Local Life - St Helens - September 2017

LocalLife
St Helens Edition September 2017
Education Special
pages 33-44
Jack’s Tracks visits Golborne & Haydock Park
Test Drive - Volkswagen Passat GTE
Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Garden Diary Food Home Services
locallife247.co.uk

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4
Coming of
age
Ido it every year - but this September marks a
‘special’ sort of anniversary as it’s 21 years since
I left school.
As each new academic year commences, I briefly
ponder about where the time has gone. We’ve
recently took on some new members of staff who, I
am advised, are ‘millennials’. I had to look it up.
The mere fact they were necking rusks at the same
time as I was being introduced to the perils of cider
is enough to flummox me.
It’s not the only thing. Back in the mid 1990s, careers
advice was still very much stuck in the dark ages. I
recall one of my friends being told that his ambition
to be a computer programmer was ‘very 2001: Space
Odyssey’ by a careers officer. I had to look that up
too. Lord knows what that same officer, wherever
they are now, is thinking as this new generation of
kids want to be You Tubers when they grow up. It
wasn’t even a noun until a couple of years ago, and
now you can earn millions from speaking nonsense
in a funny voice. How times change, or maybe not in
Joe Pasquale’s case.
So wherever your child/grandchild goes to next on
their academic journey, I wish them well. 21 years
ago, it was predicted that by now, robots would
have taken all our jobs and become masters of the
universe. A salutary tale of how things don’t always
turn out as predicted.
One thing is for certain though, in a further 21 years
time I’ll be much greyer, none much the wiser and
still baffled about the appeal of You Tube.
David Sudworth, Editor

5
In this issue
Education
feature
33
Full steam
ahead
Regulars
26 Class From The Past
31 Planning
46 Puzzle Corner
51 Events2Go
Sections
8 Local News
34 Education
48 Travel
56 Food & Drink
59 Jack’s Tracks
66 Test Drive
63 Garden Diary
63 Gardening
66 Motoring
69 Home Services
48
Guilt free
food
56
Jack’s Tracks visits
Golborne &
Haydock Park
59
Test Drive
Volkswagen
Passat GTE
66
Next issue - October 2017
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6
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8
Woman of the cloth
Billinge mum Julia Folan had more
reasons than usual to feel proud on
her daughter’s wedding day.
Because not only was her brother, Jim, officiating
- but she had made his clergy robes by hand. And
that has now set her on the path to open her own
business after 20 years of working in social housing.
Julia said: “I’d always done sewing for friends
and family alongside my job, my brother had just
become a Deacon with the church and the family
wanted to buy him some vestments. We noticed
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that there was
nothing bespoke
so I decided to
make them for him.
I bought myself
an embroidery
machine and
started from
scratch.”
It was then that
Julia had the idea to
expand her sewing
from just family and
friends to starting
a business and
growing a client
base.
Julia’s original plan was to split the business
between three areas: vestments, children’s
communion and flower girl dresses and repairs
but due to Julia’s contacts within the church and
the quality of her work she has been busy making
vestments and robes for clergy members: “Word of
mouth is growing quite rapidly and I’ve got really
good links with the local Archdiocese and they
have been able to provide me with some work. It’s
about being able to move in those circles and get
my name out there. It’s very exciting.”
Julia, whose business was boosted with help
from St Helens Chamber and the New Enterprise
Allowance, is now focusing on growing her client
base further by working on her website, which
she will use to promote her services, especially to
the clergy: “Because the vestments is a very niche
market, I’ve had to look at building a website. The
people who buy vestments are less likely to use
social media platforms and more likely to look on
websites so that is something I am working on
putting together at the moment.”

9
Find your voice
Haydock Male Voice Choir is holding an information
evening and free concert for prospective new
members. The choir was founded in 1923 by a small
group of miners who were enthusiastic about music
but knew very little about it. They met in a local pub
and rehearsed once a week. Nowadays, the choir has
members from right across the area.
If you are interested in joining the choir, you are
invited to go along to Haydock Conservative Club,
Bellerophon Way, on Tuesday September 5, from
7.30pm-9.30pm. Organisers say the bar will also be
open and wives/partners will also be very welcome.
For more information, visit haydockmvc.com
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10
One year anniversary
Fizz and fun were the order of the day when Rainford
clothes shop Ella Mora celebrated its first 12 months
in the village. Customers and staff were treated to
bubby and cake to mark the occasion. The Church
Road boutique was opened by former Tyrers owner
Ali Tyrer last year. It specialises in ladies’ lifestyle
brands, exclusive baby wear, accessories and gifts.

11

12
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.
New dementia cafe
A new dementia cafe is being launched in Garswood.
It’ll be held on the last Wednesday of the month,
starting on Wednesday, September 27, at St
Andrew’s Mission Hall, Garswood Road. The free cafe
has been set up to support those in the area living
with dementia, as well as their carers, friends and
family. It starts at 1.30pm and finishes at 3pm. For
more information, contact Rosalyn on 07981 201386,
Denise on 07962 392999 or Gail on 07341 266544.
Library loan changes
Bookworms are being reminded that, from
September 1, library loans can only be renewed via
the internet a maximum of three times. If you want
to renew a book more than three times, it has to be
taken into a St Helens local library for a member of
staff to authorize it.

13
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15

16
Hall to be sold for housing?
Billinge’s Public Hall could be sold off
for housing, it has emerged.
Parish councillors are considering the long-term
future of the pre-fab building on Pingot Road.
One of the options, which went out to public
consultation recently, is to sell the building and find
a different location for meetings.
Billinge Chapel End Parish Council said that the
building is likely to need “significant investment” in
the long term if it was to remain open.
It added: “Although the hall is very well used, it
has a number of drawbacks. In addition to the
maintenance issues and the cost of this, it has
limited parking and is not in the most central
location for the village. As a result, the parish council
is considering whether there are other options and
whether more suitable buildings may be available.
“If another building were considered, the parish
council would need to sell the Public Hall. The
likelihood is that this sale would be to a developer
who would build housing.”
To give your views, take part in the resident survey
at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/P5YD2HL

17

18
Feed the lonely at Christmas
Volunteers are needed to help
feed lonely people in Billinge and
Garswood on Christmas Day.
The event, organised by local resident Stephanie
Fry (pictured) will see a three course meal served
up at St Aidan’s Primary, complete with carols,
presents and entertainment.
Steph told Local Life:
“I have previously
volunteered at a
similar event in
Liverpool a couple of
years ago which was
a brilliant experience.
It was an amazing
day and it was so heart-warming
to see what a positive impact it
had on everyone – guests and
volunteers alike. For our event,
we are hoping to accommodate
up to 50 guests, and the
invitation is open to anyone
who may find themselves alone on Christmas Day
– be they elderly, living with a mental or physical
health condition, socially isolated or simply find
themselves alone for whatever reason. As long as
they are over the age of 18 they will be welcome
to attend.”
Steph now needs volunteers to help make the day a
success. Anyone interested should email yulehelp@
hotmail.com or call 07598 506871.
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19
Tribute to John unveiled
A bench and commemorative plaque
has been installed in memory of a
much-loved street sweeper.
John Cunliffe, from London Fields, Billinge, died
almost a year ago - just a few months after retiring
from his post.
He’d spent 46 years getting the streets clean -
most of that time in Garswood and Billinge. When
he retired, John was presented with the proceeds
of a community collection - just over £1,000 - at a
special ceremony which was attended by more
than 40 locals.
A bench and plaque
has now been
installed at the play
area at the front of
the Community Hall
on Billinge Road.
A dedication,
officiated by the
Mayor of St Helens, was due to be held as Local Life
went to press.
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New market at Haydock
Bargain hunters can once again head
to Haydock Park on a Sunday.
Course bosses are putting on a weekly, Sunday
market from 9am-4pm.
In the 1980s, a carboot-style market was held at
Haydock, but it has long since vanished.
The new market, touted as one of the biggest in
the North West, will feature food, clothes, furniture,
plants, crafts, household goods and more. There
will also be children’s entertainment and food and
drink outlets. Entry and parking are both free.
Paul Martin, Sunday Market operator said: “I am
hugely delighted to have acquired this stunning
location for our events and have been inundated
with requests from traders from across the North
West and beyond. I look forward to welcoming
everyone and see this market as one of the biggest
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335569.

24
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25

26
Award is a family affair
A local family firm has scooped a
prestigious honour.
Abbott-Wade, established in 1996 by friends Craig
Abbott and Mike Wade, won the Best Small Business
in the North West title at the National Family Business
Awards.
It was handed to them at a glittering ceremony at
Wembley Stadium.
There are three generations of family working at the
company which includes fathers, step sons, in-laws
and cousins. The company was founded in St Helens,
and moved to Lowton four years ago. In January, it
relocated to a larger base in Warrington.
“Employing family is something which people tried

27
to steer me away from in the early days,” says Mike
Wade.
“People always told me that it would make life
difficult for us but in fact the opposite has been true.
“The family we have working with us all have a
vested interest in doing a good job, their reputation
is so closely linked with ours. It’s been wonderful to
see family businesses such as ours and all the other
finalists and winners recognised at a national level.”
Johanna Wade and Michelle Abbott, wives of the
directors, said: ‘We’re very proud of the Abbott-Wade
family. It’s hard work running a small business as I
have witnessed first hand.
“Long hours, hard graft, stress and lots of sacrifices
made along the way. I may be biased but if anyone
deserves this recognition it’s Mike and Craig; both
genuine, honest and kind hearted to the core.”
Lee Kayat, Mike’s cousin and team leader at Abbott-
Wade, said: “Winning the family business award
feels like a great achievement and proves that
all the hard work over the years is paying off and
getting recognition. I feel very passionate about the
company and our achievements.’
Craig Abbott added: “Whatever part of the country
our work takes us to, it’s always good to come home.
“That’s why we were thrilled to hear we’d been
shortlisted to represent the North West at the
National Family Business Awards and now to have
won the Best Small Business in the region is a massive
honour.”

28
Class from the past
This month’s Class from the Past is from Garswood
School. It’s believed this photo was taken in
the 1970s. 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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Immediate delivery service available

30
Store bid goes to appeal
Controversial plans to build a
convenience store on a pub car park
will be decided by a Government
inspector.
New River Retail have decided to appeal St Helens
Council’s rejection of their plans for The Stag, on
Station Road, Garswood.
Planners refused permission, citing parking and
access issues. There have been three applications
for the site since 2014. In June 2016, an appeal
against a different planning application was
dismissed by the Planning Inspectorate.
The latest appeal is currently open for public
comment until September 22. No date has been set
yet for a final decision.
To make a comment, visit www.planningportal.gov.
uk/planning/appeals/online/search and search for
the appeal number 3175185. Alternatively, email
West1@pins.gsi.gov.uk or alternatively, write a
letter (sending three copies) to Room 3/P, Temple
Quay House, 2 The Square, Bristol, BS1 6PN.
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31
Cafe opens at Greenslate
Billinge’s latest eating house, the Straw Bale Café,
opened its doors recently at Greenslate Farm on
Tracks Lane in the village. The café is located in the
brand new eco building, which was funded to the
tune of a £400,000 grant from Public Health England.
The building has been constructed to traditional
standards using straw bales as insulation, hence the
name, and rendered using traditional lime plaster.
20 years of Willowbrook
Willowbrook Hospice is inviting local people to
join them for their anniversary dinner on Friday,
October 27, at St Helens Town Hall. The event, which
is part of the hospice’s 20th anniversary of caring
for people across St Helens and Knowsley, features
live entertainment and prizes in the silent auction
and raffle. Nichola Saunders, head of fundraising
at the hospice said: “Many people don’t realise
that Willowbrook is a charity and that without
the generous support of the local communities
we wouldn’t be able to continue to provide our
specialist care to our patients and their families.”
Tickets for the Anniversary Dinner are £35 and can
be purchased by calling 01744 453798 or emailing
events@willowbrookhospice.org.uk
Opening hours at the café are currently 11am-4pm
Wednesday-Saturday.
Planning Matters
Billinge
11 School Brow : First floor side extension with a
single storey rear extension along with a linked
annexe (ref: P/2017/0659/HHFP.
Blackbrook
4 Syston Avenue : Demolition of existing
conservatory and erection of a single storey rear
extension (ref: P/2017/0639/CLP).
Moss Bank
88 Cambourne Avenue: Single storey rear
extension projecting 4.05m from the rear, 3.6m
high overall, and 2.3m to the eaves. (ref:
P/2017/0592/HHPA ).
For more information on these plans, visit
www.sthelens.gov.uk

32

12 page
education
special
33

34
Avoid the
‘embarrassing
parent’ trap
By Lisa Salmon

35
Parents embarrassing their kids is as much
a part of parenting as changing nappies or
telling them off.
But while the fact that mums and dads embarrass
their children - and quite possibly enjoy it - hasn’t
changed, it seems they’re doing it in a much more
modern way.
A new study has found that the primary route
to embarrassment at the hands of parents is the
internet, with three quarters of the mortifying things
kids say their parents do taking place online.
The research by Post Office Broadband revealed
today’s teens are suffering social media mortification
at the hands of their parents, with more than three
quarters (78%) of youngsters claiming they are
constantly left red-faced because of their parents’
actions on sites like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Indeed, more than one in 10 (14%) say they feel more
embarrassed by their parents being online than in
real life.
BABY PICTURE NO-NO
The report found that more parents are online than
ever before, with almost three quarters (70%) of
parents and 38% of grandparents using sites such
as Facebook to keep up with teenagers’ social lives.
As a result, online offences dominate the top 10
list of embarrassing things parents do. Complaints
from teenagers include parents posting old family
pictures online (31%) and embarrassing comments
being left for all to see (28%).
Despite the objections, nearly a third of parents
admit they frequently post baby pictures of their
teens.
Vicki Shotbolt, chief executive of the parenting
site Parentzone, points out there’s a big difference
between sharing baby photos and special moments
and posting obviously embarrassing snaps online.
“Make sure you’re sharing with the people you want
to share with by using privacy settings,” she advises.
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36
“And if you’re going to publish a photo to the world,
make sure it’s one you (and your child) would be
happy seeing on a billboard now or at any time in
the future.”
FACEBOOK FRIENDS
A fifth of parents say they often add their children’s
school friends as Facebook friends, despite 17% of
teens protesting that this mortifies them.
Possibly as a result of mums and dads ‘stealing’
teens’ Facebook friends, and sharing content
inappropriately, one in 10 teenagers admit they hide
online posts from family members.
However, some of their parents just don’t get it -
and in fact 14% believe their offspring think they’re
cooler for using social media.
That said, it’s not just about your kids thinking you’re
cool, as a savvy 17% of parents admit they follow
their children online just to keep tabs on them.
While many parental misdemeanours occur online,
that doesn’t mean kids aren’t embarrassed by
Anne Turner
MUSIC TEACHER
GDMuS. CertEd. ALCM
Voice/Piano
Keyboard
Theory
Choral Direction
Anne also works with choirs and
community music groups
For more information, contact Anne on:
Tel: (0151) 426 6606
Mobile: 07767 815916
Email: j.anneturner@btinternet.com
DBS Certified
their mums and dads in traditional ways too. Oldfashioned
family faux pas include parents being
badly dressed (22%) or having to be seen in public
together (21%).
And even waiting in sight when teens are being
picked up from school/parties, as opposed to staying
in the shadows or round a corner, is a source of
embarrassment for an ungrateful 22% of youngsters.
ETERNAL TRUTH
“Parents embarrassing their children is an eternal
truth,” admits Shotbolt.
“It has always happened and always will. However,
there’s something very different about causing
public distress to children and building a digital
footprint of them that causes them upset.
“It lessens the fundamental trust that children need
to have in their parents,” she says.
“If a child can’t trust their parent to protect and
respect their privacy online, who can they trust?”
Top 10 ways teens are left red-faced by parents
1. Posting childhood pictures on social media (31%)
2. Posting embarrassing comments online (28%)
3. Waiting in sight when being picked up from
school/parties (22%)
4. Embarrassing dress sense (22%)
5. Being caught in public together (21%)
6. Excessively liking all social media posts (20%)
7. Posting holiday pictures on social media (17%)
8. Tagging in cringey status updates (14%)
9. Following/adding school friends (17%)
10. Posting private messages publically (6%)

37

38
Hard work pays off
Merchant Taylors’ School has hailed a
raft of outstanding A Level results.
With a pass rate of 100% at the Girls’ School and
99.9% at the Boys’ School, over two thirds of all
exams were achieved at the highest grades. Many
students have gained their first choice University
course to study a diverse range of subjects
from Medicine, Law and Physics to Engineering,
Mathematics and Classics.
All three Oxbridge offer students have had their
places confirmed. Jessy Li and Leon Reason are both
going to Cambridge; Jessy to study Engineering
and Leon to study History. Shenghao Zhou is going
to Oxford to read Mathematics.
Headmistress of the Girls’ School, Louise
Robinson, said: ‘I am delighted that the hard work
and perseverance, supported by the excellent
specialist academic staff, have been rewarded by
fantastic results.’ Mr Deiniol Williams, in his role
as Headmaster of the Boys’ School said ‘I am very
proud of what our boys have achieved over the
last two years – they deserve every success. Today’s
results are just reward for the efforts which have
been applied by students to their academic studies.
Of course, none of this could have been achieved
without the dedication of our subject-specialist
teachers and the support of our parents.’

39

40
Daniel makes the grade
A former Rainford High pupil is off to
Cambridge after a string of impressive
results.
Daniel Davidson recorded A*A*A*A grades,
meaning he has earned a place studying economics
at the top university.
His results were among a number of success stories
for Carmel College students as the college was
confirmed once again as one of the top 10 Sixth
Form Colleges in the country.
Other successes included:
- Emma Wells former Cowley High – A*BBC – Going
to KPMG to do an Apprenticeship in Accounting
- Jack Cross former St Augustine’s – AAB – Going to
Leeds University to study Medicinal Chemistry with
a year in industry
- Kimberley Waugh former Sutton Academy – BBB
– Going to Edge Hill University to study Human
Geography
Niamh Honey former St Cuthbert’s – AAAA – Staying
at Carmel to do the Art Foundation Diploma
- Olivia Siddeley former Hope Academy –
Dist*Dist*E – Going to John Moores University to
study Biomedical Science
- Sophie Wignall former De La Salle – AAA – Going to
Newcastle University to study Modern Languages
- Ysobella Cox former Rainhill High – AAA – taking
a gap year
College principal Mike Hill was delighted: “A Level
results day is one of the highlights of the college
year. Staff and students have worked very hard over
this year to ensure that we continued to achieve
the best possible results here at Carmel and we are
thrilled. It has been a real privilege to share their
success and to have the chance to wish them all the
best in the next stage of their lives.”

41

42
100% passes in key subjects
St Helens College students proved
they know all about the three Rs in
the latest A-level results,
They scored a 100% pass rate in Mathematics,
History, English Language, English Literature,
Sociology, Psychology and Religious Studies and
58.2% of A level students achieved high grades (A*
- C).
The majority of students secured a place at their
first choice university including University of East
Anglia, University of Leicester and University of
Manchester.
The set of results comes following the introduction
of more challenging, two year, linear A levels. This
change included a single, longer examination taken
at the end of the two years.
Shannon Heaton, who achieved A*, A*, B in
Psychology, Sociology and Law, said: “I am thrilled
with my grades, especially as these contribute to the
area of work that I would like to launch my career in.
Studying at the A Level Academy has developed my
confidence, independence and academic ability,
in preparation for my Psychology degree at The
University of Manchester. I am hoping to one day
become a psychologist.”
Damon Frodsham celebrated gaining his place
at University of Liverpool. He said: “I’m so happy
that I’ve achieved A, B, C in Business, History and
Biology. I can honestly say that studying at the A
Level Academy is the best decision that I’ve ever
made. Originally, I wanted to pursue a career as
an Air Crewman but unfortunately having asthma
prevented me from doing this, so I decided to
look at another route that would fuel my interest
in business. Not only have I made some amazing
friends but I have secured a place at my first choice
university, studying International Business. I hope
to work within accounting or finance one day.”

43

44
Diary Dates
Location Event Date
September: St Augustine High School Open Evening 14th September
Lord Derby Academy Open Evening 14th September
Rainford High School Open Evening 27th September
The Sutton Academy Open Evening 27th September
St Mary’s College Open Evenings 28th & 30th September
Winstanley College Open Evening 28th September
St Cuthbert’s High School Open Evening 28th September
October: Merchant Taylors’ Open Evening 5th October
Merchant Taylors’ Open Morning 7th October
Lord Derby Academy Open Morning 7th October
Merchant Taylors’ Sixth Form Open Evening 17th October
Carmel College Open Events 18th October
Winstanley College Open Evening 19th October
The Sutton Academy Open Evening 27th October
November: Carmel College Open Events 9th & 18th November
Winstanley College Open Evening 16th November

45
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Email: info@dactjoinery.co.uk
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no-obligation quote

46
Puzzle Corner
WORD SEARCH
Find the hidden words
S T P F N F J F A
M R L U J L B T R
E C O M P U T E R
R L N C M I W A R
T A E B E L L C I
U S H S E A T H L
G S O U S B O E E
W R I T E O P R C
W O N O C O N H T
D O D E S K N G E
M M V X U R S E E
E A E A R D X N G
D B A M K N J N E
CLASSROOM
PUPIL
TEACHER
DESK
LESSON
COMPUTER
LOGIC PROBLEMS
BOOK
WRITE
EXAM
5 3
4
CLUE: Last chance
3 1
8 9
SUDOKU
WIGGLE WORDS
Trace a path through all the
letters to find the word or
phrase that fits the clue.
8
2
4
9
7
5
3
8
5 9
3
3 9
7
5
4
6
F I N I
E R R N
A W A G
T O H S
The local bird club in Amesberry had a
meeting and each member brought their
favourite bird. Match each member to their
pet, determine who has which species and
the town and month in
which it was acquired.
CLUES
1. The owner of the
Canary bought it
during the summer.
2. Chris does not own a
Finch.
3. The Parrot was
purchased in November.
4. Julie bought her pet
from Chichester.
All the puzzle solutions are on page 64 of this magazine

47

48
Travel
Full steam ahead
Go anywhere in the Isle of Man and you’ll One of the island’s best known attraction is the
inevitably hear the local saying “Traa Dy Laxey Wheel, or the Lady Isabella as she is known
Liooar” (pronounced ‘tray de lee-urr).
As the Manx for ‘time enough’, it embodies the spirit
of a place where things tend to happen at a more
leisurely pace - perfect for a holiday destination.
Just a few hours by boat from Heysham, near
Lancaster, the Isle of Man isn’t part of the United
Kingdom, but is a Crown dependency. Many liken
it to Britain in the 1950s. People leave their doors
open while at the shops, horse drawn trams can be
seen on the seafront at the island’s capital, Douglas.
And there are plenty of heritage railway lines to
enchant visitors over and over again.
locally. Built in 1854 to pump water from Laxey’s
lead and zinc mines, you can still climb up to the
top via a steep, spiral staircase.
Snaefell Mountain provides a stunning backdrop
to the village, and its mountain electric railway is a
great way of reaching the top. On a clear day, you
can see England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales from
its 2,036ft high summit.
Over on the west side of the island is Peel, an old
fashioned fishing port whose quaint, narrow streets
lead to its deep harbour. On the way, you can call
at Tynwald Hill. Tynwald claims to be the oldest
parliament in the world, at over 1,000 years old.
An exhibition in St John’s
Church nearby charts the
hostory of this fascinating
political entity.
Once in Peel - home to
the famous Manx kippers
- you can visit Peel Castle.
Located on St Patrick’s
Isle, it dates back to the
11th Century. It’s also
worth paying a visit to
the House of Manannan
museum, which explores
Man’s Celtic, Viking and
maritime heritage.
To enjoy a full journey
on the Manx Electrical
Railway, Ramsey is a
great place to start. The
railway is recognised as

49
the longest, narrow-gauge vintage railway in the
British Isles, taking you on a 17 mile journey across
gorse-topped hills and along the stunning coastline
to Douglas using the oldest working tramcars in the
world.
If steam is your thing, the Douglas to Port Erin line is
an attraction not to be missed, It’s the island’s oldest
Victorian railway system, travelling through small
towns and villages along the way. The southern
part of the island is also home to The Calf of Man
and The Sound. Here, you can spend a beautiful
evening watching the sun set - although it can get a
bit windy at times so a good coat is recommended!
Also in the south is Castletown, the island’s ancient
capital. Castle Rushen, a magnificently preserved
medieval fortress, dominates the town and is very
much worth a visit - as is the Nautical Museum and
the old House of Keys.
Billinge-based Marken Travel has teamed up with
Great Rail Journeys UK to offer a great experience
to those who want to discover the charms of this
small, rugged island. Six days costs from £645 and
includes five nights at the Four-Star Claremont
Hotel in Douglas.
Having almost a week will certainly ensure you have
“Traa Dy Liooar” to tour a slice of Manx life.
Vintage Railways
of the Isle of Man
Tour Details
Fully escorted by a UK Tour Manager from start to finish
Standard rail travel
Return ferry from Heysham to Douglas
5 nights at 4* Claremont Hotel in Douglas - Breakfast & evening meals included
A journey on the Douglas Promenade by horse drawn tram
Excursions on Snaefell Mountain Railway, Manx Electric Railway, Isle of Man Steam Railway
Coach excursions to Peel and Castletown
For details on this and other rail tours in the UK and Europe, call Marken Travel for a free brochure.
*Departures between 11th April and 4th October 2018
6 days
from
£675pp *
Independent Travel Specialist
200 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PE Telephone: 01744 893291 www.markentravel.co.uk

50

51
Upload your event for FREE at
www.locallife247.co.uk/events
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events2go
Jaguar Cars Past & Present
Sunday, September 3, 11am – 4pm
St. Helens Transport Museum, in association
with the Jaguar Drivers Club, is hosting a display
of Jaguar cars from past to present. This family
friendly day out consists of model railway displays,
refreshments served from a Wartime Fire Service
Canteen and free vintage bus rides, on a 1950s bus,
for all to enjoy. Family tickets (2 adults 2 children
under 18) £12.25. Children under 5 are free. Adults
£4.25, Children £2.50 Concess.£3.25.
The Old Bus Depot, 51 Hall Street, St Helens WA10
1DU. Contact: 01744 451681
Male Voice Choir
Tuesday, September 5, from 7.30pm-9.30pm
Haydock Male Voice Choir is holding an information
evening and free concert for prospective new
members. Organisers say the bar will also be open
and wives/partners will also be very welcome.
Haydock Conservative Club, Bellerophon Way,
Haydock. Visit www.haydockmvc.com
Church Open Days
Friday, September 8-Sunday, September 10
Your chance to look round a Grade I listed building
from 1610, with a Saxon font and a Jacobean ceiling.
Open from 2pm-4pm on the Friday, 11am-3pm on
the Saturday and 1pm-3pm on the Sunday.
Prescot Parish Church, Church Street, Prescot
The 39 Steps
Saturday, September 9, from 2.30pm
Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller, The 39 Steps,
brilliantly recreated for the stage as the smash hit
comedy suitable for all the family. Tickets £12.
The Citadel Waterloo Street, St Helens, WA10 1PX.
More details - 01744 735 436.
Orrell Live 2017
Saturday, September 9, from noon
This year’s line-up includes Olivia Garcia, Haze,
Mercury & May, Brother Beyond, the Uk’s Number
One Drifters Tribute 2016, S Club Party and
Golborne Brass Band. Tickets (£10 for aged 17 and
under, or £25 for over 18s) via www.orrell-live.co.uk
Orrell Cricket Club, Winstanley Road, Orrell
Rainford in Victorian Times
Sunday, September 10, 10.30am – 4pm
The Rainford Heritage Society will once again be
celebrating Open Heritage Sunday. This year’s
theme is Victorian Times and there will be a video
running throughout the day to display activities for
children that went on throughout that era. There
will be live entertainment from the Mucky Mountain
Morris Dancers and a talk held by Liverpool City
Town Crier, Terry Stubbings.
Rainford Village Hall, Church Rd, Rainford, St
Helens WA11 8HB.

52
Craft and Farmers Market
Sunday, September 10, from 9am
Find over 40 stalls packed into barns and a
courtyard. Discover dozens of award winning, local
produce stalls and get your fix of your favourite
cheese, pie, jam or cake. Cotton Town Hot Cub will
be back with a bang with music and fun. Parking
and entry are free
Inglenook Farm, Moss Nook Lane, Rainford, St
Helens, WA11 8AE
80s Mania
Friday, September 15, 7.30pm – 10pm
Europe’s Official 1980’s Multi-Tribute Concert
featuring 25 chart topping pop icons recreated with
live band and awesome dancers. Performing over
35 chart topping smash-hits with tributes to Duran
Duran, The Human League, Kim Wilde, Culture Club,
Madonna, Wham!, Nena, Toni Basil, Frankie Goes to
Hollywood, Dead or Alive, Madness and more!
St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street,
St Helens WA10 1LQ. Contact: 01744 756000
Southport Air Show
Friday, September 15 – Sunday, September 17
Combining a spectacular air display with a host of
ground activities, the Southport Air show is a funfilled
experience that the whole family can enjoy.
Southport Beach, Southport, PR8 2PP. Contact:
visitsouthport.com/airshow
Northern Soul All-Nighter
Sarurday, September 16, from 10pm-6am
Sentenced To Soul & Wigan Roller Rink presents
The Empire All-Nighter 2. Organisers say it’ll be
the biggest all-nighter in Wigan since the Casino
with 1,000 capacity. Tickets are £12 via www.
ticketsource.co.uk
Wigan Roller Rink, Unit 2, Swan Meadow Industrial
Estate, Swan Meadow Rd, Wigan, WN3 5BD.
Paws in the Park
Sunday, September 17, 11am – 7pm
This year will be bigger and better than ever,
especially with their famous dog show! There will
be a concert featuring lots of local acts and dance
groups, donations to the event are always welcome.
Sherdley Park, St. Helens, WA9 5DE. Contact:
frasersevents.org.uk
20th Anniversary Concert
Saturday, September 23, 7.30pm
St.Helens Sinfonietta is celebrating its 20th
anniversary in this concert with two of the bestloved
pieces of music-Elgar’s Cello Concerto and
Dvorak’s Symphony from the New World. Tickets
at £15 (half price for children) can be obtained by
phoning 01744-600846/ 07914-114635 or on the
door on the evening of the concert.
St Helens Town Hall, Victoria Square, St Helens
Artisan Food and Craft Fair
Sunday, September 24, from 11am-3pm
Some of the most talented food, craft and gift
businesses in the North West (and a little further)
offering a selection of goods that aren’t available
on the high street.
Rainford Village Hall, Church Road, Rainford St
Helens, WA11 8HE
Macmillan Fundraiser
Friday, September 29, from 3pm
This annual event includes cake, vegetables and
fancy good sales, followed by the main beauty and
fashion show at 7pm. Tickets for the show are £6 and
are available by contacting Kath McGuire on 01695
721038.
St James Social Club, St James Road, Orrell, WN5
7AA

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54
Charity Fashion Show
Monday, September 25, 2pm (2.30pm start)
A fun packed afternoon of fashion and Beauty.
All proceeds will go to Willowbrook Hospice and
Multiple Sclerosis. Tickets £10 available from Ella
Mora Rainford, Beauty by Helen French in Eccleston
and Willowbrook Hospice.
Houghwood Golf Club, Billinge Hill, Crank Road,
Billinge, WA11 8R. Call Marion on 01744 885322
Dementia Cafe Launch
Wednesday, September 27, 1.30pm-3.3-pm
A free community cafe to support those living with
dementia. Carers, friends and families also welcome.
St Andrew’s Mission Hall, Garswood Road,
Garswood. Call Rosalyn – 07981 201386, Denise –
07962 392999 or Gail – 07341 266544
Musical Fireworks
Friday, Sept 29, to Sunday, Oct 1, from 6pm
Set in Victoria Park, the British Musical Fireworks
Championship are firework displays like no other.
Over three nights prepare for breath-taking
displays, an array of light and a mixture of music
which will have you dancing away.
Victoria Park. Rotten Row, Southport, PR8 2BZ -
www.visitsouthport.com
Rainford Ladies’ Choir
Friday, September 29, 7.30pm-10pm
Concert being held to raise money for church
funds. Tickets are £7 including tea/coffee and cakes.
Contact Ann Abraham on 01744 883969.
Rainford United Reformed Church, Higher Lane,
Rainford.
Big Goldilocks
Tuesday, October 24, 2pm-5pm
Everything is in disguise and the story goes into
the skies with this comical retelling of Goldilocks
and the Three Bears by Booster Cushion Theatre.
The classic story is retold through a massive 6ft tall
book complete with pop ups and props coming out
of the book! Free entry, but please register at www.
eventbrite.co.uk
Moss Bank Library, Bowness Avenue, Moss Bank
Blind Winetasting
Friday, October 27, 7pm
Enjoy an evening of wine tasting...be entertained
with music and a quiz while enjoying a platter of
cheese and pate. Tickets are £20 and can be booked
through Rainford Parish Council clerk’s office on
01744 884709.
Rainford Village Hall, Church Road, Rainford.
Willowbrook 20th
Friday, October 27, 7pm
Join Willowbrook Hospice us for a special evening
as they celebrate 20 years of caring. Enjoy a
three course meal and live entertainment.
Tickets £35 via 01744 453798 or e-mail events@
willowbrookhospice.org.uk
St Helens Town Hall, Victoria Square, St Helens.
Grannylocks
Sunday, October 29, 11:30am
Join performance poet Joseph Coelho, as he unravels
familiar fairytales to create fresh contemporary
classics in an enchanting performance for young
and old alike.
The Citadel, Waterloo Street, St Helens, WA10 1PX.
More details - 01744 735 436

55

56
Food & Drink
Guilt-free food! By
Ella Walker
YYou will find a brachiosaurus moseying
through an asparagus forest, a tiger surveying
a field of Szechuan peppers, and a duck bobbing
about with a load of cherry tomatoes in Thomasina
Miers’ new recipe collection, Home Cook.
And they all look so happy.
“You can tell I was pregnant when I was making
it, can’t you?!” the Cheltenham-born chef and
restaurateur yelps with a laugh. “Oh my God, we
had so much fun! The designer to begin with was
like, ‘What are you doing with all the toys? Get them
out!’”
Fortunately the designer caved in, and plastic toys
dotting the pages included, Miers’ fifth book is all
clean lines and straightforward recipes. It pops with
colour and is bolstered by Mexican influences - this
is, after all, the woman who co-founded popular
restaurant chain, Wahaca, which is now in its 10th
year of taco slinging.
At its core though, Home Cook is a reflection of
“how we eat at home”, says Miers, 41, and how
having three small children and a restaurant empire
affects that.
“The food I cook now is very different to the food I
cooked 20 years ago, when I had all the time in the
world,” she explains. “I’m a working mother, who toxic subject,” says Miers. “I grew up as a teenager
comes home late sometimes and just has to get full of hang-ups about food and always dieting, and
food out on the table, but equally, I want to feed my it’s such a bad way to live your life. Over the years,
family good food.”
I’ve developed - I never say no to anything.
The collection of 300-odd recipes, she says, is also a “The moment I say to myself, ‘I won’t do that’, that’s
“guilt-free joyous approach to food”, in reaction to the first thing I want to do.”
“all this neurosis about eating and what not to eat” You have to work out what works for you, rather
that currently abounds.
than letting trends and aspirational Instagram
“Healthy eating has become such a loaded, almost posts dictate your diet, she explains.

57
“Everybody’s bodies are different; we all react
to different ingredients in different ways, so it’s
nonsense to say one diet can be suitable for
thousands of people, it doesn’t work that way. It’s
about adapting your own likes and dislikes and
eating the way that’s right for you, and having fun
with it.
“Basically, if you’re cooking a bit from scratch at
home, which you can do affordably and easily, then
you’re going to be eating healthily, and if you eat
a few doughnuts along the way, it doesn’t really
matter.”
Miers won MasterChef in 2005 and still appears
on the series as a guest judge, which she says is
“much more relaxing - although it brings all the
memories back. It’s amazing how food’s moved
on, so occasionally I just want to be doing it again,
knowing what I know now.”
Her advice for the latest crop of amateur chefs
entering the MasterChef kitchen is: “Cook from
your heart. The second you try and get too clever
with cooking, you’re found out pretty quickly.
Food is a very sincere occupation, and a lack of
sincerity shines out. You’ve got to cook from your
heart and soul - which is what makes MasterChef
so compelling, actually, seeing people putting
themselves on the line.”
Had she not wowed MasterChef hosts John Torode
and Gregg Wallace, Miers is convinced she’d still be
“in a similar place” to where she is now.
“I don’t think MasterChef waves a magic wand over
your career,” she muses. “It definitely gave me the
confidence to get into a kitchen and start cooking,
but, like any reality show, it doesn’t make your life,
you have to make your life yourself.”
Home Cook by Thomasina Miers, photography
by Tara Fisher, published by Faber & Faber - £25
(hardback)
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58
Unbelievably Dark &
Delicious Chocolate Cake
Makes 1 large cake
Ingredients
For the cake:
380g butter, plus extra for the tins
380g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids), chopped
380g caster sugar
2 small pinches ground cinnamon
Several large pinches of salt
200g plain flour
6 eggs, beaten
For the topping:
4 Mars bars
100ml whole milk
3 tbsp golden syrup
90g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids), chopped
500ml double cream
3 Flakes, chopped into 2cm lengths
2 packets of Rolos
1 large packet of Peanut M&Ms (optional)
Edible glitter
Method
Preheat the oven to 190C/Gas Mark 5 and butter
and line the base of two 20cm non-stick cake tins.
Melt the butter in a medium pan over a low heat;
once melted, stir in the chocolate, being careful
not to burn it. When the mixture becomes smooth
velvet, add the sugar, cinnamon and salt. Stir until
the sugar has dissolved, then slowly sift in the flour,
stirring to combine. Beat the eggs into the chocolate
mixture a little at a time until fully incorporated.
Pour into the prepared tins and bake for 30-40
minutes until the outside is dark and delicious
looking and a skewer comes out clean. Leave to
cool in the tins for 15 minutes before removing to
a cooling rack.
Meanwhile chop up the Mars Bars and melt with the
milk, syrup, dark chocolate and 50ml of the double
cream. Whip the rest of the cream until it just holds
its shape.
Sandwich the cooked cakes together with the
whipped cream and pour over the Mars Bar sauce.
Scatter the various chocolates and the glitter on
top. Serve.

59
sponsored by
Golborne &
Haydock Park
by David Sudworth
Distance is all relative. For Americans or
Australians, 50 miles is the sort of distance
they’d travel just to do the weekly shop. For Brits, it’s a
day out. It’s mostly to do with the fact that our roads
are a) gridlocked and b) never take you as the crow flies.
This walk hammers home that point with aplomb. A
simple half mile by foot on this stroll would take three
miles by car - the phrase ‘quicker to walk’ was made
for this. We park up at the far end of Ashton Heath,
once home to a ‘hermit’ who died some 98 years ago.
It’s now a popular dog walking spot and, once upon a
time, a favourite meeting point for my classmates who
wanted to while away Friday nights by swigging cider
and singing Nirvana songs.
We take the path which goes behind the Blenheim
Road estate and crosses Millingford Brook. It’s an
area which has an abundance of blackberry bushes,
and it’s now the right time of year to go a-pickin’.
Once over the brook, take the footpath which forks
to the right and along the outside of the farmer’s
field. To your left there is a copse in the distance,
keep on the right hand side of it as you veer
towards it. It’s a good time of year to go as the farm
workers are out spreading muck on the fields. It’s
good to show kids the type of environment from
which their bags of Monster Munch emanate.
We came out at Golborne Road, and immediately
took a left. Cross over the road and take the next

60
public footpath on the right on the perimeter of
Jameson’s Farm. The path carries on for a while until
it veers right, down towards the Harrow Inn pub.
At the Harrow, you double back on yourself and
head up Edge Green Road, and back towards
Golborne Road. In truth, this part of the journey
could be missed out, but a pub stop is always a
welcome sight on any walk.
At the junction of Edge Green Road/Golborne Road,
turn left and then take the first right onto Edge
Green Lane. Here, you have to stay on the left hand
side of the road as there’s no footpath. Head down
the dip and under the disused railway bridge. For
a quicker way back, you can follow the abandoned
rail track route back to Ashton Heath, but I would
always advise caution, especially as one of the
bridges further down has a steep drop in part of it.
On no account should kiddies or pets be allowed to
roam freely on that part of the stretch.
Back on the original route, we are heading down
Helen Street, when we stumble upon the curiouslynamed
Hell Nook. There’s various theories about its
origin; one includes the story about a local nurse
who performed pagan rituals at her home in the
nook.

Hell Nook
61
Golborne Road
Town
Green
B5207
Edge Green Road
Edge Green
Common
Edge Green Lane
Ashton
Heath
Dismantled Railway
Helen Street
Haydock Park Racecourse
Harvey Lane

62
Having safely negotiated this part of the walk
without any bad spells being cast upon us, we turn
right into Harvey Lane. At this point, you can see the
grounds of Haydock Park Racecourse.
The park itself is steeped in history. It can be traced
back to the Leghs, a prominent Lancashire family,
whose interests in horse racing go back to the 18th
Century and held meetings on a stretch known as
Golborne Heath.
The arrival of industry in the area appears to have
given a boost to the organisers and even 100
years ago the pattern of the present Haydock Park
meeting started to take shape.
You follow the perimeter of the park for around half
a mile until you get back to Ashton Heath.
This 3.7 mile walk took us just over an hour and a
half - perfect for the coming months when daylight
gets more scarce. There’s also some interesting local
history on the way. And don’t forget the hedgerows
which are bursting with free food. What are you
waiting for?
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.

63
The joy of
pottering
Award Winner
by Angie Barker
Gardening is such a rewarding pastime. It
can be physically challenging but it doesn’t
have to be. And there is no greater pleasure in life
than pottering. Running a busy garden design
business means I usually have a list of things that
need doing in the garden within a limited “window
of opportunity” as they say. Therefore when I do
get the chance to potter (one definition of which is
“move or go in a casual, unhurried way”) it is all the
more pleasurable. I can’t say that I’ve achieved a lot
- that list of things that need doing doesn’t have any
ticks against it – but I do feel like I have recharged my
batteries. And we all need that from time to time. The
down side to pottering is that five minutes can easily
turn into half an hour and half an hour into an hour.
Hubby often has to come looking for me as I’ve lost
track of time. (Hubby does not do pottering).
There is no better way to learn about gardening
than to actually do it. Experience is always the best
teacher and one of the things I have learnt, is that
some plants should come with a warning. To be
enticed by the beauty of a flower, does not mean
that you should grow it in your garden.
For example, whenever you see the word “vigorous”
or “invasive” on a plant description label – beware.
These are plants that love to multiply. I’m not talking
about self seeders here like Foxgloves and hardy
Geraniums. These I can deal with. No, vigorous plants
are those which seem to want to take over an entire
border by sending out underground rhizomes.
Plants like Lysimachia, Alstroemeria and Anemones
are prime examples – don’t be fooled by their beauty
and plant with caution!
But to get back to pottering... None of us want to be a
slave to our gardens as gardening can then become
a chore rather than a pleasure. However even those
clients who ask me for a low maintenance scheme,
will admit they enjoy pottering. So get your design
and planting plan right, and you can potter away
until your heart’s content...
Angie is a qualified
award-winning garden
designer who will
plan your garden to
your needs from start
to finish, supplying
reputable contractors
and the ideal plants.
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

64
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65
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66
Test Drive
Volkswagen
Passat GTE
by Tim Barnes-Clay
The GTE badge was first ushered in with the
VW Golf and it eventually made its way to the
more conservative Passat.
Bolting a plug-in petrol-electric propulsion unit to
a model that is best known for its diesel pulling
power was perhaps a brave move for Volkswagen.
But it seems to have paid off with the Passat.
Like the Golf, the VW Passat GTE’s looks
are characterised by C-shaped LED lights
accommodated in its bumper, and the blue bar that
stretches across the headlights and grille.
It’s a restrained fine-tuning of the Passat’s tailoring,
although, given the intense hue of blue, the use of
which even expands to the car’s brake callipers, the
GTE model is simple enough to distinguish from
diesel Passats.
The battery capacity and output have been given
a bit of a boost, but the petrol-electric set-up is
fundamentally the same as in the VW Golf GTE’s. The
156PS 1.4 TSI petrol unit and 115PS electric motor
combine to make 218PS, giving a 0-62mph sprint
of 7.4 seconds. Top speed is 140mph, but unless
you’re on a German autobahn, you’re unlikely to risk
finding out what that feels like.
Step into the cabin and the Passat GTE houses a
few understated touches, such as blue piping, blue
stitching, aluminium trim and GTE emblems. Other
than that, the switchgear and seats are the same as
in any other Passat.
And, as with all Passat saloons, space is generous.
Even with the car’s lithium ion drive battery
beneath the rear seats, the VW has good room and
a boot that is big enough for a family’s needs.
The Volkswagen’s electric charging time is easy
to cope with. Plugging the car’s seven-pin charge
cable into a 16A wall socket, I got the 9.9kWh
battery from a quarter charged to 100 per cent in
under two hours. The GTE runs well on electriconly
juice, with a possible range of 31 miles on zero
emissions.
In Hybrid form the VW saloon responds admirably,
even when the petrol engine has closed, which it’ll
do at moderate motorway speeds. The power unit
restarts effortlessly when it needs to, while the car’s
cruise control allows it to store its own impetus and
cruise economically.
The Passat GTE’s handling is as good as its

67
Fast Facts
• 0-62 mph: 7.4 secs
• Combined mpg: 156.9
• Engine: 1395cc petrol + electric
• Max. power (PS): 218
• CO2: 40 g/km
• Price: £37,025
performance. You can thrust the saloon through
bends and its tyres will dig into the tarmac strongly.
There’s very little body roll, and the steering, while
not delivering that much feedback, is precise.
with a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system, VW
has produced one of the greatest reasons yet to
think about swapping from a standard oil-burning
business saloon to an electrically powered one.
Here’s the important bit, though.
VW claims the Passat GTE will do
156.9mpg on the combined cycle. But,
as with all cars, this model’s economy
will depend on what your driving is
like. On a 60-mile run, beginning with
a fully charged battery and driving on
a mix of roads, I achieved 80.1mpg.
Volkswagen’s Passat GTE is, without
doubt, a talented car and an attractive
vehicle in a wider sense than a
conventional high-performing, fully
loaded volume-marque.
By blending large car pragmatism

#
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
A5209
B5250
Open:
Dennis Goulding
J27
Shevington
A49
Standish
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road,
Wrightington, WN6 9RS
(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
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
68
Rainford
Service and MOT Centre
FREE PICK UP!
Free pick
up and drop
off service
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Interim service and MOT
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German Car Specialist
Sandwash Close, Rainford, WA11 8LY
Call - 01744 895 333 or 01744 886 720
Mobile - 07918 138 231
£5 off
when you have a service
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Offer valid on production of this voucher
Any make or model welcome
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Part of SGN Autos Ltd
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Tel: 07803 053 715
e: cjvalet@yahoo.co.uk
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69
TILE & GROUT CLEANING
All hArd floors
Kitchens - Entrance halls - living rooms
Bathrooms - showers
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stripped, Cleaned & sealed
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01744 470 051 or 07834 241 642
www.jcstoneandtilecare.co.uk
Ovenclean will transform your oven and
put the sparkle back into your kitchen!
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0800 840 7127 or
07724 694337
www.ovenclean.com

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
A5209
B5250
Open:
Dennis Goulding
J27
Shevington
A49
Standish
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road,
Wrightington, WN6 9RS
(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
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
Wind Turbines
Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
.and general
Energy Savings
and we’ll 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 Business Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
70
Chamberlayne’s
Cleaning Services
Unlimited Hours, Any Area,
Trained, Insured, DBS Checked,
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Tel: 0330 133 0451
Part of The Chamberlayne Group.
We don’t
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we clean them
01744 644061
www.dailypoppins.com
Providing professional carpet &
upholstery cleaning since 1993
Carpets Upholstery Curtains
Leather Oriental Rugs Hard Floors
For more information call:
01925 411 449
Visit our website and check out the testimonials.
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£10 an hour
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, Billinge WN5 7PG
Telephone: 07814 619 400
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Closed Thursday & Sunday
Mossy Lea Road
T
Y
R
E
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Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Book
your FREE
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CAR & VAN SERVICING
FREE
Car Health Check
.and motorcycles too
for a l residents of Croston and Bretherton
Keep me until you need me!
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01772 603923
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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
B5250
Open:
J27
Shevington
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 showroom at
Unit 4a,
Cricket Str et Business Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
71
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
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 all 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 bill
Protect your household from
future energy price rises
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
Call us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
MARDEC
Painters & Decorators
Internal and external work
Domestic or commercial
jobs welcomed
Free inspirational
advice & quotes
No job too small
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
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
Established 1992
01744 894 431
07931 282 896

72
GARAGE DOOR
REPAIRS
All GARAGE DOORS REPAIRED :
Springs, Cables, Locks, Rollers etc.
Doors of all ages repaired
01744 894939 / 07891 330214
www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk
Strawberry Cottage, Pimbo Road, St.Helens WN8 9QL
Mark Mitchell
Stained Glass & Leaded Lights
• Traditional Leaded Lights & Stained Glass
• Manufactured & Repaired
• New Commissions
• On-Site Repairs
• 25 Years Experience
Unit 15, Chalon Way Industrial Estate, St Helens, WA10 1AU
Tel: 0151 426 2814 Mob: 07711 841735
www.markmitchellstainedglass.co.uk
NEED
A FIX IT
GUY ?
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
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
Green House Group M: 07947 425288
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LocalLife
TELEPHONE
01744 526 589
MOBILE
07932 718 362
WWW.CALLPAULLOCKSMITH.CO.UK
01744 602931 or 07756 274503
7 Albany Avenue, Eccleston Park, L34 2QN

Transform your home
with a brand new driveway
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Resin Driveways
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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

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M H Roofing
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
Our Focus Is
Quality & Price
LOCAL FAMILY
FIRM
All aspects
of Building &
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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

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