Local Life - Wigan - June 2018

LocalLife 

Wigan Edition June 2018 

Wherever they may 

Rome 

Pages 18 - 20 

Local Life Turns Ten 

Pages 64 - 65 

Hindley Walk 

Pages 74 - 77 

Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Garden Diary Event2Go Home Services 

locallife247.co.uk

Mere Oaks, Standish £535,000 Boars Head, Standish £425,000 Mi 

This 5 bed family home on a small development has 

2243 sq ft of magnificent living space and boasts many 

quality features including a private large rear garden. 

This substantial and hugely impressive 6 bed detached 

family home, with over 3600 sq ft of floor space is 

located on one of Standish’s most desirable estates. 

This 

roo 

ma 

Walthew Green, Roby Mill £350,000 Cranleigh, Standish £325,000 

Wi 

This stunning detached 3 bed property with beautiful 

gardens has traditional features combined with a 

modern style to make this a magnificent family home. 

This beautiful 4 bed home is nestled in prime position 

of a peaceful cul-de-sac, with low maintenance gardens 

and a spacious driveway and detached double garage. 

One 

low 

qua 

Lordy Close, Standish £280,000 St Annes Court, Shevington £250,000 Kir 

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. 

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. 

This 

Hal 

fitte 

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0 

ed 

is 

Milton Grove, Wigan £250,000 

This 1920’s 3 bed semi home with generous reception 

rooms and period features sits within a generous and 

mature plot near to Marylebone Park & Haigh Hall. 

Billinge Road, Highfield £235,000 

This beautiful, substantial 3 bed family home with 

mature and tranquil gardens, offers off road parking 

and is a stroll away from the railway station. 

0 

ion 

ns 

e. 

Wigan Road, Standish £200,000 

One of Wigan’s premier developments, this 2 bed 

lower ground floor apartment with extensive views has 

quality fixtures throughout. 

Balniel Walk, Whelley £200,000 

This well presented 3 bed detached house in a quiet 

location, boasts beautifully maintained wraparound 

gardens, off road parking and a large modern kitchen. 

0 

ed 

gh 

Kirkwood Close, Aspull £180,000 

This 3 bed detached, in a prime location near Haigh 

Hall, offers stylish modern living including a beautiful 

fitted kitchen and a gorgeous UPVC conservatory. 

Wigan Lower Rd, Standish-LG £160,000 

This 3 bed town house offers stylish living with an 

attractive lounge, a modern kitchen diner and superb 

master bedroom with built in wardrobes and en-suite. 

www.alanbatt.co.uk

2 

The Shippon, Carr House Lane, Wrightington - £700,000 

A sweeping driveway leads to this immaculately presented and generously 

proportioned three bedroomed home, located in a semi-rural location with 

panoramic views. Two substantial barns are included in the sale and may 

offer redevelopment potential. 

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4 

Let’s share 

Ican hardly believe I’m writing the June intro, 

can someone just update me whether spring 

actually sprung this year or did I sleep through it? 

Whilst we’ve been shivering under a duvet watching 

dross telly, the organisers amongst us have been 

planning local events - and working out how to 

publicise these events. 

Whilst social media is a great way of sharing 

information, there’s always the worry that your 

event won’t be shared beyond your social circle or, 

depending on the strength of your local friendship 

group, achieve good coverage at a very local 

level. However, there is an additional FREE way of 

publicising your events and that’s in the pages of 

Events2Go, our events guide. 

Simply log onto our website, www.locallife247. 

co.uk, click on ‘Events2Go’, select ‘Upload your 

Event’, and you’re all ready to tell us the what, where, 

when and how of your event. As long as you’re 

organised and you do this before 7th of the month 

previous, we’ll most likely include the event in the 

next magazine. So to publicise an event in August, 

you’d need to upload information before 7th July. 

Most likely? Well, if you’re organising a Neo-Nazi 

rally in downtown Standish, we’ll give it a swerve if 

that’s all the same, but the vast majority of events 

uploaded to our website in time are publicised in 

the magazine. We deliver our Wigan magazine to 

over 26,000 homes - that’s a lot of coverage for your 

event and it’s all FREE! 

See you soon at a Village Fete / School Fair / Art 

Exhibition / Fashion Show / Street Market / Foodie 

Festival near you… 

Chris Pearce - Publisher 

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

5 

In this issue 


Rome 

18 

Save your 

cervix 

Regulars 

40 Planning 

46 Puzzle Corner 

48 Class From The Past 

Sections 

6 Local News 

52 Health 

58 Legal & Finance 

60 Property 

69 Events2Go 

81 Garden Diary 

86 The Lump 

62 Business View 

66 Food & Drink 

81 Gardening 

86 Home Services 

52 

A very British 

addiction 

66 

Jacks Tracks visits 

Hindley 

74 

Test Drive 

Jaguar E-Pace 

78 

Next issue - July 2018 

Advertising deadline - Thursday, 7 June 

Published - Wednesday, 20 June 


Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, 

Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB 

Telephone: 01695 627 999 

Publisher: Chris 

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk 

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sales@locallife247.co.uk 

Editorial: Gemma, Niamh wigannews@locallife247.co.uk 

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design@locallife247.co.uk 

Distribution: Sally 

sallyb@locallife247.co.uk 

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Local Life is published every month and distributed into 

the following areas on an alternate monthly basis. 

This issue is delivered to 13,039 private homes and 

businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley 

Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh. 

The next issue is delivered to 13,299 private homes and 

businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, 

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You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys 

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Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither 

the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any 

party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or 

other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written 

consent of Local Life 247 Ltd. 

locallifemagazine247 @locallifemedia events2go

6 

New faces 

Wigan constituences Standish-with- 

Langtree and Shevington both have 

new councillors. 

Conservative Adam Marsh won the Standish with 

Langtree ward election in an incredibly close result. 

Adam received 1,200 votes to Labour candidate 

Debbie Parkinson’s 1,185, while former councillor 

Debbie Fairhurst got 872 votes. 

He took the seat from Independent councillor 

Debbie Fairhurst, and the vote was so tight that a 

recount was called. 

On his election, Adam acknowledged there 

were only 15 votes between himself and Debbie 

Parkinson, saying: “This vote was extremely close. 

What it shows is that we all have to come together 

now for the benefit of Standish.” 

In Shevington with Lower Ground, Independent 

candidate Janet Brown won with 1,107 votes, while 

Labour’s Mike Crosby got 1,045 votes, Conservative’s 

Allan Atherton received 487 votes, and the Green’s 

Joseph Rylance got 120 votes. 

Standisher George Davies held his Labour seat of 

Wigan Central with 1,518 votes and, in second place 

Lewis Evans polled 834. 

Other participants included: Lib Dem Caroline 

Waddicar who received 163 votes to take third spot 

with Gareth Fairhurst receiving 130 votes and Tony 

Spencer raked in 89 votes. 

In Aspull, New Springs and Whelley, Labour’s Ron 

Conway got 1,708 votes, while Michael Owens, the 

Conservative, got 764 votes and Lib Dem Andrew 

Holland received 308 votes. 

Accounts Manager Wanted 

Experienced Accounts Manager required to join our small, 

friendly Local Life team at our offices based in Orrell, Wigan. 

30 Hours per week 

Salary - Negotiable 

The role will include: 

All aspects of solely running the accounts function including sales 

invoicing, purchase invoicing, banking, credit control, VAT returns 

and managing cash flow. You will also be responsible for producing 

various management reports using Microsoft Excel and Kashflow. 

The role will suit an individual who is AAT Qualified or equivalent 

and has a minimum of 3 years experience in a similar role. Excellent 

knowledge of using Microsoft Excel for reporting is essential. 

To apply, please email your CV along with a covering letter to 

accounts@locallife247.co.uk for the attention of Samantha 

Garrahan. The closing date is 15/06/18. 


www.locallife247.co.uk

7 

Smith steps down 

Lord Peter Smith announced he is stepping down 

after 27 years as leader of Wigan Council. 

Lord Smith has served as leader of Wigan Council 

since 1991 and over the past three decades has 

gained a reputation as one of the most influential 

council leaders in the UK. 

Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City 

Council, led the tributes, saying: “Peter Smith is an 

exceptional local government leader. 

“In his period of office, Wigan has been a consistently 

high performing council and through the Wigan 

Deal it has built a relationship with its citizens that 

is the envy of the local government world. 

“Beyond that, for almost 

two decades he was the 

glue that held Greater 

Manchester together and 

without his leadership we 

would not have achieved a 

devolution deal with more 

decisions now being taken 

locally than anywhere else in England.” 

Councillor David Molyneux, who has been the 

council’s deputy leader since 2008, was voted in as 

council leader by his fellow Labour Party councillors. 

He said: “He said: “I am incredibly proud to have 

been chosen as leader of Wigan Council.”

8 

Trophy time 

Standish High School rugby players 

have won a prestigious trophy. 

Standish High’s Year 10 faced Manchester Grammar 

in the final of the Lancashire Cup at Fylde RUFC and 

won 24-22. 

Players were awarded the prestigious Lancashire 

Cup trophy – the first time for a Wigan school. 

Man of the match was the captain Sam Parker. 

PE teacher Mark Devine said: “In all the years the 

competition has run, no Wigan school has ever 

reached a main Lancashire Cup Final, and the 

opponents on the day had played in the National 

Cup Final (the NatWest Cup) just a few weeks 

before, so the task in front of our boys was huge. 

“It was a huge achievement for a team that only 

two years ago were playing in the Tier 3 Final, the 

Emerging Schools Cup. 

“To come so far in such a short amount of time, and 

to beat some of the schools they have in the last 

two years is incredible. 

“Now the challenge is to go back as Y11s and retain 

the Cup.” 

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9 

Shevington in Bloom 

Dates for the North West in Bloom 

judging 2018 have been released. 

After a break from the competition, this year 

Shevington in Bloom will be judged twice. 

Wigan Council will bring their judges to Shevington 

on Monday, July 9, and for the first time ever, other 

in Bloom Community Groups in the borough will 

journey to Shevington to meet Wigan’s judges. 

Shevington will also be judged on Wednesday, July 

11, for 2 1/2 hours. 

The “In Bloom” group are busy with several new 

projects underway, the main one being five new 

bespoke metal planters at Shevington Library. 

If you’d like to join, e-mail shevingtoninbloom@ 

yahoo.com or phone Sandra on 01257 401997. 

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11 

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12 

Helping the homeless 

A new programme dedicated to 

helping Wigan Borough’s homeless 

and rough sleepers has been 

launched. 

Wigan Council announced its ‘Homeless Champion’ 

programme at the Healthy Wigan Partnership 

Conference. 

Volunteers will check in with people on the streets 

to understand people’s circumstances and to offer 

appropriate support. 

Donna Hall, chief executive of Wigan Council said: 

“We look forward to people benefitting from this 

new outreach approach and hope to see more 

people engaged with local service provision.” 

David Scrivens, one of the borough’s Homeless 

Champions said: “If I can help them find the right 

path for advice to ultimately build a better life, then 

I think this programme is more than worthwhile.” 

If you see a homeless person on the streets, please 

email roughsleep@wigan.gov.uk with as much 

information as possible and officers will investigate. 

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14 

Bus for businesses 

Local Wigan businesses can take part 

in the ‘Coaching to Success’ bus tour 

once more this year. 

Businesses will be taken on a bus tour trip around 

the borough to build relationships with the local 

community. 

As part of Wigan Council’s Deal for Business, local 

businessmen and women are encouraged to take 

a seat on the bus so they can see first-hand how 

community groups make a difference to residents’ 

lives and how they can get involved. 

Last year, more than a dozen businesses got 

involved in the borough-wide tour, visiting groups 

including Wigan S.T.E.A.M and Fur Clemt. 

And this year, even more are expected to board one 

of the two tours that have recently been announced 

in June and November. 

Kerry McKenna, business centre manager from 

Office Bay went on the tour last year, she said: “We 

found the bus tour very beneficial. 

“As a new local business, we were able to make 

connections, meet council members and see how 

the auction centre 

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• Probate and Insurance valuation reports undertaken 

• Full house clearance service available 

• Regional valuations centres around the north-west 

St Helens Valuation Days 

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15 

inspiring and hard working the people of Wigan 

really are.” 

The tour enables businesses and community 

groups to find out about each other, network and 

enable them to link up and work together to build a 

stronger borough. 

Councillor David Molyneux, deputy leader of 

Wigan Council and portfolio holder for economic 

development and regeneration said: “We’re 

committed to encouraging our local economy 

to thrive and a major part of that is building 

relationships with the community. 

“The bus tour is an opportunity not to be missed 

and we look forward to seeing relationships forge 

and the fantastic work that will come out of the trip.” 

The tours will take place on Thursday, June 7 and 

Thursday, November 1. 

To request a place on the bus tour or to find out 

how your business can support the community, 

please email business@wigan.gov.uk 

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16 

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18 


Rome 

David Sudworth meets the people trying to find Wigan’s secret historical roads 

It’s a bright sunny day as we make our way 

down Gidlow Lane on the old Standish/Wigan 

border. Apart from a few dog walkers, it’s a blissfully 

quiet spot. 2,000 years ago, it would have been quite 

different. 

In fact, had we been here in 50 AD, the peace would 

have been shattered by the sound of hundreds of 

Roman soliders making their way through the 

farmland. 

“It’s quite something when you think about it,” says 

my guide, Bill Aldridge, who, as a founder member 

of Wigan Archaeological Society, has studied the 

possible routes for over 30 years. 

“The road would have been used 

by the Roman military on their 

way between Wigan, which 

was a Roman fort, and their 

next fort at Walton-le-Dale.”

19 

Research proves that such a route existed, however 

parts of it are still unclear. For instance, it’s widely 

assumed that the A49 is the original Roman road, 

but that’s only partly true. 

“The Romans tended to go in as straight a line as 

possible, and the A49 doesn’t,” says Bill. 

“It twists and turns a fair bit. So while there’s a 

suggestion that the A49 going through Euxton is 

part of the route, there are other bits which aren’t. 

It’s believed the route starts at the junction of 

Mesnes Street and Kenyon Road. Going past Gidlow 

“Who has bragging 

rights to Coccium?” 

Cemetery, it cuts across the A49 at Standish, going 

past the Parish Church and continuing its journey 

north until Hic Bibi Well, at the bottom of Hic Bibi 

Lane in Coppull Moor. 

It then crosses Spendmore Lane in Coppull, Clancutt 

Brook and then Chorley Lane and Church Lane 

in Charnock Richard. From there it veers towards 

Pincock and off out to Leyland. 

So that’s one route which almost every expert can 

agree on. But there is another which does divide 

opinion. And in mostly centres on who has bragging 

rights to the Roman town name of ‘Coccium’. 

Bill, from Appley Bridge, takes up the story: “It is 

generally accepted that there were three Roman 

Excavations at Brimelow Farm in the 1980s 

Roads leading into Wigan. These were traced 

and identified in the 19th century, including one 

between Ribchester and Manchester. 

“Wigan is not on the direct route between these 

two places so, not surprisingly, over the years other 

places, such as Blackrod, have claimed Coccium. 

“The existence of this road is based on an Itinerary 

which mentions a distance of 20 Roman Miles 

between Bremetennacum (now Ribchester) and 

Coccium. 

“Various alignments in the direction of Ribchester 

have been looked at over the years. In the early 

1980s, Chorley Society thought they had found 

the road on Healey Nab being possibly four yards 

wide, although they only excavated one side). They 

uncovered kerbing travelling for some distance 

in the direction of Heapy; this is where previously 

a hoard of Roman coins were found and a silver 

necklace which is now in the British Museum. 

“So it’s thought this road would have gone through 

places like Adlington and White Coppice. 

“A few pieces of evidence point to the existence 

The Romans in Wigan: Did You Know..? 

First evidence of Roman activity in Wigan was undercovered during the building of Darlington 

Street Gas works between 1822-1830. 

Roman coins have been recovered from various places including Boars Head, Library St and 

Millgate 

During the building of the Grand Arcade, remains of a Roman Bath House were uncovered. Evidence was 

also found at The Wiend in the early 1980s. 

Wigan was used by the Romans as it sits on top of a hill, making it a good vantage point to spot invaders

20 

of this road. On the direct route there are four 

occurrences of ‘street’ or ‘causeway’ names. The 

first at Rivington was regarded as a Roman road 

continuing further north along Heapey Fold Lane. 

The next is at Causeway House Farm at Heapey. 

Finally at Causeway Farm near Riley Green – an 

old raised road is reported descending to a ford 

across the River Darwen below Lodge Farm – it is 

apparently known as the ‘Roman Ford’.” 

While the argument is logical, there are still some 

sceptics. David Ratledge, (pictured) a former civil 

engineer, uses Lidar - a form of 3D technology - to 

trace old Roman roads. He’s used this to more or less 

pinpoint most of the Wigan-Walton-le-Dale route, 

but he is less enthusiastic about a second, ‘secret’ 

route. 

He said: “There is the possibility - 

that is all, a possibility that there 

was such a road. However, as yet 

I have not found any convincing 

Lidar data supporting this route 

so it is still very uncertain.“ 

For further reading, visit www.wiganarchsoc.co.uk 

and www.romanroads.org 

Roman mining at Arley? 

It is well documented that coal has been mined in 

the Wigan area since the 14th Century, but could it 

be possible that the Romans were doing it first? 

In 1982, excavations in the centre of Wigan revealed 

extensive evidence of Roman occupation dating to 

the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. 

This tallies with a 1930s map which shows 

‘supposed Roman workings found’ in the area 

which is now part of the golf course of the Wigan 

Golf Club at Arley. 

The map was commissioned by the Geological 

Survey of England and Wales (Lancashire Sheet 

85SE) and shows the various coal measures and 

where they outcrop, including the famous Arley 

seam, whose quality is renowned throughout the 

South Lancashire area. 

Victorian geologist Edward Hull mentions ‘ancient 

workings’ at Arley in his memoirs published in 

1860./ He describes finding “a series of polygonal 

chambers, with vertical walls opening into each 

other by short passages.”

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22 

Hop, Skip, Jump 

Children and young people with 

disabilities are invited to Hop, Skip 

and Jump Wigan. 

Hop, Skip and Jump Wigan, next to Wigan Youth 

Zone, offers sessions for babies through to youth 

groups for teenagers and a parents’ group. 

The charity recently secured funding from Wigan 

Council’s Deal for Communities Investment Fund. 

Care and Training Officer, Lynne Harrison, said: “Our 

staff do a full programme of training and have lots 

of experience working with children and young 

people with disabilities.” 

There’s an arts room, soft play areas, sensory room, 

cookery and lots of social activities. 

Attendees can take part in full day sessions on 

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Alex, 13, from Standish, said: “I like coming here as 

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learned how to make friends.’ 

For more information, call 01942 246601 or email 

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23 

Fresh faces 

Two popular pubs in Standish and Wigan Lane are 

now under new management. 

Customers at Boar’s Head and Bel Air Hotel will see 

some new faces running the establishments. 

The Boar’s Head has been taken over by brother and 

sister combo Janet Jones and Peter Cavanagh, who 

opened for business on Friday, May 4. 

Janet works the bar and restaurant, and Peter does 

the marketing. 

Janet said: “It’s going good, we’ve worked together 

before. The customers are lovely, and there are lots 

of regulars. We’ve put in a new menu, with nothing 

processed or frozen. 

“And we’ll be refurbishing the place, so look out for 

the changes later this year.” 

Whereas the previous landlords Rene and Russ left 

the Boar’s Head after 10 years to run the former Bel 

Air Hotel. 

Rene and Russ said: “It’s with great sadness, that 

after 10 wonderful years we have left the Boar’s 

Head Inn Standish. 

“However, we are so excited about our new venue 

’Forbes at Wigan,’ restaurant, bar & boutique hotel.” 

The former Bel Air Hotel is undergoing a major 

refurbishment and will welcome guests at the end 

of May.

24 

Pomp and circumstance 

Wigan Rotary Club will be presenting 

the Last Night of the Proms this 

summer. 

On Saturday, June 16, the Mill at the Pier will come 

alive with the sounds of the Last Night of the Proms 

concert. 

Organised by Wigan Rotary Club, the concert will 

feature the award winning Pemberton Old Wigan 

DW Band and Shevington based mezzo soprano, 

Vicky Little, who will lead the audience through 

traditional favourites as well as performing solo 

items with the band. 

Wigan Rotary President Gwyneth Millard said “The 

Proms is probably the most famous celebration 

of classical music, with the’ Last Night’ being the 

most famous of all and thanks to its exuberant 

and celebratory atmosphere is guaranteed to get 

everyone smiling and singing along. 

“Flags will be supplied on the night so all we need 

is for you to come and join in what promises to be a 

great night of music. 

“Last year’s concert was very enjoyable and this 

year’s promises to be the same. All the profits from 

the concert will be donated back into the local 

community’s worthwhile causes.” 

There will also be a licensed bar, and attendees will 

be seated while enjoying the music. Concert tickets 

are £10pp and are available at www.ticketsource. 

co.uk/alra 

For more information, contact PO Box 507 Wigan 

WN1 9AB or telephone 07813471000. 

For more local events, please turn to our E2G 

section on pages 69-73. 

Female friends 

Wigan Women’s Friendship Club is on the lookout 

for new members to join. 

The friendly group of ladies enjoy sharing an 

afternoon at the Community Centre in Penson 

Street, Wigan with others for numerous experiences. 

Sometimes speakers talk about their travels or 

special interests with items which they have 

collected over the years or a slide show. 

But the talks by members aren’t sprung on them, a 

date is arranged in advance for volunteers to speak. 

There are groups for singing and playing 

instruments; also speakers who pass on very useful 

and helpful information. Other weeks there may be 

games or quizzes. 

And of course there’s always time for a cuppa and 

biscuit with time to chat to others. 

The group’s upcoming programme is as follows: 

May 31: Pat Ashcroft ‘The Last Adventure;’ June 14: 

‘A Floral Demonstration;’ June 21: “In Mind;” June 28: 

‘A Male Voice Choir.’ 

Meetings are held on a Thursday (not the first of the 

month) from 1.30pm-3.30pm. 

The group invites all possible members to come 

down and they’ll be delighted to see you. 

For more information contact Margaret on 01942 

247403.

25

26 

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Bursaries are available too – so students can earn 

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TMP College offers students the opportunity to work 

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28 

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31 

Celebrating carers 

A Shevington support group is 

celebrating another year supporting 

carers. 

Shevington Dementia Carers Support Group 

recently celebrated its 13th birthday, and the group 

has grown substantially since its launch in March 

2005. 

There were only four people at the group’s first ever 

meeting which was held at the local garden centre, 

where listening, empathy and bacon baps were in 

order. 

Those four original members still attend. Beryl 

and Joan started the group and facilitate it, while 

Dorothy and Mary give a warm welcome. 

Since October 2012, the Dementia Carers Group 

falls under the umbrella of Shevington Doctors 

Surgery, Patients Participation Group, who pay 

overheads and support the Group. 

The group offers knowledge and support for 

members. Carers appreciate meeting with others 

who understand, as caring for loved ones with 

Dementia is demanding and can feel quite lonely. 

There are regular outings and events, enjoyed by 

the carers, funded by donations and fundraising. 

The Group meets every last Monday of the month 

10.30am-12.30pm in the lounge in the Methodist 

Church in Shevington. 

For more info, please contact: Beryl on 01257 

424826 or berylsmith02@gmail.com; Joan 01257 

252001 or wadken68@gmail.com; Elaine on 01257 

253826 or elaineellams@aol.com

32 

ADVERTISEMENT 

70,000 people in the UK had to sell their homes 

last year to fund residential and personal care, 

despite the government’s numerous attempts to 

find a solution to the country’s social care problems. 

McHale Baker are specialists in helping couples 

protect their homes when faced with care home 

costs and are offering help to couples who own 

their homes to ensure that their Wills provide 

protection against potential future long term care 

costs. 

Protecting homeowners 

from long term 

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“Many people pride themselves on having been 

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property will end up being left to their children, but 

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their long term care” says Karen Baker 

Those who own their homes jointly are often 

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A partial contribution is required if the assets are 

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She added: “We can help them make an agreement 

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33 

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34 

Walk the line 

Work on the anticipated Standish 

Line project is underway. 

The planned works by Wigan Council as part of The 

Deal will see ‘The Line’ revamped to a surfaced and 

lit bridleway, which will make the former railway 

track accessible all year round. 

The work is due to take 14 weeks so it should be 

ready for when children return to Standish High. 

It will be implemented over five phases: 1) 

Brookfield Road to Rosebay Gardens; 2) School Lane 

to Aldi Car Park; 3) Aldi Car Park to Bradshaw Close; 

4) Bradshaw Close to Foxglove Close; 5) Foxglove 

Close to Rosebay Gardens. 

Diversions will be clearly signed to aid navigation 

and information will be uploaded to the Council’s 

website (www.wigan.gov.uk/cycling). 

Cllr David Molyneux, deputy leader at the council, 

said: “This is the long-awaited good news we have 

been hoping for. We know how much residents 

in Standish want The Line project to happen and 

we’ve been working extremely hard to find a 

suitable contractor to get the project moving. 

“The upgrade will provide a quick, walking and 

cycling route into Standish village centre which 

should take traffic off the local roads by encouraging 

more people to leave the car at home.”

35 

Eastern flavours 

Standish could soon be home to a new Thai 

restaurant if a planning application is approved. 

The Siam House on Church Street has applied for 

permission to create a restaurant by taking over the 

house next door to create upstairs and downstairs 

restaurant seating for around 45 people. 

Ed Jennings opened the popular takeaway last 

summer and now wants to create a restaurant. 

Plans feature an extension at the rear and a change 

of use for the house, which is currently unoccupied. 

The decision target date is Friday, June 15. 

For more details on the application, please 

visit https://apps.wigan.gov.uk/PlanApps/Plan 

AppsDetails.asp?passAppNo=A/18/85358/CU 

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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38 

Beating cancer together 

A group of fundraisers will be walking 

100 miles in aid of The Christie NHS 

Foundation Trust. 

From Thursday, May 24 to Sunday, May 27, a group 

will be walking the length of the Leeds Liverpool 

Canal in aid of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust. 

The group of fundraisers from Ashton will set off 

from Leeds, coming off at Wigan junction, and 

then picking up the A49 to Ashton-in-Makerfield, 

fulfilling a huge 100 miles trek. 

Last year the fundraisers raised £5,000 for The 

Christie, in conjunction with the Hingemakers Arms, 

by walking from Southport to Ashton in Makerfield 

35 miles in total. 

This year they’re hoping to raise even more money 

for the four-day excursion with the Hingemakers 

Arms’ support. 

Malc Deluce said: “We all live in Ashton and have 

lost friends and family to cancer. 

“Willy Roberts who is walking the 100 miles with 

us has been diagnosed with cancer twice, but as it 

stands he has been given the all clear. 

“With every penny we raise, it gives someone else 

a chance to beat cancer. Please donate as much or 

as little as possible. Nearly everyone who reads this 

will have been affected or know someone who has 

been affected by cancer. Together we can beat it.” 

If you’d like to donate, please visit justgiving.com/ 

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40 

Planning Matters 

Aspull 

Land to south of Sawmill House, Wigan Road: To 

erect stable block (ref: A/18/85344/RET). 

Former 77 Bolton Road: Erection of a detached 

dwellinghouse over 2 levels together with access 

from Bolton Road (ref: A/18/85265/FULL). 

Standish 

153 Chorley Road: Demolition of existing semidetached 

dormer bungalow and erection of 2.5/1.5 

storey building, creating 5 apartments, together 

with partial excavation works and provision of car 

parking and amenity space (ref: A/18/85381/FULL). 

67 Church Street: Change of Use of property and 

erection of a two storey extension to the rear to A3 

(Restaurant and Cafe), linked to adjoining A5 use at 

65 Church Street (ref: A/18/85358/CU). 

Wigan Central 

15-23 Library Street: Change of use from A2 use 

into 4 self-contained apartments at first and second 

floor, including the reinstatement of existing 

windows on the rear elevation (ref: A/18/85400/ 

CU). 

For more information on these plans, visit: www.wigan.gov.uk 

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44 

Historical figures 

Blue plaques have been unveiled for 

two important men in Wigan’s history. 

George Orwell, author of ‘The Road to Wigan Pier’ 

and women’s rights activist and politician Thorley 

Smith’s plaques were unveiled on Thursday, May 17. 

Lord Peter Smith said: “George and Thorley played a 

big part in how we live today, and we’re privileged 

to be able to say that such influential figures had 

connections to our town.” 

Orwell’s plaque commends his journalistic 

masterpiece on the plight of the working class in 

1930s England and will sit in the reference library 

at the Museum of Wigan Life where he researched. 

His son, Richard Blair said: “My father’s book was 

one which highlighted the social issues across in 

the 1930s. He was very fond of the people from 

Wigan and seeing how much support the council 

and local community have given to his legacy is 

touching.” 

Smith’s plaque will be displayed at Wigan Town 

Hall as a nod to his political career; recognising him 

as the first parliamentary candidate to stand for 

women’s suffrage. 

His plaque was unveiled by local historian, Tom 

Walsh, and historian and archives volunteer, Yvonne 

Eckersley. 

Tom Walsh said: “I have been passionate about 

Thorley’s life being recognised and am really glad 

to see the council honour him.” 

For more information about Wigan Archives and 

Local Studies, visit www.wigan.gov.uk/archives

45 

Time for tea 

Shevington is offering a tea 

experience like no other. 

The family run Narrowboat Tearoom situated 

alongside the canal at Dean Locks just off Gathurst 

Lane, Shevington is the perfect pit stop after a canal 

walk. 

This July, the stationary Narrowboat Tearoom will 

have been open for two years, and Kathryn Mitchell, 

her daughter Katie Hefford and the team hope you 

will pay them a visit. 

Biking Association, who we made cupcakes for as 

they cycled to raise money for Breast Cancer last 

year. 

“We did the Macmillan cupcake day and are also 

looking at doing the Alzheimer’s cupcake day on 

the Saturday, June 16 to raise more money for 

charity. 

“We have had such positive responses regarding 

our Tearoom and it has given people more reasons 

to walk along the canal.” 

Katie said: “We have regular customers such as the 

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46 

Puzzle Corner 

WORD SEARCH - Summer Solstice 

Find the hidden words in the word search grid 

SUDOKU 

7 2 

6 3 4 

6 

R I T U A L V E T C 

T I I S H J W C Y H 

S O L S T I C E A D 

U E T W U G T A B A 

M T J S V N T R J Y 

M O N U M E N T E L 

E B N N N B O H G I 

R R E R O E R A P G 

D R U I D S T L P H 

A N E S U R H O T T 

W Z T E A W E K H F 

N W H R P O R B I T 

G Y P A G A N A I M 

SUMMER 

DAWN 

SOLSTICE 

PAGAN 

SUN 

ORBIT 

TILT 

DAYLIGHT 

SUNRISE 

MONUMENT 

NORTHERN 

RITUAL 

DRUIDS 

EARTH 

JUNE 

WORD MIX UP - Summer Solstice 

Unscramble the letters to make a word 

BEERCLATE 

DELANARC 

6 8 2 

2 1 

3 7 9 

NUMBER 

BLOCK 

4 8 

2 6 

8 5 

5 4 

22 20 21 19 

The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right. 

The numbers in each column add up to the totals 

along the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the 

totals to the right. 

8 9 5 

1 6 5 

3 8 

28 

27 

12 

24 

19 

11 

LIONRIGE 

NETSHOGENE 

SUETSN 

PRITCO FO CRANEC 

SHEERPHIME 

TRIBEHR 

WIGGLE WORDS 

CLUE: Keep it secret 

Trace a path through 

all the letters to find 

the word or phrase 

that fits the clue. 

R O B T 

D W R N 

E A E O 

H T A D 

All the puzzle solutions are on page 82 of this magazine

47

48 

Class from the past 

This month’s Class from the Past is of Standish High 

School, Form 8. It’s believed the photo was taken in 

1988. 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

49 

Equality for all 

Wigan Pride returns to Wigan Town Centre once 

again this summer. 

On Saturday, August 11, everyone is invited to the 

third annual Wigan Pride, which is growing year on 

year. 

The annual celebration of equality and diversity 

held in the town centre is free and open to all ages. 

There’ll be entertainment throughout the day on 

the stage and the town will be bustling with a range 

of market stalls. 

Attendees also won’t want to miss the exciting 

parade from Mesnes Park into Wigan town centre 

either. 

Special arrangements are being made to cater for 

autistic guests or those who might just want a bit 

of quiet but still be involved, as the autism friendly 

zone in Wigan Life Centre North returns. 

Wigan Pride organisers said: “Thanks to the amazing 

support from across the borough which made 

Wigan Pride 2017 unforgettable. 

“This year we are celebrating equality and diversity 

while encouraging everyone to get involved in 

their communities, be that attending social groups, 

volunteering or getting involved in local projects.” 

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50 

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losing their homes in the next 12 months after 

being trapped on interest-only mortgages they 

cannot afford to repay. 

Most of these mortgages were sold in the 1980’s 

and 1990’s on the pretence that the eventual sale 

of property will be used to clear the loan. New 

figures reveal that more than 80,000 interest only 

mortgages will come to the end of their term in 

the next 12 months - but more than one in eight of 

these borrowers will have no way to pay back the 

remaining debt they owe to the bank. 

If you have an interest only mortgage due to end 

and you don’t want to move from your home, you’ll 

be relieved to know that there is an alternative to 

moving and that’s taking out a lifetime mortgage. 

These types of mortgages are not time sensitive 

and are repaid on death or if the occupants move 

in to long term care. Payments on the loan can 

be made monthly, annually or the interest can be 

rolled up. 

Providing you are over the age of 55 and you own 

your own property you would be eligible. There are 

no affordability checks as repayment of interest is 

optional and current rates of interest are lower than 

4%. 

The plans are based on two factors, your age and 

property value. Your existing residential mortgage 

must be paid off by the lifetime mortgage to allow 

the plan to go ahead. 

The growth in this type of financial planning is 

becoming very popular as people are living longer 

and wish to enjoy their retirement years without 

financial worries or the thought of having to sell the 

family home. 

For more details call David Griffin for a friendly no obligation chat on 01204 849 974 or 07792 849 974. 

e: david@release-my-equity.co.uk w: www.release-my-equity.co.uk

51 

Home improvements 

Repay debts/loans 

Help your family 

Paying for holidays 

Top up income 

Clear outstanding mortgages 

If you are over 55 call David Griffin 

for a FREE inital consultation 

01204 88 45 45 

w: www.release-my-equity.co.uk 

e: david@release-my-equity.co.uk

52 

Health & Fitness 

Save your 

cervix 

By Niamh Ollerton 

Hearing about the big C is never pleasant. The disease comes in many 

different forms, and unfortunately men, women, and children of all ages 

are affected by it. The most common cancer in women aged 35 and under is cervical 

cancer, with more than 3,200 women being diagnosed every year in the UK, and 

nearly 900 die annually. 

BBC News reported a charity found: “embarrassment makes women avoid smear 

tests.” The report came after a survey of more than 2,000 women in the UK by the 

charity Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust found half of whom either delayed or didn’t attend 

their screening. 

All women aged 25 to 49 

are invited for a screening 

test every 3 years, while 

those aged 50 to 64 are 

invited every 5 years. But 

1 in 4 women skip the 

cervical screening, with 

the proportion increasing 

to 1 in 3 among those 

aged 25 to 29 and to 1 in 

2 in some more deprived 

regions of the UK. 

The survey found that 

embarrassment about 

body shape for between 

a third and a half of 

women held them back 

from attending their 

smear test. This also highlighted a lack of understanding about the importance of 

screening, with a quarter saying they didn’t think they needed to go because they 

were healthy and more than a third believing screening doesn’t reduce your cancer 

risk.

53 

But to show the importance of this imperative 

service, the charity Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust will 

be running its Cervical Screening Awareness Week 

from Monday, June 11-Sunday, June 17. And there 

are lots of ways we can get involved too! 

You can order the charity’s information materials to 

create an awareness stall at your surgery, workplace 

or sports centre or even put up a couple of posters; 

organise your own fundraising event to help raise 

necessary funds for the charity to continue their 

work; or tell your story to help spread the word 

about cervical cancer and prevention. 

In 99.7% of cases, cervical cancers are caused by 

persistent infections with a virus called high-risk 

human papillomavirus (HPV). 

HPV is a very common virus transmitted through 

skin to skin contact in the genital area. Around 

four out of five sexually active adults (80%) will 

be infected with some type of HPV in their lives. 

However, for the majority of women this will not

54 

result in cervical cancer. While HPV infection is 

common, cervical cancer is rare. 

Cervical cancer forms in the cells that line the 

cervix, which is the lower, narrow part of the uterus 

(womb) which joins to the top end of the vagina. 

Cervical cancer may not have symptoms in its early 

stages, but it can be prevented through regular 

cervical screening (smear test) (a procedure in 

which a sample of cells are taken from the cervix and 

examined for abnormalities under a microscope or 

tested for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), 

depending on where in the UK you live). 

There are some recognised symptoms associated 

with cervical cancer that you should be aware of. 

These include: 

Abnormal bleeding: during or after sexual 

intercourse, or between periods; post-menopausal 

bleeding: if you are not on hormone replacement 

therapy (HRT) or have stopped it for six weeks or 

more; unusual vaginal discharge; discomfort or 

pain during sexual intercourse; lower back pain. 

Almost all cases of cervical cancer (99.7%) are 

caused by infections with certain types of human 

papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a very common 

infection that four out of five sexually active adults 

will come into contact with in their lives. 

Most women will clear high-risk HPV infections 

themselves without it causing any harm. However, 

in a small number of women it can remain ‘dormant’ 

(inactive) or persistent, sometimes for many years. 

In these cases high-risk HPV can cause cervical 

abnormalities (changes to the cells of the cervix) to 

develop, which, if left untreated, can develop into 

cervical cancer over time. 

There are usually no symptoms associated with 

high-risk HPV infections, which means it is very 

important to attend your regular cervical screening 

(smear test) when you are invited, so that any 

abnormalities in the cells of the cervix can be 

detected and treated before they get a chance to 

develop into cervical cancer. 

If cervical cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, it’s 

usually possible to treat it using surgery. In some 

cases, it’s possible to leave the womb in place, but 

it may need to be removed via a hysterectomy, or 

radiotherapy, or a combination of the two. 

For more information, please visit www.jostrust. 

org.uk/

55 

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WN5 8TG

56 

Home safe 

A new service has been launched in 

Wigan Borough to support residents 

returning home from hospital. 

Wigan & Leigh Pensioners Link have been awarded 

the three year contract for the Home Safe service, 

which will offer vital support to residents. 

Home Safe will provide personal and friendly 

support during people’s discharge from hospital, 

helping them to settle and improve their 

connection with their local neighbourhood. 

They will work collaboratively with partners from 

Wigan Council and Wrightington Wigan and Leigh 

NHS Foundation Trust. 

Paul Roughley, manager at Wigan and Leigh 

Pensioners Link, said: “We have been supporting 

the elderly residents of 

Wigan Borough for the 

last thirty years. 

“This new service is an 

extension to what we do, 

which strengthens our 

partnership with Wigan 

Council and WWL Trust for borough residents.” 

Joanne Willmott, assistant director for provider 

management at the council, said: “A good 

experience of discharge supports longer term 

recovery, rehabilitation and helps people to 

reconnect with their community.” 

Pauline Law, Executive Director of Nursing at 

Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh hospital, said: “I am 

really delighted to be able to offer the Home Safe 

Service to WWL patients. 

“Some patients can lose their independence while 

in hospital, so it is extremely important to ensure 

that we have services such as these in place.”

57

58 

ADVERTISEMENT 

Expansion at 

Prosper 

Wealth Management 

Amongst the local 

gossip recently was 

news that Prosper Wealth 

Management had bought a 

property next door to their 

offices on the High Street in 

Standish, so I popped up to 

see the company’s owner 

David Barton to find out what 

his future plans were for his business. 

CP Why did you need to buy the house next door? 

DB We didn’t (laugh…) As this wasn’t available we 

got permission from the council to extend to the 

side and rear of the existing premises. We’re growing 

really quickly as more and more prospective clients 

are engaging with us for financial planning services, 

both for investment and for retirement planning, 

and we needed the space for extra staff that 

will strengthen our research and administrative 

functions. 

CP Was it easy recruiting the extra staff? 

DB In a word, no! We really needed to invest in 

additional high quality staff with a particular skill 

set and a high level of technical competence to 

ensure that our new and existing clients benefit 

from both our initial planning advice service as 

well as our ongoing guidance. We started looking 

for staff in May 2017 but it wasn’t until February 

this year that we secured three new experienced 

professionals, two Para-Planners/Researchers and a 

Senior Administrator. 

David Barton 

CP Why didn’t you just move to a bigger place? 

DB All of us at Prosper Wealth Management live 

locally and the majority of our clients live within a 

5 mile radius, so we didn’t want to inconvenience 

them by moving out of the area. More importantly, 

I live 5 minutes away from the office and I like the 

sandwiches at Kaz’s kitchen… 

CP How will the changes affect you in the short 

term? 

DB The build is scheduled to start in May with a 

view to finishing by the end of summer. Don’t be 

put off by the scaffolding; we will still be open and 

working hard. The interior designer’s brief is to 

create a contemporary space with a relaxed, yet 

confidential feel, so we’re all looking forward to 

working in the new offices. 

CP So what are the plans for the future? 

DB Well, we’re currently attracting £2m to £2.5m of 

pension and investment money per month from 

local clients and our business plan is to grow the 

funds under management from £140m to £250m 

within the next three years. 

CP And how confident are you that will happen? 

DB We were the first Independent Financial Adviser 

in Wigan to achieve Chartered Financial Status, 

and people know that they can depend on us for 

quality advice in the areas of investments and, more 

specifically, pension planning, so yes, I’m quietly 

confident we can achieve that target. 

CP Good luck David, all the very best!

59

60 

Property 

Supply and demand 

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. 

by Alan Batt 

Basic economics dictates that if there is too However, over the last five years, we have seen a 

much of a commodity and little demand, steady decrease in supply of properties coming 

then prices will drop. Over 85% of towns in the UK onto the market for sale and steady demand, 

have seen an increase in the number of properties meaning Wigan property prices have remained 

for sale from a year ago, and the local property robust. A stable housing market is one of the 

markets in those towns have fallen as a result. 

foundations of a successful British economy, as 

But not in Wigan. 

it’s all about getting the healthy balance of buyer 

demand with a good supply of properties. 

Here there were 850 properties for sale 12 months 

ago, and today that stands at 733, meaning there Since the Chancellor announced the stamp duty rule 

are 14% less properties for sale in Wigan today than changes for first time buyers (FTB), my fellow agents 

a year ago, meaning the property market is holding in Wigan say that the number of FTB’s registering on 

its own locally. 

the majority of agents’ books have increased year on 

year. That has still to follow through into more FTB’s 

At the start of 2007, there were 1,326 properties for 

buying their first home, but with the heightened 

sale in Wigan, but by February 2008, when the credit 

levels of confidence being demonstrated by both 

crunch was really beginning to bite, that number 

Wigan home owners and those potential FTB house 

had risen to 2,228 Wigan properties on the market 

buyers, I do foresee the Wigan Property Market will 

at a time when demand was at an all-time low, thus 

show steady yet sustained improvement during the 

creating an imbalance in the local property market. 

first half of 2018. 

In fact, house prices dropped between 15% and 

20% depending on the type of Wigan property What does this mean for Wigan landlords or those 

between the end of 2007 and Spring 2009. 

considering dipping their toe into the buy to let 

market for the first time? Landlords will need to 

keep improving their properties to ensure they 

get the best tenants. Even with the new landlord 

tax rules, buy to let in Wigan still looks a good 

investment, providing Wigan landlords with a good 

income at a time of low interest rates and a roller 

coaster stock market. 

If you are thinking of investing in bricks and mortar 

in Wigan, it is important to do things correctly 

as making money won’t be as easy as it has been 

over the last twenty years. With a fewer number of

61 

properties on the market, comes less choice. Don’t 

buy the first thing you see, buy with your head as 

well as your heart. 

As always, all my articles on the Wigan Property 

Market can be found at http://wiganpropertynews. 

blogspot.co.uk 

Catchments Influence 

Rents Rise 

The rents paid by Wigan tenants are now 

standing at £470 per calendar month, a rise 

of 1.05% year on year. 

However, this attention-grabbing monthly rent 

figure masks stark differences in the various 

different parts of the Wigan rental market. Demand 

in Wigan for high quality family homes with two 

or three bedrooms in good catchment areas for 

schools remains really robust due to tenants 

wanting access to the schools. Other influencing 

factors that make certain areas popular are the 

proximity to transport links, such as rail stations. 

With the new tax rules for landlords, many believed 

that the number of rental properties would drop 

throughout 2017, as landlords sold up their Buyto-Let 

properties and looked to invest their money 

elsewhere, but evidently this hasn’t happened. 

Demand remained strong in 2017 for Wigan private 

rental properties, meaning the rents being achieved 

were at a decent level for landlords. 

However, I have noticed a drop in demand (and 

thus rents achieved) for property where the 

landlord hasn’t kept the property fresh; in terms 

of decoration, carpets, replacement windows and 

poor heating. 

For those existing landlords who are looking at 

expanding their property portfolio, I’ve taken a 

look at the Wigan property market, specifically at 

the lower of the market where buy-to-let landlords 

tend to buy their rental properties and over the 

past 12 months flats/apartments have risen in value 

by 2.37% whilst terraced properties have risen by 

1.16%. 

However, most landlords can start to feel assured 

that as capital growth in Wigan remains at a more 

realistic figure (good for long term stability in the 

property market) and long-term rents are on the 

rise, the overall corresponding annual return on 

investment has stabilised in all areas and is now 

starting to grow. 

With additional people seeing renting as a longterm 

option, even with the challenges of the new 

tax regime, Wigan landlords, with the support of a 

good advice and opinion, should continue to see 

renting as a good investment vehicle. 

If you are looking for an agent that is well 

established, professional and communicative, then 

contact us to find out how we can get the best out 

of your investment property. Email me on alan@ 

alanbatt.co.uk or call on 01942 233999 

For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis 

on the Wigan property market, check out 

www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk

62 

Making Tax Digital 

by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy 

HMRC have recently updated the timescale 

that Making Tax Digital, MTD, will come 

into effect. 

If you have a business that is registered for VAT and 

has a turnover above the VAT registration threshold 

of £85,000, you’ll be required to keep digital records 

and submit your VAT return to HMRC through 

compatible software from next April. 

Online filing of VAT returns has been in place for 

a number of years, but now your business will 

need to also send the audit trail between primary 

records and the VAT return, details of supplies 

made and received and more information also. This 

change represents a major difference in the level of 

information being sent to HMRC. 

The best way for a business to prepare for this is to 

implement a cloud accounting solution that will 

be compatible with Making Tax Digital, and as this 

needs to be in place by next April our advice is to 

take steps now to ensure your business is compliant. 

Xero and QuickBooks are two software systems 

that are MTD-compatible, and CMA are official 

partners with both these systems, so we are in a 

good position to help you choose which software 

is best for your business. For a limited period we 

are offering all new clients Xero or Quickbooks 

software free of charge for 6 MONTHS if they sign 

up for our services. 

Many of our clients are already enjoying the benefits 

of online accounting, which include: 

• More efficient systems: reduced administration 

time and cost 

• Increase accuracy: fewer mistakes and errors 

• Smarter business tools resulting in accurate 

reports, real time data and higher tax savings 

• Better security by keeping all your data on 

password protected software 

There are also lots of tools and Apps being 

developed which dramatically reduce the time 

spent on bookkeeping and improves accuracy. 

For instance, receipts and invoices can be scanned 

using your mobile phone and these receipts are 

then sent automatically for processing in your 

accounts software and matched to a record that has 

been imported from your bank account. 

If you have any questions regarding Making Tax 

Digital or switching to online accounting systems 

please do get in touch. We offer a free consultation 

for anyone that would like to speak to us about 

these changes. Feel free to 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 

Making Tax Digital 

Do you have a business that’s 

VAT-registered and has a 

turnover of £85,000+? 

Are you aware of the Making 

Tax Digital changes due to 

start next April? 

Would you like your business 

to enjoy the benefits of online 

accounting? 

Plan NOW for the 2019 

changeover and call us today 

for a free consultation. 

Free software for 6 

months when you use 

CMA Accountancy. 

Call CMA Accountancy today 

www.cma-accountancy.com 

info@cma-accountancy.com 

Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521

64 

Turning 10 

AFounded in a back bedroom on Sandy 

Lane in Orrell, Local Life now produces five 

magazines a month (Wigan, St Helens, Chorley, West 

Lancs and Leigh & District) 

from our Orrell offices and 

we also deliver over 750,000 

leaflets a year too. 

We’re proud of the fact that 

many of our customers stay 

with us, year after year, so 

here’s what our advertisers 

have to say about Local Life. 

Previous to advertising in Local Life, just 10% of our 

work came from Wigan itself and now, two years after 

advertising in Local Life, over 50% of our work is local. 

We get lots of enquiries every month from Local Life, it’s 

a great magazine which people read and use. 

Shane Wilson – Vale of Wigan 

Local Life covers areas that we just can’t reach with any 

other publication. We know when it has been delivered 

as our phone never stops ringing. It’s always our first 

choice for advertising. 

Sharon Lee – Expressions of Beauty 

I have advertised in Local Life for over 8 years now 

and it has consistently been my main source of new 

business. It is a fantastic, quality magazine which, as 

well as supporting local businesses, gives its readers an 

interesting and informative read. I would thoroughly 

recommend it. 

Angie Barker Garden Design 

Local Life is 10 years old this month! 

I’m pleased to say that every customer we have 

introduced to Local Life has had a direct and 

noticeable response. Both us, and our clients, love the 

publications and they are now one of the first types of 

local advertising we suggest when putting together 

promotional campaigns. 

Elaine Rimmer – Platinum Advertising & Design Ltd 

It’s been a pleasure being part of your magazines 10 

year growth, long may it continue. 

Bob McWilliam - Manor House Carpet & Upholstery 

Cleaning 

It’s a great pleasure to be associated with your 

magazine. I advertise my brickwork company in Local 

Life and feel it offers me great value. 

Marc Mulligan Brickwork 

As a frequent advertiser and reader of Local Life, it 

has made a big difference to my business with a vast 

number of customers coming from looking at the 

magazine, here’s to another 10 years! 

Graham Collier- Top Coat Decorating Service 

We love that little magazine. It makes a difference to 

customers visiting our showroom and our sales. 

Andrea Hampson - Cabinet Masters

65 

We continue to move forward and have taken on 

another person to help with the workload generated 

from the advertisement in Local Life. 

Chris Linnet – CL Bathrooms 

Having worked with other advertising mediums over 

the last 15 years the Local Life publication remains our 

partner of choice and continues to generate extremely 

positive responses from clients, both existing and new. 

David Barton – Prosper Wealth Management 

Local Life is the best local print advertising media 

around, without a doubt, and it’s the only publication 

we advertise in. We also use the leaflet distribution 

service on a regular basis and it’s very reliable and also 

quite cheap compared to other distribution companies. 

Ian Johnson – GreenThumb Wigan 

I’ve been advertising with Local Life for most of the 

last decade. It’s the only advertising I need to do and it 

reliably brings me good quality local jobs every single 

month. 

If you’d like to promote your company in Local Life 

magazine or use our leaflet distribution service, call 

Nicola or Chris on 01695 627999 or pop into our 

offices at Unit 8 - Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley 

Road, Orrell WN5 7ZB. 

www.locallife247.co.uk 

Chris Banks – Cosmeticar 

Around 80/90% of our work comes from Local Life 

and it’s all local work, we don’t have to waste hours 

sitting in traffic each day. As of today (10th April), we’re 

already booked up until August; that’s how successful 

Local Life is. 

Colin Wilson – Wilson Bros. Building and Roofing 

In my view, Local Life 

offers my company the 

most comprehensive 

coverage of Wigan’s 

strongest housing areas 

and I’m delighted to be 

able to offer my customers 

the chance to display their 

homes in this popular 

local magazine. 

Alan Batt Estate Agents

66 

Food & Drink 

Forget cigarettes, alcohol and even drugs, 

there is a new addiction sweeping the 

nation - snackoholism. 

We were brought up being told not to eat between 

meals but now it seems that we literally can’t 

help helping ourselves, with four percent of Brits 

admitting to being addicted to snacking and 

finding it impossible to quit. 

A survey by Diet Chef has uncovered some shocking 

truths about British snacking behaviour - not least 

that more than one in 10 of us would rather snack 

than have sex. 

And it seems our need to snack is taking over our 

lives as six per cent of us even admit to snacking 

in bed. 

A third of us would rather give up alcohol than 

snacks and 13% of smokers said they’d rather kick 

their nicotine habit than give up chocolate, biscuits 

and crisps. 

As a nation, the number of snacks we are consuming 

has reached colossal proportions. Our snack of 

choice is crisps - 61% of Brits admit to eating at least 

one packet a day and some scoff as many as five or 

six. 

A very British 

addiction 

This equates to a staggering 48 million packets of 

crisps being consumed every day by the UK’s adult 

population. Add to this 45 million chocolate bars 

and the 78 million biscuits and cakes we eat every 

day and it is no wonder we have an obesity crisis. 

One in 10 of the people surveyed have either a 

burger, a pizza or a portion of chips as a snack 

every day, showing we no longer understand the

67 

difference between a snack and a meal. Yet only 

14% of the people surveyed knew how many 

calories something as basic as an average portion 

of chips contained. 

Diet Chef’s nutritionist Caron Leckie says: “Our 

survey shows the extent to which snacking has got 

out of control. Most of the people we surveyed said 

they snack out of habit or boredom, which shows 

people are eating without thinking, not out of 

necessity. 

“It can be difficult to curb or change snacking habits 

as there are many different components involved 

- sometimes we snack out of hunger, boredom, 

cravings or just pure habit. Identifying our snacking 

ways and preparing ourselves is the first step to 

snacking success.” 

Caron’s 10 steps to avoiding snacking: 

* Identify what - Keeping a food diary can help you 

identify your snacking reality. 

* Identify where - Once you know what your snacks 

are, you need to consider where 

you are most likely to 

snack - then clear out 

your snack stash. 

* Identify when - Knowing when you snack can 

reveal the trigger. When you’ve sussed out your 

snacking patterns, you’re ready to confront them. 

* Find a healthier alternative - Try a low calorie 

chocolate drink instead of chocolate or popcorn 

instead of crisps. 

* Distract yourself - Occupy your mind with other 

things - go for a walk, phone a friend, get busy 

cleaning or ironing, read a book, take a bath, paint 

your nails etc to get your mind off those treats. 

* Avoid tricky situations - Take a packed lunch to 

work to avoid the temptation of shops, and cut back 

on tea or coffee if you usually have biscuits too. 

* Cut the portions - You can make anything instantly 

healthier by cutting the portions - this way you get 

a little of what you fancy, just in a smaller package. 

* Fill up on fruit and veg - Aim for at least 5 a day, 

so if you feel yourself reaching for a snack, make it 

fruits or vegetables instead. 

* Make small changes - If you deprive yourself 

of everything that you like and that is habitual, 

it’s much harder, and is likely to end in a cycle of 

deprivation and bingeing. 

* Don’t forget drinks - Whether it’s a fizzy 

drink, orange juice or the mid-morning 

caramel latte - they add up, so choose a 

healthier alternative like green tea or water.

68 

Tuna Burgers 

Tuna is a great staple and part of a healthy diet, so this twist on the traditional 

burger makes it a great way to integrate more oily fish into a family diet. 

Serves 4 

Ingredients 

1 (170g) can tuna, drained 

1 egg 

60g Italian seasoned bread 

crumbs 

55g minced onion 

30g minced celery 

35g minced red pepper 

60ml mayonnaise 

15g chili sauce 

0.5g dried dill 

2g salt 

0.3g ground black pepper 

1 dash hot pepper sauce 

1 dash Worcestershire sauce 

4 hamburger buns 

1 red onion, sliced 

4 leaves of lettuce (optional) 

Method 

Combine tuna, egg, bread crumbs, onion, celery, red pepper, mayonnaise, 

chili sauce, dill, salt, pepper, hot pepper sauce and Worcestershire sauce. 

Mix well. 

Shape carefully into 4 burgers as the mixture will be very soft. Refrigerate 

for 30 minutes to make the patties easier to handle, if desired. 

Coat a non-stick frying pan with cooking spray. Fry tuna burgers for about 

3 to 4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. As they are fragile, be 

careful when turning them. 

Serve on buns with onion slices and lettuce leaves, if desired.

69 

Upload your event for FREE at 

www.locallife247.co.uk/events 

Follow us on Facebook 

events2go 

Wigan Comic Con 2018 

Saturday, May 26, 10am-4pm 

Funky Figures presents Wigan’s Comic Con. 

Collectibles, cars and cosplay will be featured 

alongside celebrity guests from TV film and comics. 

There’ll be a retro gaming area and arcade machines 

with a little chill out area for younger kids. Tickets 

available from http://funkyfigures.co.uk/ 

Wigan Comic-Con, Loire Drive, Robin Park, WN5 

0UH. Tel: 07772 201119 (event planner) 

Car Boot Sale 

Sunday, May 27, 9am-2pm 

A car boot sale at the hospice. It’s £10 per car. To 

book your pitch please call the fundraising team on 

01942 525566 or email fundraising@wlh.org.uk 

Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Wigan, 

WN2 3HZ. Tel: 01942 525566 

The Wilfs Car Boot Sale 

Monday, May 28, 9am-4pm 

A car boot sale on May Bank Holiday Monday. If 

you wish to book a stall it is £6 for cars and £10 

for vans. Why not join in the fun at The Chadwick’s 

Emporium Car Park? 

The Chadwick Family’s Emporium, Wellington 

Place, 51 High Street, Standish, WN6 0HD. Tel: 

01257 421137 

Vintage Tea Dance 

Monday, May 28, 1pm-5pm 

Elderly Dementia/Alzheimers sufferers across 

Wigan and their loves ones are invited to a free 

vintage tea dance. Spend the day in the 1940’s, 

indulge in vintage treats, sing wartime tracks and 

have a good old’ jive. For reservations, please email 

us at chantelle@personal-careservices.co.uk 

St Anne’s Church Shevington, Standish Lower 

Ground and Crooke, Church Lane, WN6 8BD. Tel: 

07968 021641 

May Market 

Monday, May 28, 12pm-5pm 

Join in the fun with stalls, live music, DJ, barbecue, 

kids’ attractions and more! Supporting Macmillan. 

Free Entry. If you’d like to book a stall just give them 

a call. 

Hungry Horse (The Mount, Wigan), Orrell Road, 

WN5 8HQ. Tel: 01942 219740 

Half Term Holiday Karting 

Monday, May 28 until Friday, June 1 

Family Arrive ‘n’ Drive karting sessions for ages 

8+, Junior Arrive ‘n’ Drive karting sessions for ages 

8-15 years and Sisley Kart School sessions for 

ages 8-15 years. Prices start from £25. Visit www. 

threesisterscircuit.co.uk or contact the sales team to 

find out more. 

Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Rd, Ashton-in- 

Makerfield, Wigan, WN4 8DD. Tel: 01942 719030

70 

Creepy Crawly Critter 

Monday, May 28, 11am-1pm 

Come and meet our critter friends. There’ll be 

snakes, spiders, snails, lizards and more. £10 per 

child including a picnic box. 

The Red Robin, Robin Park, 1 Anjou Blvd, Wigan, 

WN5 0UJ. Tel: 01942 218965 

Midweek MTB Madness 

Wednesday, May 30, 6.30pm-8.15pm 

Popular midweek grassroots MTB series, expect 

rooty climbs, fast sections and maybe a bit of 

mud. Racers, Enthusiasts, Youth, Juvenile all race 

in one event. Entry fees range from £5-£15. Details 

on British Cycling www.britishcycling.org.uk/ 

events/?series_id=283 

Haigh Woodland Park, Haigh, Wigan, WN2 1PE 

Wedding Open Evenings 

Wed, May 30, 5pm-8pm (last Wed of the month 

until Wed, Nov 28, 5pm-8pm) 

You’ve fallen in love with that special someone; now 

it’s time to find the perfect wedding venue. Meet 

the experienced and dedicated team who will work 

with you to ensure your day runs seamlessly. 

Macdonald Kilhey Court, Chorley Road, Standish, 

WN1 2XN. Tel: 0844 879 9045 

Storybook Yoga 

Friday, June 1, 1pm-2pm and 3pm-4pm 

Join the team for classic stories, yoga and creative 

play. Stories are brought to life while learning a little 

yoga too. The Gruffalo is at 1pm and Green Eggs 

& Ham is at 3pm. Cost: £10 Suitable for one adult 

and one child, £5 for additional children via www. 

studiooneyoga.net/standishschedule 

Studio One Yoga, 1B, High Street, Standish, WN6 

0HA. Tel: 01257 424855 

Dressage League 

Sunday, June 3, 11.45am-4.30pm 

A fun way to focus on riding development. There 

are classes for all. After each competition, riders will 

get a feedback sheet and a rosette if placed. There’s 

a chance of a trophy for the rider with the most 

points after the final. It’s £10 to enter. For more info 

visit www.parboldequestriancentre.co.uk 

Parbold Equestrian Centre, Bradshaw Lane, 

Wigan, WN8 7NQ. Tel: 01257 462814 

Canal & Countryside Walk 

Wednesday, June 6, 7pm 

Enjoy a gentle three to four mile stroll along and 

around the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. For more info 

contact West Lancashire Footpath Group on 01695 

421408 or visit www.westlancsfootpathgroup.org.uk 

The Boat House, Herons Wharf, Mill Lane, Appley 

Bridge, WN6 9DA. 

Pizza and a Pint 

Fri, June 8, Fri, July 13, Fri, Aug 10, 6pm-10pm 

The award winning Two Left Feet Tap is back. Enjoy 

slow proved sourdough wood fired pizza, while the 

beer sommelier pairs each menu with a selection of 

craft beer, hand crafted gins and fine wines. 

Two Left Feet Tap & Brewery, Haigh Hall, WN2 1PE. 

Tel: 07985 409365 

Junior Sailing Courses 

Saturday, June 9, 1pm-4pm, to Saturday, June 30, 

1pm-4pm (Saturday afternoons) 

The six week courses follow RYA and BCU training 

schemes for beginners in Sailing, Windsurfing 

and Kayaking. New participants will get free 

membership to the Tuesday evening activity club. 

To book, email outdooradventure@wlct.org or 

telephone 01942 828508 for more info. Cost: £60. 

Scotmans Flash, Rushdene, Wigan, WN3 5HJ. Tel: 

01942 324870

71 

Artisan Market 

Saturday, June 9, July 14, August 11, 10am-4pm 

There’ll be stall holders selling organic meat and 

dairy, homemade artisan pies and cakes, arts and 

crafts, bespoke handmade children’s’ clothes, 

vintage traders, vinyl records and more. Free entry. 

Wigan Auction House, Miry Lane, Wigan, WN6 

7TG. Tel: 01942 230460 

Parbold YFC 

Saturday, June 9, 3.30pm-11.59pm 

As a part of the 50th Anniversary celebrations, 

Parbold YFC will be hosting an old-school type rally! 

There’ll be plenty of competitions from tug-of-war 

to machinery identification, and more. There’ll be a 

barbecue and then a ceilidh and disco to dance the 

night away! 

Fred A Ollerton, Home Farm, Back Lane, Appley 

Bridge, WN6 8RR. Tel: 01257 426683 

Greyhound Walk 

Sunday, June 10, 11.30am-1pm 

Global groups of greyhound lovers will meet, walk 

and show what wonderful pets greyhounds are. 

This year’s theme is “Love Is All Around” - Fall in 

Love with a Greyhound. Please note: this walk is 

for Sighthounds only. To donate please visit www. 

greatglobalgreyhoundwalk.co.uk 

The Balcarres Arms at Aspull, 1 Copperas Lane, 

Haigh, WN2 1PA. Tel: 01942 833018 

Sunday Sessions 

Sunday, June 10, 8pm-10.15pm; Sunday, July 22, 

8pm-10.15pm 

Live music with Darren K Robinson who’ll be playing 

songs from six decades. Get your requests ready! 

The Black Bull, 25 Market Street, Standish, WN6 

0HW. Tel: 01257 427161 

The Post 

Sunday, June 10, 7pm 

Based on true events and the Washington Post’s 

battle to uncover the truth about Vietnam. Starring 

Meryl Streep & Tom Hanks; directed by Steven 

Spielberg. All seats £4, and pay on the door. More 

info on: www.parboldpicturehouse.org 

Parbold Picture House, Parbold Village Hall, The 

Green, WN8 7DN. Tel: 01257 464333 

Youth Group Explosion! 

Sat, Jun 16, Sat, Jul 21, Sat, Aug 18, 3pm-5pm 

For kids aged 9-13 to have fun, chat, relax, create 

crafts, debate, pray, enjoy indoor & outdoor games, 

tuck shop and more. All young people must be 

registered by an adult before entry. £1 entry. 

St Andrew’s Parish Centre, 120 Woodhouse Lane, 

Springfield, WN6 7LZ. Tel: 01942 741499 

ARC in the Park 

Sunday, June 17, 11am-7.30pm 

Watch the VIVA L.A. COLDPLAY tribute band; No.1 

Little Mix tribute band “A Touch of Little Mix,” and So 

Green - Liverpool Indie band. Tickets on sale now; 

£10 for adults; children 14 & under £5; toddlers free. 

Prices on the gate are £13 for adults and £7 for kids. 

Charity Farm Fisheries, Smithy Brow, 

Wrightington, WN6 9PP. Tel: 01257 451326 

Canine Body Language 

Monday, June 18, 10am-5pm (9.30am 

registration) and Tuesday, June 19, 9.30am-5pm 

(9.30am registration) 

Learn how to read signals, sort out the meanings 

and use Canine Body Language in your interactions 

with your dog. Tickets are £149 from www.dog-andbone.co.uk/seminars/brenda-aloff-canine-bodylanguage-2018 

Britannia Hotel Wigan, Almond Brook Road, 

Standish, WN6 0SR.

72 

Wigan Flower Club 

Wed, June 20, Wed, Jul 18, Wed, Aug 15, 7.15pm 

Wigan Flower Club meets every third Wednesday 

of the month. Floral demonstrations are done by 

a qualified NAFAS demonstrator. There is Tea and 

Coffee on sale, a raffle and a trash and treasure stall. 

There is always a warm Wigan welcome to all. 

St Michael’s Hall, Shaw Street, Wigan, WN1 2BQ. 

Summer Fair 

Saturday, June 23, 11am-2pm 

Raise money for much needed playground 

equipment for the school. There’s lots planned 

including: guest appearances (including Lightning 

McQueen), barbecue, bouncy castle and slide, 

donkey rides, face painting, Morris dancers, penalty 

shoot-out, plus many more stalls and games to play. 

Marus Bridge Primary School, Kelvin Grove, Marus 

Bridge, WN3 6SP. Tel: 01942 248129 

Scrufts Dog Show 

Sunday, June 24, 11am-4pm 

Furry friends will be judged on waggiest tails, biscuit 

catching prowess, party tricks, cutest outfits, and 

more. With live music, street food, doggy demos, 

celebrity judges, and family activities. Entries are £3 

from Haigh Kitchen Courtyard, with a percentage of 

profits going to an animal rescue charity. 

Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, Wigan, 

WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828280 

Brass in the Park 

Sun, June 24, 1pm-3.15pm (Set 1: 1pm, Set 2: 2.30pm) 

Bring along your picnic, set your blanket on the 

ground and enjoy the music of local brass bands. An 

afternoon of traditional brass sounds by Standish 

Brass Band. A great, free family event. All Woodland 

Park attractions open as normal. 


WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828280 

Haigh Foodie Friday 

Friday, June 29, July 27, August 31, 6pm-10pm 

Foodie Friday is back every month until October. 

There’ll be food from a variety of street food traders 

old and new. Free parking after 5pm and free entry; 

lots of music and dog friendly. Adventure Play, 

Adventure Golf and High Ropes Course open. 


WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828280 

Midsummer Ball 

Saturday, June 30, 7pm for 7.30pm start, bar until 

1am, carriages 1.30am 

Wigan MS Therapy Centre Ltd will be holding the 

ball to raise funds for their projects. Tickets are £30 

and include live entertainment, DJ and a 3-course 

meal. Call 07702 025280 or 07759 735301 for details 

and tickets. 

The Marquee, DW Stadium, 15 Loire Dr, Wigan, 

WN5 0UH. Tel: 01942 774000 

Masquerade Party Night 

Saturday, June 30, 7.30pm 

DJ Danny returns for another spectacular party 

night, filled with dinner and dancing until late. 

Bring your own liquid refreshments. Tickets are £15, 

and all profits go to ABCA reg. Charity 515110. 

Appley Bridge Community Centre, Appley Lane 

North, Wigan, WN6 9AQ. 

Community Fete 

Saturday, June 30, 11am-4pm 

With stalls, rides, games, live music, food, craft 

fair, community info and more. Games, tug ‘o’ war, 

races and entertainment areas will be held on the 

Recreation Ground. For more info on how to get 

involved, email elaineellams@aol.com or for stall 

bookings shevingtonfete@outlook.com 

Gathurst Lane, Shevington, Wigan, WN6 8HW

73 

Special Service 

Saturday, July 7, 6pm-7pm 

A special day for Rector Andrew as he celebrates 

his 25th anniversary to the job. This is an open 

invitation for all to attend. 

Church of St Wilfrid, 13 Rectory Lane, Standish, 

Wigan, WN6 0XA. Tel: 01257 421396 

Wigan Summer Baby Rave 

Sunday, July 8, 10am-11am 

There’ll be free glow sticks, UV face painting, dance 

routines, bubbles, multi-sensory play and huge 

dance anthems. Get your neon gear on and glow 

crazy!! Tickets £4 per person. Minimum of 1 child 

ticket per booking. Tickets are available at www. 

littleravers.co.uk/book-tickets 

Pemberton Masonic Hall, Chapel Street, 

Pemberton, WN5 8JP. Tel: 07858 604590 

Barking Mad Dog Festival 

Saturday, July 14, 10am-6pm 

It’ll be a packed day family day out with displays, 

an agility race for you and your pooch, Flyball, dog 

show, Microchipping and health checks with one 

of the on-site vets. Grab a drink at the bar and your 

favourite food. Kids can spend their time on the fair 

and bouncy castle and slide. 

Thompson House Equestrian Centre, Pepper 

Lane, Standish, WN6 0PP. Tel: 01257 422618 

Wigan Bike Ride 2018 

Sunday, July 22, 9.30am 

The organisers of the inaugural Wigan Bike Ride 

are delighted to confirm the event has returned 

with a 50 mile main ride and a 5 mile family ride. 

For more info and to register, please visit http:// 

wiganbikeride.co.uk/ 

Mesnes Park, Wigan, WN1 1TU. 

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74 

Hindley & 

Top Lock 

Getting out for a walk has got to be one of my 

favourite pastimes. There’s no better way to 

blow the cobwebs off and get some headspace than 

when you’re in the great outdoors surrounded by 

greenery. 

My colleague Peter and I struck it lucky as we enjoyed 

a warmish stroll throughout Hindley. With our 

walking boots at the ready – or some muddy old 

trainers in my case – we were off on an afternoon 

adventure. 

We parked the car on the right of Hindley Mill Lane, 

just past the last house. Having booted up we 

start the walk by heading in to Rayner Park on the 

by Niamh Ollerton 

opposite side of the road; the path in is just past the 

last house on the that side of the road. 

We follow the main path through the woods until it 

takes us across Borsdane Brook and out on to Danes 

Avenue, where we turn left. Continue along Danes 

Avenue and turn right when you reach the main 

road, and on towards the junction of Market Street 

and Ladies Lane. 

Cross over Ladies Lane and turn left down Market 

Street until you reach Darby Lane (immediately 

after the Summat To Ate restaurant) where you turn 

right. It has to be said the most prominent stores 

available seemed to be antique shops, so if you’re

75 

in the mood to go antiquing, I’d recommend a little 

browse to see what’s available. 

Follow Darby Lane through to its junction with 

Pennygate Close, where you go straight across and 

on to the public footpath. As you walk along the 

footpath you’ll see Hickory Brook to your left which 

is green and lush. 

Head along the footpath all the way up to the old 

railway footbridge, and when soaring up the bridge 

you’ll see two big beautiful lagoons on your left. 

You’d presume by the grandeur of the bridge it was 

once a station. 

B5238 

Withington Lane 

Cale Lane 

Inn 

Top Lock 

Kirkless 

Hall 

Leeds & Liverpool Canal 

Withington Lane 

Borsdane 

Wood 

NCR 55 

Kirkless 

Greenheart 

Belle Green Ln 

Hemfield 

Road 

Hindley Hall 

Golf Course 

Hall Lane 

Borsdane Brook 

NCR 55 

Hemfield Road 

er 

A577 

Makerfield Way 

Ladies Lane 

Hindley 

Railway 

Station 

Danes Avenue 

Castle Hill Road 

Hindley Mill Ln 

A58 

Cemetery 

Postcode 

WN2 4BT 

NCR 55 

Wigan Road 

Darby Lane 

Market Street 

Bridge St 

Hindley

76 

Continue making your way down the beautifully 

broken cobbled road, on the downward slope 

which you would think was once a downward 

hill for handcarts or horses, then continue along 

to Hemfield Road, and turn left, following the 

rough road out on to Makerfield Way. There was a 

beautiful horse on the left of the fields where white 

birds were flying around making the setting look 

like something out of a film. 

Crossing over the road, go right to where the old 

road (now a public footpath) forks off to the left. This 

public footpath is a continuation of Hemfield Road, 

which you follow as it passes between industrial 

units and out and on to the other end of the street. 

Here turn left and head down Belle Green Lane to 

where it crosses National Cycle Route 55. Here we 

go right on to the cycle path for a short distance 

through the arch of trees which would be the 

perfect protection on a warm summer’s day, before 

taking the first right in to Kirkless Greenheart; which 

was once the site of Kirkless Iron & Steel Works. 

Follow the path in until you reach the top of the 

wooden steps. Here go left and take the path that 

heads up across rolling mounds along the ridge of 

the spoil heap. Admire the great green landscape

77 

to your right, which features some trees similar to 

great green lollipops. But don’t get too close to the 

rock tops on the right hand side, there’s a great big 

fishing lake awaiting at the bottom. 

At the far end you are rewarded with views over 

the canal locks and across Wigan. Now take great 

care in descending from your viewpoint down to 

the canal lock – you’ll pick up some momentum at 

the end like I did – where you cross over and turn 

right, heading up past the locks. Here you will see 

the canal in all its glory, where the rippling effects 

of the water are so calming. 

As you wander up, look out for Kirkless Hall, an old 

Tudor style building on your left. After that you’ll 

pass under Cale Lane, via a bridge which was built 

in 1816. Peter being a good few inches taller than I 

am quipped ‘I think people were smaller back then.’ 

You’ll pass by Kirkless Hall Inn which I’m sure does 

a killing in the summer until finally emerging onto 

Withington Lane at Top Lock, where you go right, 

heading over the two canal bridges. You’ll wander 

past some beautiful pristine cottages. 

Once you pass the long row of white pained terrace 

houses, look out for the bridleway on your right. 

Take this path and follow it through Hindley Hall 

Golf Club to Hall Lane, where you take the left 

fork in the drive. On reaching the main road, cross 

over and head straight on to the public footpath, 

heading out across the fields and round into 

Borsdane Wood, where you’ll take the path down 

to the right. 

As you head into the wood you’ll be parallel to the 

water which is idyllic, Borsdane Wood is an amazing 

example of ancient woodland, featuring natural 

history as it was 7,000 years ago when Britain was 

covered with native trees. It was very atmospheric 

with birds chirping, with beams of light breaking 

through the gaps of the spindly trees that almost 

marry each other reaching up to the light. 

Following the path back to the tunnel under the 

railway line, where you’ll continue along the road, 

round to the left and back to your starting point. 

This walk certainly gets more beautiful with every 

passing step, and with a companion by your side 

to help you put the world to right, it’ll be a very 

pleasant and enjoyable stroll. 

Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and 

footwear whilst walking. Whilst 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.

78 

Test Drive 

Jaguar E-Pace 

by Tim Barnes-Clay 

The E-Pace is diminutive when compared with the F-Pace, and it doesn’t look 

much like it. It has more in common with the Range Rover Evoque, because 

it uses the same chassis. There are other Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) models rolled into 

the mix, too. The new SUV’s headlights are reminiscent of the two-seater Jaguar 

F-Type, possibly hinting at the athletic potential of the E-Pace. 

There are two petrols and three diesels on offer. I drove the most potent 

diesel, the D240 twin-turbo. As the numbers in its name suggest, the 

SUV churns out 240PS, and it’s fitted with an automatic transmission 

and four-wheel drive only. 

There are a couple of model line-ups: regular and R-Dynamic; 

the latter of which gets twin tailpipes, front fog-lights and bodycoloured 

door cladding. Then there are four trim levels within each 

range. I drove the ‘S’ trim in R-Dynamic form, which boasts fat alloys, 

navigation, electrically-adjustable front seats and leather upholstery.

79 

Behind the wheel, 

the E-Pace isn’t mindblowing, 

but it’s very 

good - as far as small SUVs 

go. The car’s steering 

weights up well at speed 

and the baby Jaguar 

feels planted, inspiring 

some confidence in 

corners. Zero to 62mph 

is achieved in 7.4 seconds 

and the top speed is 

139mph. Unsurprisingly, 

I found myself enjoying 

lacing the E-Pace down 

Corsican roads; perhaps 

even more so than if I’d 

been at the tiller of a German-made machine. 

The jewel in the E-Pace’s crown is undoubtedly its 

ride quality. The car feels refined on every road 

surface, behaving better than an SUV has any 

entitlement to, even at a snail’s pace. Potholes are 

soaked up so well that there are times when you 

wonder if the Jaguar has metamorphized into a 

hovercraft. 

The D240 produces just a smidgeon of diesel clatter 

on start-up, but it soon settles. Give it the beans with 

your right foot, though, and the oil-burning musical 

score returns. To be fair, the car’s sound insulation 

masks this most of the time, to the point where you 

start to question which fuel type the Jaguar drinks. 

The E-Pace’s ZF nine-speed automatic ‘box changes 

smoothly, and on the R-Dynamic, gearshift paddles 

make things more fun. Rather than staying in ‘auto’ 

mode, you can dance through the cogs yourself 

using the shifters behind the steering wheel. 

The cabin is a lovely place to spend time. It’s even 

grin-inducing at times, with neat touches, like the 

‘cub’ image in the windscreen frame helping to 

raise a smile. The general effect is elegant enough, 

with skilfully placed sections of leather and double 

stitching to remind you you’re in a quality motor. 

Only some hunks of dark plastic here and there rain 

on the parade. 

Room-wise, you’re laughing in an E-Pace. The car 

will sit four-up, no problem, and tall occupants 

in the back seat won’t have cause to moan about 

legroom or headroom. There’s plenty of that. 

The practical side of things continues to the Jaguar’s 

boot. At 577 litres, it offers more cargo capacity 

than most other small SUVs. And things become 

positively van-like with the rear seats folded down. 

In place of human cargo, there’s 1,234 litres to 

knock yourself out with. 

JLR has every right to look like ‘the cat that got the 

cream’ with this fresh product. The E-Pace will be 

popular, no doubt about it. It has a near-flawless 

mix of comfort, practicality, power and refinement. 

Not every premium compact SUV can do that. 

Fast Facts 

• 0-62 mph: 7.4 secs 

• Combined mpg: 45.6 

• Engine layout: 1,999cc four-cylinder diesel turbo 

• Max. power (PS): 240 

• CO2: 162 g/km

80 

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81 

Give it some 

kerb appeal! 

by Angie Barker 

Front gardens can be challenging, sometimes 

small spaces with awkward aspects. A front 

garden however is an opportunity to show your 

property off to its best and be a welcoming site, 

for visitors and for people coming home at the end 

of a long day. It can be tricky to get it right but the 

following ideas may be helpful. 

Plant a cheerful climber near your front door in a 

container. Few climbers do well in pots however 

there are some compact varieties of Clematis which 

do. Clematis ‘Cezanne’ (blue flowers) and ’Chantilly’ 

(pale pink flowers) are two. 

Height is important in a front garden. Try and 

incorporate at least one half standard (Lollipop 

tree). Laurus nobilis (Bay) is popular although be 

aware it does not tolerate cold, shade or wind. 

Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’ is a much tougher option 

plus you get the added bonus of scented flowers in 

winter. 

Consider the amount of maintenance your design 

and planting will need. If you’re like me I prefer to 

do my pottering in the privacy of my back garden 

so keep your front garden simple, that way it will 

only need a tidy up every now and then. 

Scent is important in a front garden and is really 

welcoming. For a shady spot try Sarcococca confusa. 

A smallish evergreen shrub, which produces the 

most wonderfully scented white flowers in winter 

and if your front garden is sunny, well you can’t beat 

Lavender. 

Large pots are a great way of brightening up the 

front garden – used to frame a front door is a classic 

statement. Get large ones and half fill with gravel – 

the plants will get good drainage and the pots are 

less likely to go missing overnight! 

Evergreen structure is important too, so that 

the garden looks good in all seasons. Buxus 

sempervirens (Box) is brilliant for this and tolerates 

shade well. 

Award Winner 

My favourite flowering plant for this time of year – 

Lavender! Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ is great 

for low hedging and ‘Munstead’ has the best scent. 

Just remember to trim it after flowering in early 

September to stop the plant looking like Hubby 

does after a few glasses of wine – tired and straggly! 

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

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82 

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01695 627 999 


• • 

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 

• Gates and railings 

• Repairs and restorations 

• Ironwork and welding 

• Traditional forge work 

25 years of expertise 

Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202 

The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland 

Mo sy Lea Road 

T 

Y 

R 

E 

S 

Solar Thermal 

& Solar PV 

Book 

your FREE 

home survey 

CAR & VAN SERVICING 

FREE 

Car Health Check 

.and motorcycles too 

for all residents of Croston and Bretherton 

Keep me until you need me! 

Book your FREE Car Health Check 

Ca l now on 

01772 603923 

REPAIR & WELDING 

Saving money is 

the clear benefit! 

Slash your electricity and 

water heating bi l 

Protect your household from 

future energy price rises 

Reduce your household’s 

E 

X 

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U 

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impact on the environment 

Ca l us now 

0843 224 9555 

07595 420237 

Qualified Tree Surgeon NCA RFS NPTC 

All types of Tree and Hedge Work 

Fully Insured 

Felling, Reducing, Pruning, Shaping 

• Tree Dismantling, Felling & Pruning 

• Crown Reduction, Thinning & Lifts 

• Pollarding 

• Removal of dead, dying & diseased trees 

• Stump Grinding 

• Hedge Trimming & Removal 

Call today for your FREE quotation: 

01257 435501 07805 325231 www.jjhtreesolutions.co.uk 

GARDEN GATES 

£145 fitted 

Call Graham 

07816 386 548 

01257 425 958 

www.ashfieldhomeimprovements.co.uk 

We also sell hardwood seasoned logs 

Puzzle Solutions 

R I T U A L V E T C 

T I I S H J W C Y H 

S O L S T I C E A D 

U E T W U G T A B A 

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83 

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 

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 

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 

Cricket St, Wigan, WN6 7TP 

www.ltcgroup.co.uk

84 

Landscape & Artificial Grass Specialist 

We’ll design & create your new modern 

low-maintenance garden 

Our wide range of artificial grass are all 

guaranteed for 10 years 

10 YEAR 

GUARANTEE 

Call Andy today for more details 

01942 387 044 ~ 07941 602 539 

Check out our projects on www.turfcouk.co.uk 

Garden maintenance ~ General tidy ups 

Hedge cutting ~ Pressure washing ~ Fencing 

Call - 01942 225711 or 07773 296880 

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 

Over 40 Lancashire walks 


FREE to download at locallife247.co.uk

85 

Creative Garden 

Construction 

scope2scape 

scope2scape.co.uk 

T 01257 464221 M 07761 808413 / 07900 224849 

Semmens 

Landscapes 

Garden Design • Landscaping • Maintenance 

Professional & reliable service 

For a free quote, call Andy on 

07814 133 690 

26, Tracks Lane 

Billinge, WN5 7BL 

Garden Make-Overs 

Before 

After 

•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 

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 

Billinge-based 

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 

Garden Landscaping 

(lawn laying, planting, fencing) 

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
















Telephone: 01257 427 000 



A5209 

Standish 

Shevington 

B5250 

Open: 

J27 

A49 

TwinLakesMotorEngin ers 

Solar Thermal 

& Solar PV 

Wind Turbines 

Heat Pumps 

LED Lighting 

..and general 


and we’ll provide you with a 





Visit our showr om at 

Unit 4a, 


o f Miry Lane, 


WN6 7TP 

or 



86 

Home Services 

- sponsored by 




Gel 

Nails 

For Garage more information and call entrance doors 

01695 in 627 matching 999 styles 


norma ly £20 

now £15 

Lashes 

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Telephone: 07814 619 400 



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 


T 

Y 

R 

E 

S 

Book 

your FREE 

home survey 


FREE 






Ca l now on 

01772 603923 









E 

X 

H 

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U 

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Ca l us now 

0843 224 9555 

07595 420237 

Our engineers will rePAir yOur; 

• wAshers/Dryers 

• COOkers/hObs 

• FriDges/VACuums 

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

87 

Picture Perfect! 

Digital Aerial & HD CCTV Installer 

HD CCTV Installed 

from only £295 

View your property on any smartphone 

or tablet from anywhere in the world 

Wireless Alarm System 

Wired systems also installed & serviced 

Digital Aerials installed 

from only £59 * 

*dependent of property size & signal strength. 

Call now for a FREE, no obligation quote! 

07817 807 960 / 01257 453 133 

www.qualitv.co.uk 

TV Aerials installed & repaired 

Sky, Freesat, Talk Talk & BT 

Setup Service 

Telephone/Broadband repair 

Tv Wall mounting & CCTV 

Ring Paul on www.wiganaerials.com 

01942 514532 - 07709 490095 

www.expertcomputers.co.uk 

‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner 

Boost your Business in 2018 

Advertising packages start from £39 + VAT a month. 

For more information call 01695 627 999 


88 

Wigan’s premier 

domestic 

cleaning service 

Orrell Laundry 

11 Sefton Road, Orrell, WN5 8UP 

01695 623 796 

Cleaning in the 

Wigan area for 

10+ years 

We only use reliable, vetted staff 

• £10.75 per hour - minimum 2 hrs 

• Same cleaner each visit 

• All domestic duties provided 

Call or email Joanne 01942 203442 

joanne@acleanbreak.co.uk / www.acleanbreak.co.uk/wigan 

mr-soot.com 

• Bedding & duvets • Domestic washes 

• Commercial washing • Ironing services 

• Dry cleaning • Team sports kits welcomed 

Open 7 days 

see website for 

opening times 

www.orrell-laundry.co.uk 

Ovenclean will transform your oven and 

put the sparkle back into your kitchen! 

• Ovens 

• Grills 

• Extractors 

• BBQ’s 

Free pick-up 

& drop off! 

Serving the 

community for 

over 50 years 

Free pICk-up & DrOp OFF 

service to/from Standish, Shevington, Appley Bridge 

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 





Mr Soot 

CHIMNEY SWEEP 

Woodburners Open fires Stoves 

07724 311 992

89 

PB 

Power 

Washing 

HOUSE CLEANING AT ITS BEST 

Driveways 

Conservatories 

Patios & Decking 

Gutters & Fascias 

Bricks & Walls 

Call Paul today to arrange a free quote 

01257 402 113 ~ 07736 396 374 

www.pbpowerwashing.co.uk 

Want to promote your 

company in Local Life? 

Call Sally: 01695 627 999 

locallife247.co.uk 


BEFORE 

AFTER 

UPVC CLEANING 

• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc. 

CONSERVATORIES 

• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning) 

• Glass roofs / Orangeries 

JETWASHING 

• Driveways & Patios etc. 

ROOF CLEANING 

• Moss Removal 

(No Jet washing/No mess) 

• NEW Soft Wash Cleaning 

SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF 

ALL CLEANING PACKAGES 

Call Clint for a free no obligation quote. 

01942 470 089 / 07834 241 642 

www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com 

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 

• traditional service, state of the art results • 

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 

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 

• 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 

Looking to target 

new customers 

in 2018? 

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 

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 



Call Sally: 01695 627 999 



91 

All electrical work 

undertaken 

• Friendly reliable service 

• Mains board upgrades 

• Extra sockets to full 

rewires 

Free quotations 

J.Dillon 

Covering all North West Areas. 

A.J.S. 

BAILEYS 

ELECTRICAL 

01942 215 769 

07739 709 005 

• All types of electrical work 

• 20+ years experience 

• Friendly, fast and reliable 

• 24 hour call out service 

Shevington 

Electrical Services Ltd 

NAPIT part ‘P’ registered 

JIB Approved Technician 

31 Years Experience 

Electrical 

Services Ltd 

Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826 

www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk 

Local. Honest & Reliable 

Domestic 

Industrial & Commercial 

Call: 0800 6446100 or 07904 127663 

www.shevington-electrical-services.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 

Complete Electrical Installation 

& Maintenance Service 

From new sockets to entire re-wires 

Burglar Alarms & CCTV 

PAT testing and inspections 

NO JOB TOO SMALL 

DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL 

WORK WELCOMED 

24-Hour 

Call Out 

Service 

Wireless Alarm System 

From £395 

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

92 

All plumbing services 

including services & repairs 

• Bathrooms/Wet Rooms designed and fitted 

• Specialists in Disability Installations & 

Conversions 

• Emergency Call outs welcome 

No Obligation Quotes – Call Mark on 

07515 894 281 

14 Lyefield Avenue, Whelley, Wigan, WN1 3UL 

• 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 

• Central Heating Installations 

• Boiler Installations 

• Maintenance & Servicing 

• Power Flushing 

www.gphwigan.co.uk 

186237 

Your one stop shop for central heating 

434 Ormskirk Rd, Wigan, WN5 9DF 

01942 221221 

info@premiergas.com / www.premiergas.com 

No 

call out 

fee 

COMBI 

BOILERS 

FROM 

£999 

527090 

Brand New Bathrooms 

Boiler + Central Heating 

Installs, Servicing + Repairs 

Extended warranties available 

24 Hour Call-out 

Domestic + Commercial 

Freephone 0300 3030121 

Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809 

21 Naburn Drive, Orrell, WN5 8SB 

Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk 

www.orrellheating.co.uk 

Plumbing & Heating Specialist 

Complete Bathroom 

& Tiling service 

John Bailey - 01942 495785 

or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238 

Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan 

IAIN LOWE 

01695 623236 

• Central Heating 

• Plumbing 

• Gas Appliances 

• Gas Safety Checks 

• Landlord’s Certificates 

• Maintenance/Breakdowns 



Call Sally: 01695 627 999 



FINANCE 

OPTIONS 

AVAILABLE 

506515
















Telephone: 01257 427 000 



A5209 

Standish 

B5250 

Open: 

J27 

Shevington 

A49 

TwinLakesMotorEngin ers 

Wind Turbines 

Heat Pumps 

LED Lighting 

.and general 


and we’ll provide you with a 





Visit our showroom at 

Unit 4a, 


off Miry Lane, 


WN6 7TP 

or 



93 

Elite Bathrooms 

Installation & Tiling 

• Bathrooms 

• Wall Tiling 

• Floor Tiling 07703 448890 

FREE Estimates 01942 208926 

APPLEY BRIDGE HEATING & PLUMBING 

Boiler & Full System 

Installation, Replacement & Repair 

201323 

Landlord Gas Safety Certificates 

Call Dave now for a free quote... 

07814 639 430 

Great Value Bathrooms! 

T: 01942 387 006 

M: 07539 449 006 

• Repairs • Installations • Services 

Smart control specialist – save £££’s 

Check out our Google reviews 

569287 

www.wiganboilerrepair.co.uk 




For more information call 

01695 627 999 


Gel 

Nails 

norma ly £20 

now £15 

Lashes 

Spray Tan 

Sunbeds 



84 Rainford Road, Bi linge WN5 7PG 

Telephone: 07814 619 400 




T 

Y 

R 

E 

S 

Solar Thermal 

& Solar PV 

Book 

your FREE 

home survey 


FREE 






Ca l now on 

01772 603923 










E 

X 

H 

A 

U 

S 

T 

S 

Ca l us now 

0843 224 9555 

07595 420237 

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 

A Genuine Family Run Business 

With Friendly & Courteous Staff 

SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL 

HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER 

REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES 

Accredited Installer & Service Partner 

• Annual Boiler Servicing 

• Landlord & Home Owner 

Gas Safety Checks 

• Gas Fire & Cooker Installations 

• Under Floor Heating Specialists 

• Home Efficiency Control Upgrades 

10 YEARS 

EXTENDED 

WARRANTY 

ON SELECTED BOILER 

INSTALLATIONS 

Registration No. 

88604 

Telephone: 

WE REPAIR 

ALL MAKES 

OF BOILERS! 

01257 421 660 

TEL: 01942 504 429 

MOB: 07515 505 501 

www.fgwelch.co.uk

94 

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 01942 392398 or 07707 321383 

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 

AJH DECORATORS 

Painting and Decorating 

Quality work assured 

Over 30 years experience 

Free quotes 

Mob: 07784 876 338 

Email: ajhdecorators@sky.com 

Quality work at a competitive price 

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 

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 



Call Sally: 01695 627 999 



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 

JJ Driveways 

Imprinted Concrete Specialists 

Huge range of colours & patterns 

• Resin Driveways • Block Paving 

• Indian Stone • Flagging 

We can also revive your old drive! 

Ask about our sealing service 

Call Joe for a free quotation on 

01942 621 959 / 07867 697 972 

www.jjdriveways.co.uk 

GDR Driveways 

Flagging • Block paving 

Concreting • Fencing 

Call Gareth for a FREE quotation 

01942 217 113 | 07715 177 754 

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 





96 

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 

01257 422317 or 07852 202867 

www.mtjoinery.co.uk 

Don’t Move – Improve! 

• House Renovation 

• Loft & Garage Conversion 

Call me for advice and a free quotation 

Brickwork & Property Maintenance 

M 

Marc Mulligan 

01942 248 537 

07749 806 566 

K Stone 

Building Services 

All types of building 

work undertaken 

25 years experience 

01257 251 534 

07973 143 289 

www.sjcollier.co.uk 

• Brickwork, Extensions, Re-pointing 

• Garden Walls, Decorative Walls 

• Platform Steps, Paths & patios 

Disabled Adaptations & Access 

• Wall to Floor Rails, Floor to Floor 

Rails & Path Rails 

Fully Qualified - 28 Years Experience 

• Brickwork 

• Pointing 

• Garden Walls 

• Patios 

• Roof Repairs 

• Flagging 

• Alterations 

• Driveways 

01942 495412 / 07974 496676 

• All aspects of home improvements 

• One stop for all the trades you require 

• Joinery, Building, Kitchens & Bathrooms 

WE DESIGN AND MANAGE 

YOUR PROJECT FROM 

START TO FINISH 

Call Jonathan for a free quotation 

TEL: 01257 401 243 / MOB: 0777 602 4045 

SpeakmanpropertyServiceS.com 

Easy Mix 

Easy Mix 

Ready Mixed Concrete 

• Delivered or Collected • Perfect for builders & DIY 

01942 224571 for advice 

Lamberhead Ind. Est., Pemberton 

PLANS TO IMPROVE 

• Plans drawn and submitted. 

• Extensions, conversions, structural alterations. 

• Structural calculations. 

E mail info@stuartsplans.co.uk 

Call Stuart on 07973143289

• 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 

PP 

Building services 

Joinery Specialists 

97 

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 

LOCAL, RELIABLE, FRIENDLY 

PROFESSIONAL AND HONEST 

• Conservatories & Orangeries 

• Extensions 

• Refurbishments & Alterations 

• Fencing & Decking 

• Garage & Loft Conversions 

• Kitchens & Fitted Bedrooms 

• Doors & Windows 

• All aspects of joinery work 

Call Phil - 01257 425997 or 07703 007675 

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

98 

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 

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 

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

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

Tomorrow’s Home Improvements Today! 

Quality ~ Choice ~ Value 

Windows 

Bi-Fold Doors 

Thermally-efficient conservatory roofs 

expertly fitted by accredited installers 

© 

Orangeries 

Don’t just lock it, 

Rock it! 

Conservatories 

Manufacturers and installers since 2004 

Contact us on 01744 891717 for a no obligation quote 

Visit our showroom/factory at; Crows Nest, Ashton Road, Billinge, WN5 7XX (near Windy Arbour crossroads) 

www.orrellwindows.co.uk 

28544

Local Life - Wigan - June 2018

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