic
gearbox is a little jumpy at low speeds, and tends
to put too much torque through the wheels when
trying to move off. This results in some minor
wheel-spin. The S-Tronic unit has never quite been
up to the high level of BMW’s eight-speed unit, but
it is far from a bad gearbox, and, when up to speed,
works quickly and seamlessly.
Our petrol test car was the S-Line, fitted with
sports suspension and larger alloy wheels, and we
found it to be slightly too firm for our liking. Being
a ‘Q’, you get into it expecting a smooth ride, but
you get something more like a firm hatchback
than a compact SUV. We suspect Audi’s excellent
seating helps offset this a little. If the trade-off was
entertaining cornering and impressive dynamics,
we’d be content, but it isn’t exactly fun to drive
either.
Fast Facts
0-62 mph: 8.5 secs
• Combined mpg: 52.3
• Engine layout: 1395cc 4-cylinder turbo petrol
• Max. power (PS): 150
• CO2: 123 g/km
• Price: £27,730
The steering is rather numb and it doesn’t feel
particularly settled going quicker around corners,
though it doesn’t feel out of its comfort zone either.
Audi was keen to point out that it doesn’t skimp on
technology with the new Q2; it uses the same tech
in the fresh compact SUV as it does in its higherend
products, like the TT sports car or Q7 SUV. The
stunning virtual cockpit is an option once again,
and you can also get such goodies, such as adaptive
cruise control, heated seats, a power operated
boot, and Audi’s parking assistance system. The
problem is, almost these luxuries cost extra. Audi
has made a big deal about the new Q2 starting at

#
68
under £20,000, yet it also points out that it expects
only 10 per cent of people to buy the lowest ‘SE’
trim level. The petrol model we tested came in at
£5 over £34,000, and, even for a test car, that’s an
astonishing amount of money.
Look to spend between £25,000 and £30,000 and
you’re probably on the right track with the new Audi
Q2. It’s a high-quality product and looks great, but it
doesn’t inspire us to spend more on it than a normal
Audi A3, and the Q3 SUV isn’t far off price-wise. It
doesn’t matter one bit what we think, because
wealthy people love something a little bit different
with a respected badge on its nose. It might not be
perfect, but it will sell, and sell well. The new Q2 is
going to be another Audi success
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Tel: 07803 053 715
e: cjvalet@yahoo.co.uk
www.cjvaleting.net
Rainford
Service and MOT Centre
FREE PICK UP!
Treat your car
to the professional touch
Free pick
up and drop
off service
available
Interim service and MOT
from £95 inc VAT
Full service and MOT
from £130 inc VAT
MOT - £34.95
MOT Class 7 - £38.95
German Car Specialist
Want to promote your company in
LocalLife
Call Clare: 01925 387 025 - Warrington
01744 649 722 - St Helens
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife
Sandwash Close, Rainford, WA11 8LY
Call - 01744 895 333 or 01744 886 720
Mobile - 07918 138 231
£5 off
when you have a service
and MOT at our garages
Offer valid on production of this voucher
Any make or model welcome
Rainford
Service and MOT Centre
Part of SGN Autos Ltd

69
Home Services
Decorators,
plumbers, builders...
CALL PAUL
LOCKSMITHS
ESTABLISHED 2000
• UPVC & WOODEN DOOR SPECIALIST
• Emergency Door Opening
• UPVC Door Lock Repairs
• UPVC Door Lock Changes
• UPVC Door Lock Upgrades
• Wood Door Lock Changes
• All Work Guaranteed
A Registered Insured NCFE Certified Company
Call Paul for a
Fast, Reliable, Professional Service
GARAGE DOOR
REPAIRS
All GARAGE DOORS REPAIRED :
Springs, Cables, Locks, Rollers etc.
Doors of all ages repaired
01744 894939 07891 330214 NO FIX, NO CHARGE!
www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk
Strawberry Cottage, Pimbo Road, St.Helens WN8 9QL
TV Aerials installed & repaired
Sky, Freesat, Talk Talk & BT
Setup Service
Telephone/Broadband repair
Tv Wall mounting & CCTV
Ring Paul on www.wiganaerials.com
01942 514532 - 07709 490095
TELEPHONE
01744 526 589
MOBILE
07932 718 362
WWW.CALLPAULLOCKSMITH.CO.UK
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

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Our Focus Is
Quality & Price
LOCAL FAMILY
FIRM
All aspects
of Building &
Roofing UPVC
Rooflines
References Available
From a Loose
Slate to a
Complete
Construction
Extensions &
Alterations Specialists
Call us on... 01744 600074
Mobile: 07867 592460
13 Hawes Ave, Carr Mill, WA11 7EA
• WILSON BROS •
Est. 1985
Roofing & Roofline Specialists
• All aspects of maintenance & repair
• Fascia & soffit installation
• Guttering and felting services
Call us now for a free estimate
01695 633173
Colin: 07958 302 166
Brian: 07760 160 988
www.wilson-bros.co.uk
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
NEED
A FIX IT
GUY ?
Green House Group
All aspects of DIY
• Plumbing Repairs
• Flat Pack Assembly
• Landlord & estate agent services
• CCTV fitting
• Locks changing
All the jobs you hate - We’ll do!
Fully Insured
T: 01744 812103
M: 07947 425288
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
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

71
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
Want to promote your company in
LocalLife
Call Clare: 01925 387 025 - Warrington
01744 649 722 - St Helens
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife
Fully Insured & Insurance
Backed Guarantees
UP ACCESS
Narrow Access
Cherry Picker Hire
We can go through gaps of 800mm
Half and full day rates available
A more cost effective way to work safely at heights
Call today on
07947 425 288 / 01744 812 103
Puzzle Solutions
1 5
T A F A S T W T P Y
S C H R I S T I A N
E H H U D E T E R A
G O O U C N R S A F
G C S L E N T U D F
T O C H I C K N E T
B L L S A D E D T S
L A M B N H A A E P
Y T W C L A I Y R R
R E R R O L L T B I
H O P O I N G E S N
E B A S K E T D D G
H C O S L R O M B W
WIGGLE WORDS: DO A MOONLIGHT FLIT
6 4
2
3
8 9 7
3 6 8
4 7 5
2 1 9
9 2 4
7 8 6
5 3 1
FIRST NAME
ANNIE
HUGHIE
EMILY
9 4 8
7 5 1
6 2 3
2 7 4
3 1 9
5 8 6
1 3 5
4 9 2
8 6 7
SURNAME
TAYLOR
STARR
ROSE
AGE
8
10
12
7 3 6
9 8 2
4 5 1
1 9 5
6 2 8
3 7 4
8 6 7
5 1 3
2 4 9
COMPANY
MGM
WARNER BROS
PARAMOUNT

ALL CLEANING PACKAGES
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
Open:
J27
A49
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
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 Business Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
72
Chamberlayne’s
Cleaning Services
as seen
ON TV
Unlimited Hours, Any Area,
Trained, Insured, DBS Checked,
ID Carried & Uniformed Staff
Tel: 0330 133 0451
Part of The Chamberlayne Group.
UPVC CLEANING
• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.
CONSERVATORIES
• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)
JETWASHING
• Driveways & Patios etc.
EXTERIOR PAINTING
• Fascias, Rendered Walls etc.
£10 an hour
20%
OFF
Ovenclean will transform your oven and
put the sparkle back into your kitchen!
• Ovens
• Grills
• Extractors
• BBQ’s
• Hobs
• Ranges
• Microwaves
• AGA’s
Call today to book your oven clean
0800 840 7127 or
07724 694337
www.ovenclean.com
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01744 470 051 or 07834 241 642
www.justcleanpropertycare.co.uk
Telephone:
07881 816839
Carroll’s Carpet & Upholstery offer a professional
and reliable cleaning service. We clean all types of
Carpet, Rugs and Upholstery including leather all at an
affordable price.
www.carrolls-carpetandupholstery.co.uk
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
For more information call
01744 649 722
LocalLife
Gel
Nails
norma ly £20
now £15
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
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
Mo sy Lea Road
T
Y
R
E
S
Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Book
your FREE
home survey
CAR & VAN SERVICING
FREE
Car Health Check
.and motorcycles too
for a l residents of Croston and Bretherton
Keep me until you need me!
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Ca l now on
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
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
Ca l us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
Want to promote your company in
LocalLife
Call Clare: 01925 387 025 - Warrington
01744 649 722 - St Helens
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife

Transform your home
with a brand new driveway
73
Resin Driveways
20%
Winter
Discount
Offer ends 31st March 2017
Tarmac Driveways
J.P.Surfacing
Made in Lancashire
Established over 25 years
42, Seymour Road,
Astley Bridge,
Bolton, BL1 8PT
01204 590 499
jp-surfacing.co.uk

74
MARDEC
Painters & Decorators
Internal and external work
Domestic or commercial
jobs welcomed
Free inspirational
advice & quotes
No job too small
A.J.Davies Est.1991
Painter & Decorator
Paper Hanging a Speciality
Friendly & Very Reliable Service
Both Domestic & Commercial
Trading for over 26 years
Call Adam on 01744 755 005
e-mail ajdaviesdecorator@hotmail.co.uk
S. Taylor
Decorators
All aspects of decorating undertaken
Call Scott on
01942 209 031 / 07713 912764
18 Station Road, Garswood, WN4 0SA
Established 1992
01744 894 431
07931 282 896
01744 602931 or 07756 274503
7 Albany Avenue, Eccleston Park, L34 2QN
Domestic + Commercial
Boiler + Central Heating
Installs, Servicing + Repairs
Extended warranties available
24 Hour Call-out
Brand New Bathrooms
Freephone 0300 3030121
Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809
21, Naburn Drive, Orrell, WN5 8SB
Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk
www.orrellheating.co.uk
506515
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

75