Local Life - Wigan - March 2018

LocalLife
Wigan Edition March 2018
Water legacy for
Orrell
Pages 37
Health Centre Update
Pages 54
March For Men
Pages 56
Chorley Walk
Pages 74
Win tickets to The Beatles Story
Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Garden Diary Event2Go Home Services
locallife247.co.uk

Ince Hall Avenue, Ince £300,000 Lordy Close, Standish £280,000
A truly impressive 3 bed detached bungalow with a
beautiful open plan lounge diner and a stunning fitted
kitchen set within ¼ acre of land.
Set in a quiet residential close this beautiful 4 bed
detached home with attractive gardens has stunning
open views to the rear over Haigh County Park.
Hesketh Drive, Standish £260,000 Fairholme, A-in-Makerfield £250,000
This modern 4 bed detached offers neutrally presented
accommodation in a private close near the M6, and has
a spacious plot with a generous rear garden.
This 4 bed detached true bungalow occupies a
generous corner plot with gardens to three sides plus a
double garage, and offers fabulous scope for extension.
St Annes Court, Shevington £250,000 Ashgrove Crescent, Billinge £190,000
Positioned in a cul-de-sac off Gathurst Lane, this 4 bed
detached home boasts a magnificent 25 feet through
lounge, large conservatory and a modern kitchen.
Located in the heart of Billinge lies this very versatile
well maintained 3 bed bungalow with a fully fitted
modern kitchen and mature gardens.
a name you can trust

Pemberton Road, Winstanley £180,000
Located on the highly desirable Pemberton Road is this
traditional 3 bed family home with well-maintained
gardens available with no upward chain.
Warnford Street, Swinley £160,000
This impressive and substantial 3 bed terrace, located
near Mesnes Park, boasts charm and traditional
features a plenty, as well as a stunning family bathroom.
Karen Road, Ince £150,000
This modern and stylish 3-4 bed family home, located
within a quiet cul-de-sac, is stunning throughout with a
fabulous kitchen and spacious open plan lounge/diner.
Toulston Road, Springfield £150,000
This well presented 3 bed semi-detached family home
is located on a popular estate and occupies a large
corner plot with a lovely UPVC conservatory.
Lincoln Drive, Aspull £140,000
This 2-3 bed semi-detached bungalow with private
gardens and off road parking is located in a lovely quiet
cul-de-sac in the popular village of Aspull.
Grove Lane, Standish £125,000
This lovely 2 bedroom top floor apartment is situated
on a secure development near the village centre and is
floored throughout. Perfect for 1st time buyers.
www.alanbatt.co.uk

2
Main Street, Billinge - £375,000
This beautiful four bed cottage retains many original features and viewing
really is essential to truly appreciate this stunning family home. Its lovely rear
garden, complete with stone patio, is perfect for al fresco entertaining.
www.alanbatt.co.uk

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4
Birthday
shout out
Icouldn’t let this month’s issue go without
a timely plug for the Saturday Breakfast
fundraisers.
Saturday Breakfast is two years old in March and by
the time you read this, the organisation will have
donated over £8,500 towards community projects
and groups in Orrell and Billinge.
The concept is simple; Come and have breakfast on
Saturday morning between 9am-11.30 at the Straw
Bale café at Greenslate Farm in Billinge. Meet up with
family and friends if you like and you can even bring
the dog too. Pay a reasonable price (£2.25-£4.95) for
a freshly cooked breakfast with quality produce at
cost price from commercial supporters H Greaves
Butchers and Windy Arbour farm shop, and cooked
and served by a team of dedicated volunteers.
All appetites and tastes are catered for – amongst
the dishes served are the usual full (or small) English,
Eggs Benedict, Eggs Hebridean, bacon and sausage
barms, and even teas cakes for the lighter appetite.
And you can eat knowing that all the profits from
your breakfasts go towards community projects in
Orrell and Billinge.
The amount donated so far has gone to help
transform Orrell station, build a memorial garden,
tidy up Orrell Water Park, perform a theatre show,
buy new tents for the local scouting movement and
much more. It’s a great way of contributing to your
local community and all are welcome.
See you there soon?
Chris Pearce, Publisher
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

5
In this issue
Water a great
legacy
37
FODMAP
diet
Regulars
24 Class from the past
46 Planning
52 Puzzle Corner
Sections
6 Property
48 Travel
54 Health
58 Legal & Finance
60 Business View
78 Garden Diary
83 Test Drive
98 The Lump
68 Events2Go
77 Pets
78 Gardening
86 Home Services
64
Win tickets to
The Beatles
Story
70
Jack’s Tracks visits
Chorley
74
Test Drive
Audi A4
Avanti 3.0
83
Next issue - April 2018
Advertising deadline - Thursday, 8 March
Published - Wednesday, 21 March
Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park,
Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01695 627 999
Publisher: Chris
Sales: Nicola
LocalLife
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
sales@locallife247.co.uk
Editorial: David, Niamh wigannews@locallife247.co.uk
Design: Peter
design@locallife247.co.uk
Distribution: Sally
sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
Accounts: Sam
accounts@locallife247.co.uk
Local Life is published every month and distributed into
the following areas on an alternate monthly basis.
This issue is delivered to 13,034 private homes and
businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland,
Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton.
The next issue is delivered to 13,039 private homes and
businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley
Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh.
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
HARSWELL CLOSE, ORRELL £249,950
Stunningly presented detached family home with
modern conservatory & south facing aspect.
WHITECROFT RD, HAWKLEY HALL £239,995
Exceptionally presented & impressively sized detached
true bungalow in highly prized setting.
PARK CRESCENT, WIGAN £230,000
A traditional Victorian semi-detached family home in an
outstanding location.
HEYES ROAD, ORRELL £230,000
Traditional, bay fronted three bedroom semi detached
house with extension to the rear.
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
MEADOW VIEW, ORRELL £199,950
Highly impressive three storey home providing 1460
SQFT of light, contemporary living space.
GREENSLATE ROAD, BILLINGE £164,950
A very spacious two bed semi-detached house in
prestigious location by Orrell Water Park.
www.reganandhallworth.com Wigan town centre showroom 01942 205555

7
NEW NEW
NEW
GREENFORD CLOSE, ORRELL £155,000
Impeccably presented semi-detached home located in
one of Orrell’s most popular settings.
COBMOOR AVENUE, BILLINGE £135,000
Impressive 3 bed home providing a generous 938 SQFT
of light, modern living space.
NEW
SILVERDALE, SWINLEY £149,995
Superb semi-detached home tucked away in a highly
prized cul-de-sac.
NEW
OXHOUSE ROAD, ORRELL £134,950
Large 2 bed terrace with stylish, contemporary
presentation & separate garden available to rent.
NEW
MAYFAIR DRIVE, HAWKLEY HALL £130,000
Superb semi-detached true bungalow with southwesterly
facing plot & detached garage.
WARRINGTON RD, MARUS BRIDGE £115,000
Newly renovated two bed semi-detached home located
close to town centre and transport links.

8
Glimmer of hope?
Locals left shocked following the
closure of Shopmobility Wigan and
Leigh have been given a glimmer of
hope.
The service, which started in 1986, closed last
month. However, Wigan Council said it is looking
whether a similar service could be provided.
Shopmobility Wigan & Leigh had been through a
tough time since Wigan Council cut its £100,000 a
year support package to the charity in 2011.
And despite staff agreeing to take a pay cut,
Shopmobility was running at a loss and bosses have
now “reluctantly” decided to close for good.
Focus Insolvency Group, based in Appley Bridge,
has asked to manage the closure of the charity.
A statement from Shopmobility Wigan and Leigh
said: “The Trustees of Shopmobility have reluctantly
decided that the service will have to cease trading
in Wigan and Leigh as the funding available to
secure its continuation no longer exists.
“Since 2011, dedicated staff and volunteers have
worked to raise additional funds by means of
operating two retail outlets, establishing cafes
in their offices, using eBay to sell specific items,
marketing more aids and adaptations to the public
and working long hours in the two offices. Staff
have also worked for lower rates of pay than when
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9
the council operated the scheme in order to assist
in the financing of the charity.
“However, despite these efforts the dropping off
of sales through the shops, inflation applying to
utility costs and prospective increases in salary and
pension costs this Spring means that expenditure is
exceeding income, with no realistic prospect of this
trend reversing.
“While the directors regret the need for closure, the
requirement on them to trade responsibly under
company and charity law means that there is no
alternative to this course of action. The remaining
funds in the charity should enable it to close via a
Creditors Voluntary Liquidation, which will ensure
that staff salaries, notice and redundancy monies
are paid out.
“With the realisation of the assets of the company
along with remaining funds all outstanding debts
should be cleared.”
Cllr David Molyneux said the council is now looking
at whether a similar service could be provided in
the wake of Shopmobility’s demise.
“Although the provision of mobility scooters is not
a service the council are required to provide, we do
recognise its importance in helping to make our
centres accessible for all.
“We are working with mobility scooter providers in
both Wigan and Leigh to see whether this service
can be provided in a different way.
“We will ensure our residents are notified once
arrangements are confirmed. “

10
Tributes to ‘inspirational’ Alan
Warm tributes have been paid to a
Billinge man.
Alan Swift, who grew up on Claremont Road, died
last month, and was known to many for his active
involvement in community life.
Born and raised in Billinge, he lived on Crank Road
and enjoyed sport, was involved in his local church
and also in the University of the Third Age. An ex-Up
Holland Grammar School pupil, he helped organise
reunions.
Alan (left) promoting the 2014 grammar school
reunion with David
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His former school friend, David Robinson, told Local
Life: “Alan was in the year above me, but we only
became good friends after he offered to help me
organise our big 2014 reunion which was attended
by over 300 ex-pupils. Through this we raised
over £1300 for the cancer charity at Clatterbridge
Hospital, where Alan was receiving treatment. After
that we organised several afternoon reunions at
Gathurst Golf Club, helped Winstanley College with
their Jubilee celebrations, and both of us became
trustees on the UpHolland Grammar School
Education Foundation at Winstanley College, with
Alan taking on the job of treasurer.
“Alan was an inspiration; always wanting to help,
always jovial, and had a really positive attitude to
life. He loved all sports, supported Everton Football
Club and loved watching horse racing. He enjoyed
travelling and spent many breaks visiting different
places in Europe and the UK. It was a mark of the
esteem in which Alan was held locally in that at
his funeral on January 25, at St Aidan’s Billinge the
church was full to overflowing with people standing
in the aisles and rear of the church. Alan’s jovial
nature, helpfullness, and love of life will always be
an inspiration to me.
“I will greatly miss his help and friendship.”

11
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12
Joanne’s marathon efforts
A loving daughter has taken on
numerous fitness challenges in aid of
The Christie Foundation.
Joanne Platt, 36, from Pemberton, decided to take
on 16 fitness challenges to raise money for the
Christie after the help they gave her dad.
Joanne said: “My dad was diagnosed with terminal
cancer over six years ago and he was told he
wouldn’t reach 60, and last year he had his 61st
birthday.
“He had a heart attack in October last year, but he
is well and he has itchy feet to get back to work.
People are amazed at how he is.
“That keeps me going really because he is keeping
active.
The chemo is more a stabiliser, to keep him as he is.
“This wasn’t just down to my dad’s determination
and positive mind but from the support and work
the Christie do on a daily basis!”
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Joanne has already taken on a year’s worth of
challenges, but her final showdown? The London
Marathon in April.
She said: “I felt strained towards the end of last year.
I said to my husband ‘What should I do next? And he
said I think you need a break.’
“My last event was in November, and my next one is
the St Helens 10K on Sunday, March 4.
“Dad is a big supporter so he is always on the side
lines and where possible gets involved.
“But with the fact he had a heart attack, we tell him
to take it easy.
If you’d like to donate to Joanne’s fundraising
page, please visit www.justgiving.com/
fundraising/joanne-platt2017
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
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14
ADVERTISEMENT
I’m yourVenus
Venus Beauty Studio has recently
undergone a rather impressive
renovation. More than doubling in size, the
Orrell-based salon is bigger and better than
ever before and mother daughter duo, Donna
and Clare Roughley are excited to invite
customers to enjoy quality treatments in their
newly refurbished salon.
Donna and Clare took over Venus Beauty
Studio more than six years ago. The salon has
always offered the latest innovations when it
comes to beauty but the expansion means
this will now extend to a full menu of spa
treatments.
Included in the modern and stylish refurb, is
a large comfy seating area, a spray tan room,
a separate treatment room for Microblading/
Aesthetics, and three extra treatment rooms
which can be used as a dual or triple treatment
room.
With the extra space upstairs,mini pamper
days will be on offer so clients can relax,
unwind and forget all of their troubles.
The salon is based within GYM ETC at Abbey
Lakes, meaning that clients can make full use
of the spa facilities including the steam room,
sauna and jacuzzi, when booking a spa day.
Robes, slippers and towels are included to
ensure you have a relaxing and comfortable
experience.
Don’t miss out on the Holistic treatments,
Reflexology and Crystal Healing available
at the salon. And for all your intimate
waxing needs, Donna and Clare will have
you swimsuit ready using the techniques
perfected by waxing specialist Kim Lawless
“The Wax Queen”.
As we edge towards the summer months,
some of us are conscious of our lumps
and bumps and so why not get a little help
courtesy of Bioslimming? A Bioslimming body
wrap is £59, a course of 3 is £160, or a course
of six is £295.

15
The salon still has two treatment rooms
downstairs, as well as a double nail station,
and pedicure station, so it’s safe to say all your
beauty needs will be fulfilled at Venus.
Venus offers the original HD BROWS to
customers too. The unique treatment
will ensure you leave the salon with wellgroomed,
HD eyebrows. HD Brows are £25
and maintenance is £20 (up to five weeks
between treatments).
To celebrate the salon’s expansion, Donna
and Clare would like to invite both new and
existing customers to their open day/evening
on Thursday, March 1 between 11am-8pm.
So why not pop along and see the improved
salon and take advantage of some of the
great offers which will be available, including
10% off all treatments and huge savings on all
courses. But don’t worry if you can’t make it, as
offers will be running until the end of March.
There will be huge savings on a range of
treatments such as the CACI non-surgical
courses, Dermaplaning, LVL Lashes and much
more.
Customers who attend the open day will
be entered into Venus’ prize draw to win a
pamper day for two people with Cream Tea,
and who doesn’t love a prize? Staff will be on
hand to answer any questions you may have
and carry out free consultations or just come
and enjoy a glass off bubbly.
gymetc, Abbey Lakes, Orrell Road,
Orrell, Wigan, WN5 8QZ
Tel: 01695 624 623
www.venusbeautystudio.co.uk
Emal: venusbeautysalon@talktalk.net

16
Win a Pamper
Package for two
at Venus Beauty Studio
To celebrate the expansion of the
Salon, Venus Beauty Studio are
giving you the chance to a win a
pamper package for two people
just in time for Mother’s Day!
The winner and their guest will receive a 1/2 hour
treatment, with a choice of mini manicure, mini
pedicure, facial, neck & back massage, back scrub
or scalp massage. Tea, coffee, juice & nibbles will be
available and all pamper packages include the use
of GYM ETC facilities, slippers, robes & towels.
To enter the competition, visit www.locallife247/
freestuff and click on competitions and just
answer this question: When is the official opening
of the expanded salon?
The entrant must also follow one of Venus Beauty
Studio’s social media platforms, i.e. Facebook,
Twitter or Instagram and then share the competition
post. Closing date: Monday, 12 March 2018
Employees of families of Local Life 247 Ltd or Venus
Beauty Studio are not allowed to enter this competition.
gymetc, Abbey Lakes, Orrell Road,
Orrell, Wigan WN5 8QZ.
Tel: 01695 624 623
www.venusbeautystudio.co.uk
Emal: venusbeautysalon@talktalk.net
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Choice of one 1/2-hour treatment
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LVL Lashes - £35
Full set individual Lashes - £30

17
It’s Wigan Pier -the musical!
Wigan’s answer to the Road to Wigan
Pier will be hitting the stage this April.
The new musical ‘Beyond Wigan Pier’ is written,
produced and performed by Wiganers showing
that the town has come a long way since Orwell’s
seminal book.
‘The Road to Wigan Pier’ celebrates its 80th
anniversary in 2018, and the upcoming musical
hopes to put Wigan on the map and show the town
is a cultural force to be reckoned with.
‘Beyond Wigan Pier’ is written by Alan Gregory,
a local music teacher and composer who is chief
executive of Pianos, Pies and Pirouettes. And the
concert debut on Friday, April 27, 7pm will feature
Wigan Jazz Youth Orchestra and a number of well-
known Wigan performers, including Olivia Garcia,
Scott Chapman, Chonkinfeckle and Janette Monroe.
George Orwell’s adopted son Richard Blair will
also perform as the narrator in the community
musical at The Edge, Wigan. But for the show and
its initiative to be a success, organisers need help
from the public. By supporting the appeal, donors
will see the exclusive concert debut of the musical
at The Edge, a stone’s throw away from Wigan Pier. If
the £25,000 target is reached, the full production of
the musical will be staged in 2020. The Arts Council
needs to see that organisers can raise 10% of the
£250,000 funding required for the much bigger
project.
Visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/beyond-wiganpier-1

18
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Loving it!
In this day and age, when all retailers seem to be
generic and faceless, it’s great find somewhere
a little bit different, and Love It Gallery in Billinge is a
unique jewel in the seas of globalisation.
In 2015 Winstanley couple Stephanie O’Brien and
Ian O’Brien moved their thriving Morpheus Glass
business onto the derelict Billinge Garden Centre
site and opened the Love It Gallery and Bag & Bean
café to complement it on the site. A brave move
indeed, and for those well versed in film, it was a
real ‘build it and they will come’ moment. Local
residents quickly supported the venture and three
years on, the couple now employ 15 staff from the
local area to help them manage the site.
Love It gallery displays a plethora of original
giftware and hand-crafted pieces from designers
and craftspeople, and much of the merchandise
is exclusive to Love It. Visually, the gallery is
extraordinary; high ceilings, original timber frames
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merchandise perfectly.
The pride of place in the gallery goes to glass
art, handcrafted by Morpheus Glass in an on-site
workshop, from wall panels and splashbacks to

19
bowls, coaster sets and mirrors. Using pieces of
art such as wall panels and/or splashbacks is an
innovative way of creating an interior focal point,
and if the pieces on show don’t quite fit the bill,
you can also commission a piece specially for your
home. See www.morpheusglass.co.uk for details or
ask in-store.
And to round off your visit, why not pop into Bag &
Bean café which has quickly established itself as the
most popular meeting place for miles around, with
its friendly warm welcome and a good selection of
handmade sandwiches and soups, accompanied
by delicious homemade cakes. For those special
occasions, Bag & Bean will serve you a most
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BagandBean/ for more details.
Whether you’re looking for imaginative gifts for
Mother’s Day, a unique signature piece for your
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friends or family, do take a trip out to Love It Gallery
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Love It Gallery
Open: 9.30am-5pm Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm Sunday
Winstanley Road, Billinge, WN5 7XG
Telephone: 01695 622 332

20

21
Security call for St Joseph’s
Insurers for the derelict St Joseph’s
College in Up Holland have
demanded that security is beefed up.
Episodes of vandalism and trespass have caused
“significant” cost and damage to the Grade II listed
building. A retrospective planning application
has now been submitted to West Lancs Borough
Council for extra security fencing at the College
Road site, which has been vacant for 16 years.
Papers submitted on behalf of the site owners,
Anglo International Upholland Ltd also reveal that
talks are underway over possibly bringing the site
back into use: “The applicant is seeking to work with
the council to agree an active use of the building
with associated development, and views this
fencing as effectively an interim measure until that
process has been progressed.
“It is not concluded by the applicant to be a
permanent addition but is essentially a ‘meanwhile’
addition to preserve the building while those more
substantive matters are resolved.”
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DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

22
Debra to help
others
A Winstanley resident is setting up a
peer support group for the disabled
people of Wigan.
Debra Baxter, 52, has lived with cerebral palsy all
her life. The peer support group, which will meet at
Debra’s home, is aimed at sharing knowledge with
disabled people, their carers and anyone who is
struggling.
She said: “It’s a life-long
condition that has got
worse with age. But I’ve
had a real life out there;
quite an extraordinary
life. I just want to spread
my knowledge and help
people out.
“Our remit is wide as we
find that people that
struggle the most don’t fit other organizations
criteria and can’t get the help and support they
need. That’s where we step in. We have someone
on the team who understands mental health issues,
and we have knowledge of other organisations too.
“All of us are volunteers and do this because we
want others to have the same opportunities we
have. If someone has a meeting with social services,
they don’t have to be on their own.
“It’s all about living the life we want to live. A lot of
people want to live independently but don’t know
how, and that’s where I want to help.
“We don’t have any premises, but everyone is
welcome in my home for a chat and a cuppa.”
If interested, please contact Debra on 01942
735962; 07834 597302; or email baxterdebra65@
gmail.com

23

24
Class from the past
This month’s Class from the Past is from Abraham
Guest. It’s believed the photo was taken in the early
1960s. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?
Do you have an old class photo you’d like to
share? If so, why not email it to us on wigannews@
locallife247.co.uk

25
£10k for mining statue
A local history group passionate
about commemorating Wigan’s
mining heritage with a statue have
been given a £10,000 cash boost.
Wigan Council presented Wigan Heritage and
Mining Monument (WHAMM) with the cheque,
bringing them one step closer to their £150,000
target. The money will fund a statue featuring a
miner, pit brow lass and a child, which will sit near
Wigan Town Hall, which was the old mining college.
The group needs to raise £40,000 more to turn its
dream into a reality. If you’d like to donate to the
page, visit www.wiganminingstatue.org.uk where
you will find a link to the group’s JustGiving page.

26
Funding available
Funding for projects or community groups in Orrell
and Billinge is now available from the Saturday
Breakfast Community Fundraisers organisation. The
group, who have donated over £7,000 since March
2016, now have £1,500 available. Applications for
the funding must be received by 28th February and
you can pick up application form from the Local
Life offices on Hewitt Business Park on Winstanley
Road in Orrell or email Michael Winstanley on
mwinstanleym@aol.com.
Saturday Breakfast is now open every Saturday
until the end of June, and is served at the Straw
Bale Café at Greenslate Farm on Greenslate Road in
Billinge between 9-11.30am. The Saturday Breakfast
operation is run wholly by volunteers and the group
is always looking for willing additions so if you think
that you would like to get involved, email Alison
Butlin on alisonbutlin@me.com or call in to the café
between 9-11.30am on Saturday.
Summer sport
The YMCA Community Bowling Green, located just
off Winstanley Road, opens on April 1, and will be
then open throughout the summer until the first
week in October. The cost for the entire season
is £22 and everyone is welcome to join. For more
details please call Brian Atherton on 01695 622138.
More parking
An extra 92 parking spaces will be made available
from this May at Wigan Infirmary. Some concessions
will be available, including to those who are visiting
patients who have been in for more than 14 days.
Looking to target
new customers
in 2018?
Leaflets delivered from only £24.50 per 1,000
Delivered to areas throughout
Wigan, Chorley, St Helens & Leigh
Design, print & distribution packages
also available
Call Sally on 01695 627 999 for details
or email sallyb@locallife247.co.uk

27

28

29

30
Property
Now it’s certain the Wigan housing market
in 2017 was a little more subdued than
2016 and that will continue into 2018. Property
ownership is a medium to
long-term investment so
looking at that long-term time
frame; the average Wigan
homeowner who bought their
property 20 years ago has seen
its value rise by a staggering
197%. In monetary value that
means that the profit made by
the average Wigan property
owner over the last 20 years is
£380.78 per month!
This is important, as house
prices are a national obsession
and tied into the health of
the UK economy as a whole. The majority of that
historic gain in Wigan property values has come
from property market growth, although some of that
will have been added by homeowners modernising,
extending or developing their Wigan home.
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.
Long term bet
by Alan Batt
Taking a look at the different property types in
Wigan and the profit made by each type, it makes
interesting reading.
If you’re looking at this as a potential first time buyer,
you may be in wondering what your chances are of
ever becoming a home owner. There is hope on the
horizon though, with a number of factors making it
easier for first time buyers to get onto the housing
ladder.
One important factor has to be the building of new
homes both locally and in the country as a whole.
This has picked up in 2017 with 217,350 homes
coming on to the UK housing ladder in the last year
(a 15% increase on the previous year’s figures of
189,690). However, Philip Hammond has set a target
of 300,000 a year, so as housing supply goes up,
demand should ease and house price increases will
probably be tempered too.

31

32
The Council of Mortgage Lenders expects the
number of buy to let mortgages to drop by 34%
from levels seen in 2015. This is because of taxes
being increased recently on buy-to-let and harder
lending criteria for buy-to-let mortgages, which
means I foresee a gradual move in the balance of
power in favour of first-time buyers rather than buyto-let
landlords.
First time buyers will also be helped by The
Chancellor eradicating Stamp Duty for all properties
up to £300,000 bought by first-time buyers in the
recent budget.
Put all these factors together and 2018 could be a
good year for first time buyers to take their first step
on the housing ladder.
The year ahead...
It shouldn’t surprise you that Wigan
property values are 3.2% higher than a
year ago. Mortgages are cheap, Wigan has a low
unemployment rate of 4.4% and the number of
properties for sale in the town has remained limited.
However, moving into 2018, there will be greater
pressures on people’s incomes as inflation starts
to eat into real wage packet growth, which will be
a strain on consumer confidence. In terms of what
will happen to Wigan property values in the next
12 months, a lot will be contingent on the type of
Brexit we have and the impact on the whole of the
UK economy.
The Central London property market will be under
scrutiny in the coming year, and if the banking and
finance sectors are negatively affected with a poor
Brexit deal, then the London market is likely to see
more of an impact.
Over the last 8 years, the Central London property
market has been in a world of its own with an
89.6% increase, so we might see a heavy correction
in house prices in that area. Although Wigan
homeowners and Wigan landlords should be
aware of what happens in the rollercoaster housing
market of Central London, they shouldn’t panic if
prices drop suddenly there in 2018.
At least we have the Brexit divorce settlement
sorted and, as the UK economy and the UK housing
market are intertwined, it all depends on how we
deal as a country with the Brexit issue. However, we
have been through the global financial crisis and
emerged reasonably intact ... I am sure we can get
through this together as well.
Oh, and house prices in Wigan over the next 12
months? I believe they will end up between 0.5%
lower and 1% higher, although it will probably be a
bumpy ride to get to those sorts of figures.
For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis
on the Wigan property market, check out
www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk

33

34
Czech out Zoe’s challenge
University student Zoe Ball is getting
ready for her biggest sporting
challenge yet.
Zoe, from Orrell, will be taking on the Pedal to
Prague challenge alongside her team to reach
their whopping £12,000 goal. The Pedal to Prague
Challenge is a 700 mile bike ride from Leeds to
Prague, organised by Leeds Raise and Give (RAG)
Society.
Zoe said: “We are cycling as part of Leeds RAG
Society; raising money for Leeds University chosen
charity Candlelighters – a Yorkshireman based
charity who supports the families and children
suffering from cancer. I did a degree in Leeds and
I was a part of the Athletics Society. And I recently
started university again in Sheffield and joined the
cycling society.
“I like taking on new
challenges, I tend to do
something new every
year. I’ve done the Leeds
Half Marathon, Tough
Mudder, and the Leeds
Triathlon, but in the
past I have always raised
money for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
Association, due to family connections.”
Zoe needs help to reach her £400 fundraising goal
to contribute to her team’s £12,000 target, to help
make a difference to many people’s lives.
Please visit https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/
zoeball1 to help Zoe reach her target.
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35
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Clear outstanding mortgages
If you are over 55 call David Griffin
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36

37
Water great
legacy
David Sudworth meets the man who helped erase the scars of
industrialisation from Wigan’s landscape...
John Harris remembers the day he knew
Wigan had to shake itself out of its postindustrial
slumber.
“I was travelling home on a train and the chap
behind me told his girlfriend that it was apparent we
were approaching Wigan because of the slag heaps
and dereliction – it was hurtful yet truthful.”
This was the reality of everyday life for thousands
in the 1970s. While TV channels beamed out
images in glorious technicolor for the first
time, Wigan’s landscape was decidedly
monochrome by comparison. Hundreds
of years of heavy industrialisation had
made the town a thriving centre for
coal production, but at the same time
it had severely scarred its landscape.

38
Orrell resident John, now 64, was one of those
tasked with beautifying the borough.
Originally Pemberton, John grew up on Ridyard
Street and later moved to Marsh Green. He attended
Scot Lane Primary before moving to Gidlow
Secondary Modern, which he left aged 15 without
any qualifications. After four years working at a Lord
& Sharman Ross Works shoemaker’s in Campbell
Street, Pemberton, he got a job with Wigan
Corporation’s Parks Department.
“The double digging was
relentless”
The initiation was a baptism of fire: “I was sent to
Haigh Hall to do ‘double digging’. It was relentless,
no wonder it was actually known as ‘b*****d
trenching’ but I liked being outdoors.
“I started with two guys who had been in prison and
one old seasoned navvy from the building trade. I
was only 19 at the time so it was all a bit intimidating.
“We were among the very first members of the
newly-formed landscape section of the council and
we were the pioneers who transformed that bleak
and often ridiculed
landscape into a
garden city, because
that’s how I saw it
after we became a
huge Metropolitan
Borough.
“In those days, the
parks teams had an
John in the ‘70s
incredible number of
employees; money was literally thrown at us.
“The spoil heaps looked like scenes from a distant
barren planet and could have been ideal settings for
sci-fi films.
“When you look at old pictures, the public parks
looked great, and they were. But they were patches
of brightness on a very grey landscape. It was our
job to ‘colour’ those patches in.”
One of the first projects he was involved with was
the regeneration of the Wallgate and Scholes areas:
“It was around 1975 when we started ‘greening up’
the borough. There were a lot of new communities
being built. Scholes was like a new garden city and
we’d move in once the building works had finished.
It was almost like we were following the builders
Spoil heaps, such as this one in Southern Street, Pemberton, were commonplace in 1970s Wigan

39
around the area. There was also a heck of a lot of
tree planting. It’s something we take for granted
now but there are many more trees now than there
used to be. We used to get whips for a few pence
each so if any were pulled up - and there was a lot
of vandalism around at that time - we’d simply plant
another one.”
“It was pure slack... with
clay underneath”
The programme of regeneration was painstaking
work, done over a number of years. In the late 1980s,
attentions turned to making Orrell reservoirs into an
attraction. But the geology of the land, coupled with
its industrial use in the past, proved challenging: “All
the area was mostly spoil; you’d dig into and it was
pure slack. And then underneath it, there’s naturally
occurring builders’ clay. That makes it even more
challenging.
“The streams had to be cleaned and we put in three
control flow dams which are still there to this day.
“The wetlands were really welcomed by the
community and we had a lot of help from local
During the demolition of Scholes in the 1970s
The creation of the wetlands at Orrell Water Park in the late 1980s

40
initial task was to find a ‘Pulham’ expert. However,
this proved futile so I ultimately assembled a small
team to research the work of the Pulhams.
volunteers. The good thing for us was that once we’d
done the basic work, nature took over very quickly.
Within 12 months, wildlife had been attracted to
the area and there were even nests filled with egs. It
was a remarkable transformation.”
These days, John, of Parkside Crescent, runs his
own consultancy business; using his considerable
expertise on projects right across the UK. Thanks to
his work in Wigan’s Mesnes Park, John is a respected
authority on Pulham, who are best remembered for
the picturesque rock gardens, ferneries, follies and
grottoes they constructed during the Victorian era.
“Some years earlier I had investigated a ‘lost garden’
of rock scenery and cascades at the edge of the
lake in Mesnes Park. This area had been enveloped
by ivy for many years, but the initial clearance work
by volunteers revealed not only a recognisable
‘Pulham’ rockwork but one of real significance with
noteworthy trademarks. I then worked with a small
team to decide on the best practice for returning
this rock scenery to its former splendour and the
“It was strange to suddenly be in the position of
having to make crucial decisions, but it forced me
to step out of my comfort zone. Before long I had
gathered enough evidence to confidently inform
the restoration of the rock scenery at Mesnes Park
- and true to the style and methods of the Pulhams.”
“It’s a legacy for the
people of Wigan”
It’s clear that, even after six years since he retired
from the council, John still gets a massive sense of
pride for helping the area become well-known for
more than positive things than grime and misery:
“There’s a whole generation of people now who
don’t realise what Wigan was like at one time. We’ve
got parks and public open spaces which are the
envy of many.
“I travel all around Britain with my work and people
often remind me of how great our Borough is –
particularly the wildlife around the Wigan Flashes,
Pennington Flash and Orrell Water Park. It’s a legacy
for the people of Wigan. Nowadays, nobody on a
train to Wigan talks about slagheaps and dereliction.
It’s all about the sport or going shopping.

41

42
Fundraising event
Regular readers will need no introduction to Kath
Maguire, Edith Berry and Anne Hurst, who have
raised tens of thousands of pounds by hosting
fundraisers for the Macmillan charity.
This fundraiser however, is looking to raise funds
for their church, St Thomas the Martyr in Church
Street, Up Holland. Promising an evening of song
and fashion, the event is held on Friday, March 23, at
the church, starting at 7pm. Stalls will also be selling
fancy goods, cakes and vegetables.
To buy tickets, or for further information, please call
Kath on 01695 721038.
Saturday church
St Luke’s Church on Lodge Road, Orrell, is now
open every Saturday, from 10am-noon, to provide
a quiet place for people to go and pray or just sit
quietly. As well as space for private prayer, there will
be information about the church and its activities,
access to the church library where anyone can
borrow books, access to the church book and card
stall, and refreshments. There is parking available
and the event is dog-friendly.
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43

44
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46
Billinge
Planning Matters
1 Park Road: To convert garage into a small cattery
and pet grooming room (ref: A/17/84908/CU).
Pemberton
White Lion, 736 Ormskirk Road: Change of use
from Public House to Children’s Day Nursery (ref:
A/18/85049/CU).
Wigan Central
2 Bishopgate: Change of Use of premises to
authentic Thai massage use (ref: A/17/84997/CU).
57 Kenyon Road: Change of use from A3 Restaurant
and Cafes to A4 Drinking Establishment, to include
glazed extension to front and side (ref: A/17/84872/
CU).
Wigan West
Unit 1, 263 Woodhouse Lane: Change of use to car
dealership, together with the installation of new bifold
door to front elevation (ref: A/18/85013/CU).
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48
Travel
NYC’s the place to be
New York, New York... so good they named
it twice.
Of course, that’s not strictly correct. One refers
to the city, and the other refers to the state, but
nevertheless it’s a place where you can double up
on everything. From the food portions to sheer size
of the buildings, NYC likes to go big.
From its earliest days, New York was linked with
power and fame. It was named after the then Duke
of York, who later became King James II.
It became the gateway to immigrants seeking a
better life in the New World. Today, it’s a city of 8.5m
people. Some experts believe there’s about 800
different languages spoken in the city. Spend even
an hour in New York and you’d swear they were all
being spoken at once. It wasn’t dubbed by the city’s
best-known crooner, Frank Sinatra, as “the city that
doesn’t sleep” for nothing...
As for places to visit, New York leaves you spoilt for
choice. ‘Friends’ enthusiasts from across the globe
can re-enact the TV shows opening credits and frolic
in the fountain found in Central Park. And while
we’re on the subject of the enormous man-made
open space running through Manhattan almost
cutting the city in two, Central Park offers locals and
tourists alike a place to get away from the hustle
and bustle of the big city. Whether picnicking in the
summer, or enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride
through the snow in the winter.

49
And Christmas in NYC is one like no other. Picture
ice skating at the Rockefeller Centre around the
beautifully dressed Christmas tree worthy of giants,
window shopping (or blowing your dollars) along
Fifth Avenue, scaling the heights of the Empire State
Building and seeing the concrete jungle twinkling
below. You never know, you may have your very
own ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ moment.
More than 15 years have now passed since the
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Trade Centre and 9/11 Memorial are living tributes
that honour the lives lost and celebrate New York
City’s resilience.
Travel back in time on Ellis Island and put yourself
in the shoes of 12 million immigrants from Ireland,
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Lovers of the arts must make a stop on Broadway,
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head on down to Times Square and see for yourself
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50
And if it’s culture you’re after, put the Metropolitan
Opera House, Radio City Music Hall and the Museum
of Modern Art on your to-do list.
Big kids must make a stop at FAO Schwarz – one of
the oldest and most iconic toy stores in the world –
where a visit feels like a trip to the theatre. And let’s
not forget about the M&M’s and Hershey stores for
all your candy needs.
Why not walk the steps of the Metropolitan Museum
of Art and imagine what your life would be like if you
had a golden ticket to the annual Met Gala rubbing
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There are many landmarks in New York that are
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more to the beautiful train station. You can eat some
lunch or shop till you drop, but many travellers go to
take in the scenery.
In a city as vast as New York, there are different things
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52
All the puzzle solutions are on page 80 of this magazine
CROSSWORD
Across:
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8. Let Go (6)
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11. Pursuit(7)
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18. Paltry (8)
19. Urban Area (4)
21. Brogue (6)
22. Dried Fruit (6)
Down:
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2. Eloquent (6-7)
3. Slope (7)
4. Anthropoid (5)
5. Bathroom Divider (6,7)
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Call 01942 864000 and we’ll come to you!
www.millercare.co.uk

53
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54
Race against time for centre
Campaigners are in a race against
time to secure a brand new health
centre for Orrell.
Orrell Methodist Church - the preferred site for a
new centre - is set to close on the final Sunday in
May.
Local church leaders are now hoping that, before
responsibility for the site transfers back to the
national Methodist Church body, they can present
a case for using the land at Church Drive as a health
centre.
However, Local Life understands that the project’s
viability rests on whether local GPs at Orrell Surgery
are willing to move.
If they don’t, it’s been suggested that any funding
set aside for the building would be lost and the site
would be put up for sale on the open market. The
site is widely seen as the only viable location for a
health centre in this part of Orrell.
A meeting between the key players was scheduled
to take place as Local Life went to press.
Keith Trencher, of
Orrell Methodist
Church, told Local
Life: “After the end of
May, responsibility
for the church falls
back to the national
Methodist Church
organisation. So we
have until then to
put together a plan
to present to the
national body who can then take it forward. After
May, it would be out of our hands locally.
“Orrell has needed a health centre for 40 years, and
we hope this site can provide it.”
MP Yvonne Fovargue confirmed that she’s held
talks with a representative from the surgery, and
reiterated her call for the doctors to sign up.
As Local Life went to press, Orrell Surgery had not
responded to our request for a comment.

55

56
Health & Fitness
Prostate cancer
by Niamh Ollerton
New figures released by Prostate Cancer UK in
early February 2018 found prostate cancer is now a
bigger killer than breast cancer – about one in eight
men in the UK will get prostate cancer at some
point in their lives – meaning the male-only disease
is now the third most common cancer to die from,
after lung and bowel cancer, with one man dying
every 45 minutes.
The research from Prostate Cancer UK revealed that
11,819 men now die from prostate cancer every
year in the UK, compared to 11,442 women dying
from breast cancer.
The prostate gland sits underneath the bladder and
surrounds the urethra, the tube men urinate and
ejaculate through. It is usually the size and shape of
a walnut and grows bigger as you get older.
When cells in the prostate begin to grow in an
uncontrolled way, prostate cancer can develop. The
cancer often grows slowly to start with and may
not cause problems, but in some cases the cancer
is more likely to spread and treatment is necessary
to stop it spreading outside the prostate.
If contained within the prostate (localised prostate
cancer or early prostate cancer) there usually are no
symptoms, but some men may suffer from urinary
problems. These can be mild and happen over
many years and may be a sign of a benign prostate
problem, rather than prostate cancer.
The risk
Prostate cancer mainly affects men over 50, and
the risk increases with age, and the average age for
diagnosis is between 65 and 69 years. Men under
50 can get it, but it isn’t common. But, you may also
have a high risk if you’re over 45 and have a family
history of prostate cancer or are a black man. If
you’re worried about your risk, do speak to your GP.
March for Men
Official fundraising events will be held across
the summer months in aid of Prostate Cancer UK
known as ‘March for Men.’
On Sunday, June 10, March for Men will be making
its way to Wythenshawe Park, Manchester. Walkers
of all abilities are invited to take park in the short
(2k), medium (5k) or long (10k) walk through one
of Manchester’s finest parks. The event site opens
at 10am and the walk starts at 11am. It’s £10 to
register with a £50 suggested fundraising target.
There’s also the Liverpool March for Men taking
place on the same day at Croxteth Hall and Country
Park. Again you can take on either the short,
medium or long, walk making your way around one
of Liverpool’s most important heritage sites.
The short route on both walks are fully accessible
for wheelchairs and pushchairs. So round up your
loved ones and register now to help stop prostate
cancer being a killer.
For more details and to register for either walk visit
prostatecanceruk.org
Prostate Cancer UK is the largest men’s health
charity and they aim to help more men survive
prostate cancer and enjoy a better quality of life.

57

58
Financial Planning
Putting the time in
Triggers for market volatility can come in
many different forms - Donald Trump saying
something he shouldn’t, policy uncertainty,
earnings reports, geopolitical unrest. I fully
understand that market swings can rattle even the
most seasoned investors however it is just part and
parcel of stock market investing.
The best time to invest in recent years was 2009,
just after the financial crisis giving a return of 110%
by the start of 2017. But investing before the crisis
in 2006 was not bad either; the road may have been
rougher, but investors still doubled their money*.
Instead of being worried by volatility, be prepared.
A well-defined investment plan tailored to your
goals can help you be ready for the ups and downs
of the market, and take advantage of opportunities
as they arise.
by David K Barton
APFS Cert CII(MP),
Chartered Financial Planner
and Managing Director
Market volatility should be a reminder to review
your investments regularly and make sure you
consider an investment strategy with exposure to
different areas of the markets to ensure that you
match the overall risk in your portfolio to your
personality and goals. Your time horizon, goals,
and tolerance for risk are key factors in helping to
ensure that you have an investing strategy that
works for you.
It’s time in the market, not timing the
market which creates wealth.
Market downturns may be upsetting, but history
shows that the stock markets has been able to
recover from declines and can still provide investors
with positive long-term returns. Take 2015/16 in
the U.S. stock market as an example; U.S. stocks
experienced sharp drops in August 2015 when
China devalued its currency; in January 2016, as oil
prices dropped; in June of 2016, after the “Brexit”
vote; and in the run up to the 2016 U.S. presidential
election. Still, during the 2-year period, the market
was up close to 8% cumulatively.
Attempting to move in and out of the market can
be costly. Studies from independent research firm
Morningstar show that the decisions investors
make about when to buy and sell funds cause those
investors to perform worse than they would have
had the investors simply bought and held the same
funds. It is impossible to consistently predict when
those good and bad days will happen.
The adage goes it’s time in the market not timing
the market which creates wealth. We’re here to
make it as comfortable as possible but the market’s
gains are only there for those who can ride out a
few bumps on the way.
* FTSE UK Private Investor Balanced Index
The value of investments can fall as well as rise
and you may get back less than you invested

59

60
Eggs-cellent gesture
A Pemberton retailer has
pledged to gift a chocolate
egg to every child attending
Pemberton Community
Association’s Easter party this
year.
Land of Beds responded to the not-for-profit
group’s Facebook appeal for donations
towards their Easter celebrations, where 80
local children are expected to attend.
The news was welcomed by Helen
Arrowsmith, chairman of the association,
who said: “Funding is always a challenge, so
we really appreciate every single donation
we receive throughout the year. Our
children’s party is set to be another great
family occasion within the local community,
and Land of Beds’ Easter eggs are sure to go
down a treat!
‘On behalf of the association, I would like
to thank Land of Beds’ managing director
Mike Murray and all the team at Ellesmere
Road, who have only recently moved into
Pemberton.”
The children’s party is set to take place at the
Pemberton Masonic Hall on Chapel Street from
1pm-3pm on Easter Monday (April 2). Admission
to the event is by ticket only; these are available to
purchase from Pemberton Lighting at a cost of £4
per child.
An entertainer and spot prizes will be provided, as
well as lunch for every child with a ticket.
Recently voted Britain’s ‘Retail Family Business of
the Year’, Land of Beds invited junior members
of Pemberton Old Wigan DW Band to play at the
grand opening of their store, which is located at the
former Abbott & Smith premises.
Discussing his latest community contribution,
father-of-two Mike said: “My children, who are aged
eight and four, absolutely love Easter, so when we
heard about Pemberton Community Association’s
appeal, my wife and I instantly knew that we
wanted to get involved.
‘Family values are at the heart of everything we
do at Land of Beds, so we are delighted to be
contributing to a local event that we know will
bring a lot of happiness to families in Pemberton.”
Sponsorship opportunities and donations
continue to be welcomed by Pemberton
Community Association. To express an interest or
pledge support, contact Helen on 07925 867070.

61
Nursery plan for former Pemberton pub
A former pub in Pemberton is set to be given a new
lease of life if planning permission goes ahead.
Proposals have been made to change the use of The
White Lion pub to a children’s day nursery, which
will be open from 7am-6pm, Monday to Friday for
51 weeks of the year.
Papers submitted to Wigan Council say children will
have access to the ground and first floor and walled
outdoor area to the rear. But the changeover to a
nursery will also provide job opportunities for the
equivalent of 13 full-time staff. Four full time staff
will have access to the secure car park on Major between 7am-8.30am on the large car park to the
Street, Pemberton, and parking is available for 15 left of the building, with short stay drop off and
staff on Church Street car park. But car sharing will pick-ups on Major Street and Worsley Street.
be promoted among staff.
For more information on this planning application,
Parents/carers will be able to use drop off parking please visit https://apps.wigan.gov.uk/planapps/
Out of sight
An Orrell student
has been named
as the UK’s top day
release student by
the Association of
British Dispensing
Opticians.
Rachel Millbank (pictured) from Church Street, has
combined working at Hepworth and Hall opticians
on Ormskirk Road in Pemberton with studying one
day a week at Bradford College. Rachel, who is 28,
recently graduated with a degree in Ophthalmic
Dispensing and was shocked to hear that she had
won the national award, “I was shocked to learn
about the national award but I was very proud of
myself. The course has been hard work but the
achievement makes it all worth it”.
No so sweet charity
Growth in the number of charity shops is hurting
Wigan Council’s coffers. A report to councillors
outlined the numerous issues facing the authority’s
ability to raise revenue.
And although Business Rates collected local can
now be retained by Greater Manchester councils,
rather than going back to the government, the
amount raised is affected by the amount of charities
operating in the borough.
The report said: “An implication for the council is the
increasing number of businesses being classified
as charitable organisations. This classification is
subject to an automatic 80% relief on business
rates with the remaining 20% being subject to local
discretion.”
The report also warned again of the number of
successful appeals against Business Rates, and
warned that was likely to remain the case for
some time: “The council has lost in excess of £5.5m
business rates income since 2010 as a result of
successful appeals.”

62
Business View
can help
How we
by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy
CMA provide dynamic, value for money
accountancy services and work alongside
business owners to implement cloud based
solutions that enables them to work efficiently and
achieve their personal and business goals.
Despite all the uncertainties of Brexit, 2018 presents
opportunities for company owners to build their
business and for individuals to improve their
financial position. Here at CMA we can help make
the coming year more successful for you.
For Business Owners we can:
• Streamline your bookkeeping records by
introducing you to cloud based software that will
save you both time and money.
• Show you how to conveniently manage your
finances at push of a button by using your camera
on a smartphone and send receipts directly to
your accounting software
• If you want to focus on growing your business
then why not outsource your bookkeeping to us.
You’ll be surprised how much extra time this will
free up.
• Provide management accounts which will allow
you to plan for your tax payments and see how
you are performing before your year end.
• Help you plan for the upcoming changes being
introduced under Making Tax Digital and the
General Data Protection Regulations.
• Advise business on how pension auto enrolment
will impact their business.
• Act as a sounding board for business owners to
bounce ideas off.
For Individuals we can:
• Ensure that you have fully utilised your tax
allowances for 2017-18 particular in regards to
capital gains tax and pensions contributions.
• Look at salary sacrifice opportunities for high
income individuals
• Advise property owners with buy to let properties
on the impact of the changes being introduced
for interest charges and other deductible
expenses.
Please contact us if you would like to discuss
anything in this article. We don’t make a charge for
an initial meeting and it is a good way to see how
we can work together. So drop by the office on Skull
House Lane in Appley Bridge and we can discuss
these further over a coffee.
Contact Details
Chris Alcock ACMA
CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley
Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR
Tel: 01257 255521
Email info@handsonaccounting.co.uk
web www.handsonaccounting.co.uk

63
SA deadline
Benefits
AE
VAT
Do you need
help and
guidance with;
SA
Company Accounts?
Auto Enrolment?
Self Assessment?
Cloud-based Software?
Payroll Services?
Call CMA Accountancy today
www.cma-accountancy.com
info@cma-accountancy.com
Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521

64
Food & Drink
FODMAP diet
By Gemma Dunn
FODMAPs - fermentable, oligosaccharides,
disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols
- are types of short-chain carbohydrates that can
be tricky to digest, and they can wreak havoc for
some people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),
a common condition associated with digestive
symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, constipation
and cramps.
They can be found in a wide range of foods, including
certain fruits, veggies, grains and nuts - onions,
garlic and apples are prime examples (though not
everybody with IBS is affected by the same foods
in the same ways). But cutting out, or cutting down
on key culprits can help - and if anyone can vouch
for the effective of a low FODMAP diet it’s Hatcher, a
long-term sufferer of IBS and a sensitive gut.
“It was a light bulb moment of, ‘Oh my God, this
could actually really help’,” the 23-year-old recalls of
her dietician’s suggestion to try the plan, following
years of cutting out various foods to no effect.
“You don’t realise quite how much it affects your
life until after your symptoms have gone, and you
think, ‘Wow, I’m not thinking about when I’m next
going to need the bathroom, or what I’m going to
eat on my work lunch break today’.
Discovering that the information available was
minimal - she recalls initially being handed “a very
uninspiring, four-page leaflet with a big long list of
foods to cut out” - the forward-thinking millennial
embarked on a one-woman
mission to show that the diet
needn’t be restrictive.
She’s since been a pillar of support
for countless others in a similar position, via her
brilliantly titled lifestyle blog, She Can’t Eat What?!
Now, Hatcher’s sharing her insights in her debit
cookbook, The FODMAP Friendly Kitchen.
As well as avoiding processed foods and sugars,
Hatcher devised a menu of simple, healthy and
delicious dishes, that all require no unobtainable
ingredients.
“I’m not a chef, so if I can make them, anybody
can,” she insists. “These 100 recipes were designed
to be that foundation; they’re all completely low
FODMAP, people can tailor them depending on
their personal tolerances, and they’re all really easy.”
A self-confessed chocolate lover, she adds: “It’s
such a cliche, but it is all about balance and maybe
eating healthier on a weeknight and then having
that doughnut that you really want on a Friday or a
weekend. “It’s not a sugar-free diet, it’s not a fat-free
diet,” she concludes. “You can still eat the foods that
you could eat before, you just have to make those
simple swaps, which might actually be better for
your gut in more ways than one.”
Intrigued to give low Fodmap eating a go? Here are
three tasty recipes from Hatcher’s new book to try
at home...
The FODMAP Friendly Kitchen by Emma Hatcher is published by Yellow Kite in hardback, £20.

65
Lightened Up Lasagne
Serves 6-8
Ingredients
1 parsnip, peeled and diced
3 carrots, peeled and diced
1 red pepper, diced
2tbsp olive oil
1kg minced beef
2 tins (each 400g) chopped tomatoes
120ml water
2tsp dried oregano
2 bay leaves
20g basil
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 butternut squash
200g spinach
100g grated mozzarella
Method
In a large saucepan, heat one tablespoon of the oil
and saute the parsnip, carrot and pepper until soft.
Add the mince and cook until browned.
Pour in the tomatoes and water and stir in the
oregano, bay leaves and basil. Simmer for roughly
one hour until the meat is tender and saucy.
Taste and season.
Preheat the oven to 180C (gas 4). Peel and cut the
squash into thin slices, as if lasagne sheets. Bake in
the oven with a drizzle of olive oil for 15 minutes.
Once tender, you can get to work on layering the
lasagne, just quickly fish out your bay leaves from
your meat first. In a baking dish, add one layer of the
mince mixture, one layer of spinach and one layer
of squash, repeating until all of the ingredients are
used up. Sprinkle with the cheese and bake in the
oven at the same temperature for 30 minutes, or
until the top is crispy.

66
Buckwheat Risotto
with Macadamia Cream
Serves 4
Ingredients
1 large aubergine, chopped into small chunks
2tbsp garlic-infused oil
255g buckwheat groats (available from good
supermarkets)
80ml dry white wine
470ml vegetable stock or hot water
150g spring greens
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/2 small bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
Grated parmesan, to serve (optional)
For the macadamia cream:
40g macadamia nuts, soaked for 5 hours or
overnight
35g sunflower seeds
160ml water
1/2 tsp sea salt
1tbsp lemon juice
Method
To make the macadamia cream, add all of the
ingredients apart from the water into the bowl of
a food processor and pulse to combine. While the
processor is still running, pour in the water bit by bit,
until you reach a thick, cream-like consistency. Leave
to one side whilst preparing the rest of the dish.
To make the risotto, heat the garlic-infused oil in a
saucepan over a medium heat. Add the aubergine
and saute for about 10 minutes or until softened
and starting to brown. Add the buckwheat groats to
the pan. Toss and let cook, ‘toasting’ the buckwheat,
for one to two minutes.
Add the wine, stir and let cook until completely
absorbed. Ladle in the vegetable stock, a little bit at
a time, keeping the mixture at a low simmer.
Each time the liquid is absorbed by the buckwheat,
add a bit more, until you’ve used up all the stock and
it’s been absorbed fully by the buckwheat. Have a
quick taste. The buckwheat should be tender at this
point, but not mushy. Add in the spring greens and
lemon juice and cook for another couple of minutes.
Take the pan off the heat and stir the macadamia
cream.
Divide into bowls and serve topped with parsley,
lemon zest, and a little parmesan, if you like.

67
Mother’s Day
at Holland Hall
Sunday 11th March from 12 noon to 6pm
3 course meal created by our Head Chef
Set in our Newly Refurbished Garden Suite
Adults £19.95, Children £9.95*
*3 course half portion Mother’s Day Menu or children’s menu
Every Mum receives a gift on the Day!
Bookings now being taken - contact the Holland Hall Events Team
T: 01695 624426 E: info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk
Check out our Taste Test review by Local Life
in the West Lancashire, February edition
www.locallife247.co.uk
The Perfect Wedding Day
Holland Hall Hotel is set in private grounds of the Historic Village of Upholland. The
Original Manor House dates back to 1654 offering original features such as open
fireplace and original beams.
The Contemporary Garden & Terrace Wedding Suites offer a modern setting
leading onto a private garden patio. The Suites are also licensed for Wedding
Ceremonies including the Garden Pergoda.
Perfect Wedding Day Package £5495
Please contact Holland Hall Wedding Co-ordinator Karen Caddock
to arrange an appointment to discuss your Perfect Day
HOLLAND HALL
HOTEL
Holland Hall Hotel
Lafford Lane, Up Holland,
WN5 OQZ
info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk
01695 624426

68
Upload your event for FREE at
www.locallife247.co.uk/events
Follow us on Facebook
events2go
Racing Scholarship Qualifier
Sunday, February 25, 9am-7pm
You could become a racing driver in 2018. You’ll
race a fully funded season in the National Formula
Ford Championship plus a testing programme by
driving on the simulators at Three Sisters Circuit,
Wigan. Book at www.jmrscholarship.co.uk to secure
your place in advance.
Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Road, Ashton in
Makerfield, WN4 8DD. Tel: 01942 719030
Audience with Murder
Wed Feb 28, 7.30pm to Sat, Mar 10, 7.30pm
It’s been called ‘A Russian doll of a play’, as layer
after layer, it moves from a seemingly innocuous
domestic play, through a murder mystery, to an
unexpected climax. Tickets and info from www.
wiganlittletheatre.co.uk/performances/audiencewith-murder/
*The play contains strong language.*
Wigan Little Theatre, Crompton Street, Wigan,
WN1 3SL. Tel: 01942 242561
Tallula Vintage
Thursday, March 1, 4pm-11pm
Tallula Vintage specialises in one-off garments,
accessories, retro style pieces and hand-made
clothing. Tallula pride themselves on being unique
with a collection of clothing from all over the globe.
Free event, but register interest at www.eventbrite.
co.uk/e/tallula-vintage-tickets-41943573357
The Bailiff Bar, The Old Courts, Crawford Street,
Wigan, WN1 1NA. Tel: 01942 834747
60’s Charity Night
Friday, March 2, 7.30pm
Enjoy a 60’s themed charity night with food, fun,
a raffle and auction. Local band T’OTHERS will be
performing all night. All proceeds will go to the
Storehouse Project, a local charity helping the
most vulnerable in our community. For tickets call
07816623612
St Judes Social Club, Poolstock Lane, Wigan, WN3
5JE. Tel: 01942 241401
Pink Floydian
Saturday, March 3, doors open 7pm, starts 9pm
Pink Floydian is one of the most authentic Pink Floyd
tribute bands playing their inconic songs including
“Shine on you crazy diamond” and “A Great Gig in
the Sky.” To book the band call Ian on 07427 611 957
or email info@pinkfloydian.com Tickets are £8.80
(incl. booking fee) www.seetickets.com
The E Rooms, 14 Westgate, Skelmersdale, WN8
8AZ. Tel: 01695 731016
Junkhouse Dog Blues Band
Saturday, March 3, 7.30pm-11.30pm
The Manchester-based Blues Band was founded
and fronted by British Blues Harmonica Champion
Luke Shaw. Junkhouse Dog mixes shuffles and
electric swing with vintage Chicago style grit.
Tickets are £8 in advance www.eventbrite.co.uk or
£10 on the door.
The Bailiff Bar, The Old Courts, Crawford Street,
Wigan, WN1 1NA. Tel: 01942 834747

69
Stay & Play - Wigan
Monday, March 5, 5pm-7pm
Free Stay & Play for children with additional needs
and their siblings. Come have a coffee and a chat
while the kids play! No need to book. First Monday
of the month (term time only).
Hop, Skip & Jump, Wigan Youth Zone, Parsons
Walk, Wigan, WN1 1RU. Tel: 01942 807373
Ladies Luncheon & Fashion
Thursday, March 8, doors open from 11.30am
Ladies luncheon with fashion show by Barbara’s of
Standish. The event has been organised by Wigan
Flower Club. Tickets are £28 each and can be
purchased by calling Barbara’s of Standish on 01257
425480.
Ashfield House, Ashfield Park Drive, Standish,
Wigan, WN6 0EQ. Tel: 01257 473500
Martin Taylor MBE
Thursday, March 8, 7.30pm-11.30pm
Solo Jazz guitarist, self-taught since the age
of 4 Martin Taylor MBE has made a mark in the
industry. The Grammy nominated, virtuoso player
and composer, has a 50 year career with 14 British
Jazz Awards and multiple collaborations including
Jeff Beck, Tommy Emmanuel, George Harrison,
and Dianne Schuur. Tickets are £20 on the door or
£18.98 in advance www.eventbrite.co.uk Over 14’s
by an adult.
The Theatre, The Old Courts, Crawford Street,
Wigan, WN1 1NA. Tel: 01942 834747
The GMP Band
Friday, March 9, 7.30pm-11pm
St John Rigby College is pleased to welcome back
the GMP Band for the third year! It’ll be an evening
filled with pop, soul and funk! Free entry.
St John Rigby College, Gathurst Road, Orell, WN5
0LJ. Tel: 01942 214797
Pizza & Pint night
Friday, March 9, 6pm-10pm
An evening of artisan pizza and craft beers. Slow
proved sourdough wood fired artisan pizza from
the vintage horse trailer. The beer sommelier
carefully pairs each menu with a selection of craft
beer along with a selection of gins and fine wines.
Two Left Feet Tap, Kitchen Courtyard, Haigh
Woodland Park, WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828 280
Night at the Races
Saturday, March 10, 7pm-11.59pm
Everyone’s a winner at this race night. You can
buy horses with the owners of the winning horses
winning prizes, have a bet and win pennies galore,
as well as lots of fun and games.
Honeysuckle Inn, 75 Pool Street, Wigan, WN3 5BT.
Tel: 01942 241551
Artisan Market
Saturday, March 10, 10am-4pm
Wigan Auction House on Miry Lane Wigan has
announced a new monthly market day on the
second Saturday of each month. There’ll be stall
holders selling organic meat and dairy, artisan
pies and cakes, arts and crafts, bespoke children’s’
clothes, vintage traders and more. Free entry.
Wigan Auction House, Miry Lane, Wigan, WN6
7TG. Tel: 01942 230460
Rio Carnival in Liverpool
Friday, March 16, 10pm to Saturday, March 17, 4am
There’ll be Latin parade performers, Carnival
Samba with infamous Rio beats and rhythms and
international DJ’s. As well as a range of South
American Street food stalls, Brazilian beers, and a
face paint artist. Find out all you need to know at
www.facebook.com/events/510369545981463/
Liverpool

70
Competition
The award-winning ‘The Beatles Story’ is the world’s largest permanent
exhibition purely devoted to telling the story of The Beatles’ rise to fame and
Local Life has three pairs of tickets for The Beatles Story to give away in our latest
competition.
Located in the Fab Four’s hometown of Liverpool on the stunning UNESCO World
heritage waterfront at the Albert Dock, The Beatles Story takes visitors on an
immersive journey through the lives, times, culture and music of the world’s greatest
band.
Join The Beatles on their journey; first conquering Liverpool, and then the world,
through recreations of key locations from the band’s career including The Casbah
Club, The Cavern Club, and Abbey Road Studios.
Multi-media audio guides are available in ten different languages
including Mandarin, Brazilian Portuguese, French and German, and
are beautifully narrated by John Lennon’s sister, Julia. The FREE
guide is packed with information, imagery, and features video

71
interviews with Paul
McCartney and Ringo
Starr, giving visitors a
unique insight into the
story of the Fab Four.
A must for any music
fan, The Beatles Story
features an impressive
collection of fascinating
memorabilia including
the band’s original
instruments, John
Lennon’s New York
piano, Ringo Starr’s drum kit, rare album sleeves,
photography and original lyrics.
New items recently introduced include the original
Strawberry Field Gates, the ‘Holy Grail’ record that
launched The Beatles, Brian Epstein’s Jacket and
to mark 50 years since the release of Sgt Pepper,
a range of new memorabilia including a full set of
authentic replica suits.
Finish your perfect historical experience in one of
two Beatles-themed Fab4 Cafes or browse through
a fantastic range of products available from one of
the Fab4 Stores.
Story, simply visit our website www.locallife247.
co.uk, click on ‘free stuff’ and then on ‘competitions’.
To enter the competition just input your answer to
the following question;
On which famous Liverpool dock is The Beatles
Story located?
The expiry date for the competition is Saturday 31st March
2018. Entrants must be over 16 years of age. Only one entry
per household. Local Life 247 cannot accept responsibility for
entries that do not reach us. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd
and their families are not eligible to enter this competition.
For more information and to buy tickets please
visit beatlesstory.com
In 2018, The Beatles Story celebrates 50 years since
The Beatles travelled to India with the launch of a
special exhibition. ‘Beatles In India’ looks at this key
period in time with new memorabilia, imagery and
personal accounts from people who were there
with them.
To win one of three pairs of tickets for The Beatles

72
Crazy Golf Re-Opening
Saturday, March 17, 11am-4pm
To celebrate St Patricks Day the Crazy Golf at Haigh
will be open for the day. The Friends of Haigh
Country Park built and manage an 18-hole course
opposite the High Ropes adventure course in Haigh
Woodland Park. A round of golf is £1 per player.
Haigh Woodland Park, School Lane, Wigan, WN2
1PE. Tel: 01942 828280
Family Charity Night
Saturday, March 17, doors open at 6.30pm
St Patrick’s Day Family Charity Night in aid of Little
Angels Staffie Rescue. There’ll be bingo, a quiz,
raffle, Irish games and a delicious hotpot. Tickets are
£6 for adults and £3 for under 12s. Contact Susan
Finch on 07944 084971 for more info and tickets.
St James Social Centre, St James’ Road, Orrell,
WN5 7AA. Tel: 01695 623902
Run Wigan Festival 2
Sunday, March 18, 9.30am-2pm
Joining Jack has organised Half Marathon, 5k and
Family Mile races all starting in Market Street for
you to spectate or take part. There’ll be live music
and entertainment and European food markets
too. To register your place for any race visit http://
runwiganfestivals.co.uk/
Market Street, Wigan
Artisan Market
Sun, Mar 18, Sun, Apr 22, Sun, May 20, 10am-4pm
Haigh’s monthly artisan market rocks back to the
park and there are monthly dates available until
December 2018! There’ll be more than 80 art, food,
craft, and drink artisans, as well as street food, live
music and great community atmosphere.
Haigh Woodland Park, Haigh, WN2 1PE. Tel: 07789
181677
1940s Night
Friday, March 23, 7.30pm-11pm
Helen Marie Charity presents a 1940s Night with
Katz Korner. There’ll be a hotpot dinner and dessert,
raffle and tombola. Tickets are £12 and all proceeds
go towards sick and disabled children. Call 07724
995298 for tickets.
St Mary’s Club, Trent Road, Billinge, WN5 7QT. Tel:
01744 892836
Fundraising Event
Friday, March 23, 7pm
Enjoy an evening of song, fashion and much more
including fancy goods, cake and veg stalls and
an Easter Bonnet competition. Tickets are £5. For
further information and tickets please contact Kath
McGuire on 01695 721038.
Church of St Thomas the Martyr, 7 Church St, Up
Holland, WN8 0ND. Tel: 01695 728091
Easter Weekend
Friday, March 30, 3pm to Sunday, April 1, 3pm
Join the Easter weekend celebrations at the
Poacher, where there’ll be something for all ages,
big kids included.
The Poacher Winstanley, Holmes House Avenue,
Winstanley, WN3 6JA. Tel: 01942 214648
Build a Unicorn workshop
Wednesday, April 4, 10.30am-11.30am
Step into colourful Unicorn Land to build a 16”
cuddly unicorn to take home, and design T-shirts for
your little ones to wear! £15 per child suitable for 3+
(inc drink and unicorn biscuit). Booking is required.
Whittle Vintage Tea Room & Café, 34 Chorley Old
Road, Whittle-Le-Woods, PR6 7LD. Tel: 01257
367260

73
Much Ado About Nothing
Wednesday, April 11, 7.30pm to Saturday, April
21, 7.30pm (7.30pm showings every day)
Benedick and Beatrice are tricked into confessing
their love for each other, and Claudio is tricked into
rejecting Hero at the altar. The first Wednesday &
Thursday are £10, Monday is £10, and other nights
are £12. Online bookings subject to 60p per ticket
www.wiganlittletheatre.co.uk
Wigan Little Theatre, 44 Crompton Street, Wigan,
WN1 3SL. Box Office: 01942 242561.
ST JAMES SOCIAL CENTRE
St James Road, Orrell
PRESENTS
Star NIGHT
Friday 6th April, 2018
Doors open 7.00pm - starts 7.45pm
In aid of
Robinson OBE
Thursday, April 12, 7.30pm-11.30pm
Jason Robinson OBE will be speaking and taking
part in a Q&A offering an insight into his career of
rugby league and union. Compère for the night is
comic John Lebbon. Tickets are £18(+£1.26 booking
fee) via www.eventbrite.co.uk or £23 on the door.
The Theatre, The Old Courts, Crawford Street,
Wigan, WN1 1NA. Tel: 01942 834747
The Wizard of Oz
Thursday, April 12, 6pm-8pm; Friday, April 13,
2pm-4pm; Friday, April 13, 6pm-8pm
This Easter treat is fun for all the family. Ticket prices
vary from £12.50-£15 from www.quaytickets.com
The Albert Halls, Victoria Square, Bolton, BL1 1RU.
Tel: 01204 332157
Capturing tender special moments to cherish and treasure
Newborn
Weddings
Christenings
Special Parties
Please contact Eleanor T: 01257 792745 M: 07510 612926
Featuring
Wigan’s own John Martin
and 5 star Comedian Tony Roscoe,
plus fantastic duo Crawford & Brown
Tickets £10
Available at the club - 01695 623 902
or Frank 01744 345 073
StJamesSocialCentreOrrell

74
Being too young to appear on the TV show
Krypton Factor, I always thought I’d missed
the chance to tackle its famous assault course.
Although I wouldn’t go as far as saying this walk
resembled it, there are certainly some more
‘challenging’ parts to it. Not that this should deter you.
Simply think of it as ‘forewarned is forearmed’.
We park up at Yarrow Valley Country Park at
Birkacre. From the car park head out along Birkacre
Road, crossing the B5251, and continuing along
to Butterworth Brow. Here go right and then cross
over the road to enter the field.
This is where your wellies come in, as a large part
of this section is very wet and extremely muddy in
places. I don’t mind mud, but after a few miles it can
get tedious. Pick a day when the ground is likely to
be firm and you’ve got no worries.
Chorley
by David Sudworth
Continue along the footpaths, heading north
between the River Yarrow and the B5251. After
about three quarters of a mile you should be
walking around a large meadow area, and you need
to head for the northwest corner, where there’s
a footbridge to carry you over the river. It can be
difficult to get your bearings here, so pay close
attention and you will be fine.
Follow the path up the hill, past Yarrow Farm and
onto the lane. I always feel a sense of unease going
through farms, mostly because it feels like you’re
loitering in someone’s private space. However, we
got a cheery hello from someone working close by
so I imagine it’s something they’re used to!
You pretty much cross straight over the lane and
follow the path around the field. As you go from on
field to the next, make sure you keep to the right

75
of the tree line until you reach Parkers in the Fields
Farm. Follow the track through the farmyard and
once out and onto the lane, take the footpath on
your left. Here, there’s a little more mud as you enter
the field. Continue along the left of the field to the
path that runs along the perimeter of Yarrow Valley
9-Hole Golf Course. The path soon takes a sharp left,
leading you down into a woods and down to the
river. As you make your way along this section you’ll
find a few fallen trees blocking your way, and again
it can be muddy. As our fearless photographer
Peter said at the time, it’s kind of bordering on
an assault course at this point, but that’s what
makes it fun, right? Eventually you’ll emerge on to
Butterworth Brow, where you go right, up the hill.
Just as you’re reaching the top of the hill, cross over
and into Sharratts Path. Follow the lane down and
into the path, that takes you down to the B5251
and crossover the main road, going right a short
distance, until you reach the footpath on your left.
Take this path and follow it through the woods to
Birkacre brow and back to the car park.

76
FB
FB
Yarrow
Farm
Parker’s i’ th’ Field’s
Farm
B5251
Chorley
Yarrow Valley
Golf Club
Butterworth Brow
FB
FB
FB
harnock
Richard
Dob Brow
Sharratts Path
B5251
Birkacre Road
Postcode:
PR7 3QL
P
Coppull
Yarrow Valley
Country Park

77
All in all, this is a short walk at just 3.25 miles but you
do get a sense of having really explored the area.
Some of these routes don’t seem particularly well
used so there is a feeling of discovery as you literally
beat a path through the landscape. Yarrow Valley is
a beautiful part of Chorley, and even in the darkest
of months, it brings enjoyment to many. So long as
you’re prepared for the patches of mud, you’ll get as
much enjoyment out of it as we did.
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.
Length of walk: 3.25 miles
Difficulty: Short but difficult in sections due to
muddy sections and fallen trees.
Accessibility: We did the walk after some prolonged
rainfall and there was some very muddy sections.
When can
we go back to
Dukes Barn
Farm?
Boarding kennels and cattery.
Heated accommodation.
Recommended by vets & clients for over
38 years.
Local authority licensed & approved.
Open 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday
Closed to customer visits on Sunday
DUKES BARN FARM
Animal care at its best
Brook Lane, Pemberton, WN5 8JQ
Call - 01942 217752

78
Plan now for
summer scent
by Angie Barker
Award Winner
When I was a little girl (Hubby is chuckling
to himself as he ponders just how long
ago that was!) our garden had a large Lilac tree. The
flowers were pale mauve with the most wonderful
perfume and now that I have a Lilac growing in my
garden, I look forward to every spring when I can
breathe in its perfume and be transported back
in time to my childhood. It’s funny how scent is so
closely linked to memory.
This is the perfect time of year to start planning for
summer scent in your garden and I think these are
some of the best plants:
Lavender – Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ is one
of the nicest. They do like good drainage so if you
garden on heavy clay, best to put them in pots with
free draining compost. A line of them edging a path
looks lovely and as you brush past you can take in
the perfume.
Sweet Peas – annuals have the best perfume and
there are lots of colours to chose from. Remember
with these that you can’t plant them out until the last
frost has passed.
Herbs – these are a wonderfully fragrant group
of plants, Thyme. Mint and Rosemary being my
favourites. A word of caution, don’t plant Mint in a
border as it will completely take over – keep it in a
pot.
And of course you can’t mention perfume without
thinking of Roses. You need to be careful when
selecting your Rose because not all of them are
scented and some more so than others. David
Austin has a wonderful selection and the website is
excellent, giving lots of detail of each one’s particular
perfume. One of the best is Rosa ‘Munstead Wood’
Pergolas and trellis will give you the opportunity
of growing scented climbing plants. Jasminum
officinale (needs a warm sheltered spot) and Lonicera
periclymenum ‘Serotina’ (Honeysuckle) are fabulous.
Place near a patio and before you know it you’ll be
sitting in your garden on a warm summer’s evening,
not only sipping a glass of wine but drinking in
some heady perfume – life doesn’t get much better!
(Hubby agrees).
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

79
Garden maintenance ~ General tidy ups
Hedge cutting ~ Pressure washing ~ Fencing
Call - 01942 225711 or 07773 296880
Complete Solution to all Garden & Tree Services
Garden maintenance
One-off clearances
Treework
Landscaping
Approved contractor West Lancs BC
Call Iain today for friendly advice and a free quote
Tel: 01695 632773 Mob: 07724 298193
www.hands-onlandscapes.co.uk
Garden Make-Overs
Before
After
Billinge-based
•Landscaping
•Driveways
•Decking
•Design
Call for free estimate
Colin 07958 302 166
Brian 07760 160 988
Wilson Brothers
01695 633173
Wilson Brothers
www.wilson-bros.co.uk
Our aim is to deliver a creative, personal
service adhering to our customers
requirements and within budget.
Large projects or small makeovers are all
carried out with the same commitment and
dedication. We take great pride in completing
all projects to the highest possible standards.
www.pdhomeandgarden.co.uk
07946 751308 01942 206503
Landscapes
Creating the ideal outdoor
living space
Garden Design & Construction
All aspects of Paving, Driveways & Patios
Award Winner
Paving Driveways Turfing
Planting
Decking
Creative solutions for all garden sizes & budgets
07850 940 429 or 01942 512 635
www.orrellpaving.co.uk
Call Stewart Ashcroft on;
01695 622460 or 07894 217191
email:westdene41@btinternet.com
Winstanley Road, Billinge

80
Puzzle Pages Solutions
ORRELL MACHINERY
SALES • SERVICE • SPARES • REPAIRS
Service your mower
now for Spring 2018
We also service
all power tools
FREE
NO VAT CHARGED
pick up & drop off!
for mower services
Unit 6, Hewitt Business Park, Orrell WN5 7XB
Call - 01695 682 043
Garden need a little
LTC?
• Tree Surgery
• Flagging & Fencing
• Landscaping & Design
• Garden Clearances
• Logs For Sale
Wood chipping & stump grinder services
Call Lloyd today for a free estimate
01942 367170 / 07900 738637
WORD MIX UP:
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www.ltcgroup.co.uk
GARDEN GATES
£145 fitted
Call Graham
07816 386 548
01257 425 958
www.ashfieldhomeimprovements.co.uk

81
www.treetechsolutions.co.uk
• All tree work
• Hedge cutting
• Grounds maintenance
• Stump grinding
NO JOB
TOO SMALL
EMERGENCY CALL OUTS WELCOME
Call Wes for a free quote on
BILLINGE BASED 07713 121135 / 01695 322153
ALL ASPECTS OF TREE WORK UNDERTAKEN
TELEPHONE:
01695 623 909
07903 290 878
QUALIFIED & INSURED
FREE ESTIMATES
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
LANDSCAPE & DRIVEWAY SPECIALISTS
LANDSCAPING
• Block Paving
• Indian Stone
• Turfing & Artificial Grass
• Driveways & Patios
• Fencing & Decking
• Jet Washing
• Gravelling
A
TREE SPECIALISTS
• Pruning & Shaping
• Felling & Topping
• Stump Grinding
All aspects of tree work
undertaken
NO JOB TOO LARGE OR TOO SMALL
Call us today for a free, no obligation, quote;
20%
OFF
AL: 07796 494 463
JOHN: 07879 024 070
OFFICE: 01942 396 831
Email: fourseasons.treespecialists@gmail.com OAP
Discounts

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 Busine s Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
82
Semmens
Landscapes
Garden Design • Landscaping • Maintenance
Professional & reliable service
For a free quote, call Andy on
M: 07814 133 690 T: 01942 588 628
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
For more information call
01695 627 999
LocalLife
Garden Landscaping
(lawn laying, planting, fencing)
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
Garden Maintenance
(weeding, mowing, trimming, hedges)
Regular or one off visits
Plants & Planting
Award-winning,
local family run
business offers:
(wide range of plants available with advice and
planting service)
Call now for a friendly, no obligation quote
01257 401193 / 0771 077 2732
www.newleafgardenservices.co.uk
Give your garden a makeover!
We offer high quality landscaping, garden
design and ground maintenance services
Quality work and reliability
at competitive prices
01942 510 986
07710 405 214
www.ashlandscapingandmaintenance.co.uk
Established 1994
Mo sy Lea Road
T
Y
R
E
S
Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Book
your FREE
home survey
CAR & VAN SERVICING
.and motorcycles too
FREE
Car Health Check
for a l residents of Croston and Bretherton
Keep me until you need me!
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Call 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
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
impact on the environment
Call us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN?
I’ll do the hard work for you;
Friendly and professional female gardener
Regular maintenance service
Weeding, planting and pruning
Contact Hannah on
01257 402 149 / 07454 393 217
www.artemisgardening.co.uk
Want a beautiful
garden without all
the hard work?
At GreenHills we don’t just treat your lawns, we
offer a complete service all year round.
• APPLICATION OF LAWN TREATMENTS
• GARDEN MAINTENANCE / ONE OFF TIDY UPS
• JETWASHING DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS
• HEDGES & SHRUBS MAINTAINED
• WEED SPRAYING OF PATHS & DRIVEWAYS
• BILLINGE BASED
Professional Lawn Treatment
& Garden Maintenance
~ Est. 2001 ~
01942 200 039 or 07950 651 956
GreenhillsLC@gmail.com
garden maintenance
weed control to lawn &
driveways
hedge cutting
garden tidy ups
Garden Services & Lawncare
fertilising & moss control
turfing & landscaping
tree surgery
one off jobs or regular
maintenance
HND qualified. PA1 PA2 & PA6 spraying qualifications.
20 years experience. Billinge based.
jmagardenservices.co.uk
day: 07929 366769 eve: 01744 302793

83
Test Drive
Audi A4
Avant 3.0 TDI quattro 218PS
by Tim Barnes-Clay
Fitted with a 3.0 litre V6 engine, the latest Audi
A4 Avant becomes almost too powerful for
its own good.
Don’t get me wrong; the diesel lump is a real pearl,
but there’s no way it returns the claimed 57.6mpg
when riding on 19-inch wheels. I found the car
thirsty, and mid-30s was more realistic for me
when driving two-up, with no luggage, on a mix of
motorways, A and B-roads.
The A4 estate model that Audi sent me came in
top S line trim, and starts at £38,895, but with a few
thousand pounds of options thrown at it, my test
car was waving a £46,395 price-tag.
You get a lot of kit for the cash, though and Audi is
well-known for its upmarket, understated interiors
that are both perfectly finished and intuitive.
This A4 doesn’t dissatisfy; it has upscale materials
everywhere and a straightforward, intelligible
dashboard arrangement. Technology is plentiful,
too. It includes: a reversing camera, parking sensors,
three-zone climate control, heated electric seats,
and a powered, hands-free boot.
The A4 Avant is among the best-looking estates on
the market in Britain. It’s undeniably classy, and the
large 3.0 litre diesel engine is so smooth that it feels
more like a hard-hitting petrol unit.

84
What’s more, indiscernible wind and road noise
make the A4 the quietest cruiser in its class – by a
long chalk. The ride is wonderful, and easily a match
for BMW’s 3-series. The same goes for the car’s bobon
handling.
This practical five-up estate comes with Audi’s
standard seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox.
It changes slickly, keeping the revs low except when
Dynamic mode is selected. A moderate push of your
right foot is all that’s required to build momentum
hastily; stamp down hard, though and you’ll get to
62mph in just 6.4 seconds.
Fast Facts
• 0-62 mph: 6.4 secs
• Combined mpg: 57.6
• Engine layout: 2967cc, six-cylinder turbo diesel
• Max. power (PS): 218
• CO2: 126 g/km
• Price: £38,895

JW Gaskell
Garages
NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS
We are now open for services and repairs at our
brand new premises in Up Holland.
Dingle Garage, Dingle Road, Up Holland, WN8 0EN
01257 251 116 / 01695 624 261
www.jwgaskellgarageservices.co.uk
85
Car Paintwork Repairs
PCP or lease coming to an end?
Call me now and save £000’s
SCuffS/SCratCheS mended
minor dentS repaired
alloy wheel repairS
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

86
Home Services
- sponsored by
Our engineers will rePAir yOur;
• wAshers/Dryers
• COOkers/hObs
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A friendly, efficient and reliable service
Our mobile repair service works Mon-Sat
CAll us tODAy On 01942 833 908
Unit 5, Caroline Street, Wigan WN3 4EL
www.aspull-domestics.co.uk
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
• •
• Gates and railings
• Repairs and restorations
• Ironwork and welding
• Traditional forge work
25 years of expertise
Garage and entrance doors
in matching styles
Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202
The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland
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

87
• 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
Boost your Business in 2018
Advertising packages start from £39 + VAT a month.
For more information call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
TV Aerials installed & repaired
Sky, Freesat, Talk Talk & BT
Setup Service
Telephone/Broadband repair
Tv Wall mounting & CCTV
www.expertcomputers.co.uk
‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner
Ring Paul on www.wiganaerials.com
01942 514532 - 07709 490095

88
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
Ovenclean will transform your oven and
put the sparkle back into your kitchen!
• Ovens
• Grills
• Extractors
• BBQ’s
mr-soot.com
Mr Soot
CHIMNEY SWEEP
Woodburners Open fires Stoves
07724 311 992
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
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!
Serving the
community for
over 50 years
Free pICk-up & DrOp OFF
service to/from Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Highfield, Marus Bridge,
Kitt Green & Up Holland
www.orrell-laundry.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

89
PB
Power
Washing
HOUSE CLEANING AT ITS BEST
Driveways
Conservatories
Patios & Decking
Gutters & Fascias
Bricks & Walls
BEFORE
AFTER
Call Paul today to arrange a free quote
01257 402 113 ~ 07736 396 374
www.pbpowerwashing.co.uk
Wigan’s premier
domestic
cleaning service
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
Cleaning in the
Wigan area for
10+ years
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01942 470 089 / 07834 241 642
www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com
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
Want to promote your
company in Local Life?
Call Sally: 01695 627 999
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• traditional service, state of the art results •
Wigan Good
Trader Of
The Year
2015
5 star rating with
Wigan Trading
Standards Good
Trader Scheme
• Carpets • Rugs
• Fabric & Leather Upholstery
Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote
Call - 01257 251221
Mobile - 07908 770808
www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk

90
Plumbing & Heating Specialist
Complete Bathroom
& Tiling service
John Bailey - 01942 495785
or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238
Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan
• 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
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 Dr Orrell wN5 8sb
Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk
www.orrellheating.co.uk
506515
Specialists in boiler installations, repair & maintenance
A Genuine Family Run Business
With Friendly & Courteous Staff
SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL
HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER
REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES
All work fully warranted
Email ops@hotmail.co.uk
Book a boiler health check for £65
& get a carbon monoxide
alarm (RRP £29) FREE!
Call the team on
01744 892437
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
• 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
No
call out
fee

91
Great Value Bathrooms!
Elite Bathrooms
Installation & Tiling
• Bathrooms
• Wall Tiling
• Floor Tiling 07703 448890
FREE Estimates 01942 208926
Free Nest with
a new boiler!
• Repairs • Installations • Services
Smart control specialist – save £££’s
www.wiganboilerrepair.co.uk
01942 387006 / 07539 449 006
IAIN LOWE
01695 623236
• Central Heating
• Plumbing
• Gas Appliances
• Gas Safety Checks
• Landlord’s Certificates
• Maintenance/Breakdowns
569287
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
C&
D
Plumbing and Heating
Heating & Bathroom Specialist
Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P
07973714222
01695625171
• Repairs & installations
• Maintenance & servicing
• Power flushing
• Mechanical Ventilation
• Gas Safety Checks
Boiler & Central
Heating Experts
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

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
92
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
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
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
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
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
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
impact on the environment
Ca l us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
Over 40 Lancashire
walks
LocalLife
FREE to download at
locallife247.co.uk

93
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
Over 30 years electrical experience
All aspects of electrical work undertaken inc;
Installation, Maintenance and Repair
Building regulations work
CCTV and Security Alarms
Inspections and PAT testing
Call Andrew to discuss your requirements
Office 01695 625669
Mobile 07850 956229
J.Dillon
Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826
www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk
• All types of electrical work
• 20+ years experience
• Friendly, fast and reliable
• 24 hour call out service
All electrical work
undertaken
• Rewire specialists
• Extra sockets & lights fitted
• Mains board upgrades
Free quotations
Boost your Business in 2018
Advertising packages start from £39 + VAT a month.
For more information call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
Electrical
Services Ltd
A.J.S.
BAILEYS
ELECTRICAL
01942 215 769
07739 709 005

94
Driveway Medic
Natural Stone
Driveway Cleaning
Driveway Sealing
Block Paving
Pattern Imprinted Concrete & Tarmac
High Reach Cleaning
Call us now to discuss how Driveway Medic can help you;
our quotes are always friendly and Free.
T: 01942 870 206 M: 07984 034 574
driveway-medicnorthwest.co.uk
DOWN TO EARTH SERVICE, ROCK SOLID RELIABILITY
Driveways & Patios
Block paving
Flagging & Paving
Landscaping
Garden makeovers
One off clearances
Quality landscaping
FOR HIRE
Diggers, Dumpers &
Grab Wagons
With or without driver
Call Glyn for advice and a free quotation
01257 781 003 / 07967 539 919
Email: glyn@downtoearthgroundworks.uk
downtoearthgroundworks.uk
PROFESSIONAL
CLEANING & SEALING
S E R V I C E S
GDR Driveways
Flagging • Block paving
Concreting • Fencing
SPECIAL OFFER
Up to 10 sq m Cleaned & Sealed
Just £49
Call Gareth for a FREE quotation
01942 217 113 | 07715 177 754
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
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
01257 422317 or 07852 202867
www.mtjoinery.co.uk
Ready Mixed Concrete
• Delivered or Collected • Perfect for builders & DIY
01942 224571 for advice
Lamberhead Ind. Est., Pemberton
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
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
Number One for House Maintenance!
• UPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & ROOFLINE
SUPPLIED AND FITTED MISTED UNITS
REPLACED
• GUTTERS AND UPVC CLEANING AND
REPAIR SERVICE
• FLAGGING, FENCING AND POINTING
• GARDENS CLEARED
No job too small!
Call Mike Darbyshire on
01942 513 584 / 07917 352 181
Orrell based
Want to promote your
company in Local Life?
Call Sally: 01695 627 999
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife

96
• Brickwork,
Extensions,
Re-pointing
• Garden Walls,
Decorative
Walls
• Platform
Steps, Paths
28 Years Experience & patios
T: 01942 248 537
M: 07749 806 566
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
01942 561 848 | 07725 909 257
www.freshbuildconstruction.co.uk
Ashurst Building &
Roofing Services
All types of building and roofing
work undertaken including;
Brickwork, Joinery, Flagging
Plastering & Renovations
: 01942 832747
7747 725999
Family run business with
25 years of experience
Call David today for a free quotation
TELEPHONE: 01942 832747
Mobile: 07747 725999
All aspects of roofing & roofline
NEW ROOFS REPAIRS
FASCIAS, SOFFITS & GUTTERS
Rubber Cover
Roofing Specialist
Guaranteed 50 years
T: 01942 864 624
M: 07894 687 384
M: 07868 713 520
Dormers
and Garages
Call for free
quote
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
K Stone
Building Services
All types of building
work undertaken
25 years experience
• Brickwork
• Pointing
• Garden Walls
• Patios
• Roof Repairs
• Flagging
• Alterations
• Driveways
01942 495412 / 07974 496676

97
Facias, soffits, cladding,
dry verge and gutters - call us now
for all your roofline requirements!
We specialise in seamless aluminium gutters.
Clean, stylish and guaranteed for 25 years!
01942 735 515 / 07917 352 182 / 07917 352 183
www.orrellroofline.co.uk
• 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
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
M H Roofing
Established over 15 years
Friendly advice and competitive rates
No job too small
• High Performance Felt Flat Roof Systems
• Storm Damage and Insurance Work
• Slating and Tiling full roofs
• Poiniting and Guttering • Fascia Boards
Call 01744 884117
or 07702 693225
www.mhroofingltd.co.uk
Fully Insured & Insurance
Backed Guarantees

98
A View From
The Lump
Local gossip, gripes and goings-on
Let’s skip that idea
When the kids were little, they
loved nothing more than an
afternoon down the council tip.
This was in a much less formal age
when the lads minding the skips
would happily turn a blind eye
by going for a six hour tea break
while a few of us ‘chosen ones’
would have a good rummage for
any discarded gems.
Sadly, those days have long gone.
Everyone’s an Environmental
Advice Officer now and CCTV
cameras watch your every move.
So it’s hardly surprising that Wigan
Council’s announcement that
those of us with trailers or vans
will soon be able to print our own
permits off at home got a muted
response. Granted, it’s better than
having to wait for the creaking
cogs of bureaucracy at Wigan
Council to spring into action, but
to be honest I object to having to
have a permit in the first place.
It’s the kind of petty officialdom
which grates on people. I accept
that maybe the blatant pilfering of
yesteryear may have had its day,
but at least let’s put an end to this
pen-pusher’s paradise. After all, so
much waste paper isn’t good for
the environment...
Child’s play
And so it looks like yet another
former pub will be turned into a
nursery. Yes, I hear there’s plans in
the offing to convert the old White
Lion in Pemberton. It’s recently
become something of a trend
of turning pubs into nurseries.
Squires Bar in Billinge recently
became a nursery, and my mate in
Burscough laments the loss of one
of his local boozers, The Junction,
to the next generation.
It always amuses me though the
planning process classes such
projects as a ‘change of use’.
Swapping one lot of rowdy folk,
desperate for their fix of sugarinfused
beverages and the
occasional scrap, for another?
Doesn’t sound much like change
to me...
Up the junction
Isn’t it about time there was a
roundabout near Windy Arbour?
The amount of crashes and
near misses on that two mile
stretch is getting beyond a joke.
I know being so close to Skem,
roundabouts have got a bad name
in these parts, but surely if there
were ever a place which merited
one, it’s at the junction of Billinge
Road and Winstanley Road? I’m
hoping some eager-eyed local
election candidate will spot this
and run with the issue. At least
until Friday, May 4...
Here comes the sun
I’m now counting down the days
until the clocks go forward. As
I’ve got older, I increasingly detest
the short days. I’m not sure why
because, as a child, it didn’t bother
me in the slightest. Then again,
we’d stay out playing football even
in the dark, rain lashing down and
ensuring a full linen basket for
mother that evening (this was in
an age before men could work
a Hotpoint, and those who did
were generally shunned by their
mates). Maybe my decreasing
levels of mobility since the age of
17 - the precise time I passed my
driving test - have something to
do with it.
But unfortunately, I’ve never been
a morning person and there’s
precious little point going out at
1pm only for the sun to be beating
a retreat 90 minutes later. You may
think these are pitiful excuses, but
I’m genuinely looking forward to
getting a bit more Vitamin D into
my bones. It’ll make a change from
looking as pale as a rice pudding.

99
Come and visit the largest
showroom in the North West
®
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