Local Life - Wigan - October 2017

LocalLife
Wigan Edition October 2017
Jack’s Tracks visits Sefton Park
Test Drive - Volvo V90 R-Design
Picture
Perfect
Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Garden Diary Event2Go Home Services
locallife247.co.uk

Bracken Close, Standish £340,000 Queensway, Shevington £330,000 B
This newly built 4-bed detached home by Countryside
Properties combines traditional features with a
contemporary open-plan on a small development.
Located on a quiet cul-de-sac, this impressive detached
bungalow home with 3 reception rooms and 2 bedrooms
occupies a lovely and private plot. No onward chain.
T
2
m
Eastmeade, Shevington £325,000 Water Drive, Standish £320,000
A
Situated on the new Oakwood Meadows estate off
Vicarage Ln is this stunning 4 bed detached family home
consisting of 1529 sq ft of beautiful accommodation.
Set in a quiet cul-de-sac, this super 5-bed detached
property includes a stunning open plan kitchen with
designer German appliances. Part-ex considered.
T
s
o
Longendale Road, Standish £320,000 Southlands Ave, Standish £300,000 B
Set on a large corner plot, this lovely and spacious
detached 4-bed bungalow with a dual aspect lounge is
located just off popular Green Lane in Standish.
This stunning 4-bed detached bungalow is located on a
large plot in a prime area, with beautifully landscaped
gardens and an abundance of mature plants.
T
in
w
a name you can trust

Broomfield Cottage, Standish £300,000
This 5 bed former coach house on Bradley Lane offers
2,600 sq ft of charming accommodation including a
master bedroom with a stunning vaulted ceiling.
St Anne Court, Shevington £270,000
Positioned in a cul-de-sac, this large detached 4-bed
family home boasts a magnificent 25 feet through
lounge, large conservatory and a modern kitchen.
Almond Pastures, Standish £269,950
This lovely 4-bed detached family home consists of 1286
sq ft of well-presented accommodation and is located
on a small development with fabulous motorway links.
Rushwood Park, Standish £230,000
This 4-bed detached is situated on a new development
and offers superb presentation throughout, with wellmaintained
gardens and an attached garage.
Back Lane, Appley Bridge £195,000
This detached 3-bed bungalow with a conservatory is
in a stunning location and has beautiful gardens along
with a detached garage to rear. No upward chain.
Manor Road, Shevington £190,000
Boasting contemporary presentation and an impressive
1156 sq. ft of well-planned family space, this is an
immaculate 3-bed semi-detached home.
www.alanbatt.co.uk

2
Edge Hall Road, Orrell £550,000
Tucked away on a private corner plot, is this truly exceptional 3-5 bedroomed
home with over 3,000 sq ft of living space presented to a rigorously high
specification. The stunning bespoke kitchen/diner opens to a beautifully
landscaped garden perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining.
www.alanbatt.co.uk

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4
Fly away
Finally, the baby girl left for Uni leaving a big
hole behind.
Just after 7am, the family jalopy, filled to the brim
with clothes, shoes and really important stuff such
as cushions, a pumpkin cutter kit and a few boxes of
aromatic candles, pulled up and over the Pennines
in the slow lane like a group of Sherpas going up the
Himalayas.
Still, we arrived early to bag space in the communal
kitchen for her formidable collection of baking
utensils. After a quick trip to the supermarket, we
acted as one, like a whirling dervish, sorting out the
wi-fi, building a mini set of drawers, putting clothes
away, making the bed up, arranging cushions,
cramming shoes in the wardrobe and pinning up
family pics so she wouldn’t forget us.
And then she realises that the Messenger group for
‘Cell’ Block B, which for the best part of four weeks
had been spewing out inane mutterings from
her new neighbours, had fallen entirely silent. 15
minutes went by, then 30…
Barring going down to the nearest B&Q and giving
the room a quick makeover there was nothing
conceivably left to do and yet we didn’t want to
leave her alone. The sun was setting, hunger pains
were setting in and we were about to re-deploy
some cushions to bunk down in the car…
Then came the message we were all waiting for –
drinks in the bottom kitchen anybody?
And, just like a nervous butterfly taking her first
flight, she was gone…
See you next time
Chris Pearce - Publisher
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

5
In this issue
Education
special
32
Picture
Perfect
Regulars
45 Planning
55 Class From The Past
58 Puzzle Corner
Sections
6 Property
12 Local News
32 Education
62 Health
70 Legal & Finance
76 Events2Go
93 Garden Diary
114 The Lump
72 Business View
85 Food & Drink
92 Pets
93 Gardening
100 Home Services
45
The daily
grind
85
Jack’s Tracks visits
Sefton Park
89
Test Drive
Volvo V90
R-Design
96
Next issue - September 2017
Advertising deadline - Thursday, 12 October
Published - Wednesday, 25 October
Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park,
Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01695 627 999
Publisher: Chris
Sales: Chris, Sally
Editorial: David
Design: Peter, Dylan
Distribution: Sally
Accounts: Sam
LocalLife
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
sales@locallife247.co.uk
wigannews@locallife247.co.uk
design@locallife247.co.uk
sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
accounts@locallife247.co.uk
Local Life is published every month and distributed into
the following areas on an alternate monthly basis.
This issue is delivered to 13,039 private homes and
businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley
Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh.
The next issue is delivered to 13,034 private homes and
businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland,
Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton.
You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys
or Tesco Extra in Wigan.
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

6
NEW
NEW
STONEMILL RISE, APPLEY BRIDGE £540,000
A contemporary five bed detached home with
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NEW NEW
SPENCER ROAD, SWINLEY £349,995
Luxury family home renovated to the highest possible
standards & available chain free.
LUDOVIC TERRACE, WHITLEY £350,000
Beautiful detached period home, occupying a prominent
corner plot & available chain free.
NEW
DEBEN CLOSE, STANDISH £325,000
Superb executive detached family home with enviable
corner plot setting & stunning gardens.
NEW
HOLLY ROAD, ASPULL £199,995
Beautiful semi-detached cottage providing an impressive
1224 SQ.FT & available chain free.
SWINLEY ROAD, SWINLEY £195,000
A stunning Victorian bay fronted terraced home in ideal
location.
www.reganandhallworth.com Wigan town centre showroom 01942 205555

7
WIGAN ROAD, STANDISH £140,000
Exceptional upper floor apartment providing a generous
755 SQ.FT of sleek, stylish living space.
CRAWFORD AVENUE, ASPULL £137,950
A splendid, recently modernised 3 bedroom semidetached
family home.
BAXTER STREET, STANDISH £129,995
Beautifully presented mid terrace home totalling a
generous 985 SQFT of living space.
BRAMLEY COURT, STANDISH £119,995
Centrally located, modern upper floor apartment offered
to the market with no onward chain.
NEW
TO LET
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
HIGH STREET, STANDISH £95,000
Stunning starter home boasting a central village location.
JAMES SQUARE, STANDISH £550PCM
Modern two bed semi-detached property located in the
heart of Standish.

8

9

10

11
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Large detached family home with five bedrooms.
NOOK COTTAGE, ASPULL OA £305,000
Semi-detached newly refurbished 4 bedroom cottage.
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Extensively remodelled 4 bedroomed bungalow
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12
Lydia creates a buzz
A Standish girl caught up in the
Manchester bombing has raised
money for others affected by the
atrocity.
Lydia Melling, 13, was with her mum and two of
their friends at the Ariana Grande concert back in
May.
Struggling to come to terms with the event, Lydia
took up the idea of creating keyrings of a bee - the
symbol of Manchester.
The art and technology department at Lydia’s school
joined forces to design, create and mass produce a
laser cut bee key ring. But the trinkets became more
sought-after than imaginable. Initially produced at
Over 25 years of local advice
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13
school, soon the troops needed to be rallied and
Atlas Plastics in Leigh took over production as it was
impossible to keep up with the demand.
What started off as selling a few around school has
catapulted to over 10,000 key rings sold for £1.
The key rings have also been sold to Anti-terrorism
police, Santander, Tesco, Wigan Athletic Football
Club, and Wigan Warriors to name but a few.
Lydia’s mum, Sarah, said: “The idea was put to us by
her art teacher, Joanne Della Cerra, to help Lydia
with her recovery as she was struggling coming to
terms with the events of that night. Not only has it
given her an amazing lift but it’s also shown her that
something positive can be made out of something
negative.
“All her hard work hasn’t
gone unnoticed as at the
annual award ceremony at
school she was awarded
The Jemma Louise Roberts
Memorial Prize, which
she received for her
contributions and effort.
The keyrings, priced at £1, are available from
Standish businesses Jo The Barber, Mrs Lyon’s Tea
Rooms, the Boars Head, Standish Chemist, Standish
High and Standish Under 5s Nursery as well as at
Westwood Motor Group in Ince and Aspull Village
Store, Wigan Town Hall, Wigan Life Centre, Wigan
Leisure Centre and libraries.
TUESDAYS
WEDNESDAY
WEDNESDAY
9.30am, 3.30pm, 5pm and 7pm
Shevington Methodist Church Hall, Gathurst Lane, Shevington
Barbara 01695 731 343
10.30am
Appley Bridge Village Hall, Appley Lane North
Danielle 07917 562 485
5.30pm and 7pm
St Wilfrid Parish Hall, Church St., Standish
Barbara 01696 731 343

14
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 email us at wigannews@locallife247.co.uk
Gates to be replaced
Lock gates on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal at Appley
Bridge are set to be replaced. The structures -
known as Lock 91 - are currently classed as being
Grade II Listed. But the Canal & River Trust now want
to make changes to the gates, which were installed
in 1980, as they are showing signs of rot. The
replacement gates will be made of oak with steel
fittings. The lock chamber will also be repointed
using lime mortar where necessary.
Red Cross sessions
The Red Cross is holding First Aid sessions at
Shevington Methodist Church. They are on
Saturday, September 30, from 2pm - 4pm and
Wednesday, October 4, from 10.30am - 12.30pm.
The sessions are free and open to everyone. Visit
www.facebook.com/SADCA/ for details on how to
reserve a place.
Senior Administrator Required
Prosper Wealth Management, Wigan’s leading Chartered Financial Planners,
are seeking a Senior Administrator to join their growing business.
The successful candidate will have a minimum of
three years experience within a similar role, and
evidence of progression towards the Financial
Planning Diploma would be preferable.
The role involves all aspects of administration,
included preparing documentation for meetings,
working on pension and investment administration,
and liaising with product providers and clients.
In return the successful candidate can expect:
:: Annual salary between £20k-£24k (plus annual
bonus potential of 12% of basic salary)
:: Company Pension Scheme
:: Death in Service benefit
:: Career progression potential
:: Support with further exam study
For further information on this exciting opportunity,
call Ruth Smyth on 01257 423 800
or email ruth.smyth@prosper-ifa.co.uk
Closing date for applications is 31st October 2017
Prosper Wealth Management. Prosper House, 99a High Street, Standish, WN6 0HD
www.prosper-ifa.co.uk

15

16
Lifesaving treatment bid
A Wigan woman is holding a
fundraiser for a relative in a race
against time to beat secondary breast
cancer.
Denise Bentley, from Standish, hopes her Chocolate
Party on Monday, October 30, at the Unity Club in
Cross Street will help raise funds needed for her
husband’s cousin, Emma Baldwin, 37.
Since March, Emma has undergone chemotherapy,
but her most recent scan found the cancer has
spread to her lymph nodes and is starting to come
through her skin. She hopes to travel to Germany
to undergo Immunotherapy which uses your
own immune system to attack tumours, but the
treatment costs
over £100,000.
Emma, who has
a son Dylan,
aged seven,
can’t afford the
treatment alone, and this is where the Chocolate
Party comes in.
The party is £5 per person, and where you’ll sample
and buy blended, single state and single origin
chocolate as well as unusual flavours and textures.
Emma’s GoFundMe page has already raised £36,872,
but there’s still a long way to go.
To make a donation visit www.gofundme.com/
dylansmum or email denisebentley@live.co.uk
Want your
tills to ring
this Christmas?
If you’re a restaurant or a retailer and you
want help planning a successful Christmas
campaign for your business,
call Chris today on
01695 627 999
LocalLife

17

18

19
Housing bid for garage site
ll.
his
A Wrightington garage could be
demolished for housing.
Ashurst Garage, on Wood Lane, has submitted plans
to West Lancashire Borough Council for two linked
detached homes, two semi detached bungalows
and a detached garage.
Papers lodged with borough planners say the
current owners have run the garage since 1989, but
over that time the business has changed.
“Petrol sales ceased altogether over 10 years ago.
Car sales also is not a viable business as the nature
of car sales has changed over the year, and fewer
used cars are sold. Car washing has taken place
at the garage but this too has not been a viable
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element of the business. The owners consider that
this is due mainly to the lack of passing trade.
“Bodywork to cars has significantly declined as
there is less demand to repair vehicles, especially
older ones, than in the past. Car servicing has also
declined with more customers now tied into service
plans when they purchase a car from a large retailer.
With the decline in older cars with customers’
commitment to service plans, MOTs at the garage
have declined significantly. Two brothers run
Ashurst garage and the various elements of the
business are no longer viable to keep them in
employment.
“The proposed dwellings would not take up any
greater an area of floorspace than the existing
buildings.”
The unthinkable does
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Writing a will ensures that your loved ones are
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20
Cladding reviewed
Cladding on two Wrightington,
Wigan & Leigh NHS Foundation Trust
buildings is to be investigated further
following the Grenfell Tower disaster.
The Trust has three facilities with external cladding;
the Cancer Care Centre at Royal Albert Edward
Infirmary; the Hanover Building at Leigh Infirmary
and the Plant Room of the Phase One Building at
Wrightington Hospital.
NHS bosses say that the cladding at Wigan Infirmary
is substantially different from that used on the
London tower block. However, the Plant Room at
Wrightington and the Hanover Building at Leigh
will be looked at further.
A report to the Trust Board said: “In terms of the
Plant Room, given it is located on the roof and the
cladding is a composite wall panel system only
affixed to that area, this has also been identified as
not being of concern. We have however requested
a joint inspection of the premises with Lancashire
Fire and Rescue Service to confirm this.
“The Hanover Building on the Leigh Infirmary site
does have an external cladding system, although
the building is used for outpatient activities only.
We have asked Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue to
undertake a review with us in the same way as for
in-patient buildings. We will ensure it is undertaken
at the earliest opportunity.”
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Holland Hall Hotel Wedding Fayre
sunday 29tH oCtoBer
opens 11am until 3pm
Come along and see our Wedding Suites set for a Wedding!
Professional Wedding Exhibitors will be on hand to offer advice
Come along and meet the Wedding Team who can show you around Historic
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info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk | Tel: 01695 624 426 | www.hollandhallhotel.co.uk
Christmas
Winter Wonderland
Christmas Party Nights throughout DeCember
Christmas Day
Christmas Family Party
Come and visit
New year’s eve
Contact Holland Hall to book or to request a Christmas Brochure
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22
Arts & Music in Standish
Details of this year’s Standish Arts and
Music Festival have been unveiled.
Saturday, October 7: From 10am - Church displays
at St Wilfrid’s and also displays from Standish Art
Group. At the same time there will be a Coffee &
Cake morning from 10am to noon.
Sunday, October 8: Starting at 6.30pm, in St Wilfrid’s
Church, Patronal Festival Songs of Praise starring
the Choirs of All Saints, Appley Bridge, and St
Anne’s, Shevington, followed by light refreshments.
Monday, October 9: Starting at 7.30pm, in St
Wilfrid’s Parish Hall there will be a Craft Night,
Demonstrations with Jan McNamee from Sugar
Shack, High Street, Standish, and Helen Green,
parishioner at St Wilfrid’s but also a lecturer in
Floristry and Horticulture at Wigan and Leigh
College. There will also be music from John Walton.
Also includes music, cheese and wine. Admission
£5. Book early as there are a limited number of seats
available.
Tuesday, October 10: Starting at 7.30pm, St
Wilfrid’s Church presents the Age UK Silver Choir.
Refreshments will be available for a small donation
during the interval. Admission £5.
Wednesday, October 11: Starting at 2pm in St
Wilfrid’s Church there will be children’s choirs from
St Marie’s, Wood Fold and St Wilfrid’s. Entrance is
free. Starting at 7pm, senior pupils from St John
Rigby 6th Form College and Standish Community
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High School present music from all genres. Free
entry.
Thursday, October 12: Starting at 2pm there will be
a tour of St Wilfrid’s Church. Free admission,.
Friday, October 13: Commencing at 7:30pm at St
Wilfrid’s Church, John Walton, musical director at St
Wilfrid’s, will perform a Musical Evening, followed
by a glass of fizz and canapes. Admission is £5.
Saturday, October 14: Starting at 7.30pm, in St
Wilfrid’s Church is the Grand Finale with Wigan
Music Services. Admission £5.
Tickets can be obtained from the Parish Office,
opening hours are 10am–noon, Monday–Friday,
or call on 01257 422538. For events held in church,
there is also the option of paying on the door.
Freeze on taxi bids
A freeze has been put on new taxi licences by Wigan
Council. Town hall chiefs say the move is a temporary
one due to a reduction in staffing levels which were
“unforeseen extraordinary circumstances”.
Cllr Kevin Anderson, cabinet member for
environmental services, said: “While the Licensing
Section are not dealing with new applications, they
are prepared to consider individual circumstances
in exceptional cases.
“If you feel that your individual circumstances are
exceptional and need to be considered, please
provide full details by e-mail to the Licensing Team
on licensing@wigan.gov.uk
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24
Property
Buying your first home
by Alan Batt
First-time buyers are the lifeblood of the
property market. They are, however, the
most susceptible to interest rate rises and the
affordability of mortgages. With that in mind, lets
see at how much has changed in the last 50 years
for the first time buyer…
In 1967, the average value of a Wigan property was
£2,074 and interest rates were at 5.5%. Today, the
average value of a Wigan property is £156,377 and
UK interest rates are at 0.25%.
Historically, mortgages take 25 years to pay off but
it appears the age of the everlasting mortgage has
started to emerge, prompted by first-time buyers,
eager to get a foot on the housing ladder. Over
the last ten years, Wigan property prices have
continued to rise more than wages, therefore, firsttime
buyers are looking for bigger loans. If this
development continues, the only way repayments
can remain reasonable is by increasing the term of
the loan.
Alan Batt
Alan Batt is a member of The Royal Institution of
Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and has worked within
the Wigan property market for over 30 years.
It’s now commonplace for first-time buyer
mortgages to be 30 and 35 years in length, and
now some high street banks are offering mortgage
terms of 40 years. With life expectancy expected
to carry on rising, it’s not far-fetched to expect a
50 year mortgage to come to market soon. This
means first-time buyers could be paying off their
mortgage until their 60’s or 70’s. That’s crazy, right?
Let’s take Sweden as an example though. Swedish
property prices are so high; the average mortgage
length is 140 years (no that is not a typo). Swedish
regulators announced last year limits on the length
of new Swedish mortgages – they reduced the
maximum term of a new mortgage to 105 years!
However, some UK commentators have said there
are worries the mortgage companies are lending
money over such a long term, they threaten leaving
some first-time buyers with a generation of debt if
the house price bubble bursts. Other commentators
query the impact on first time buyers if interest
rates rise.

25
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If you’re a first time buyer, you should take heart
from the second paragraph above. Bubbles in
housing prices have always happened, but as long
as the decision you make is for the long term, then
you’ll be fine. And with the current interest rate of
0.25% at a 300-year low, it’s never been a better
time to obtain a mortgage – although you should
seriously consider fixing the rate to cushion any
future potential interest rate rises.
incomes
Rental
The rental market in Wigan actually deflated last year by 1%, compared to an increase of 2.1% in 2015 and
0.6% in 2014. Why did this happen?
The reason behind this change depends on which side of the fence you are on;
For landlords, George Osborne’s new 3% stamp duty tax for landlords meant that there was a huge upsurge
in the number of rental properties coming onto the market at the same time. The greater choice of rental
properties for tenants curtailed rental growth/inflation.
For tenants, the fact that salaries are not keeping up with inflation is the main factor as this means that tenants
have less disposable income to pay their rent.
A slight softening of Wigan property prices has compounded this. Figures from The Bank of England suggested
that first time buyers rose over the last 12 months as some were more inclined to buy instead of rent. The lead
up to the General Election in May didn’t help: after all people don’t like doubt and uncertainty.
Together, all of these factors played a part in the ongoing moderation of rental growth.
The simple fact is though, we aren’t building enough properties for us to live in. Both in Wigan, the North West
and the wider UK, long-term population trends imply that rents will soon be growing faster than inflation
again. Look at the projections by the Office of National Statistics for population estimates for Wigan Borough
over the next twenty years. The population in 2016 was 323,171 and the projection population for 2036 is
344,086 – an increase of 6.5% over 20 years.
The fact is that I see this as a short-term blip and rents will continue to grow in the coming years. With rents
only accounting for 29% of a tenants’ disposable income, the ability for most tenants to absorb a rent increase
does exist.
For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis
on the Wigan property market, check out
www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk

27

28

29

30

31

32
The 16-year-old pinch
The new academic year is often a time
when people try to take a good, hard
look at their finances.
But for parents of teenagers, the amounts being
shelled out on their offspring may come as a shock
when the outgoings are added up in the cold light
of day.
Financial pressures may have also changed quite
a bit since parents themselves were teens - with
gadgets like mobile phones, tablets and laptops now
part of the routine expenses for many households.
Research from Aviva suggests parents typically
spend more than £28,000 raising a teenager.
Excluding household costs such as food and energy
bills, parents typically put the average cost of raising
a son or daughter from the age of 13 to 19 at £28,767.
While parents say they spend just over £4,100 a year
on raising a teenager on average, the average cost
rises to £4,800 for a 16-year-old.
Technology plays a major part in ramping up the
cost, according to the findings. More than half (53%)
of parents spend on technology for their teenagers,
such as mobile phones and laptops, forking out £225
per year on average.
Even if your offspring are planning to fly the nest
in 2017, parents should not necessarily expect they
can draw a line under their financial commitments
to their children.
Aviva also found another £15,406 is needed by
parents on average to help each child between the
ages of 20 and 25 years old - a time when many
young people may “boomerang” back into the family
home after leaving university.
So how can parents create better relationships
with teenagers where money is involved? Here are
some tips from Louise Colley, customer propositions
director at Aviva:
- Talk to your teen about managing their finances
and make sure they know the basics of budgeting,
particularly at key milestones such as moving away
from home for university or college.
- Encourage them to put money aside each month
and take responsibility for managing their own
money.
- Be open about the family’s finances, particularly as
teens get older.
- Plan ahead. If your teen is planning to go to
university, make sure they understand how much
money they will receive and how to make this last.

33

34
Nominate a young achiever
The hunt is on for Wigan’s most
inspirational young female.
Soroptimist International of Wigan is once again
inviting applications for their annual Young Achiever
Award.
Entrants can be people who have excelled in any
one of a number of instances, including academic
attainment, community service, act of heroism,
triumph over adversity, young carer, entrepreneurial
skill, sporting prowess, and success in the fields of art
or culture.
The age range for nominees is 14– 21 years and they
must come from the catchment area of the club,
which is essentially Wigan borough excluding the
Leigh, Tyldesley and Atherton districts
Nomination forms can be obtained on request from
yaaward@ymail.com, from any member of SI Wigan
and it is available on the club’s website http://sigbi.
org/wigan/
Forms, when completed and signed, should be
returned by post to: Young Achiever Award, 10
Edinburgh Drive, Wigan, WN5 9ET
The deadline for applications is Monday, October 23.
The winner will have her name engraved on a trophy.
She will receive an engraved miniature trophy
together with a gift card valued at £50. The award is
scheduled to be presented by the Mayor of Wigan in
the Mayor’s Parlour in December.
Could you be one of tomorrow’s
outstanding teachers?
We are looking for individuals who are passionate about working with
younger children and have the potential to be outstanding teachers.
Join us at our open evenings at;
St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School,
Hardybutts, Wigan WN1 3RZ
Tuesday, 10th October
Tuesday, 7th November
Tuesday, 5th December
Tuesday, 23rd January
Tuesday, 27th February
All sessions run from 4pm-6pm
Accredited
Study days at Liverpool Hope University will lead to a PGCE and QTS in primary teaching
For more information and updates visit www.wcpsd.org.uk

35

36
UNHAPPY WITH YoUr college cHoIce?
PAssIoNATe AboUT MUsIc AND MeDIA?
IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO SWITCH!
The Music Projects, in conjunction with Access to Music, offers a genuine alternative to college for creative
and talented 16+ year olds who are interested in music, creative and digital media, and game development.
These full time courses are 100% funded, monitored by Ofsted, and are delivered by
music professionals at centres at Pemberton, Hindley & Skelmersdale. Level 3 diplomas are equivalent
to 3 ‘A’ levels, with UCAS points, and prepare students for university or for employment.
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teachers’ excellent vocational
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No cost to
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EarN whilE yoU lEarN!
Bursaries for up to £99 per week
Courses that we offer:
Music Technology (levels 1/2/3)
Recording production & live sound engineering
Music Performance (levels 1/2/3)
Playing & performing
Music Business (levels 1/2/3)
Organising events, running a record label & more
Music Composition (levels 1/2/3)
Composing music & writing lyrics
Creative & Digital Media (levels 2/3)
Work-related course of projects & assignments
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Fast paced practical work-based course
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Music_projects Themusicprojects musicprojects

37

38
Picture perfect
David Sudworth talks to some of Wigan Photographic Society’s
longest-standing members as it celebrates 80 years
In and age when almost everyone’s a
photographer, it seems strange to think that
specialised clubs dedicated to this universal pastime
still exist.
Wigan Photographic Society is a case in point. Set
up in 1937, it’s now celebrating its 80th year. But
far from struggling, the club is in rude health - and
there’s still even a few members who develop prints
in their own dark rooms at home.
“It’s a real skill”, says Tom Banks, who has been
involved since 1967.
“As a child I was always interested in techy toys and it
just grew from there really. I remember when colour
started taking over from black and white. It was
always trickier to develop colour and, in the early
days, some of the colours were off.”
The first meeting of the society was held on May
26, 1937, at Messrs Foley & Scott photography shop
on Marsden Street, just off Mesnes Street, in Wigan
town centre.
Its first president was Mr H.R. Bennett, who at one
time was also Wigan’s director of education. A notice

39
The society’s first president was H.R Bennett and one of its earliest meeting places was The Elms Club,
which is now part of Wigan Infirmary
in the local press suggested that anyone wanting to
join should “write to the secretary, J.S. Christopher,
70 Swinley Lane.”
Over the years, it has met at a number of different
locations. These include Roy Cafe, also on Marsden
Street, The Elms Club and Wigan Grammar School.
Eventually in 1945, the Society secured the use of
rooms in the Queen’s Hall on Market Street - a big
improvement as accommodation could be used at
any time, and consisted of a lecture room, a studio,
and a kitchen/dark room. These were probably
the most complete premises that the WPS ever
occupied.
However, nothing lasts forever and redevelopment
of the town centre in the early 1980s led to much
of the Queen’s Hall Buildings being demolished
Queen’s Hall on Market Street
Tom Banks, Joyce Dennis and Mal Shearer

40
Members of Wigan Photographic Society pictured at a recent meeting
-meaning the society was on the hunt for new
premises again. It used the old AUEW union offices
in Chapel Lane, the first meeting being held in
August 1981. These days, the society meets at
Gidlow Methodist Church, Buckley Street.
Wigan Photographic Society meets on Tuesdays,
from 7.45pm-10pm. For more information, email
secretarywiganps@outlook.com or visit www.
wiganps.co.uk
Over the years, the society has embraced
digital technology. It’s now 20 years
since its rules were changed to allow “a
negative, or slide, or digital image”.
Swinley resident Joyce Dennis, a past
president on two occasions and member
since 1968, said: “Membership numbers
have been fairly steady, between 35-40,
over the years. We saw a slight rise when
digital photography came along.”
Mal Shearer, from Shevington Moor, has
only recently joined in the last few years
and is enjoying it: “It’s a lovely group of
people. I tend to do digital images. It’s
interesting because we now have the
‘selfie’ generation and photos only have
a limited lifespan. Kids don’t believe you
when you tell them that, not so long
ago, you took a photo but had to wait
over a week to get it developed. These
days it’s milliseconds.”

41
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Immediate delivery service available

42
Award is just the ticket!
Wigan’s bars have proved they’re
anything but pint-sized after two of
them were named among the best in
Greater Manchester.
Wigan Central, the brainchild of Standish-based
Prospect Brewery, has won the Pub of The Year 2017
title.
Also celebrating is Standish Unity Club, on Cross
Street, which was named runner up in the Club of
the Year Section.
Opened in 2014 in the railway arch on Queen Street
next to Wigan North Western Station in December
2014, Wigan Central owners Patsy and John Slevin
offer seven real ales, four craft ciders and a large
selection of beers from the UK, Europe and beyond.
Wigan Central was pitted against eight other
exceptional pubs nominated by other Greater
Manchester branches. An expert team of volunteer
judges drawn from the 9,000 members in the region
visited unannounced and evaluated the qualities of
each. They scored the pubs on a variety of weighted
features including quality of welcome, value for
money, community focus and – most importantly
– the quality of beers and ciders.
Prospect brewer Patsy Slevin was thrilled with the
award. She said: “It’s been a busy but rewarding last
few months, as we’ve also relocated the Prospect
Brewery from Standish to a town centre site close
to the bar. Winning the Pub of the Year is just the
ticket!”
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45
Planning Matters
Aspull
New Springs Ex Servicemens Club, Chapel Street:
Erection of 8 semi-detached dwellings and one
detached dwelling with associated parking and
landscaping following the demolition of New
Springs Ex Servicemens Club. (ref: A/17/84426/
FULL).
Shevington
32 Parkbrook Lane: Single storey to rear with a
projection of 4m, height to ridge of 3.4m and height
to eaves of 2.3m (ref: A/17/84451/PDE).
Standish
29 Littleton Grove: Plan to extend residential
garden curtilage with new boundary fence. (ref:
A/17/84315/CU).
Wigan Lane
Bellingham Hotel 141-149 Wigan Lane: Erection
of 1 detached and 4 semi detached dwellings with
rear dormers, new access and parking following
part demolition of existing building. Resubmission
of A/16/82765/Full.
For more information on these plans, visit www.wigan.gov.uk
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47

48
Charity marks 5th year
Wiganers are being urged to continue
digging deep to help local charity
Joseph’s Goal as it celebrates its fifth
anniversary.
Paul and Emma Kendrick launched the charity in
October 2012 after their son, Joseph, was diagnosed
with the life-limiting genetic disorder Non-Ketotic
Hyperglycinemia (NKH).
Since the charity started, over £400,000 has been
raised to fund the research of NHK of Dr Johan Van
Hove at the University of Colorado, Denver, USA,
and Professor Nick Greene of
University College, London,
Institute of Child Health.
Joseph is now eight years old,
and is one of fewer than 500
people worldwide with the
condition. Joseph’s Goal has enjoyed some iconic
moments including, in 2013 Joseph was carried out
at Wembley by Wigan Athletic captain, Emmerson
Boyce, as mascot in the FA Cup Final against
Manchester City. For more information or to donate,
visit www.josephsgoal.org info@josephsgoal.org
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50
Smiles all round
Local Life readers have been celebrating again
recently after scooping prizes in our magazine. The
latest winner of our reader survey M&S gift card
was Linda Wilkinson, of Orchard View, Aughton
(pictured). To be in with a chance of winning a £25
voucher, visit http://locallife247.co.uk/free-stuff/
prize-draw/
The winners of our recent competition to win
tickets to Southport Flower Show were Kirstyn
Jeffries of Greenways, Standish; David Spilsbury
of Boars Head Avenue, Standish; Tracey Jackson of
Margaret Avenue, Standish Lower Ground; Janet
Warburton of Telford Crescent, Leigh; Dilys Talbot
of Highfield Avenue, Atherton; Catharine Keefe of
Stonebridge Mews, Astley ; Norma Lee of Larkfield,
Eccleston; Christine Waring of Crawford Avenue,
Chorley; Dorothy Rigby Westhead Road, Croston;
David Sandland of Bishopdale Drive, Rainhill; Valerei
Burke of Lawrence Road, Windle; Sue Alderton of
Bartholomew Close, Rainhill; Elaine Wilkinson of
Redcliffe Gardens, Aughton; Vivienne Core of Carr
Moss Lane, Halsall and Kathy Russell of Prescot
Road, Aughton.

51

52
Men targeted in campaign
Men in Wigan will be targeted in
a campaign to cut the number of
suicides in the borough.
Public health bosses have vowed to act after data
showed that, in 40 cases heard at the local coroners’
court, over 80% of the deceased were male.
Other keys findings were:
- The highest number of instances of death by
suicide and open verdict was within the 50-54 age
range
- Most suicides took place in the home of the
deceased (68%)
- 48% of people were recorded as single and the
greatest proportion were unemployed (35%).
- 78% of people had some mention of a mental
health condition within the Coroners File
- 30% had had some contact with the police or
criminal justice system at the time of their death
Professor Kate Adern told councillors in a report:
“This intelligence will help to shape the local
approach and focus around suicide prevention.
Wigan Borough Suicide Prevention Group is
actively working towards the Suicide Prevention
Strategy and Action Plan that supports the Locality
Plan delivery, which helps to target those most
vulnerable to suicide.”
FREE PICKUP & DELIVERY
Longer opening
Opening hours have been extended at Wigan
Library. It is now open from 9am to 5pm, Monday
to Friday, and 9am to 2pm on Saturday, closing as
usual on Sundays. Community libraries, the Museum
of Wigan Life and Wigan and Leigh Archives will
open 9am to 2pm Monday to Wednesday, 12pm to
5pm on Thursday and Friday, and 9am to 2pm on
Saturdays, where local conditions permit.
Library bosses say changes come as part of wider
developments to transform and enhance customer
service delivery, alongside recent changes to Wigan
Library and the move of Life Centre services from
Leigh Town Hall to Leigh Library in recent months.

53
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55
Class from the past
This month’s Class from
the Past is from the early
1950s at Shevington Miles
Lane school. The photo is
courtesy of Gordon Finch.
Maybe you can spot a
familiar face?
Remember, if you have a
photo you’d be willing to
share, contact us today
by emailing wigannews@
locallife247.co.uk - please
ensure the file size is at
least 1MB in size.
INDEPENDENT TILING AND BATHROOM SPECIALIST
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9 TILL 5.30 PM
01942 245 324
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6 Seven Stars Road WN3 5AT

56
Heart art in the park
Health-inspired artwork has been installed at
Haigh Woodland Park and Mesnes Park. The idea
is to encourage people to get more active in the
borough’s green spaces to improve both physical
and mental health. The new heart structures have
also been installed at Pennington Flashes, Golborne
Park, Amberswood, Three Sisters in Ashton and
Lilford Park in Leigh.
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
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57

58
Puzzle Corner
WORD SEARCH
F H F A B V H O S S
Y L P O N D A I E R
S H E D R U M L F P
T C R W S K M S E W
E V E R G R E E N A
S Y N W E E D S C T
H U N C L O C H E E
R R I T F L O W E R
U W A D N A M P A I
B U L B A W P R N N
R X Y V A N O O R G
T R E L L I S A E E
G R N U Y N T U R L
FLOWER
PERENNIAL
WEEDS
COMPOST
TRELLIS
WATERING
CLOCHE
POND
LAWN
FORK
LOGIC PROBLEMS
EVERGREEN
SHED
FENCE
BULB
SHRUB
CLUE: It’s a coming
8
2
6
1
8
7
5
SUDOKU
WIGGLE WORDS
Trace a path through all the
letters to find the word or
phrase that fits the clue.
2
7
4
3
4 2
5
8
1
6
5
9
8
2
9
3
4
Y O T N
O T S O
U A H D
R H O L
1
5
Julie, Jane and Sam are going to a show that
starts at 12:30. They are all married and each
have a different surname and a different car.
Can you work out the names of their husbands,
the cars they drive and
what time each of them
left for the show?
CLUES
1. Julie, who is married to
Dave was not the first
to leave her house.
2. Jane left her house 30
minutes after Sam who
does not own a Golf.
3. The Mini belonging to
Dave and his wife was
driven off at 11:15am.
4. Sam, whose husband has
the same initial, left in a
MLK.
All the puzzle solutions are on page 110 of this magazine

59

60
Local care company Independent
Living, based on Eaves Lane in
Chorley, are celebrating after a
recent inspection by the Care Quality
Commission (CQC) gave their services
a “GOOD” rating.
The regulator visited the premises in July and
conducted a detailed inspection over 2 days. The
inspection included scrutinising staff and customer
files, and speaking to both staff and customers
about how they found the service. They asked
questions such as whether the service is safe,
caring, responsive to customers’ needs and well led.
Owner, Mark Booker commentated “I am over the
moon with the inspection result but we are a people
business and the credit must go to our hardworking
carers and office team who provide such a highly
rated service. Many of our customers suffer from
illnesses such as memory loss, Parkinsons and
strokes so the job is never easy. I am proud of the
whole team”.
Inspection
delight
Independent Living was praised in relation to end of
life care. Registered Manager (Amanda Singleton)
stated “end of life care is difficult for some carers
but our staff find this work rewarding and several
families have been impressed with our support”
The company’s customers also provided feedback,
this included comments such as: ’staff are caring
and considerate’, ‘our life has completely changed
since Independent Living have been involved’ and
‘it’s a high class service, when you ring the office
staff deal with everything’.
Independent Living are based at 225 Eaves Lane,
Chorley, PR6 0AG or call 01257 696 050.

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62
ASK
AMANDA
Amanda is the Registered Care Manager for Independent Living – she answers your questions.
Dad has Parkinsons and has become unsteady on his feet. Can
you provide any respite care for my mum who looks after him?
YES. We are very experienced in helping people like
your father with Parkinsons.
When the company was started over 5 years ago
one of our first customers had very advanced
Parkinsons and used medication and pioneering
“deep brain stimulator” to control their condition.
From this initial complex case we seemed to
develop a specialism in the disease and arranged
training for our staff by the Parkinsons Society.
We understand that people with Parkinsons have
to take medication at a precise time, they may
have hallucinations and that their condition can
vary throughout the day, indeed sometimes it can
change by the hour.
My experience suggests that people with the
disease tend to improve after lunch when they “get
going”. People with Parkinsons may experience
stiff muscles, freeze in doorways and have
difficulty swallowing. We know that someone with
Parkinsons can appear to be walking well and then
for no apparent reason experience a loss of balance
so we follow them closely around the house.
We can help with a wide range of tasks including
personal care, meals, transport to appointments,
overnight (10pm to 7am), companionship,
shopping, medication prompting, dog walking,
housekeeping, and much more.
If we can help a loved one
with Parkinsons please call
Amanda 01257 696 050.
01257 696 050
E: mark.booker@independentlivinglancashire.co.uk
independentlivinglancashire.co.uk

63
Chorley’s leading provider
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Why Independent Living?
Well established Chorley company.
Our services include;
Companionship
Spending time with our clients; taking
them out & about, on trips to the shops,
doctors and other places
Personal Care
Washing, bathing and dressing our
clients, and providing overnight care if
needed.
Housekeeping
Ensuring our clients homes are clean and
safe, and have enough of food and drink
Specialist Support
For those clients who suffer from
Parkinson’s, memory loss, strokes, cancer
and need post-hospital support
End of life care
Providing respect and support to the
client and their families when passing is
near.
Local office on Eaves Lane.
Kind, well presented carers with calls of 30 minute or more.
A bespoke service to suit each individual client.
Clear and upfront pricing structure.
Fully insured and regulated for social care.
Experienced office staff dedicated to serve your needs.
For a FREE no obligation assessment, call
us on 01257 696050 or call into our office
for a friendly chat.
Registered with the
Care Quality Commission
225 Eaves Lane, Chorley PR6 0AG

64
Health & Fitness
Iron
deficiency
By Lisa Salmon
While constant, crippling tiredness can sometimes be a sign of illness, in
women, it could mean something far simpler - iron deficiency.
It’s estimated around one in 10 UK women suffer from iron deficiency, yet many have
no idea, even though their iron levels might be so low that their body’s producing
less red blood cells, meaning they have full-blown iron-deficiency anaemia.
This can have a significant impact, as iron plays an essential role in the production
of red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen around the
body, keeping our various tissues and organs in working order.
So if someone has iron-deficiency anaemia, less red blood
cells than normal are made, so less oxygen circulates
in the bloodstream - hence the fatigue.
BATTLING ON
But while the symptoms - including
tiredness, shortness of breath, palpitations
and a rapid heart rate, headaches,
paleness, hair loss and brittle nails - can
have a significant affect,
they’re often ignored, or
dismissed as an inevitable
side-effect to our hectic,
modern lifestyles.

65
Iron deficiency expert Professor Toby Richards, a
consultant surgeon based at University College
Hospitals London, points out that a survey of 9,000
women revealed the average female has symptoms
of iron deficiency three to five years before seeing
a doctor.
“When women seek help, it’s often because they’re
so exhausted they can’t get out of bed,” says
Richards. “They complain about poor hair quality
and brittle nails - you need good iron levels to
regenerate hair, so women might comb their hair
after a shower and notice hair loss.
“It can be incredibly distressing, but the vast
majority have no idea it’s iron deficiency. It’s so
common and right in front of us that we ignore it.”
WHY WOMEN?
Richards says he tested 257 women doing a halfmarathon,
and found 17% had iron deficiency - yet
nearly all of them were unaware of it.
A major cause is heavy periods or pregnancy (the
Professor Toby Richards
body needs extra iron for the baby), while one in
every 100-200 men has iron deficiency - normally

66
because they have bleeding in the stomach from
an ulcer, or an illness like coeliac disease, which
makes nutrients, including iron, harder to absorb.
Iron deficiency because of a lack of iron in the diet
is rare in men.
A woman’s body, meanwhile, contains 4-5 litres of
blood, and while on average, 30-50ml is lost during
menstruation, the one in four who suffer from
heavy periods can lose 80ml - the equivalent of a
litre a year.
“That’s quite a lot of blood - the same amount you’d
lose during major surgery,” notes Richards.
CREEPING UP
Heavy periods mean a woman can lose between
200-500mg of iron a year, but the body only absorbs
5-10mg a day through the diet.
“The balance is quite finely tuned,” explains
Richards, “so if you’re not eating properly or you
have heavy menstrual bleeding, then slowly and
insidiously, iron deficiency creeps up on you.
“Heavy menstrual loss means you’re losing a lot
of iron, and the ability to absorb iron doesn’t
necessarily catch up,” he adds. “So you could be just
deficient by a small amount, say 5% a year, and then
suddenly - bang - you run out of iron stores and you
become anaemic. At that point, you’re 1,000mg of
iron or more behind.”

67
FOOD STORES
The body contains stores of around 3,000mg of
iron, with 5-10mg a day absorbed predominantly
through dietary intake of iron-rich foods, such as
red meat and fortified cereals.
There are two types of iron in food: haem (found
in red meat, chicken and fish and easily absorbed)
and non-haem (found in plant foods, such as leafy
green vegetables, cereals, beans and lentils and
dairy products, and less easily absorbed). Eating
vitamin C at the same time as foods containing
non-haem iron can aid absorption, although much
greater quantities of non-haem iron foods need to
be consumed to absorb the equivalent amounts
found in haem-iron foods.
It’s also important not to drink tea or coffee with
meals, as they prevent absorption of iron from the
gut.
“There’s no substitute for a good quality, healthy
balanced diet that’s rich in red meat,” says Richards.
“Modifying the diet will sort out two-thirds of
people with iron deficiency.”
EXTRA HELP
In some cases, however, dietary sources alone
might not be enough.
This particularly applies for certain causes of
anaemia, such as vitamin B12 deficiency (including
the autoimmune condition pernicious anaemia)
or sickle cell disease. However, iron deficiency is
by far the most common cause of anaemia, and
if left untreated, as well as having to endure the
symptoms, it can make people more susceptible
to illness and infection, as a lack of iron affects the
immune system.
Fortunately, treatment’s usually fairly simple -
with the use of supplements, alongside dietary
modifications.
While taking iron supplements can start to improve
the number of red cells (haemoglobin) within
weeks, making people feel better, Richards says it
can take three to six months to restore iron levels
to normal.

68
WELLBEING NEWS
Another option is iron infusion; Richards runs
the private Iron Clinic in London, where such
infusions cost £650 for a half-hour treatment which
completely replenishes the body’s iron stocks.
“Most people have heard of iron deficiency and
anaemia. It’s so common, and people become
accustomed to it,” he says.
“There’s a huge need to raise awareness of the
symptoms - I think a lot of people are really suffering
with it.”
62% of UK adults not aware lack of
exercise increase bowel cancer risk
It’s among the most common forms of cancer,
but it seems lots of us aren’t fully clued up about
bowel cancer risk factors. More than half (62%)
of UK adults did not know that a lack of regular
physical activity is associated with an increased
risk of the disease, a new poll by the charity has
revealed. But research shows that 150 minutes of
moderate aerobic activity - such as brisk walking
or cycling - a week, can cut your risk by as much
as 12%. Bowel Cancer UK’s now launched a new
fundraising challenge, Step Up For 30, challenging
people to do 30-minutes of exercise every day in
June (in reference to the fact that, every 30 minutes,
somebody dies from the disease). To sign up or find
out more, visit bowelcanceruk.org.uk/stepupfor30
Summer colds can be troublesome
for asthma
Thought colds were just a bother in winter? They can
be troublesome in summer too - especially if you
have asthma. Almost half of parents (42%) say colds
or flu infections have triggered asthma symptoms
in their child, according to a new survey by Kaloba
Pelargonium. Pharmacist Mike Wakeman says: “F or
children with asthma, summer can be a struggle,
as summertime ailments such as coughs and hay
fever can really exacerbate the asthma symptoms
causing a tight and wheezy chest, and some may
have trouble catching breath, particularly when
it’s a very dry heat.” How to prevent the spread of
summer colds? Regular hand-washing, plenty of
rest (so the body’s able to fight infections more
efficiently) and a balanced diet, can all help.
Schools should provide girls with
breast cancer education
More than 70% of schoolgirls want to know more
about breast cancer, a new survey reveals. Research
by St Mary’s University, Twickenham, the University
of Portsmouth, and the University of Chichester,
which quizzed 2,000 11-18-year-old girls, also found
almost half have concerns about how to check
themselves for signs of the disease, and more than
77% think breast cancer education is ‘extremely
important’. Commenting on the findings, Dr Nicola
Brown of the School of Sport, Health and Applied
Science at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, said:
“Our research provides evidence of the need for
effective and inclusive breast cancer education for
schoolgirls across all schools. Breast cancer is one of
the leading causes of cancer-related mortality and
it is well-established that early detection improves
outcomes. Educating girls on the signs and
symptoms of breast cancer and how to be breast
aware, will help girls recognise what is normal for
them and when to seek help.”

69

70
Financial Planning
Having spotted a planning application on
the council’s planning portal for Prosper,
one of our oldest clients, I took the opportunity to
grab a few words with owner David Barton, who
launched the business back in 2003.
It’s been another record year for Prosper, so why
the changes?
In recent years we have changed into a business that
deals pretty much exclusively in wealth management;
investment and pension management advice. In a
typical month we place new investments to the tune
of £1m to £1.5m for local clients, and therefore we
wanted a name that was more aligned to what we
are all about. Consequently, we have agreed with the
FCA that our trading name will change from Prosper
Independent Financial Advisers Ltd to Prosper
Wealth Management within the next few weeks
which inevitably will mean a change to our logo and
signage.
Will you still be offering Independent Financial
Advice?
Absolutely, yes. We were the first company in Wigan
to attain Chartered status, the gold standard for
independent financial advisors, and being able to
offer the best independent financial advice remains
really important to us. We specialise in wealth
management for those aged 50+, so we have now
included ‘Wealth Management’ in our new name. It’ll
be easier for people looking for independent advice
on, say, their mortgage, to realise that we are not
really the firm for them.
Perfect Changes at
Prosper
Is the business still expanding?
It’s been a fantastic few years for us and the outlook
remains incredibly encouraging. Funds under our
advice have now surpassed the £130m mark and
our goal is to achieve £200m within the next five
years. We are recruiting more staff and we have now
outgrown the premises. We didn’t want to move
away from Standish High Street, so we are extending
the offices. We currently have plans in with the
Council and hope to be in a position to press on with
the build within the next few weeks.
So it’s business as usual then?
Yes, we’re changing the name, updating the logo,
taking on new staff and extending the building, but
apart from that, nothing’s changed! It’s great that our
continued investment into technology, people and
premises has paid off with continued growth, and
our clients can be assured that we will be continue
to focus on giving them the financial outcome they
both desire and deserve.
Now where’s my hard hat?

71
Looking forward
to retirement?
Enjoy a bright future with
Prosper - the local firm with a
national reputation for excellent
financial management and
outstanding service.
Why should you choose Prosper?
We already look after over £130 million on
behalf of 500 local clients
We were the first independent financial adviser
in Wigan to be awarded Chartered Financial
Planner Status back in 2012 and remain the
only firm to achieve this accreditation
You will have your own dedicated IFA to help
you achieve your financial goals
Wealth Preservation
Investments
Pensions
Long Term Care Solutions
Whether you’re already retired
or you’re planning to retire soon,
make positive plans and prosper.
Call us today for a friendly
consultation
01257 423 800
Prosper Independent Financial Advisers Ltd. Prosper House, 99a High Street, Standish, WN6 0HD
www.prosper-ifa.co.uk

72
Business growth ‘essential’
Growing revenue via Business Rates
will be “essential” in funding Wigan’s
public services.
That’s the message from Town Hall bosses who are
bracing themselves for further cuts in Government
grants to local authorities.
A report into Wigan Council’s budget position
for 2018/19 highlighted the need to collect more
Business Rates.
Tony Clarke, assistant director for finance, told
councillors: “Following the devolution deal for
Greater Manchester. Wigan along with the other 9
Greater Manchester councils, are now part of the
pilot business rates growth scheme. In effect the
Council is now able to retain 100% of its business
rates. This is not additional monies as the Council
no longer receives Revenue Support Grant or
Public Health Grant. The retention of 100% business
rates does not give any additional certainty over
our funding as volatility remains with the number
of appeals lodged and the number of successful
appeals. Since 2013 the council has seen a loss
of £7m on the total rateable value of businesses
within the borough.
“Business rate growth is therefore essential to
support the financial position of the council.
“Growth cannot be relied upon as a long term
solution to funding as the Government initially
indicated that there could be a “reset” of the system
in future years. In effect this would mean our base
would be revised therefore losing the benefit of
any growth achieved. The Government has made
no further announcements in regards to business
rates. It is hoped that the Autumn Statement will
provide some clarity.”
Expo is a sell-out
Stands for Wigan Business Expo have sold out – with
108 businesses snapping them up a month ahead
of the event. The eighth Wigan Business Expo takes
place on Friday, October 6, at Robin Park Sports and
Tennis Centre. More than 1,000 delegates are once
again expected to attend.
Cllr David Molyneux, Wigan Council’s deputy leader,
said: “It is fantastic news that all the stands for the
Expo are now sold and highlights the popularity of
the event.
“It is testament to the borough’s business
community that the Wigan Business Expo is such a
success year-on-year and highlights the varied and
vibrant businesses we have in the borough.
“Wigan Council is 100% committed to supporting
the business community and creating a borough
where businesses can thrive, prosper and create
This year the Expo will have an international zone
with expert advice on successfully exporting
globally including to the Middle East and China.
There will also be business speed dating and
keynote speakers.
To pre-register to attend for free visit Eventbrite -
Wigan Business Expo 2017.

73
2020 vision for road
A new road linking the
M58/M6 junction and
Ince could be open by
2020.
A planning application has now
been submitted to planners
which council chiefs say will be
an economic boost for Wigan.
The road will connect junction
26 of the M6 motorway
through to Billinge Road and
on to Pemberton Business
Park where it will connect to
the existing roundabout at
Smithy Brook Road. The council
is utilising an existing road,
Leopold Street, for the scheme and is planning to
build two new sections of road which will connect
it to the motorway junction. It will be a single
carriageway with a speed limit of 30mph.
Funding for the scheme will come from a
combination of sources including Greater
Manchester Local Growth Deal funding.
Cllr David Molyneux, cabinet member for
regeneration, said: “With more traffic on our roads
than ever before we need to find ways to reduce
traffic and improve our connectivity so people have
access to jobs and opportunities.
“We believe the M58 link road will relieve traffic
problems on one of our busiest roads and provide
better connections for residents and businesses to
access jobs therefore giving a boost to the economy.
“It’s crucial for the growth of the local economy and
for all of us in the borough that we have a transport
infrastructure that is fit for the future and works for
us all in the years and decades ahead.”
It is estimated work could begin on site in 2019 and
the road could be completed by 2020.
@
hollangtree@gmail.com
Holly Langtree
BAHons
Graphic Designer & P hotographer
- Graphic Design
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07525013128
“Call for no obligation.”

74
Business View
Soften the pain
by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy
Buy to Let landlords have been hammered by
the government in the past few years.
Stamp duty has been raised on second properties,
and the government now plans to restrict individuals
on claiming mortgage interest as a cost against their
buy to let properties.
The changes will work as follows:
2017/18 - 75% of the interest can be claimed in full
and 25% will get relief at 20%
2018/19 - 50% of the interest can be claimed in full
and 50% will get relief at 20%
2019/20 - 25% of the interest can be claimed in full
and 75% will get relief at 20%
2020/21 - 100% will get only 20% relief
For a 20% tax payer that’s fine but for higher rate
taxpayer it will have a big impact and will lead to them
paying a lot more tax.
So how can a landlord soften the pain of these
changes?
Here are just a few ideas….
• Pension Contributions – Pension Contributions
currently receive tax relief at your rate of tax – 20%
to 45% – so if you are a 40% tax payer you would
need pay half the value of your 20% restricted
interest into your pension to mitigate the extra tax
• Change of Use – would your Buy to Let be able
to be converted to a Furnished Holiday Let or
another type of commercial property on which the
restriction won’t apply?
• Increasing the Rent – Could you charge more to
cover the extra tax?
• Spouse Income Tax Elections – If the property
is jointly held HMRC assume a 50/50 split of the
income but you can change this if one of you is
a basic rate taxpayer and the other a higher rate
taxpayer.
• Tax Deductible Expenses – Many landlords
overlook expenses, but with better guidance and
organisation, you could claim for a lot more. e.g. use
of your home, motor expenses, computers, travel
and subsistence, phone costs etc.
We will be able to advise you about these and other
tax reliefs that you have not considered. Call us today
for a free, no obligation, chat about the options
available and how CMA can help you.
Contact Details:
01257 255521
info@cma-accountancy.com
www.cma-accountancy.com
39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DR

75
SA deadline
Benefits
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help and
guidance with;
AE
VAT
SA
Company Accounts?
Auto Enrolment?
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Cloud-based Software?
Payroll Services?
15% off
standard fees for
Self-Assessment Returns
in October!
Please quote reference
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to qualify for this rate.
You must contact us by 31/10/17
Call CMA Accountancy today
www.cma-accountancy.com
info@cma-accountancy.com
Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521

76
Upload your event for FREE at
www.locallife247.co.uk/events
Follow us on Facebook
events2go
Musical Fireworks
Fri, September 29, to Sun, October 1, from 6pm
Set in Victoria Park, the British Musical Fireworks
Championship are firework displays like no other.
Over three nights of breath-taking displays of light
and music.
Victoria Park. Rotten Row, Southport, PR8 2BZ -
www.visitsouthport.com
Haigh Oktoberfest
Friday, September 29, 7pm-12am, and Saturday,
September 30, 12pm-5.30pm and 7pm-12am,
and Sunday, October 1, 12pm-5.30pm
The Mayor & Mayoress will start the proceedings
with Ceremonial Keg Tapping. There’ll be the
energetic Oompah Band, “Brasswurst” plus the DJ.
Bavarian Strongman Competition – time to find
out who the real king of Haigh Oktoberfest could
be! Tickets start at £10, over 18s only. You can buy
tickets www.haigh-oktoberfest.co.uk/
The Old Stables Car Park, Haigh Woodland Park,
School Lane, Haigh, Wigan, WN2 1PE
Wigan Model Railway
Saturday, September 30-Friday, October 1
The group’s 50th exhibition incorporates the North
West Festival of Diesel & Electric Layouts. Opening
times are Saturday, 10am-5.30pm, and Sunday,
10am to 4.30pm. Tickets are £10 on the door or £8
online via www.wiganfrm.org.uk
Rif Raf
Saturday, September 30, from 9pm
A four piece rock covers band from the North-West
with over a decade of gigging experience covering
the likes of AC/DC, Black Sabbath and Rainbow as
well as more obscure bands. Free entry.
Brown Cow, The Green, Eccleston, PR7 5TP
Leigh Film Festival
Saturday, September 30-Friday, October 13
Screenings at various locations including Moana
(2016, cert PG), at The Pelican Centre, Tyldesley on
September 30; This Sporting Life (1963, cert 12)
at Leigh Sports Village on October 3 and Jesus of
Montreal (1989, cert 18) at Leigh Parish Church on
Friday, October 13.
Full details and costs at leighfilmfestival.com
Beetle Drive and Supper
Saturday, September 30, 6.30pm-9pm
Fun for all the family at Tunley U.R. Church Hall,
Mossy Lea Road, Wrightington WN6 9RW on
Saturday 30th September. Supper served at 6.30pm
– Pâté, cheese, biscuits & French bread and apple
pie & ice-cream, followed by the Beetle Drive.
Adults £5 and children (under 12) £2.50. Tickets
available from 01257 425330, 463407 & 426252
Tunley United Reformed Church, Mossy Lea Road,
Wrightington, WN6 9RW
Robin Park Arena & Sports Centre, Loire Drive,
Wigan, WN5 0UH 01942 828550

77
Tallula Vintage Does Wigan
Thursday, October 5, 4pm-11pm
Head to The Bailiff Bar for some dressing up and
festival prep courtesy of Tallul Vintage. The small,
family run business based at The Old Courts
specialises in unique, one-of-a-kind garments,
accessories, retro style and pre-owned customised
fashion. Music will be playing, drink will be flowing,
and there’ll be lots of bargains to find. The recurring
free event is the first Thursday of every month.
The Old Courts, Gerrard Winstanley House,
Crawford Street, Wigan, WN1 1NA
Sex and Murder
Thursday, October 5, 12pm-1pm
Embark on an afternoon of discovery, and hear all
about the gruesome history of women murderers,
their methods and their final punishments. Hear
all about the tale of Wigan murderess Ann Burns,
which includes illicit sex, infanticide, murder and
the insurance claims. This event is £2.50.
Museum of Wigan Life, 41 Library Street, Wigan,
WN1 1NU
Chorley Live 2017
Friday, 6 Oct & Saturday, 7 Oct, from 7pm-11pm
Truly amazing performers across 30 venues.
Wristbands will be on sale at all venues priced at £5.
Chorley Town Centre. More details - www.
chorleylive.com
Arts exhibition
Saturday, October 7-Tuesday, October 10
Standish Art Group are taking part in the Standish
Festival of Arts and Music and will be holding an
exhibition of art work from 5pm on the Saturday
until 9.30pm on the Tuesday.
St Wilfrid’s Church, Church Street, Standish.
Contact Julie Prescott on 07805480656 or
prescott27670@gmail.com
The Casual Thieves
Saturday, October 7, 8pm
The Casual Thieves are a 4 piece Indie Rock covers
band from Wigan, and they’ll be giving you a show
worthy of rocking out at The Bridge Inn.
The Bridge Inn, 113 Appley Lane South, Appley
Bridge, WN6 9AR
Myaware Conference
Sunday, October 8, 11am-4pm
This conference provides an opportunity for people
living with myasthenia and their families to meet
up and build support friendships in a friendly and
relaxed environment. They also aim to provide
informative speakers and a buffet lunch for all
delegates. It’s free of charge to Myaware members,
but places are limited. For more information, visit
www.facebook.com/events/480965748913110
Wrightington Hotel & Country Club, Moss Lane,
Wrightington, WN6 9PB
Beginners Yoga
Wednesday, October 11, to Wednesday,
November 8, 11am-12pm
Learn Yoga & relaxation under the guidance of a
qualified Yoga tutor. The six week course is suitable
for beginners. The price is £33 for the course but
spaces are limited. Call 07890 165986 or email janet.
southworth2@googlemail.com
Standish Community Centre, Moody Street,
Standish, Wigan, WN6 0JY
Magic of the Musicals
Thursday, October 12 to Saturday, October 14,
7.30pm-10.30pm
An evening of music for lover of musicals. Tickets
are either £5 or £10. For tickets please visit www.
tickx.co.uk/event/743933/magic-of-the-musicals/
The Rose Club, Atherton Rd, Hindley, WN2 3EU

78
Soul Night
Saturday, October 14, 7.30pm-11.59pm
Aspull RFC want to get you boogying on down
until the early hours of the morning with their night
of Soul, Motown, Northern Soul and Disco. The
‘Soul Amigos’ will provide entertainment and the
‘Stonebakers’ will be feeding the masses, making
pizzas of your choice. Tickets are £20 from Liam
Reeve at liam.reeve@rlbuht.nhs.uk or 07495702602
Aspull RFC, Woodshaw Park, WN2 1PJ
Vintage Farmers Market
Sunday, October 15, 10am-2pm
Amazing local artisan food and drink with a splash
of vintage home-made crafts! Greenslate Vintage
Farmers Market is on the 3rd Sunday of every
month celebrating all the great local produce we
have right here in the North West and there’s also
hot food and refreshments. Admission is Free!
Greenslate Community Farm, Greenslate Road,
Billinge, WN5 7BG
Artisan & Grow Your Own
Sunday, October 15, 10am-4pm
Haigh Artisan Market makes a return to Haigh Hall
with more than 60 stalls. And there’ll also be talks,
walks, demonstrations and activities for all things
fruit and veg for Grow Your Own Sunday with the
Haigh Walled Gardens Volunteers.
Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, WN2 1PE
PoACC 2017 Tour
Monday, October 16, 6.30pm-8.30pm
The Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir are touring the
UK once more. They’re in the Ormskirk area for just
ten days, with a performance at St. Wilfrid’s Church.
Don’t miss an opportunity to see these fantastic
children sing, dance and drum your evening away.
These Smiths
Friday, October 20, from 7.30pm
A trip down memory lane with classics including
This Charming Man, The Boy With The Thorn In His
Side, There Is A Light That Never Goes Out. Support
on the night comes from Wallgate Circus.
The Old Courts, Gerrard Winstanley House,
Crawford Street, Wigan, WN1 1NA. Tickets via
www.theoldcourts.com
Wigan to Blackpool Bike Ride
Friday, October 20, 10am-3pm
A charity bike ride from DW Stadium to Blackpool
FC Stadium to help raise money for Joseph’s Goal.
The potential plan will be Manchester City stadium
- Old Trafford - Macron - DW - Preston Stadium
- Blackpool Stadium. The main bike ride will be
DW to Blackpool with a quick stop off at Preston
(42 miles) but the starting point is Manchester
City stadium (80 miles). If you want to support or
perhaps sign up last minute, visit www.facebook.
com/events/1976037522616121/
DW Stadium Official, Loire Drive, Robin Park,
Wigan, WN5 0UZ
Barklife and Broomsticks
October, Saturday 21, 11am-4pm
All breeds are welcome to this Halloween dog
festival. There’ll be lots of unique stalls selling
goodies for you and your pooch, competitions,
food, tombola’s, raffles, a fun dog show and a large
secure outdoor space for off lead exercise with
other dogs! It’s £5 entry per person on the day, but
take as many dogs as you can manage! To keep an
eye on future events, follow https://m.facebook.
com/groups/1919703214964504
Thompson House Farm, Standish, WN6 0PP
Church of St. Wilfrid’s, 13 Rectory Lane, Standish,
Wigan WN6 0XA

79
Harvest Dance
October, Saturday 21, 7pm-10pm
An event for the whole community to enjoy. You’re
invited to a Harvest Dance in St James Church Hall
with live music and retro sounds, but it all kicks off
with a home-made hot pot supper at 7pm. Tickets
are £10 with supper included, but it’s bring your
own drinks and glasses. You can pick up tickets from
the church or call 01257 424105
St James The Great Church, Church Lane,
Wrightington, WN6 9SN
Egyptian Animal Mummies
Saturday, October 21, 11am-3pm, Saturday,
November 4, 11am-3pm
Wigan will soon be displaying the award-winning
Egyptian Animal Mummies Uncovered exhibition.
The Museum of Wigan Life will be just the
fourth museum in the UK to host the prestigious
exhibition produced by Manchester Museum,
making it an exciting showcase for Wigan. The
exhibit offers an insight into animal mummification
of Ancient Egypt. There’ll be original cat, crocodile,
bird and jackal mummies to see, and with the help
of ultrasounds and 3D printing, visitors can visualise
the contents inside. This event is free.
Museum of Wigan Life, 41 Library Street, Wigan,
WN1 1NU
Top of the Pops Party Night
Saturday, October 21, 7.30pm-1am
If your music taste transcends across the decades, this
event will be sure to hit the right note. The Resident
DJ will have it covered at the Top of the Pops Party
Night with your favourite chart topping hits from the
‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s, ‘00s and Now! There’ll be a four course
dinner and bar service for £21.50 per person. Please
contact Carrie Kennedy on 01942 770455 for tickets,
or book online at www.dwstadium.
DW Stadium, Loire Drive, Robin Park, Wigan,
WN5 0UH
Capturing tender special moments to cherish and treasure
Please contact Eleanor T: 01257 792745 M: 07510 612926
LEARN TO PLAY PIANO
Study for music exams or just for
enjoyment. No age limit!
Call Louise McAleer GMus PGCE
01257 421056 or 07908 614664
louise.mcaleer29@yahoo.co.uk
Psychic Switch Event
Sunday, October 22, from 6.45pm-11.30pm
DBS
Checked
3 Psychic/Medium’s spend 30 minutes, one at
each of the 3 large round tables, giving messages.
They will then ‘switch’ to the next table, until every
table has received messages from each of the
readers. This is an advanced ticket only event at
£16. For full information and to book visit www.
psychicswitch.co.uk All Psychic Switch events are
for entertainment purposes only.
Britannia Hotel, Almond Brook Road, Standish,
WN6 0SR
Wigan Live
Sunday, October 22, 3pm-5pm
Enjoy the selection of drinks and take in the music
including; singer/songwriter Keith Maiden a mix
of blues, soul and indie-folk; acoustic singer/
songwriter Beth Jones and Quaintest Show on
Earth, the Tap ’n’ Barrel regulars will play a mix of
covers and original songs in a variety of styles.
Tap ‘n’ Barrel Official, 16 Jaxons Court, Wigan,
WN1 1LR
Newborn
Weddings
Christenings
Special Parties

80
U3A Variety Theatre Group
Friday, October 27, from 7.30pm and Saturday,
October 28, from 7.30pm
The autumn show promises to be ‘A Night to
Remember’ with a magical mix of memorable
melodies and crazy comedy. The community
production is open to everyone. Tickets £5 for
adults and £2.50 for under 16s from 01695 623378.
St Teresa’s Hall, College Rd, Up Holland, WN8 0PY
Grease (PG) Wigan
Saturday, October 28, 21.50 (gates open at 20.50,
runtime 110 minutes)
For an evening filled with 50s music and glamour,
take a car full to DW Stadium to watch the classic
movie. Gates open one hour before the film starts.
£25 per vehicle + 90p booking fee. Find tickets here
www.moonlightcinema.com
DW Stadium Official, Loire Drive, Robin Park,
Wigan, WN5 0UZ
Book Reading and Signing
Saturday, November 4, 11am
Meet the stars of A Greyt Christmas Tail at
Waterstones. The event will include a book reading,
colouring competition and meet and greet with
Ramsey and Blue. You’ll also be able to buy a copy of
the book and get it signed by author Miriam Payne.
Waterstones, The Grand Arcade, Wigan, WN1 1BH
Fireworks Spectacular
Sunday, November 5, 4pm-7.30pm
There’ll be live music from Wigan’s popular band
Boomin’, DJ/Singer James Norton, and the kids
can enjoy The Trolls children’s show. A fantastic
fireworks display will bring the night to a close.
Parking is £1.50. Adult tickets are £10 on the night,
and children aged 5-15 can go for £8 from 01942
828508. There is no Bonfire at this event.
Obstacle Course Race
Saturday, November 11, 9am-3pm
Do you not mind getting a little muddy? It’s time to
get your war paint on and give Urban Revolution’s
obstacle race a go. From first timers to competitive
runners, and teen and kid’s races, you’ll tackle
obstacles, wade through Mud Zone and wade
through water before claiming a well-deserved
drink in the event village. It’s time for some muddy
fun. https://endurancecui.active.com
Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, WN2 1PE.
www.facebook.com/events/667931136737354
Craft and Gift Fayre
Saturday, November 11, 10am-3pm
It’s never too early to start shopping for Christmas.
And St Anne’s Craft and Gift Fayre offers various
craft and gift stalls, with all your Christmas shopping
under one roof. There’s also be a Fair Trade stall,
local craft stalls and refreshments and light lunches
available too.
St Anne’s Parish Centre, Church Lane, Shevington,
WN6 8BD
Bev Walls Charity Night
Friday, November 17, 7pm-12am
It’s been 10 years since Daniel Walls lost his mum
Bev to cancer. To commemorate her life, he’ll be
hosting a charity night in her memory with all
proceeds going to The Christie. There’ll be an
auction, raffle games, and hot food followed by a
disco. Tickets are £10 for adults and free for under
12’s, for tickets please call 07812 250726.
Aspull Civic Hall, Woods Road, WN2 1PJ
Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, WN2 1PE

81
We’ll never stop loving
Sonia
Niamh Ollerton talks to ‘80s pop sensation ahead
of her first ever appearance in the area
It’s been 28 years since Sonia Evans burst into
the charts with her number one hit, You’ll Never
Stop Loving Me, but she’s still going strong.
And this October, she’ll be headlining an 80s Rewind
A-Wish Foundation.
Born in Liverpool, Sonia lived in Skelmersdale until
she was eight years old, but this will be the first time
she’ll perform in the Leigh area.
She’ll also be working with her good friend, Brother
Beyond front man Nathan Moore. The pair have
known each other for 25 years, and she says he’s a
fantastic artist who knows how to entertain the
crowds.
“Anything to do with
helping children I am
completely up for. I have a little girl and I completely
understand what this means to them.
“It’ll be a fantastic time, a place to reminisce about
the 80s and it’ll be a big party night for everyone to
enjoy with a rollercoaster of memories.”
But what can the audience expect from her? Her
aforementioned chart topper is always a crowd
pleaser, so expect that and some more surprises.
The event is on Saturday, October 14 from 7pm.
For more information and tickets visit www.
fundraiser at Leigh Sports village in aid of the Make-
leighsportsvillage.co.uk/blog/2017/06/13/80s-
rewind-charity-fundraising-3-course-dinner-
featuring-sonia/

82
Southport Ultimate Party
Friday, November 17, 2pm, until Sunday,
November 19, 5pm
For an unmissable weekend featuring a mix of the
biggest and best party acts from the 80s, 90s and
now, head over to Pontins Southport. Acts include
5ive, Lemar, Blazin Squad, Crissy Rock, The Harper
Brothers and more. The themes include Santa’s
Coming on Friday night and the Wild West on
Saturday night. To book call 0844 576 5944 quoting
48ML or visit www.48hourparty.com
Pontins Southport Holiday Park, Shore Road,
Southport PR8 2PZ
Haigh Cyclo-Cross Event
Saturday, November 18, 9.30am-4pm
Time to get your spin legs on as the North West
Cyclo-Cross League is making its way to Haigh
Woodland Park with Kinesis Haigh Hall Super Cross.
Cyclists of all abilities are welcome, and British
Cycling hopes fans, riders, cycling enthusiasts and
professionals will take part and have a go. For
tickets, please visit www.britishcycling.org.uk
Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, Wigan,
WN2 1PE
Wrestling
Saturday, November 18, 9am-6pm
Aspull Warriors Wrestling Club first opened its doors
in 2015 to the keen wrestlers in the area. The club
has a team of six skilled coaches to train the recruits.
If you’d like to see the kids in action, it’ll be sure to
bring out your inner Karate Kid.
Robin Park Sports & Tennis Centre, Loire Drive,
Wigan, WN5 0UL
Wigan Live
Sunday, November 26, 2.30pm-5pm
Head down to Wigan Central to see even more
artists as Wigan Live continues. The running order
will start with Tim Critchley Acoustic, followed by
Lucy Mayhew a superb musician from Liverpool
,and more.
Wigan Central, No.1 Railway Arch, Queen Street,
Wigan, WN3 4DY
Charity Christmas Parade
Sunday, December 3, 4pm
This year’s Charity Christmas Parade is set to be
bigger than ever before. Watch the parade of lights
make its way through Southport as they make
their way to deliver 100s of toys to Springbrook
Children’s Home.
Southport Pleasureland, Marine Drive, PR8 1RX
The Lancashire Hotpots
Friday, December 8, 7.30pm-11pm
To celebrate their 10th anniversary they’re coming
back to their roots to play their debut album ‘Never
Mind The Hotpots.’ The musical comedy maestros
will be performing their old-school classics like I
Met A Girl on Myspace and Shopmobility Scooter.
The anniversary party will be filled with singalong
music and madcap fun. This event is for over 14s
only. Tickets are £15.40 and available at www.
seetickets.com
The Old Courts, Crawford Street, Wigan, WN1 1NA
Arc Winter Wonderland
Saturday, December 16, 10am-6pm
Father Christmas, fun fair, trade stands, food stalls,
Santa’s Grotto, Christmas carols, gifts, bar, mulled
wine and so much more.
Thompson House Equestrian, Pepper Lane,
Standish, WN6 0PP

83

84
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85
Food & Drink
The daily grind By
Ella Walker
YIt’s never too early for a burger, not even
at 10am on a gloomy Wednesday morning,
and especially not when the burger in question is
a Byron burger.
Gourmet burger chain Byron launched in 2007 in
London, and now, a decade later, there are more
than 60 restaurants - and counting - nationwide.
The brainwave of burger-obsessed entrepreneur,
Tom Byng, in 2011 he brought on board head chef
Fred Smith, who was knocking about at The Admiral
Codrington pub in Chelsea, creating innovative
burgers of his own.
Smith now spends most of his time in the test
kitchen concocting new Byron specials - he’s the
man behind the much-loved Chilli Queen burger
Step away from the packets of mince, at all costs
- but I dragged him out to show me behind the
avoid mixing in an egg, breadcrumbs and crunchy
scenes, and teach me how to make Byron-style
chunks of onion: hamburgers should be pure,
burgers from scratch, all in honour of their debut
freshly-ground beef. And, Smith tells me, you
recipe collection, Byron: The Cookbook.
shouldn’t even season it until it hits the grill, or the
“There is no secret to cooking; it’s just lots of simple meat will dry out.
things done well,” says Smith, explaining how he
Between finely shredding lettuce and slicing
sees this book as a chance for home cooks to have
perfect rings of red onion (no more than five rings
some fun. “I always see recipes as a guideline.”
to a burger is the rule), Smith explains that the most
So he’s not worried about letting people in on his extravagant burger he’s made to date was a gold
inventions?
one.
“I like to share. A lot of chefs are like, ‘Ooh, secret “I was invited to cook backstage for Spandau Ballet.
recipes!’ but it’s like, ‘Come on guys!’”
I got some edible gold food colouring spray and
And so, we begin...
sprayed all the burgers gold, which was great fun.
It turns out, the first thing you need to get your They thought I was joking when I said, ‘I’ll cook you
hands on is a meat grinder, because the only way to guys some gold burgers!’”
make a proper hamburger pattie is with pure chuck Got the burger bug? Try recreating your own Byron
steak.
meal at home with one of these recipes...
Byron: The Cookbook by Tom Byng and Fred Smith, photography copyright Martin Poole, is published in
hardcover by Quadrille, priced £20.

86
CLASSIC BURGER
Making the hamburgers
1. Grinding the meat
Always grind the meat on the day you intend to use
it. Ask your butcher for chuck steak, ground twice
through a 4-6mm plate. To mince beef at home,
cut the chuck steak into 1cm cubes and place in
the freezer for 15-20 minutes to make sure it is very
cold beforehand. Good mincing attachments are
available for mixers. A small, stand-alone electric
mincer is great; an old-school hand mincer will do.
2. Forming the patties
Divide the mince into 180g portions and roll by
hand into balls. Place onto squares of greaseproof
paper. Take one portion between your palms. Cup
the edges of the mince with one hand and push
with the other. Turn your hands as you press them
together and shape the mince into an even patty
about 12cm wide and 1.5cm thick.
3. Chilling
Store the patties separated by squares of
greaseproof paper. Wrap and refrigerate for at least
one hour before cooking.
Makes 4
Ingredients
4 x 180g hamburgers
4 buns halved
100g mayonnaise
4 leaves of lettuce
1/2 beef tomato, cut into 5mm thick slices
1 small red onion, peeled and cut into 2mm thick
rings
4 gherkins quartered lengthways into spears
Method
Cook the hamburgers to your liking. Meanwhile,
toast or grill the cut sides of the buns.
Spread the mayonnaise evenly over the top
halves of the buns. Place one lettuce leaf on top
of the mayonnaise, and then add a slice of tomato.
Separate the onion into rings and place five of these
on top of the tomato.
Once the hamburgers are cooked, carefully place
them onto the bottom halves of the buns.
Holding on to the lettuce, tomato and onion rings,
bring the two halves together. Serve with a gherkin
spear on the side.

87
Chilli Queen Burger
Method
Preheat the grill to high.
Add the olive oil to a small saucepan over a
medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced chillies
and cook for two minutes - they should be only
very lightly cooked and still crunchy.
Makes 4
Ingredients
1tsp olive oil
4 long green chillies sliced
4 x 180g hamburgers
4 buns, halved
1/4 iceberg lettuce, finely shredded
8 slices of American cheese, roughly the same size as
the hamburgers
4 gherkins quartered lengthways into spears
For the Chipotle Mayo:
90g chipotle in adobo sauce (many larger supermarkets
will have a version of this)
170g mayonnaise
40g tomato ketchup
Cook the hamburgers to your liking, and
meanwhile, toast or grill the cut sides of the
buns.
To make the sauce, blend all the Chipotle Mayo
ingredients in a food processor, or using a stick
blender, for at least one minute until smooth.
Place the shredded lettuce on the bottom halves
of the buns. Add a spoonful of the Chipotle Mayo
to the top halves of the buns and place another
spoonful on top of the shredded lettuce.
When the hamburgers are cooked, transfer to a
small roasting tray. Top each hamburger with the
fried chillies, followed by two slices of cheese,
making sure the chillies are covered. Place under
the hot grill on the highest shelf. Watch carefully
and remove the tray from under the grill as soon
as the cheese has melted.
Carefully place the hamburgers onto the bottom
halves of the buns and bring the two halves
together. Serve with a gherkin spear on the side.

88
Byron Burger
Method
Preheat the grill to high.
Makes 4
Ingredients
4 x 180g hamburgers
4 buns, halved
1/4 iceberg lettuce, finely shredded
1/2 beef tomato, cut into 5mm thick slices
1 small red onion, peeled and cut into 2mm thick
rings
4 slices of cheddar cheese, roughly the same size as
the hamburgers
8 slices of crispy smoked streaky bacon
4 gherkins quartered lengthways into spears
For the Byron Sauce:
150g mayonnaise
75g tomato ketchup
35g pickled gherkins, drained
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
To make the Byron Sauce, in a medium bowl, mix
the mayonnaise and ketchup. Very finely chop
the drained gherkins and add to the bowl with a
pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is
evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning
if necessary.
Cook the hamburgers to your liking, and meanwhile,
toast or grill the cut sides of the buns. Spread the
Byron Sauce evenly over the top halves of the buns.
Place the shredded lettuce on the bottom halves of
the buns and add a slice of tomato. Place five onion
rings on top of each tomato.
When the hamburgers are cooked, transfer them to
a small roasting tray. Top each one with a slice of
Cheddar and two slices of bacon. Place under the
hot grill on the highest shelf. Watch carefully and
remove the tray from under the grill as soon as the
cheese has melted.
Carefully place the hamburgers onto the bottom
halves of the buns and bring the two halves
together. Serve with a gherkin spear on the side.

89
sponsored by
Otterspool &
Sefton Park
by David Sudworth
Think ‘Liverpool architecture’ and it immediately
conjures up images of the Liver Buildings, Albert
Dock et al.
But for some of the city’s most stunning residential
examples, you need to take a trip out to the Sefton
Park area. Once upon a time, each part of the city was
awash with resplendent Victorian homes. While many
remain to this day, a large number have fallen into
decay, particularly in the Toxteth and Kensington areas.
Further south though, the buildings remain in good
order - making this walk a real joy.
We park up close to the south entrance of Sefton Park.
Formerly part of Toxteth Deer Park, it was designed
by Frenchman Edouard Andre and local landscape
architect Lewis Hornblower. On May 20, 1872, the park
was opened by Prince Arthur who dedicated in “for the
health and enjoyment of the townspeople”.
We head into the park, taking the path along the
right hand side of the lake, and up through the
middle until we come to the café.
Just over the hedge, we see the park’s famous Palm
House; a Grade II listed conservatory. Suffice to say, I
could fill a good few pages talking about this alone. I
won’t, other than to say it’s well worth a visit.
From here we head south west taking the path to the
Aigburth Drive entrance. Leaving the park, we cross
the road and head down Livingston Drive North and
on into Livingston Drive.

90
It’s at this point you get to see the first glimpse of the
lovely Victorian residential properties I was talking
about earlier. The sheer size of them is breathtaking.
And although many have been converted into flats, it
does nothing to take away their towering grandeur.
Once at the end of Livingstone Drive, we meet
Aigburth Road (A561), where we turn left, passing
Sefton Park Library, to cross the main road at the
pedestrian crossing. Once across we go right and
immediately left into St Michael’s Road, continuing
down until you reach Melly Road on your right.
Turn into Melly Road and then left into Southwood
Road. Again, there’s more examples here of
fine Victorian architecture, some with a slight
Mediterranean twist. Going straight past the railway
station follow the path through the woods, down
to and across Riverside Drive, and into the Festival
Gardens.
It’s at this precise spot that the first sign of Liverpool’s
regeneration got underway following the horrific
Toxteth riots in 1981. Thought up by the then
Environment Minister Michael Hesletine, the 1984
International Garden Festival attracted 3.3 million
over five months helped pave the way for the
resurgence of a city which had been scarred for years
by unemployment and poverty.
The gardens have been done up again in recent
years, and provide a pleasant pathway to the River
Mersey. Once on the promenade, we veer left
towards Otterspool. After about a three quarters of
a mile (1.25 Kilometres) we take a path left, up onto
the road and across into Otterspool Park. Here we
head through the park, passing the pavilion, going
under the railway bridge, and up to the gates at
Jericho Lane. Here we cross Jericho Lane, going
right to Aigburth Road, then left and down into the
subway to the other side of this busy road. From the
subway we go left, up the hill and back the south
entrance of Sefton Park.
Although we’ve kept this walk as simple as possible,
much more can be made of both Sefton Park and
the Liverpool Festival Gardens, and there’s lots of
points of interest along with an abundance of places
to eat and drink.
The only thing which let this walk down for us was
some of the graffiti which can be seen along the
route, as it goes some parts of it had a feeling of
being unloved. And that couldn’t be further from
the truth, because many of the buildings and parks
are in excellent condition. Maybe it’s the tradeoff
for heading into a major city, but certainly one
worth accepting.

91
P
Liverpool
Lark Lane
P
Livingston Drive N
Eros Statue
P
Cafe
Postcode:
L17 4JG
Palm
House
William
Rathbone
Statue
P
P
Aigburth Drive
Priory
Woods
St Michael’s Road
St Michael’s
C
E
Sefton Park Library
Aigburth Road (A561)
P
Sefton Park
P
Drive
Mossley Hill
Postcode:
L17 0ET
P
Liverpool
Festival
Gardens
P
Riverside Drive
Jericho Lane
Otterspool Promenade
Postcode:
L17 5AL
P
P
Otterspool
Park
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.

92
DIRECTIONS
From the south entrance of Sefton Park, take the
path along the right hand side of the lake and
head up through the middle of the park until
reaching the café. From here head south west to the
Aigburth Drive entrance. Leave the park, cross the
road and head down Livingstone Drive North and
on into Livingstone Drive. On reaching Aigburth
Road (A561), turn left and cross the main road at
the pedestrian crossing. Once across go right and
immediately left into St Michael’s Road, continuing
down until reaching Melly Road on your right. Turn
into Melly Road and then left into Southwood
Road. Going straight past the railway station and
on through Priory Woods, then across Riverside
Drive, and into the Festival Gardens. Go though the
gardens on to the promenade, going left towards
Otterspool. After about ¾ of a mile (1.25K) take the
path up onto the road and across into Otterspool
Park. Head through the park, passing the Graffiti
covered pavilion, going under the railway bridge,
and up to Jericho Lane. Cross Jericho Lane, going
right to Aigburth Road, then left and down into the
subway to the other side of this busy road. From the
subway go left, up the hill and back to Sefton Park.
Length of walk: 4.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Accessibility: The entire route is wheelchair and
cycle friendly except for the entrance/exit of Priory
Woods. Wheelchair users may struggle to negotiate
the gates.
PARK OPENING TIMES
Sefton Park: 24 hours (Palm House: 10:30am - 5pm)
Festival Park: 8:30am - 6pm
Otterspool: 24 hours
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
By Bus (Arriva)
From Liverpool, Lime Street Station (Stand GD)
Route 82 to Lark Lane (Stop E)
Return to Liverpool, Lime Street Station
Route 82 from St Michael’s Road (Stop C)
For more information visit www.arrivabus.co.uk
By Train (Merseyrail)
Merseyrail run services from Kirby, Ormskirk and
Southport that stop at St Michael’s
For more information visit www.merseyrail.org
Gary Mulvaney
Dog Trainer
Train for Fun – Skills for Life
• Puppy/Dog Training
• 1-2-1 Instruction
• Behavioural problems
07754 003 021 or 01257 252232
www.garymulvaney.co.uk

93
Welcome to the
good life
Award Winner
by Angie Barker
Iremember how excited I was a couple of years
ago when my first ever greenhouse arrived in
the back of a van, along with two burly lads who put
it together for me. (Hubby may have many wonderful
qualities – but DIY is definitely not one of them.)
I was so excited that you would think I’d won the
lottery, or was going on holiday to the Caribbean, or
being whisked off to Paris by hubby for a romantic
weekend (unlikely I know).
I’d had several of those plastic versions – you know
the ones with the plastic frames that collapse in the
first gust of wind. Now I was getting a proper one –
made of a cedar frame and glass.
It meant that in spring I could start off my tomatoes
in there instead of cluttering up our conservatory
with 6 foot high plants because come early May it is
still too cold to put them outside.
My tomato crop the last two summers have never
been better and although my greenhouse is not very
big (1m x 1.75m) it is surprising how much you can
pack in.
But don’t think that you need a greenhouse to be
able to grow veg. There are a number of things you
can grow - even over winter – outside in the garden.
October is a great time for planting the following:
• Kale plug plants – Monty Don recommends ‘Red
Russian’ and I am going to try if for the first time
this year
• Garlic bulbs – ‘Provence Wight’ – should produce
large tasty cloves
• Red Onion setts – ‘Red Cross’ – lovely colour
• Spring Onion seeds which can be sown under
cloches – I’m trying ‘White Lisbon’
Believe me there is nothing more satisfying
(bordering on smug?) than going into the garden
and picking your own fresh veg for tea – so with
or without a greenhouse I will still be growing my
own and if you are not doing so already, I would
recommend you give it a try too.
Now, I’m off to talk to Hubby about that romantic
weekend in Paris ...
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

94
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Complete Driveways
& Landscapes
Landscapes
Gardens designed. Paving laid, artificial turf
fitted, garden walls built, all aspects of fencing.
Driveways
Block paving, flagging, printed concrete
driveway specialist.
‘the complete answer
for driveways & landscapes’
Call Gary for a free, no obligation quote;
01942 355 993 07712 352 411

95
• Block Paving
• Indian Stone
• Decking
• Driveways & Patios
• Fencing & Turfing
• Jet Washing
• Gravelling
QUALIFIED TREE SURGEON
• Pruning & Shaping
• Felling & Topping
• Stump Grinding Service
20%
OFF
OAP
Discounts
Garden need a little
LTC?
• Tree Surgery
• Flagging & Fencing
• Landscaping & Design
• Garden Clearances
Wood chipping & stump grinder services
Call Lloyd today for a free estimate
01942 367170 / 07900 738637
Cricket St, Wigan, WN6 7TP
www.ltcgroup.co.uk
NO JOB TOO LARGE OR TOO SMALL
Call us today for a free, no obligation, quote;
AL: 07796 494 463
JOHN: 07879 024 070
OFFICE: 01942 396 831
Qualified Tree Surgeon NCA RFS NPTC
All types of Tree and Hedge Work
Fully Insured
Felling, Reducing, Pruning, Shaping
www.treetechsolutions.co.uk
• All tree work
• Hedge cutting
• Stump grinding
GARDEN GATES
£145 fitted
Call Graham
07816 386 548
01257 425 958
www.ashfieldhomeimprovements.co.uk
NO JOB
TOO SMALL
Billinge based
Call Wes for a free quote on
07713 121135
SMN
Tree and Landscape Management
West Lancashire District Council approved contractor
Day: 07970 521 692 Eve: 01942 214 121
www.smntrees.co.uk steve@smntrees.co.uk
Need help with your garden?
We offer a regular garden maintenance service
Landscaping, flagging, fencing, tree work, pruning,
turfing and decking work also completed.
Friendly and reliable service
Call Mick now for details
01942 700377 or 07982 928816
Oak Tree Maintenance
Orrell-Based*

96
Test Drive
Volvo V90 R-Design
by Tim Barnes-Clay
Volvo estates have come a long way since their
‘wardrobe on wheels’ image. We all knew they
were safe and comfortable; they just weren’t sexy.
That all changed some years ago, and the last V70
looked great; perhaps even better than its saloon
sibling, the S80. Then in 2016, the V90 and the booted
S90 came along; two stunning cars with more than a
hint of sporting appeal woven into the luxury, ride
comfort and space that Volvos always offer.
The models have been a success in the short time
they’ve been out – but the V90 is the one that most
people favour. As an estate car, it’s more practical,
even though the Swedish car maker has made the
load area slightly smaller than the previous V70’s.
For those who like versatility and don’t want the
‘conservative’ estate car image, Volvo has recently
put its R-Design stamp on the V90. This means
you can still drive an estate car, but one that looks
hunkered down and stimulating. Yes, stimulating –
who’d have thought a Volvo could have that effect?
The R-Design flavour has always given Volvos that
extra something – it’s made the cars spicier to look at
and hotter in the way they handle. The V90 R-Design
is a genuine looker – a great piece of artwork all

97
round. Its kerbside appeal is
boosted even further, thanks to
its 15mm lowered ride height,
silver door mirrors, gloss black
grille and flashy 18-inch alloy
wheels.
The jazziness continues inside,
with semi-electrically operated
leather and nubuck sports
seats. There are also metaleffect
inlays, a vivid LED driver’s
display, sports pedals, and
illuminated tread plates.
My test car was fitted with the D4
engine, hooked up to an eightspeed
automatic gearbox. The
D4 is a 2.0-litre turbo diesel unit
delivering 190PS - a well-judged
output for regular commuting.

98
It’s quick enough for most palates, reaching 62mph
in 8.5 seconds, but it is prudent, too. If you see over
60mpg from this engine, I wouldn’t be taken aback.
The V90 is refreshing compared with its rear-wheel
Fast Facts
• 0-62 mph: 8.5 secs
• Combined mpg: 62.8
• Engine: 1969 cc 4-cylinder twin turbo diesel
• Max. power (PS): 190
• CO2: 119 g/km
• Price: £38,205
drive German equals. It’s driven by its front wheels,
and is nimbler to wield. The Volvo feels sprightlier,
thanks to the weight of the pedals and steering
- and while this is no small vehicle, it feels far from
overwhelming, due to how acquiescent it is.
Because of the R-Design’s lowered, firmer suspension
set-up, the V90 R-Design will corner quickly without
perceptible body lean. However, the drawback is that
there’s no option to alter the suspension on the fly.
Mind you, air suspension can be substituted when
you buy the car new, although it will cost you £1,500
for the privilege. On the regular non-R-Design V90s
you’re offered a more cushioned ride. But if you’re
determined to go for a sporty estate, and don’t mind
a lower, firmer system, then the stock V90 R-Design is
an excellent choice.
Want to drive your sales?
Advertising packages start from £39 + VAT a month.
For more information call 01695 627 999
LocalLife

JW Gaskell
Garages
WE HAVE MOVED!
Thank you to all our customers over the past 20 years.
We are now open for services and repairs at our
brand new premises in Up Holland.
Hope to welcome you soon!
Dingle Garage, Dingle Road, Up Holland, WN8 0EN
01257 251116 / www.jwgaskellgarageservices.co.uk
99
Car Paintwork Repairs
I’ll repair your:
Bumper scuffs
Vandal scratches
Alloy wheel repairs
Minor dents
No VAT
charged!
We’ll beat any
quote!
Call Chris on
01942 215 111 or 07969 357 751
www.cosmeticar.co.uk
We’ll fix your;
Paintwork Scratches
Bumper Scuffs
Alloy Wheel Damage
Minor Dents
No VAT
charged!
Quality repairs with a lifetime guarantee.
Mobile Service – we come to you!
For your free estimate, call Dave on
07970 915 504
c/o JW Gaskell Garages,
Dingle Garage, Dingle Road, Up Holland, WN8 0EN

100
Home Services
- sponsored by
• Re-upholstery
• Repair
• Large range of materials
to choose from
• Domestic & Commercial
work undertaken
Master Upholsterer with over 30 years experience
Garage and entrance doors
in matching styles
Call: 01942 238 427 Mobile: 07703 749 839
Email: oldfieldupholstery@gmail.com
Harry Hindley Business Park, Bryn Road, Ashton In Makerfield, WN4 8BS
Is your
garage door
broken ?
Call us today for a free estimate
to Repair or Replace it
CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park
Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB
t: 01942 738347 w: www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk
• •
Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202
The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland
Want to promote your
company in Local Life?
Call Sally: 01695 627 999
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife
• Gates and railings
• Repairs and restorations
• Ironwork and welding
• Traditional forge work
25 years of expertise
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, Upholland WN8 9QL

mr-soot.com
Mr Soot
CHIMNEY SWEEP
Woodburners Open fires Stoves
07724 311 992
101
UPVC CLEANING
• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.
CONSERVATORIES
• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)
• Glass roofs / Orangeries
JETWASHING
• Driveways & Patios etc.
ROOF CLEANING
• Moss Removal
(No Jet washing/No mess)
• NEW Soft Wash Cleaning
SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF
ALL CLEANING PACKAGES
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01942 470 089 / 07834 241 642
www.jcstoneandtilecare.co.uk
Arley Cabinet Company Ltd
• Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •
We measure
we make
we fit
and have done for 60 years.
Visit our showroom or call us
today for a FREE estimate
www.arleycabinets.com
Arley Cabinet Co. Ltd
214a Gidlow Lane
Wigan
WN6 7BN
Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm
Sat: 9am - 12pm
tel: 01942 246190
• Conservatory repairs
• Locks, handles and hinges
• Replacement glass
• Windows and doors installed
• Replacement conservatory roofs
Call MARK now on
01942 737 381 / 0776 315 1720
conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com
www.fixmyconservatory.com

102
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• traditional service, state of the art results •
Wigan Good
Trader Of
The Year
2015
• Carpets • Rugs
• Fabric & Leather Upholstery
Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote
Call - 01257 251221
Mobile - 07908 770808
PB
5 star rating with
Wigan Trading
Standards Good
Trader Scheme
Ovenclean will transform your oven and
put the sparkle back into your kitchen!
• Ovens
• Grills
• Extractors
• BBQ’s
www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk
Power Washing
and Garden
Maintenance
Driveways - Garden Clearances - Landscaping - Paving
Call Paul on 07736 396374
for a free quote
as seen
ON TV
• Hobs
• Ranges
• Microwaves
• AGA’s
Call today to book your oven clean
0800 840 7127 or
07724 694337
www.ovenclean.com
Providing professional carpet &
upholstery cleaning since 1993
Carpets Upholstery Curtains
Leather Oriental Rugs Hard Floors
For more information call:
01942 470 081
Visit our website and check out the testimonials.
www.alliancechemdry.co.uk
Crease
Free
Ironing Service
Steam Ahead
With More Pressing Issues
• Ironing services
• Free Collection & Delivery
• Reliable Service
• Flexible Hours to Suit
• Excellent Rates
• Free Visit and Consultation
Telephone Gemma today
for a free consultation
07886 422 688

103
Wigan’s premier
domestic
cleaning service
TILE & GROUT CLEANING
All hArd floors
Kitchens - Entrance halls - living rooms
Bathrooms - showers
KARNDEAN & AMITICO
stripped, Cleaned & sealed
STONE FLOOR CLEANING
limestone - Travertine - slate
Quarry - Terracotta - Marble
sandstone
SEALING FOR EASy MAINTENANCE
Plus FREE special floor Cleaner
Worth £50
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01942 470 089 or 07834 241 642
www.jcstoneandtilecare.co.uk
Orrell Laundry
11 Sefton Road, Orrell, WN5 8UP
01695 623 796
• Bedding & duvets • Domestic washes
• Commercial washing • Ironing services
• Dry cleaning • Team sports kits welcomed
Open 7 days
see website for
opening times
Free pick-up
& drop off!
www.orrell-laundry.co.uk
Serving the
community for
over 50 years
Free pICk-up & DrOp OFF
service to/from Standish, Shevington, Appley Bridge
Chamberlayne’s
Cleaning Services
Unlimited Hours, Any Area,
Trained, Insured, DBS Checked,
ID Carried & Uniformed Staff
Tel: 0330 133 0451
Part of The Chamberlayne Group.
put the sparkle back into
your life!
Providing a full range of competitively
priced cleaning options for your home
and business throughout Wigan, Chorley
and surrounding areas.
Get in touch today to arrange a
no obligation consultation.
suresparkle
@suresparkle
Cleaning in the
Wigan area for
10+ years
We only use reliable, vetted staff
• £10.75 per hour - minimum 2 hrs
• Same cleaner each visit
• All domestic duties provided
Call or email Joanne 01942 203442
joanne@acleanbreak.co.uk / www.acleanbreak.co.uk/wigan
£10 an hour
telephone: 07753 392951
web: www.suresparkle.com
email: info@suresparkle.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
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 Busine s Park
off Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
104
PLASTERER
Re-skims Dot & dab Rendering
2 coat work Unwanted artex
For a free quote, call Ian Ridley on
01942 218 160
or 07958 695 116
J&P
MOORCROFT
LTD
Professional Painting and Decorating
• Domestic & Commercial Work
• Interior & Exterior work welcomed
• Old/listed buildings a speciality
Call us today for a free quotation
Home Service available
Choose from 1000s of paint & paper samples
in the comfort of our own home
01942 212096 07831 102 511
www.jpmoorcroft.com
Need a new look
for your home?
Skilled interior and exterior work
undertaken at reasonable prices!
Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator
01942 518126
or 07545 065119
Orrell based business
HATE
DECORATING?
We don’t - we enjoy it so
much that we make a living out of it!
We are a husband and wife team,
CRB cleared with references available.
Awarded a Certificate of Excellence
by Wigan Council Trading Standards
• City & Guilds Qualified
• Plastering services available
• Competitive Rates
• Fully Insured
• Standish based
Call Alice or Neil on
01257 435412 or 07810 753062
SG
PAINTING & DECORATING
Interior painting & decorating
Specialise in standard wall coverings, extra wide vinyl, lincrusta & coving
Free estimates. References available upon request
07714 363 377 / 01942 749 971
Sefton Road, Orrell, WN5 8UP
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
For more information call
01695 627 999
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
Award Winner
Exterior & Interior Decorating
Domestic & Commercial work undertaken
Competitive rate
Contact Graham now - free estimate provided
01257 426 234
graham@topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk
www.topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk
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

105

106
• Bathroom Installation, Full Bathrooms & En-Suites
• Plumbing Services • Wall & Floor Tiling • Ceiling Panelling
01942 397173 / 07803 057940
Douglas Drive, Orrell, Wigan
www.ljplumbingandbathrooms.co.uk
Great Value Bathrooms!
Full Bathrooms & En-Suites
Showers, Trays & Cubicles
Relocation of Bathroom Suites
25 years bathroom experience
Call Chris now for a free quotation
C L Bathrooms
01942 749085
or 07801 295483
www.clbathrooms.co.uk
A Genuine Family Run Business
With Friendly & Courteous Staff
SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL
HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER
REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES
Accredited Installer & Service Partner
• Annual Boiler Servicing
• Landlord & Home Owner
Gas Safety Checks
• Gas Fire & Cooker Installations
• Under Floor Heating Specialists
• Home Efficiency Control Upgrades
10 YEARS
EXTENDED
WARRANTY
ON SELECTED BOILER
INSTALLATIONS
Registration No.
88604
Telephone:
WE REPAIR
ALL MAKES
OF BOILERS!
01257 421 660
TEL: 01942 504 429
MOB: 07515 505 501
www.fgwelch.co.uk
C&
D
Plumbing and Heating
Heating & Bathroom Specialist
Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P
07973714222
01695625171
Elite Bathrooms
Installation & Tiling
• Bathrooms
• Wall Tiling
• Floor Tiling 07703 448890
FREE Estimates 01942 208926

107
Brand New Bathrooms
Boiler + Central Heating
Installs, Servicing + Repairs
Extended warranties available
24 Hour Call-out
Domestic + Commercial
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
• Central Heating Installations
• Boiler Installations
• Maintenance & Servicing
• Power Flushing
186237
Your one stop shop for central heating
434 Ormskirk Rd, Wigan, WN5 9DF
01942 221221
info@premiergas.com / www.premiergas.com
• Repairs & installations
• Maintenance & servicing
• Power flushing
• Mechanical Ventilation
• Gas Safety Checks
Boiler & Central
Heating Experts
IAIN LOWE
01695 623236
• Central Heating
• Plumbing
• Gas Appliances
• Gas Safety Checks
• Landlord’s Certificates
• Maintenance/Breakdowns
No
call out
fee
Plumbing & Heating Specialist
Complete Bathroom
& Tiling service
John Bailey - 01942 495785
or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238
Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan
For an effective and friendly
service call Haigh Energy
01257 424 166
www.haighenergy.co.uk
Unit S7, Standish Court , Bradley Lane Trading Estate, Standish, WN6 0XQ
APPLEY BRIDGE HEATING
& PLUMBING
201323
• BOILER replacement
• SERVICE and repair
• FULL system installations
• BATHROOM replacements
• SHOWERS
• TILING and ELECTRICS
Landlord Gas Safety Certificates
Call Dave now for a free quote...
Telephone
07814 639 430

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 Str et Business Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
108
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
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
For more information call
01695 627 999
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
Smart Electrical Contractors
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 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
Ca l us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
- Domestic
- Commercial - Industrial
• Rewire • PAT Testing
• CCTV • Alarms
Tel: 01257 367386 Mob: 07594 240054
Domestic - Commercial - Industrial
Want to promote your
company in Local Life?
Call Sally: 01695 627 999
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife
www.expertcomputers.co.uk
‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner

Shevington
Electrical Services Ltd
NAPIT part ‘P’ registered
JIB Approved Technician
31 Years Experience
Local. Honest & Reliable
Domestic
Industrial & Commercial
Covering all North West Areas.
Call: 0800 6446100 or 07904 127663
www.shevington-electrical-services.co.uk
J.Dillon
• All types of electrical work
• 20+ years experience
• Friendly, fast and reliable
• 24 hour call out service
Electrical
Services Ltd
Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826
www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk
109
01942 735 484
07967 423 735
www.kdmelectrical.co.uk
• All electrical work welcomed
• Pleasant, professional & reliable
• Emergency call outs 24/7
All electrical work undertaken
Competitive rates
Proficient and professional service
Emergency call outs 24/7
Call: 01942 553 248
Dan: 07850 273 783
Ste: 07701 036 872
All electrical work
undertaken
• Rewire specialists
• Extra sockets & lights fitted
• Mains board upgrades
Free quotations
A.J.S.
BAILEYS
ELECTRICAL
01942 215 769
07739 709 005
24-Hour
Call Out
Service
Electrical Installation & Maintenance
• From new sockets to full re-wires
• No job too small
• PAT testing
Security Installation & Maintenance
• Smart phone controlled security systems
• Wired and wireless security systems
• CCTV and burglar alarms
Wireless Alarm System
ONLY £349
1x Live LED GHE Bell box
1x dummy GHE bell box
1x Mains panel with battery back up
1x wireless door contact
2x Wireless PIR Motion detectors
Domestic and commercial work welcomed ~ Call us today for friendly advice and a free quote
Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est
Cale Lane Wigan
01942 836 937 or 07557 914 788 www.ghewigan.co.uk

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
Wind Turbines
Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
.and general
Energy Savings
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
and we’ l provide you with a
detailed report showing the
returns available from your
own solar panels
(10% typical return)
Visit our showr om at
Unit 4a,
Cricket Str et Busine s Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
110
JJ Driveways
Imprinted Concrete Specialists
Huge range of colours & patterns
• Resin Driveways • Block Paving
• Indian Stone • Flagging
We can also revive your old drive!
Ask about our sealing service
Call Joe for a free quotation on
01942 621 959 / 07867 697 972
www.jjdriveways.co.uk
GDR Driveways
Flagging • Block paving
Concreting • Fencing
Call Gareth for a FREE qoutation
01942 217 113 | 07715 177 754
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
For more information call
01695 627 999
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
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
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
E
X
H
A
U
Call us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
S
T
S
PLANS TO IMPROVE
• Plans drawn and submitted.
• Extensions, conversions, structural alterations.
• Structural calculations.
E mail info@stuartsplans.co.uk
Call Stuart on 07973143289
Puzzle Solutions
F H F A B V H O S S
Y L P O N D A I E R
S H E D R U M L F P
T C R W S K M S E W
E V E R G R E E N A
S Y N W E E D S C T
H U N C L O C H E E
R R I T F L O W E R
U W A D N A M P A I
B U L B A W P R N N
R X Y V A N O O R G
T R E L L I S A E E
G R N U Y N T U R L
WIGGLE WORDS: HOLD ON TO YOUR HATS
7 8 3
6 9 1
4 5 2
9 1 8
5 2 6
3 4 7
8 3 4
1 6 9
2 7 5
NAME
JULIE
JANE
SAM
2 1 5
3 4 7
6 9 8
7 5 2
8 3 4
1 5 9
5 7 1
4 2 3
9 8 6
HUSBAND
DAVE
JAMES
STUART
VEHICLE
MINI
GOLF
MLK
6 9 4
5 8 2
3 7 1
4 3 5
9 1 7
8 2 6
2 6 9
7 5 8
1 4 3
TIME
11:15
11:30
11:00

111
Home Improvements
• Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms
• Garage & Loft Conversions
• Floors, Doors & Windows
• Garden Gates
For all your home improvement needs call David on...
01942 203 804
07851 225 876
DS Joinery
Easy Mix
Easy Mix
Ready Mixed Concrete
• Delivered or Collected • Perfect for builders & DIY
01942 224571 for advice
Lamberhead Ind. Est., Pemberton
01257 422317 or 07852 202867
www.mtjoinery.co.uk
…for a more majestic way of living
Call us today for expert advice and a free quotation
FREEPHONE 0800 085 3987
MOBILE 07917 735 686
Ashurst Building &
Roofing Services
All types of building and roofing
work undertaken including;
Extensions & Conservatories
New roofs & Roof repairs
E: 01942 832747
: 07747 725999
Family run business with
25 years of experience
Call David today for a free quotation
TELEPHONE: 01942 832747
Mobile: 07747 725999
Extensions - from design to completion
Orangeries & Conservatories
Garage & Loft Conversions
Driveways & Paving
Garden Buildings
Conservatory roof replacements
Highly experienced ~ no job too small ~ Orrell based
www.majesticbuildingservices.co.uk

112
Don’t Move – Improve!
I’m Stuart Collier, a local
builder with over 25 years
experience in house
renovation and specialist in
loft & garage conversion.
I can design and create the
extra living space you need.
All our work is fully insured & guaranteed
References available on request
Call now for a free quotation
House Extensions
New Kitchens
& Bathrooms
Garage Conversions
Full Refurbishments
01257 251 534
07973 143 289
www.sjcollier.co.uk
PP
Building services
Joinery Specialists
K Stone
Building Services
All types of building
work undertaken
25 years experience
• Brickwork
• Pointing
• Garden Walls
• Patios
• Joinery
• Flagging
• Alterations
• Plastering
01942 495412 / 07974 496676
Brickwork & Property Maintenance
M
Marc Mulligan
01942 248 537
07749 806 566
01942 561 848 | 07725 909 257
www.freshbuildconstruction.co.uk
LOCAL, RELIABLE, FRIENDLY
PROFESSIONAL AND HONEST
• Conservatories & Orangeries
• Extensions
• Refurbishments & Alterations
• Fencing & Decking
• Garage & Loft Conversions
• Kitchens & Fitted Bedrooms
• Doors & Windows
• All aspects of joinery work
Call Phil - 01257 425997 or 07703 007675
• Brickwork, Extensions, Re-pointing
• Garden Walls, Decorative Walls
• Platform Steps, Paths & patios
Disabled Adaptations & Access
• Wall to Floor Rails, Floor to Floor
Rails & Path Rails
Fully Qualified - 28 Years Experience
B.A. Berry
Building & Roofing Specialists
•All building work undertaken.
• From a broken tile to a full re roof.
• Flat roofs renewed and repaired.
• Extensions, Alterations, Structural repairs
including Lintels.
Your local fully qualified tradesman with
30 years experience
Call us now for a free,
no obligation quote
01695 622 704 / 07968 652 320
www.baberry.co.uk

113
• 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
All aspects of roofing & roofline
New roofs Repairs
Fascias, soffits & gutters
Rubber Cover
Roofing Specialist
Guaranteed 50 years
Dormers
and Garages
Call for free
quote
Tel:
Mob:
01942 864 624 / 07868 713520
First Class Workmanship
• All types of re-roofs
• Strip & re-slate or re-tile
• Built up felt/flat roofs, dormers etc.
• Insurance work undertaken
• Roofline uPVC fascias, soffits & guttering
W.Newman
ROOFING & REPAIRS
01695 627 212
MOBILE: 07774 943 706
52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND
Established Over 30 Years
ALL ASPECTS OF
ROOFING
DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL
FOR A FREE QUOTATION CALL
07753 686 244

114
A View From
The Lump
Local gossip, gripes and goings-on
Chain reaction
Back in the ‘80s, Norman Tebbit
(once described as a semihousetrained
polecat) was
widely ridiculed for telling the
unemployed to get on their bikes
and look for work. Of course, he
didn’t actually say that, but the
Chingford Skinhead (another one
of his monikers) was happy for the
myth to linger. But did old Norm
have a point? Apparently, the
number of people cycling to work
in Wigan is around 3%. In Marsh
Green, the figure is as high as 6%.
And that’s not all. Wigan Council
has secured £2.1m, to create five
new cycle routes. Wigan’s health
supremo, Cllr Kevin Anderson
advises that “cycling is a popular
form of transport in Wigan,
especially in the more deprived
areas where car ownership is
low. Greater Manchester aims to
achieve 10% of journeys to work
being made by bike by 2025, and
we believe that Wigan can more
than achieve this target given
the right facilities.” Maybe telling
poorer people to get on a bike
wasn’t that outrageous after all.
The hard road ahead
How times change. 70 years
ago, people were time rich but
cash poor. These days, it’s the
complete opposite. And that’s
partly the reason why local
firms such as Ashurst Garage in
Wrightington are finding it hard to
compete. The garage could soon
be demolished to make way for
houses. The reasons, as spelled
out in official paperwork to West
Lancs planners, are mainly due
to buying habits. Regular readers
will be aware that I’m a Ford
Anglia driver. Purchased in the
mid-1960s, it’s been serviced by
my local garage ever since. But
nowadays, big garages tie you
in to long-term service plans. So
the big garages get bigger, and
the smaller ones get smaller. In
2017, it’s all about convenience,
so expect to see more of this. And
they call it progress.
Giving me the needle
Vinyl records are back in fashion,
so says the eldest grandson. He’s
currently parting with the best
part of £20 a time to own the very
same album he bought on CD for
less than half the price. Apparently
listening to static in stereo is much
better than hearing the crisp, clean
sound you get from digital. Beardy
types in their early 20s are now
roaming the country, scouring
charity shops for these slabs of
aural assault from yesteryear. I’m
not convinced, although I can
confirm that Des O’Connor sounds
awful, regardless of what medium
you choose.
Light bulb moment
I’ve been busy of late collecting
my harvest from the garden. The
spuds (first earlies and maincrop)
were a stunning success, as were
the tomatoes and cucumbers.
However, it wasn’t a clean sweep
as the garlic failed to take this
year. Puzzled by their no show,
I dug down only to realise that
I’d planted them upside down. I
hope the people of Australia enjoy
them.
Draining experience
To my horror, Mrs Lump has
started mentioning that dreaded
word - Christmas. She wants to
know who we’re having round for
dinner this year. Now, I don’t mind
the family, and I get on well with
them - mainly because I never see
them from one year to the next.
And when I do, they’re bearing
gifts. That’s the sort of family I
like. I only hope Uncle Ebeneezer
brings his homemade rhubarb
wine again. It did wonders for
clearing the drains on Boxing Day.

115
Our priCes are FalliNg,
Just like the autumN leaves..
®
10%
OFF
showroom sales
Quality installations of windows,
doors, fascias, soffits and gutters
First for quality • First for service • First for reliability
No contractors • No salesmen
Just a smile and a honest price from a family run business
®
Rockdoor
Approved
Installer Reg No
02767596
SISTER COMPANY OF FOXWELLS BUILDERS
Established 16 years
Call us for a Free Quote
Office Number: 01942 871 777
Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria Street, Leigh, WN7 5SE
warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk