Local Life - Wigan - July 2018

LocalLife 

Wigan Edition July 2018 

Actor Ben 

looks back 

Pages 43 - 46 

The Billinge Biker 

Pages 58 - 59 

Win Tickets To Southport Flower Show 

Pages 74 - 77 

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

locallife247.co.uk

Carr House Ln, Wrightington £750,000 

Set within excess of 3 acres of gardens and pastures, 

this superb 4 bed family home also offers potential for 

equestrian use. 

Boars Head, Standish £425,000 

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. 

Milt 

This 

room 

matu 

Main Street, Billinge £375,000 Milton Grove, Orrell £325,000 

Wig 

This beautiful 4 bed cottage retains many original 

features and viewing really is essential to truly 

appreciate this stunning family home. 

This stunning 5 bed detached home is in excellent 

decorative order throughout and has a beautifully 

landscaped private south facing rear garden. 

One 

lowe 

qual 

Moss Road, Billinge £250,000 Billinge Road, Highfield £235,000 Pen 

A beautifully appointed and substantial 3 bed home 

with 3 reception rooms. Externally are beautifully 

maintained, private gardens with driveway and garage. 

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. 

This 

loun 

lead 

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ed 

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Milton Grove, Wigan £230,000 

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. 

Higher Lane, Aspull £220,000 

This traditional bay fronted 3 bed semi near Haigh Hall 

retains many original features and has extensive rural 

views and beautifully maintained gardens. 

0 

nt 

lly 

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. 

Ashgrove Crescent, Billinge £190,000 

This versatile 3 bed home consists of a spacious lounge, 

and a modern, fully fitted kitchen. There’s plentiful 

storage and mature gardens front and rear too. 

0 

ith 

ng 

Pennine Avenue, Winstanley £170,000 

This 4 bed semi family house also boasts a spacious 

lounge, a modern fitted kitchen and dining room 

leading to a large UPVC conservatory. 

Bentham Road, Standish £170,000 

This lovely semi 3 bed dormer bungalow with is well 

presented with mature, private gardens, off road 

parking and an integral garage. 

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2 

Walthew Green, Roby Mill - £325,000 

This stunning detached 3-bed property with beautiful gardens has 

traditional features combined with a modern style to make this a 

magnificent family home. 

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4 

Tears & 

Tantrums 

Iwas just eight months old and teething when 

England won the World Cup. Not that I can 

remember anything about it, but my mum said it 

was a time of tantrums and tears, which describes 

pretty much every World Cup finals and European 

Championships finals involving England ever since. 

As a young football fan, my best memories of the 

World Cup was the total football played by the Dutch 

in 1974 when they lost to West Germany in the final, 

and the 1978 finals with those magical Argentines. 

England didn’t qualify for either event, so perhaps 

there’s a sign that, in order for an English football fan 

to truly enjoy the experience of the World Cup, the 

national team needs to spend their summer in the 

local tattoo parlour or jet-skiing in Marbella. 

However that thought won’t stop me, along with 

about 60 million others, from cheering on the boys 

to the hilt and hoping with somewhat unrealistic 

expectations for the England team to finally make up 

for 52 years of hurt since 1966. According to a sports 

data company, England has a miserly 4% chance of 

winning the World Cup and, when you remember 

we have won around half a dozen matches in the 

knockout stage of all major tournaments since 1966, 

that’s probably a pretty optimistic forecast. 

You just never know though, do you? 

And it’s that miniscule modicum of hope, coupled 

of course with copious amounts of alcohol, which 

will drive us nuts over the next few weeks whenever 

England take to the field. 

Tears and tantrums? Bring them on! 

Chris Pearce, Publisher 

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

5 

In this issue 

Going back to 

his roots 

43 

Find the missing 

millions 

Regulars 

30 Puzzle Corner 

35 Class from the past 

40 Planning 

Sections 

2 Property 

48 Health 

52 Travel 

56 Legal & Finance 

60 Business View 

78 Test Drive 

81 Garden Diary 

62 Events2Go 

70 Food 

77 Pets 

81 Gardening 

86 Home Services 

48 

Win tickets to 

Southport 

Flower Show 

68 

Jack’s Tracks visits 

Chipping 

74 

Test Drive 

Isuzu D-Max 

Arctic 

78 

Next issue - August 2018 

Advertising deadline - Thursday, 28 June 

Published - Wednesday, 11 July 

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

Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB 

Telephone: 01695 627 999 

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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 13,299 private homes and 

businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, 

Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton. 

The next issue is delivered to 13,025 private homes and 

businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley 

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consent of Local Life 247 Ltd. 

locallifemagazine247 @locallifemedia events2go

6 

Rewinding the clock 

The former Royal Court Theatre is set 

to receive a new lease of life. 

Wiganers could see the theatre on King Street 

restored to its former glory thanks to the people 

behind The Old Courts. 

The Grade II listed former 3,000 seat theatre opened 

in 1886 and closed its doors as a theatre/cinema in 

1974. 

Still largely intact, the Royal Court Theatre will 

form part of The Old Courts’ aim to further develop 

heritage space to support the development of 

culture and the arts in Wigan. 

The Old Courts is a not-for-profit multi-arts centre 

on Crawford Street in Wigan. 

A spokesman at The Old Courts said: “We’re very 

excited that the theatre space will once again be 

accessible for visitors, and passionately believe that 

breathing new life into this historic space will be of 

huge benefit to our town.” 

People have been sharing their nostalgic memories 

of The Royal Court Theatre online including visiting 

the cinema with loved ones, which films they 

watched and how the sweet shop on the corner 

used to look. 

Jonny Davenport, one of the directors at The Old 

Courts, said: “When the Royal Court Theatre became 

available at auction we quickly made the decision 

to go for it! 

“Our plan for the building is really simple – we want 

to return it to its original purpose. The theatre has 

a fascinating history and was a highly valued asset 

of the town. 

“This is a massive project which will require major 

fundraising but we passionately believe in both the 

history of the building and the potential for it to 

thrive again in the very near future.” 

Wigan Archives & Local Studies (Wigan Council)

7 

Greater Manchester Police and fire chiefs have 

issued a warning to youngsters urging them to stay 

away from derelict buildings. 

This comes after a number of videos were released 

on YouTube which appeared to show youngsters 

risking their lives at a number of derelict buildings 

in Wigan. 

One video shows a former pupil of a Wigan school 

dangling from the top of Pagefield Mill’s 100ft 

chimney. 

Police issue warning 

The footage has urged police and fire chiefs to issue 

a fresh plea to youngsters urging them to stay away 

from the derelict site in Swinley. 

A number of videos have appeared on Youtube 

showing youngsters exploring the abandoned 

building. 

And it’s not just the former cotton mill and cottage 

Pagefield Mill in Wigan. Picture by wiganbuildings.co.uk 

- abandoned canalside ‘Waterways Garden’ on 

Wallgate in Wigan has also been a popular site as 

well as the former Winstanley Hall and a number of 

churches. 

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8 

A Wigan community 

transport service is on 

the lookout for new 

volunteers. 

The volunteer-led service 

‘Driven’ connects people 

who may be vulnerable or 

socially isolated to community 

activities. 

Chauffeured in style 

Driven was launched in July 

2017 and the service currently 

has around eight volunteer 

drivers, but more are needed 

for it to expand. 

From left, passenger Mrs Boydell with Joanne, a former volunteer driver 

Amanda Caddick, office manager for Driven, said: 

“Passengers pay a contribution towards their 

journey, which covers the drivers’ costs. Drivers are 

paid from leaving their house until returning to 

their house and get 45p per mile to cover expenses. 

“The service is extremely popular. We have a 

waiting list of people wanting to use the service but 

to extend the service we need more volunteers. 

“A lot of the volunteers are retired so they appreciate 

that they’re helping other people, and it gets them 

out of the house and meeting new people.” 

Drivers can choose when they drive and can drive 

their own car; one of the accessible minibuses, or 

be a driver’s assistant. 

“I love my job, it’s probably the best job I’ve ever 

had, it’s very rewarding,” said Amanda. 

“If somebody contacts us and we cannot do that 

day, we always offer them an alternative day. 

“We have a 90 year-old passenger in Lowton and 

her daughter lives in a nursing home just outside 

Wigan town centre. 

“She’d need to travel for hours without our service, 

so this way she can maintain her relationship with 

her daughter.” 

Ian Tomlinson, who runs Driven, said: “The drivers 

get as much if not more than the passengers. They 

get a buzz out of it. 

“They’re using a skill they’ve already got and they 

get to be around new people too.” 

If you’d like to get involved, call Amanda for more 

information on 01942 409602 or email enquiries@ 

bedriven.org 

The service covers Wigan, Leigh, Ashton in 

Makerfield, Ince, Hindley, Astley, Atherton, 

Tyldesley, Standish, Orrell, Pemberton and nearby 

areas.

9

10

11 

Live from Orrell 

Orrell Live is set to get guests rocking 

at this year’s event. 

Since it began in 2015, Orrell Live has grown to be 

an anticipated event in the social calendar. 

The event on Saturday September 8, at Orrell 

Cricket Club hopes to accommodate all music 

tastes, and acts include chart-topping 5ive; Oaces, 

the UK’s Number 1 Oasis Tribute Act and Beverly 

Savarin’s Whitney Houston tribute will showcase 

Whitney’s greatest hits. 

Local musicians will also be in the mix, including 

Reflectionz, a local soul and Motown group; Haze; 

Olivia Garcia will be back by popular demand and 

Planet Abba will also be making an appearance. 

Golborne Brass Band will close the show with some 

pomp and pageantry, one not to miss if you’re a fan 

of the “Last Night of the Proms.” 

The management team, including Paul Mottram, 

Spencer Anglesea, Martin James and John 

Lawrence, and the goodwill of volunteers continues 

to see the event grow. 

Refreshments are available on the day. Tickets are 

available online at www.orrell-live.co.uk.

12 

Time to breathe 

Wigan Council has approved a plan 

to improve the borough’s air quality. 

The council’s cabinet approved Wigan’s Air Quality 

Policy at a meeting earlier this month, reaffirming 

its commitment to maintain a good standard of air 

quality. 

The policy sets out the steps the council will take to 

improve air quality including: 

Continue monitoring air quality across the borough 

and take action when needed; 

Promote sustainable transport and healthier 

lifestyles; 

Encourage residents to use lower emission or 

electric vehicles and turn engines off while 

stationary; 

Ensure air quality is considered in future decision 

making. 

The council has supported schools and businesses 

with travel planning, encouraged staff to reduce the 

number of cars and journeys by travelling together, 

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LocalLife

13 

implementing a cycle scheme in and around Wigan 

town centre to encourage residents to cycle. 

Councillor Joanne Marshall, lead member for 

Greener Wigan, said: “The quality of the air we 

breathe is an integral part of the health and 

wellbeing of our communities. 

“This policy sets out our commitment to work 

with partners and with residents to improve the 

air quality of our borough and ensure a cleaner, 

greener Wigan for future generations.” 

The council’s actions contribute to the Greater 

Manchester Air Quality Action Plan, along with 

Transport for Greater Manchester and the nine 

other GM councils. 

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 

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14 

Storage plans for landmark 

A prominent building in the heart of 

Wigan city centre could soon come 

back into use. 

Plans have gone in to convert Bryan House, in 

Standishgate, into self-storage space. 

Developers, The Ratcliffe Groves Partnership, are 

proposing a change of use of part of the basement, 

ground, second, third and fourth floors to storage, 

together with external elevation alterations and 

alterations to the layout of the rear car park. 

Over the years a number of applications to convert 

the building have gone into Wigan Council 

including, apartments, offices and a hotel. 

The proposals to the six-storey building could see 

new windows being installed on the first floor. 

Bryan House Standishgate 

The building on the Standishgate frontage is also 

home to the Chinese Buffet. Before the scheme 

can go ahead a number of external alterations 

are hoped to be carried out, including making 

modifications to the goods access arrangements for 

the Chinese Buffet and to install a new passenger 

goods lift between the basement and fourth floor, 

to benefit the storage operation. 

Wigan Council Elections 

Orrell & Billinge Ward 

After a closely fought contest against two 

worthy candidates, I emerged successful for 

the Conservative Party. 

I’d like to thank everyone in Orrell & Billinge 

who voted for me, and particularly those 

who helped during the election campaign. 

Regardless who you voted for, I am here to 

help all Orrell and Billinge residents with 

council issues. 

Please text or call me on 07795 316 262 

Or email Richard.Clayton@wigan.gov.uk 

Thanks and regards, 

Richard Clayton

15

16 

Smooth sounds 

Wigan International Jazz Festival 

returns for another year of jazz 

appreciation. 

From Thursday, July 12 to Sunday July 15, venues 

across Wigan will come alive for the annual festival. 

Formed in 1986, Wigan Jazz Festival responded 

to the region’s growing audience for jazz and big 

band music created in part by the Wigan Youth Jazz 

Orchestra. 

Featuring many of the world’s finest jazz artists, 

some of iconic status, the event quickly gained a 

reputation for being one of the finest jazz festivals 

in Europe. 

In 2017 full responsibility for organising, funding 

and delivering the festival was accepted by The 

NATO Jazz Orchestra wiganjazzfest.co.uk 

Music Continuum, whose directors Ian Darrington 

and Peter Fletcher, as co-founders of the festival 

and jazz club, are committed to securing a healthy 

future for the event. 

This year’s musical line-up includes Curtis Stigers, 

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17 

the Ronnie Scott’s Big Band present Sinatra at the 

Sands, Champian Fulton Trio with Scott Hamilton 

(USA), James Morrison Quartet (AUSTRALIA) 

appearing with Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra (UK), 

Jeremy Sassoon’s Ray Charles Project (UK) and 

more. 

Daytime concerts are 11am-5pm and evening 

concerts start at 8pm - concerts will be held at 

Robin Park Sports Centre and Wigan Central Bar. 

Ticket prices vary from £13 for ‘Three bands’ to £110 

for Rover tickets. For more information and tickets, 

please visit http://wiganjazzfest.co.uk. 

£3.6m road repairs 

Wigan Council has revealed a list of roads it intends 

to improve as part of the 2018-19 highways 

maintenance programme. 

A total of 93 roads and 48 footpaths will be 

improved by the council as it sets aside £3.6m for 

road repairs. 

Some of the improvement works across Wigan 

will affect Wigan Road, Shevington, Wallgate and 

Chorley Road in Standish. 

The council is also continuing to fix on average 100 

potholes each week. 

As well as the plan for the upcoming year, it has 

published its indicative highways programme for 

2019-2021 with the second wave of roads to be 

repaired, depending on funding. 

To find out more about upcoming roadworks near 

your area then please visit www.wigan.gov.uk.

18 

Hospital’s double win 

Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS 

Foundation Trust has scooped a 

double award win as part of the CHKS 

Top Hospitals awards programme. 

The trust has been awarded the CHKS national 

healthcare efficiency award and has also been 

named as one of the CHKS Top Hospitals for 2018, a 

prestigious award made on the basis of an analysis 

of data from all hospital trusts in England, Wales 

and Northern Ireland. 

The healthcare efficiency award recognises 

organisations that have achieved high standards of 

operational excellence and outperform their peers 

on a range of 14 efficiency indicators that support 

care quality and patient outcomes. 

Robert Forster, WWL’s Director of Finance and 

Robert Forster (centre) collects one of the awards 

Deputy Chief Executive, said; “Both of the awards 

are testament to the continued hard work of all staff 

across the trust to deliver safe, effective and caring 

services and shows that we are able to balance 

high quality outcomes and effective use of scarce 

resources in such a challenging environment.” 

The Top Hospitals awards is made on the basis of an 

analysis of over 20 indicators. 

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19 

ADVERTISEMENT 

High street jewellers to close 

After serving the town of Wigan for 

many years, Pringles Jewellers in 

Makinsons Arcade has announced 

that it will be permanently shutting 

its doors. 

The decision has been made to pull down the 

shutters on the well-known jewellery shop 

following a closing down sale. 

The sale will run over the coming months until 

the stock has been depleted. The stock consists of 

diamond, sapphire, ruby and other precious stoneset 

jewellery including engagement and wedding 

rings. There are many designer watches and 

jewellery with popular brands such as Hugo Boss, 

Emporio Armani, Citizen, Rotary and Guess. If you 

are looking for something a bit different they also 

have an array of unique pre-owned pieces. With 

all items being 

priced at up to 

40% off, it is well 

worth a visit if 

you want to snap 

up a bargain. 

Owner, Mark 

Kay, said “It has 

been a difficult 

decision and I will 

miss serving the many families that have become 

customers of Pringles over the years. I would like to 

thank all of them for their loyal support.” 

the auction centre 

The leading Auctioneers and Valuers 

• Modern saleroom at Manor Park, Runcorn 

• RICS and NAVA registered auctioneers and specialist consultants 

• Probate and Insurance valuation reports undertaken 

• Full house clearance service available 

• Regional valuations centres around the north-west 

St Helens Valuation Days 

4th Wednesday of Every Month 

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Call 01942 299 057 for more information 

9 Berkeley Court, Manor Park, Runcorn, WA7 1TQ 

Telephone: 01928 579796 Email: enquiries@theauctioncentre.co.uk 

www.theauctioncentre.co.uk

20 

Teen’s karate dreams 

A young teen from Orrell has been 

chosen to represent England at an 

international karate competition. 

After a gruelling selection process Danni Williams 

has been given a place at the Helsinki Karate Open. 

The 13-year-old will fly out with her team to Helsinki 

in August for the prestigious tournament, which is 

the biggest karate competition in Finland. 

Mum Janet couldn’t be prouder and is now 

fundraising to help get her daughter to the 

championships on August 18. 

“It is absolutely amazing,” said Janet, a mum-ofthree. 

“Danni has only been doing karate for five years so 

to be part of this competition is fantastic. I am so 

proud of her, she works so hard.” 

It all started when Janet attended a gym session 

at Total Fitness and Danni watched a karate class 

going on at the time – from that moment she was 

hooked. 

“She was obsessed with it,” said Janet, 52. 

“She has won umpteen awards; her room is covered 

in trophies. She came second in the British Karate 

Federation 4 Nations Championships, winning 

silver for the 12-13 year-old category. Last year 

she won the Sports Achiever Award at the Greater 

Manchester Sports Awards.” 

Danni trains with Musuko Karate Academy in Leigh 

three times a week and also travels to Barnsley to 

train with the karate England coach. 

Her passion for the sport has never dwindled, even 

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21 

when she had a short stay 

in hospital after having an 

operation to remove her 

appendix. 

Janet said: “Danni had 

her appendix removed in 

February during the midselection 

process for the 

Helsinki Open; she started 

training again in March. 

Even on her 13th birthday 

she got up at 5am to train 

and on her 14th birthday 

she will be competing, she 

had a week off at Christmas.” 

As well as preparing for the 

international competition 

Danni, a black belt, is about 

to take part in her second Dan, a karate ranking 

system from one to ten, with ten being the highest. 

If the Up Holland High School pupil wins the 

Helsinki open she will be 

a European champion at 

the age of 13. The win will 

put her in good stead to 

represent the England 

Youth Team in the 14-yearold 

category in September. 

But Danni also has even 

higher goals – a chance to 

represent her country at the 

Japan Olympics in 2020. 

Janet has set up a JustGiving 

page to help fundraise 

£1,000 for the trip. 

“Karate is self-funded, I am 

a single mum, it is so hard,” 

Danni Williams 

said Janet. It costs a fortune, 

I have got three jobs, we have to buy new gear, then 

you have entry fees, flights and accommodation, 

it will come to £1,000. ” To donate visit www. 

justgiving.com/crowdfunding/danniwilliams

22 

Wigan Rotary Club has held a number 

of fundraising events for charity. 

The ‘Formula Fun’ cycle event at Three Sisters Race 

Circuit on Monday June 6, raised vital funds for 

the Prostate Cancer Research Unit at The Christie 

Hospital in Manchester. 

Fundraising efforts 

Now in its seventh year, the event attracted more 

than 600 visitors to the Three Sisters Race Circuit, 

with 300 people biking around the track. 

Phil Hirst, a member of the Rotary Club, said: “It was 

very successful, hopefully we raised over £1,000. It 

was a gorgeous day and the weather was kind to 

us.” 

Wigan Rotary President, Gwyneth Millard said: 

“There are many people in the Wigan borough 

who have been affected by this awful disease and 

Wigan Rotary Club wants to try to help fund more 

research.” 

Riley Jones, nine, hoped to cycle 10K to raise 

money for Prostate Cancer Research at The Christie. 

His MyDonate page said: “I lost my grandad 

three years ago after a long battle with prostate 

cancer. The valuable research and trials at The 

Christie prolonged his life by six years. Without 

this I wouldn’t have met my grandad as he was 

diagnosed before I was born.” 

Phil Hirst said: “Riley had already raised over £600 

for Christie’s and Prostate cancer before the event. 

“He wanted to bike 10k around the race track 

and did over 20K, so he did really well. And his 

whole family was there 

supporting him.” 

Meanwhile on Sunday 

May 20, Ian Trencher a 

member of Wigan Rotary 

Club, completed the 

Windermere Marathon 

to raise funds for the 

Rotary Club. 

Above: The ‘formula Fun’ 

cycle event 

Left: Ian Trencher

23

24 

A Wigan foster couple have shared 

their experiences of foster caring. 

Wendy and Steve have been fostering for 13 years 

and are looking forward to their summer holiday to 

Fuerteventura with their foster daughter Helen* (a 

pseudonym name to protect Helen’s identity). 

The couple are planning to go with two other 

couples who are foster carers, one of which looks 

after Helen’s siblings. 

Wendy said: “We have a really positive relationship 

with the other families and actively keep the 

children in touch. We want them to have the same 

opportunities as our own daughter, and that all 

children should have.” 

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From left, Steph Lowe, Steve Lowe, Wendy Lowe 

and Tim Liptrot 

schools and began fostering when she wanted to 

care for a pupil who was going through a difficult 

period. 

She explained: “The young man came into school 

not knowing where he was sleeping that night. 

“I said I wanted him to stay with us and was told I’d 

need to be an approved carer so we decided that’s 

what we would do. 

“Over the years we’ve fostered about 30 children. It 

really does make a difference to a young person’s 

life. 

“It can be a really positive experience. You just have 

to be flexible and do your research.” 

To find out more about fostering visit www.wigan. 

gov.uk/fostering or call 01942 487200.

25

26 

An Orrell St James 

girls’ rugby team 

has been selected 

for the Lancashire 

hub for England 

training. 

Known as the England 

talent pathway, girls will 

start to train to hopefully 

one day put on an 

England kit. 

Sporting triumph 

It will be four weeks of 

training sessions in St 

Helens with other clubs 

from the North West followed by a festival day on 

Orrell St James under 16s 

Saturday, July 21 in Leeds – with a full England kit 

given to them – against the Yorkshire side. 

Rachel Brannigan, spokesperson for the under 16s 

said: “The girls are extremely proud. Girls’ rugby 

is growing and developing at a huge rate and it’s 

amazing to be a part of it. 

“These girls are truly passionate about rugby, they 

live and breathe it. They’ve only been together 

since January when the u16s started with nine girls, 

and we now have 19. 

The team going to the England hub are: Steph Riley, 

Alix Stanley, Olivia King, Bethany Heyes, Charlie 

Mirrelson, Megan Bragg, Nadia Yates, Lauren 

Gilham, and Niamh Brannigan. 

Rachel added: “We’re always recruiting more girls. 

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and also within easy 

reach of the Lake District 

Children & pets welcome 

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E-mail janemillthrop@yahoo.co.uk 

www.millthropcottage.co.uk 

“There are 18 girls on the u16s books, our women’s 

open age is in its infancy, nine of our u16s will move 

up to it at the end of the season as the u14s move 

up.” 

For more info about Orrell St James’ teams, please 

contact 07808517857.

27 

Advertisement 

Mark for excellence 

There is a lot to celebrate at Holly 

Tree Day Nursery and achieving a 

sought after first aid accreditation 

is top of the list! 

Holly Tree was the first setting in 

Wigan to achieve Millie’s Mark at 

their home site on Tracks Lane 

in Billinge in October 2017. And 

Nursery owner, Lorraine Conroy 

and her staff have just learned that they have 

achieved the mark for their second site at St James’ 

Road, Orrell. 

Millie’s Mark is awarded for excellence in paediatric 

first aid for early year’s settings and was created 

by charity Millie’s Trust and the parents of Millie 

Thompson who tragically passed away in a choking 

incident in October 2012. 

The award is a special endorsement to childcare 

providers that ensure 100% of 

their staff is trained in paediatric 

first aid. 

The settings also have to ensure 

that everything learned during the 

course is kept in the forefront of 

practioners’ minds so that they 

are confident, ready and capable. 

The process takes three to six 

months and involves completion of an audit, risk 

assessment and spot checks. 

Lorraine told Local Life, “We are so proud to have 

achieved Millie’s Mark for both of our sites, it has 

been a lot of hard work but we truly believe in the 

safeguarding of our children. 

“And to know that we have been recognised for 

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Call us now to reserve your child’s place 01695 625780 

Tracks Lane, Billinge WN5 7BL / St James Road, Orrell WN5 7AA www.hollytreechildrensnursery.co.uk

28 

Tumbling to success 

A Wigan based cheerleading and 

dance group is set to take to the 

international stage. 

On Saturday June 30 and Sunday July 1, Wigan 

Vipers Cheer and Dance will represent the UK at the 

European Cheerleading Championships in Holland. 

The group received £1,000 from Wigan Council’s 

Brighter Borough pot to help with the cost of 

sending the 17-strong team to The Netherlands. 

Leader of the council, Councillor David Molyneux 

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Councillor David Molyneux hands the cheque over 

and his fellow ward councillors, Janice Sharratt and 

Jim Moodie, clubbed their Brighter Borough funds 

together to send the team to Holland. 

Danielle Knowles set up Wigan Vipers Cheer and 

Dance with a passion to offer affordable recreational 

classes for youngsters. 

She said: “We were invited to represent the UK 

following our success on our first national event 

earlier this year and we couldn’t be more excited to 

represent Wigan on an international scale. 

“The girls train so hard and love what they do so it’s 

an honour to represent the country. We rely heavily 

on fundraising, so the money from the council’s 

Brighter Borough pot will help massively.” 

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Councillor David Molyneux said: “Giving Wigan 

Vipers Cheer and Dance the opportunity to make 

an international name for themselves is something 

we’re proud to be a part of. 

“On behalf of Wigan Borough and the council, I’d 

like to wish the team the very best of luck and hope 

they come home the champions we know they are!”

29 

ADHD support group 

Organisers of a group who support 

people with ADHD are appealing for 

more members. 

Clair’s Parents Meeting Parents ADHD Support 

Group is for families who deal with ADHD on a daily 

basis. 

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) 

is a behavioural disorder that includes symptoms 

such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity and 

impulsiveness. 

Although the group is based in St Helens, 

organisers hope to welcome parents from Wigan 

and the surrounding areas. The group was founded 

in 2015 by Clair Hodgson and aims to support 

parents and carers who care for children and young 

people who have ADHD. 

They hold a day and evening meeting once a 

month for parents and carers to get together and 

share experiences. Speakers cover topics including 

sleep issues, dental hygiene, understanding ADHD 

and stress reduction. 

The group is run by a motivated committee, headed 

by the founder Clair, who all have experience of 

ADHD through caring for children with ADHD and 

or personally have ADHD. 

For more information on the group, call 07480 

824868 or email Clairsparentsmeetingparents41@ 

gmail.com

30 

Puzzle Corner 

SUDOKU 

WORD SEARCH - National Parks 

Find the hidden words in the word search grid 

DARTMOOR 

LAKES 

CAIRNGORMS 

BROADS 

EXMOOR 

HILLS 

BEACONS 

WALKS 

CLIMB 

YORKSHIRE 

MOORS 

DALES 

SNOWDONIA 

WATER 

FELLS 

WORD MIX UP - National Parks 

Unscramble the letters to make a word 

KAPE SITCRIDT 

SHOUT SNOWD 

NUMBER 

BLOCK 

3 7 

5 5 

5 6 

4 9 

18 25 26 15 

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. 

28 

16 

19 

27 

22 

13 

CLOH LOONMD 

WEALDTN 

PLEASDANC 

WEN STOREF 

STARCHSOS 

NOUNSITAM 

WIGGLE WORDS 

CLUE: Very Attractive 

Trace a path through 

all the letters to find 

the word or phrase 

that fits the clue. 

S D E A 

U R D D 

O O P G 

E G R O 

All the puzzle solutions are on page 93 of this magazine

31

32 

Artist’s joy 

Paul Crook. 

A Wigan artist will represent the north 

in a prestigious award exhibition in 

London. 

Paul Crook will be showcasing his pencil drawings 

Lost Wigan after being nominated for the Derwent 

Art Prize, an internationally renowned fine art 

award, which takes place in London in September. 

The 54-year-old is over the moon to have his work 

recognised which depicts a diving board at the old 

Wigan swimming baths and a butcher’s stall at the 

old Wigan market hall. 

He said: “I think for any artist it is always nice to 

get something, the industry is so competitive, so 

it is really nice to be recognised for, it’s a seal of 

approval. 

Paul’s paintings have been exhibited widely, both 

in the UK and overseas. The Lost Wigan drawings 

on show at the prestigious Mall Galleries in central 

London, delve into Wigan’s past. 

“The drawings are of places in Wigan that were of 

an interest to me, I grew up in the town so I am very 

familiar with the area,” said Paul, who works as an art 

teacher in Warwickshire.

33 

“One drawing is of the old swimming baths in 

Wigan with the diving board. A lot of my work is 

modern buildings and sharp lines.” 

Another drawing shows a butcher stall at Wigan’s 

former Market Hall, where Paul’s dad used to work. 

“Most of the drawings I’ve created from pictures 

my dad has given to me or I have had, or from my 

memories, or pictures I have found on the internet. 

“I am really interested in places that have really 

been lived in and have a lot of history, not looking 

at anything overly decorated, I like the idea of a 

fairly stark reality, there are nice shapes and marks 

in reality.” 

His Lost Wigan artwork will be on display at Mall 

Galleries from September 18 to 23. 

Alongside the chosen artworks being hung in a 

public display, prizes totalling over £12,500 will be 

awarded in an awards ceremony on the opening 

night of the exhibition. 

The exhibition will then tour to a number of venues. 

Competition winners 

The winners of our recent competition to win a pair 

of tickets for The Beatles Story museum in Liverpool 

were as follows; Louise Septon of Tatham Grove in 

Winstanley, Cheryl Patterson from Heaton Close 

in Up Holland and Joyce Whittington from Lodge 

Road in Orrell. 

Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to all 

who entered. 

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34 

Loving the countryside 

The “Green Fayre” returns to Beacon Country Park 

this month. 

Widely regarded as West Lancashire’s biggest free 

countryside festival, this year’s show on Saturday, 

July 21 and Sunday, July 22, offers something for all 

the family. 

The working woodlands will showcase a range 

of woodworking crafts; or visitors could enjoy 

Regia Anglorum’s living history displays, showing 

Skelmersdale’s Viking past. 

The Vikings will conduct training and battle reenactments, 

and the Cavalry of Heroes and West 

Lancs Dog Display team will be joining them. 

There’ll also be a mobile farm display offering an up 

close experience of farmyard animals. 

And if this isn’t enough, there’ll be lots of activities 

including: climbing/abseiling, archery, and axe 

throwing, as well as a traditional funfair with lots of 

stalls. 

Get ready for the live music marquee providing 

entertainment throughout the weekend. 

For more information or to apply for a stall visit 

www.westlancs.gov.uk/greenfayre or call 01695 

622794. 

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35 

Class from the past 

This month’s Class from the Past is from Pemberton 

Primary School. It’s believed the photo was taken in 

1959. 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

36 

A mum from Wigan has reached 

the finals of The Mpower National 

Business Awards. 

Claire Taylor, single mum of one from Shevington, 

founded ‘Taylor Made With Love’ which focuses on 

up cycling furniture. 

The business owner gives furniture destined for the 

tip a new lease of life and runs workshops in Wigan 

and Manchester to inspire attendees to tackle 

projects on their own too. 

Business mum 

Entrepreneur Claire was thrilled to discover she 

earned a place in the final line-up of The Mpower 

National Business Awards, which celebrates parents 

in the UK who manage the difficult task of juggling 

business with family life. 

Claire Taylor. 

Claire has been shortlisted for the Courage category 

and is also in with a chance of winning Mpower 

Woman of the Year 2018, which will be awarded 

to the mum who is an inspiration to women in 

business. 

She said: “I am thrilled to be a finalist for such 

a prestigious award. I gain such pleasure from 

transforming unwanted items into new pieces. 

“Since setting up as a business just eight months 

ago, it is incredible to see how quickly Taylor Made 

With Love has grown. 

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“To have my work and achievements recognised 

through these awards at such an early stage in my 

journey is truly humbling.” 

The winners will be announced at The Mpower 

Gala at the Holiday Inn Bloomsbury in London on 

Saturday, June 23. 

Tickets for the event can be purchased via www. 

mpowerawards.com 

To find out more about Claire’s business visit www. 

taylormadewithlove.co.uk

37 

Orrell and District Townswomens’ Guild have raised 

hundreds for a charity which supports people with 

blood cancer. 

The society held a Ploughman’s Lunch on 

Wednesday, May 23 to raise funds for its chosen 

charity, Bloodwise, which funds research into 

various blood cancers. 

For charity 

Margaret Case, secretary for the guild, said: “The 

event raised approximately £300 and the guild 

would like to thank their sponsors: Venus Beauty 

Studio Orrell, The Co-op at Orrell, The Corner House 

at Wrightington, D & M Deli Skelmersdale, Lakeside 

Hair Studio Orrell, and England & Sons Butchers at 

Pemberton who contributed prizes for the raffle or 

provisions for the lunch.” 

Orrell Guild has more than 60 members and 

welcome new members. The group meets the 

first Monday of the month at 7.30pm (except bank 

holidays) at St Lukes Parish Hall, Lodge Road, Orrell, 

WN5 7AT. Members also organise trips and activities 

throughout the year. To get involved please email 

Margaret Case via marg17cass@hotmail.co.uk 

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38 

ADVERTISEMENT 

Made in 

Wigan 

Winstanley couple Gary and Shelley Parrish have been selling blinds and 

shutters in the Wigan area for over 25 years, trading as Harmony Blinds 

of Wigan. Their showroom, opened in 2003 and based at 685a Ormskirk Road in 

Pemberton, closed recently for a full refurbishment, and has now opened its doors 

again, open six days a week for customers to browse a wide choice of blinds and 

shutters. 

With just a small difference though – the company are in the process of changing the 

name of the company to Signature Blinds. Harmony Blinds is quite a common name for

39 

blind companies in the North West, and the couple 

wanted to make sure that they stood out from the 

other Harmony Blinds businesses out there. 

“We don’t just sell and fit blinds now, we make them 

too!” says Gary, “Approximately 80% of all our blinds 

are now made in our new manufacturing facility, 

which is based on Hawkley Brook Trading Estate in 

Marus Bridge.” 

Shelley adds, “It was important to us to take this 

step so that we had full control over the quality of 

our blinds”. And Kate chips in, “Over 85% of our 

business comes from customers’ repeat orders and 

recommendations, so that gives you an idea of the 

quality of our products and the level of customer 

care you can expect at Signature Blinds and Shutters”. 

From modest beginnings, the company now has four 

vans on the roads, and Gary and Shelley have been 

joined in the business by daughters Kate and Abby, 

son-in-law Aaron and three other staff, with more 

recruitment to follow later this year. 

The choice of blinds and shutters at the company is 

enormous. The blind selection alone encompasses 

rollers, pleated, wooden, verticals, venetians, vision, senses and Romans. Not 

forgetting of course, Perfect Fit® blinds, which are stylish and innovative blinds that 

clip to window frames and are very popular with homeowners, particularly those with 

conservatories. 

Window shutters complement both contemporary 

and traditional homes and are an excellent way 

to change the look and feel of a room. Plantation 

shutters, in particular, are elegant and timeless, 

enabling you to alter your décor and colours around 

the shutters as time goes by. 

If you work full time Monday to Friday, you’ll be pleased to hear that the showroom 

is open late until 8pm on Thursday and also from 10am-3pm on Saturdays. Or you’re 

having trouble getting to their showroom, Signature will bring a selection of blinds 

and shutters to you so that you can choose your new décor in the comfort of your 

own home. 

Creating beautiful interiors has never been easier; call into the 

Pemberton showroom at 685a Ormskirk Road, call 01942 743203 

or visit the website at www.signatureblindsandshutters.com 

Open Mon, Tue, Fri 9-5pm Thurs 9-8pm Sat 10-3pm

40 

Planning Matters 

Billinge 

Post Office, 91 Upholland Road: Prior notification 

for change of use from Post Office (A1) to dwelling 

house (C3) (ref: A/18/85569/PDM1). 

Orrell 

Orrell Wines and Newsagents, 114 - 116 Church 

Street: Proposed change of use from A1 to A3 (Ice 

cream parlour) (ref: A/18/85500/PDD). 

Place, West Pimbo: Extension of existing warehouse 

area to create additional storage plus installation of 

external plant for the waste disposal (wood burning 

system) (ref: 2018/0205/FUL). 


Victoria Mill, Miry Lane: Prior notification for change 

of use to 46 flats (ref: A/18/85365/PDO). 

Bryan House and adjacent car park 61 – 69: Change 

10 Shelley Drive: To extend dwellinghouse of use of part of the basement, ground, second, 

alterations to roof to create second floor and 

erection of dormer to rear (ref: A/18/85609/HH). 

Up Holland 

third and fourth floors from use classes B1 and A3 

to B8 (storage) together with external elevation 

alterations and alterations to the layout of the rear 

car park (ref: A/18/85582/CU). 

Integral Surface Designs Ltd Units 7-10, 2 Potter 

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

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41 

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42 

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43 

Going back to his 

roots 

Gemma Sherlock exclusively speaks to actor Ben Batt 

who looks back on his fruitful career and hometown 

From the theatre to our TV screens Ben Batt’s acting career is coming on 

leaps and bounds yet the humble Wiganer is not letting the glamour 

of Hollywood affect him. 

The star best known for 

his role in Channel 4’s 

Shameless has taken a 

break from the camera to 

appear on stage. The dadof-one 

recently spent time 

on the Sheffield stage 

starring in The York Realist 

– playing a gay man in 

England in the 1960s. 

Now, before he heads to 

Budapest for four months 

to film Sky period drama 

Jamestown, Ben makes 

Wigan a priority – after all, 

its home. 

“I am a Wiganer definitely, 

my mum’s number is still 

saved as home in my 

phone,” said Ben, who 

chats away to me at The 

Holts Arms pub in Billinge. 

“When I was younger I fell 

in that trap of saying my 

home was Manchester because it was easier, now I am really proud and make 

a point of saying I am actually from Wigan.

44 

“Wigan has so much to be proud of because of the football, Wigan Pier, George 

Orwell, the music, The Verve, Uncle Joe’s Mint Balls. It’s a wonderful place to be from 

and it’s huge, every time I come back I always forget how big it is.” 

Ben often travels back to Wigan from his home in Manchester with his wife, Becky 

Atkinson, who he starred alongside in Shameless, and their two-year-old son Jack. 

His parents live in Pemberton where Ben grew up and attended Shevington High 

School and later Winstanley College. 

The 32-year-old’s passion 

for acting began in 

college but it wasn’t 

without some life lessons 

first. Ben’s father, Alan 

Batt, is a well-known 

estate agent in Wigan and 

offered his son a work 

experience placement at 

the age of 15. 

“I didn’t last very long,” 

admits Ben. “You are 

supposed to do two 

weeks, I lasted a day and 

a half. It was unreal, I told 

people we had houses on 

the market that weren’t 

for sale, I was telling 

people that I wouldn’t 

pay the price that these 

people were asking for; 

I broke a photocopier, 

a computer and a 

telephone. 

“On lunchtime on the 

second day my dad 

said, ‘Will you go home, 

help your mum and we 

will sign it off that you 

have done your work 

experience.” 

Despite his bad luck at the estate agents Ben moved on to have jobs at the DW 

Stadium, Holland Hall, JJB Sports and Wickes at Robin Park. 

It wasn’t until getting advice from teachers at Winstanley College and a chance to 

learn from a private drama teacher, Chris Norris, that Ben found his career purpose. 

“A lot of the media said I wanted to become a rugby player, broke my leg and

45 

overnight I was an actor - 

close but no. 

“I did break my leg 

playing rugby for Orrell 

and was selected to 

play for Lancashire but I 

probably couldn’t have 

been a rugby player. I did 

Media and Performing 

Arts at college and it all 

centred on that. 

“I remember my family 

telling me when I 

was young that I was 

outgoing, me and my 

cousin and my little sister 

used to like putting on 

shows at Christmas, and 

we would do it for our 

baby sister, Ethel. My 

mum instilled in us the 

power of imagination 

and that has always stuck 

with me.” 

After finishing his studies 

at London’s Guildhall 

School of Music and 

Drama, Ben bagged 

himself a part in Channel 

4’s TV series, Shameless 

as the villainous Joe 

Pritchard. 

Rebecca Atkinson and Ben Batt at the Arqiva British Academy Television 

Awards 2012. Picture by Getty Images. 

“This has never happened before or since, don’t think it will happen again, but it was 

the one and only time I found out I got it on the day of the audition, you usually wait 

days or weeks. I remember calling my mum, she was outside Debenhams and had 

come up to Manchester with me, we were jumping up and down when we met up 

and dad joined later, it was lovely. 

“Shameless totally changed me, I met Rebecca and it kick-started my career. I don’t 

know where I would be without it.” 

After Shameless, Ben went on to star in ITV series Scott & Bailey, Captain America: 

The First Avenger, TV series In The Dark and comedy series W1A where he played a 

cross-dressing footballer, to name a few. 

“The cross-dressing footballer clicked with me,” said Ben. “It’s like when you

46 

are walking into a clothes shop and you look at ten shirts and think I would look 

horrendous in that and then you come to a tenth shirt and immediately look at it and 

be like, I bet that looks really good on!” 

Did the Wiganer get some stick back home for showing his feminine side? 

“I am hoping we live in a world where things like that will be picked on less, I mean 

if anybody did ever make a funny comment about the fact that it was a crossdressing 

footballer (and 

there weren’t any really) it 

would be from a slightly 

older generation,” said 

Ben. 

“The lads I still knock 

around with in Wigan are 

still my closest friends. My 

best friend since I was 11 

is still my best friend. They 

are really supportive, a 

good bunch of lads. 

“I will start banging on 

about a part and they will 

let me do it for about 20 

minutes and then be like 

right shut up now, we are 

watching the football.” 

Growing up, Ben would 

often stay at friends in 

Shevington or Appley 

Bridge . The local park 

was a regular hang out, as 

Ben explains. 

“We would get up to 

daft mischief, like stupid 

stuff you shouldn’t be 

doing, knocking on people’s doors and running away, entertaining yourself before 

technology. I sound like I am 65 now but that was back in the day, in the summer 

you would go out. When we got older we used to do the same thing but maybe with 

beer involved.” 

Ben is grateful for the support he has received from his family over the years. 

He said: “I have been really lucky. My family are really proud and they worked hard 

for me and never once said to me what are you going to do if this doesn’t work out? 

“Anything hard in life is worth doing, act because you love acting not because you 

want to get famous or rich because it doesn’t work like that. Looking back I am 

nowhere near finished, there is no retirement in sight, I will do this forever.”

47

48 

Health & Fitness 

Eliminating hepatitis 

together 

By Niamh Ollerton 

According to the British Liver 

Trust, in the UK alone there are 

over 700,000 people affected with viral 

hepatitis. Viral hepatitis is inflammation of 

the liver caused by a virus – there are several 

different viruses, named the hepatitis A, B, 

C, D, and E viruses. 

All of these viruses cause acute, or short-term, 

viral hepatitis. The common ones are hepatitis 

A, B and C. Most people recover from hepatitis 

A with no lasting liver damage, but the hepatitis 

B, C, and D viruses can cause chronic hepatitis, 

in which the infection is prolonged, sometimes 

lifelong; can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver 

cancer. 

However, viral hepatitis isn’t found in just one 

location or among one group of people; it’s a 

global epidemic that can affect millions of people 

without them knowing. Statistics from the World 

Hepatitis Day website states 90% of people living 

with hepatitis B and 80% living with hepatitis C are 

not aware of their status, which can result in people 

developing fatal liver disease at some point in their lives, 

and unknowingly transmitting the infection to others. 

Viral hepatitis is one of the leading causes of death globally, accounting 

for 1.34 million deaths per year – that’s as many as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis or 

malaria. Together, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C cause 80% of liver cancer cases in 

the world, causing two in every three liver cancer deaths. 

To raise awareness for the disease, World Hepatitis Day is held annually on 28 July 

which brings the world together under a single theme to raise awareness of the global

49 

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50 

burden of viral hepatitis and to influence change. 

World Hepatitis Day’s campaign for 2018 is ‘find the 

millions.’ There are 300 million people worldwide 

who are unknowingly living with viral hepatitis; 

without finding the undiagnosed and linking them 

to care, millions will suffer, and lives will be lost. 

One of just four disease-specific 

global awareness days officially 

endorsed by the World Health 

Organisation, WHD unities patient 

organisations, governments and 

the general public to boost the 

global profile of viral hepatitis. 

World Hepatitis Day calls on people 

around the world to take action, raise 

awareness and join in the quest to 

find the “missing millions”. 

The efforts from each and every 

organisation and individual mean 

that steps have been taken to transform the lives 

of the 325 million people living with the illness and 

help to eliminate hepatitis. 

The seventh official WHD took place on 28 July 

2017 under the theme ‘eliminate hepatitis,’ with 162 

countries taking part and 106 national governments 

commemorating the day. 

With over 1,000 events held worldwide, WHD 2017 

was marked with screening and vaccination drives, 

public seminars, press briefings, marches and health 

fairs as well as more unusual events such as the 

illumination of well-known landmarks and music 

concerts. 

Public Health England adapted the #ShowYourFace 

materials to run a poster campaign with the 

support of TV doctor Dr Christian Jessen. Posters 

were sent to all GP practices in England to help find 

undiagnosed cases of hepatitis C. They launched an 

awareness video and hosted a hepatitis C quiz that 

was taken over 2,400 times. They also brought an 

immunisation roadshow to PHE Colindale to raise 

awareness of hepatitis. 

With the availability of effective vaccines and 

treatments for hepatitis B and a cure for hepatitis 

C, the elimination of viral hepatitis is achievable, 

but greater awareness and understanding of the 

disease is a must, as is access to cheaper diagnostics 

and treatment. 

Without urgent action, deaths will continue to rise 

and the epidemic will continue to grow. World 

Hepatitis Day presents an ideal 

opportunity: an opportunity to 

join together and raise the profile 

of viral hepatitis among the public, 

the world’s media and on the global 

health agenda. 

Symptoms of viral hepatitis include: 

jaundice; fatigue; abdominal pain; 

loss of appetite; nausea; vomiting; 

diarrhoea; low grade fever; 

headache. Although some people 

do not have symptoms. 

Causes of the most common 

hepatitis viruses are: 

Hepatitis A is usually caught by consuming food 

and drink contaminated with the poo of an infected 

person and is most common in countries where 

sanitation is poor. 

Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus, which 

is spread in the blood of an infected person. It is 

uncommon in the UK and most cases affect people 

who became infected while growing up where the 

infection is more common, such as Southeast Asia 

and sub-Saharan Africa. 

Hepatitis C is the most common type of viral 

hepatitis in the UK. It’s usually spread through 

blood-to-blood contact with an infected person. 

Around one in four people will fight off the infection 

and be free of the virus. In the remaining cases, it 

will stay in the body for many years. 

Chronic hepatitis C can be treated with very 

effective antiviral medications, but there’s currently 

no vaccine available. 

For more information on World Hepatitis Day, 

please visit: www.worldhepatitisday.org 

For information about Hepatitis C please visit www. 

hepctrust.org.uk

51

52 

Travel 

History & culture in 

Krakow 

Adorned with picturesque streets unchanged since medieval times, Krakow is 

reasserting itself as a popular tourist destination. 

It’s not surprising that one of Poland’s oldest and second biggest cities is bursting 

with history and culture. Flanked by colourful architecture Krakow is known for its 

well-preserved medieval core and Jewish quarter. 

There are so many attractions to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. 

Luckily in this month’s travel feature we have compiled a brief snap shot of the city 

which dates back to the 7th century. 

Before we begin lets learn more about Krakow itself. Situated on the Vistula River, 

Krakow has traditionally been one of the leading centres of Polish academic, cultural 

and artistic life – it is one of Poland’s most important economic hubs. During WW2,

53 

Krakow was occupied by the Nazis and turned into 

their capital of governance (more history on this 

can be found in Oskar Schindler Factory museum). 

Krakow now of course is very different and in terms 

of locations, many are drawn to the stunning Old 

Town. Ringed by Planty Park and remnants of the 

city’s medieval walls, the Old Town is centred on the 

stately, expansive Rynek Glówny (market square). 

This plaza is the site of the Cloth Hall, a Renaissanceera 

trading outpost, and St. Mary’s Basilica, a 14thcentury 

Gothic church. 

You can begin a tour through the Old Town by 

passing through Florian’s Gate - a huge 14th 

century tower with the Barbican fortress nearby. 

Then it’s a short walk to Rynek Market Square, the 

largest medieval square in Europe. This massive 

space has a thriving atmosphere thanks to its cafes, 

beer gardens and monuments. 

You can’t miss Cloth Hall in the centre of Rynek 

Market Square. Check out the beautiful design and 

Krakow Excursions 

Auschwitz & Birkenau 5½ hrs £34 p.p. 

Wieliczka Salt Mine 3½ hrs £35 p.p. 

Schindler’s List Tour 2½ hrs £29 p.p. 

browse stalls inside. Take a break and treat yourself 

to coffee and paczek (a Polish doughnut). For 

amazing views across Krakow, climb to the top of 

the Town Hall Tower. Remain in the Old Town and 

marvel at St Mary’s Basilica - you simply have to see 

the incredible wood-carved altar inside. 

Wawel Castle is also just a short walk away for even 

more impressive architecture. It houses the Polish 

crown jewels and some stunning Renaissance 

paintings – look out for the fire-breathing dragon 

statue guarding a cave. 

City Breaks in Krakow 

4 nights B&B, 3*+ hotel 

Leaves 24/9/18* from Manchester 

£301 p.p. – based on 2 adults sharing 

3 nights B&B, 3*+ hotel 

Leaves 13/12/18* from Manchester 

£247 p.p. - based on 2 adults sharing 

*Other dates available - call for details. 

Prices correct as of 13 June. 

Call us today for further details 

Independent Travel Specialist 

Protected by 

200 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PE Telephone: 01744 893291 www.markentravel.co.uk

54 

You can also spend some time discovering Poland’s 

dramatic past. It’s well worth the half-hour walk to 

Oskar Schindler’s Factory to uncover the story of the 

man who saved many Jewish lives during the Nazi 

occupation. The Auschwitz concentration camp is 

located an hour away, which is also an emotional 

visit. 

At dusk, the Old Town becomes even more 

atmospheric. Wander along Florianska Street to 

find a heady mix of pubs, souvenir shops and 

restaurants. 

If you fancy browsing for more places to eat then 

join the Royal Route, with delicious delicacies like 

dumpling soup and sausages with sauerkraut. 

There are more than 300 bars in the Old Town – 

head to Harris Piano Jazz Bar for smooth sounds 

in an underground cellar. The tiny Wodka Bar is 

the place to try the national tipple, as it serves up 

homemade concoctions in every flavour of vodka 

imaginable. 

To learn of the city’s religious heritage then head to 

the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, this offers a fusion of 

fascinating history, street art and authentic eateries. 

For all you lovers, Krakow is located on the Vistula 

Krakow Checklist 

Language: Polish 

Currency: Zloty 

Time: +1 hour 

Beer: £1.44 

Cappuccino : £1.62 

3 Course Meal: £10.27 

Prices quoted are approximate 

River at Father Bernard’s Footbridge – it’s lit up 

beautifully at night and you’ll see padlocks left by 

couples as a symbol of their love. 

If you fancy venturing a bit further then Wieliczka Salt 

Mine is a good place to head to. The underground 

mine promises to be an enchanting experience, a 

mystical realm of chapels and chandeliers carved 

from rock salt. It’s a place of worship and even hosts 

weddings. 

Whatever you decide to do you can be assured that 

Krakow has plenty to offer, a city Poland can be 

proud of.

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56 

The Retirement 

Challenge 

Most people’s hopes and expectations for 

retirement are very different from those 

who were retiring in the past. Retirees now have 

much grander plans, such as travelling the world, 

spending more time on hobbies or spoiling the 

grandchildren. 

In order to achieve these things though, they 

need to have the income to afford a comfortable 

and active retirement. For most people, the state 

pension isn’t enough, and increasingly, income 

from other pensions is not enough either. 

Pensions have been hitting the headlines in recent 

years, but the focus has generally been encouraging 

people to save and build a fund for retirement. Not 

enough attention has been given to an equally 

pressing retirement challenge - making savings 

that have been built up over the years last all the 

way through retirement, and this challenge is 

harder than ever to achieve because of low interest 

rates and poor value annuities. 

In short, there is a good chance that financial 

wellbeing in retirement could depend to a large 

extent on sources of income which are not 

guaranteed for life in the way that traditional 

pensions are. 

Whilst saving for retirement is relatively simple as 

most people have a fixed retirement date, managing 

a pot of money and ensuring it lasts for the rest of 

your life is an altogether more difficult challenge. 

Here are the risks you face when managing your 

pot of money; 

Key Risks 

1 Will I live longer than expected? 

2 How much will inflation eat into the value of my 

savings? 

3 Will my investments be the right ones? 

4 What if I take out too much, too soon? 

5 Will I need long term care funding? 

Planning for retirement when considering all of the 

above risks can be a daunting task. Sadly the lack 

of a crystal ball means that the future can be very 

difficult to predict. 

How can we help? 

Whilst we don’t have a crystal ball, we do have 

many years’ experience of dealing with clients 

approaching/in retirement who were looking 

for strategies to enable them to achieve their 

retirement dreams. 

If you are moving into retirement please do not hesitate to give us a call on 01257 423800. The initial 

meeting will be at our expense and is without obligation.

57

58 

Pedal to the metal 

by Gemma Sherlock 

Aman from Billinge will celebrate his 60th birthday year by taking part in a 

gruelling bike ride from London to Paris. 

Chris Maj has always held a special place in his heart for Wigan and Leigh Hospice 

and now he is preparing for a 300-mile bike ride in their honour. 

“I am really looking forward to it. This will be the 

longest stretch I have been on a bicycle,” said Chris, 

who retired from the NHS after 35 years of service. 

“Who doesn’t love Paris? It’s a wonderful place and 

the hospice is a terrific organisation so it was a winwin 

situation.” 

Chris is no stranger to the saddle after spending 15 

years commuting to work via bicycle. 

He still cycles to Appleby Court Nursing Home in 

Pemberton, where he works part-time. 

“I am pretty comfortable health and fitness wise, I 

have also been running for 30 years,” said Chris, a 

dad-of-three. 

“This is probably the most ambitious cycle ride 

the hospice has organised - it’s going to be 

adventurous.” 

The challenge, which takes place from September 

18-23, will see Chris and others cycle great distances 

taking in the European scenery. 

Cyclists will spend five days travelling through the 

Chris Maj. 

English countryside into rural France passing by 

historical landmarks and World War 1 battlefields before reaching the Eiffel Tower. 

The route takes the fundraisers from London to Calais, to Abbeville, Beauvais and 

finally Paris. 

“I will be using my own bike and will roughly be cycling around 80 miles a day, 

totalling around seven hours in the saddle,” said Chris, who is also a volunteer for 

Wigan Samaritans. 

“I suppose it depends on how quickly you can peddle for.

59 

“As part of my training I will be 

supporting my friend who is 

doing a tandem cycle as part of 

the John O’Groats challenge, she 

is coming through Wigan and I will 

join her there, so it’s good practice 

for that.” 

Chris has a target of £2,000 for 

the challenge, with all proceeds 

supporting the charity which 

provides specialist end-of-lifecare. 

During his career with the NHS 

Chris worked with Wigan and 

Leigh Hospice extensively and 

knows too well how much 

they rely on funding from the 

community. 

“The hospice for me is one of 

those places which is always 

there, it does that important work 

that people sometimes take for 

granted,” said Chris, who has one 

granddaughter. 

“Most people don’t want to 

particular actually talk about 

death, it is still a bit of a taboo 

subject, but when you need it the 

hospice is there. 

“Last year they helped more than 

1,000 people with life-threatening 

and life-limiting conditions. It 

costs a staggering £8,700 per day to provide their 

inpatient and community functions. 

“They are almost completely dependent upon 

the generosity of the community to continue 

this valuable service. If fundraisers like this didn’t 

happen it wouldn’t be open.” 

The hospice currently has to raise more than £3m 

every year in order to continue providing all of its 

services. Last year the hospice supported 1,130 

local people who had been diagnosed with a lifelimiting 

illness. 

Maxine Armstrong, fundraising and lottery 

manager for the hospice, said: “This is the first time 

we have taken a fundraising event international 

and it’s a really exciting challenge. 

“The route is absolutely stunning and the team will 

be raising funds to help the hospice care for local 

people and their loved ones.” 

If you would like to donate to Chris’s challenge in 

aid of the hospice then please visit his JustGiving 

page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/chris-maj. 

To find out more please visit www.wlh.org.uk.

60 

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

61 

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

62 

Upload your event for FREE at 

www.locallife247.co.uk/events 

Follow us on Facebook 

events2go 

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 

Ladies Self-Defence Class 

Sunday, June 24, 10.30am-12pm 

Orrell Ju Jitsu in conjunction with gymetc will 

be holding the class in support of mental health 

charity MIND. Open to ladies of all ages, abilities 

and fitness. A minimum £10 donation is asked. For 

more info or to register your interest, please email 

orrelljujitsu@hotmail.co.uk 

Orrell Ju Jitsu, Orrell Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 

8QZ. Tel: 07741 452335 

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 

Sunday, 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 

Fishing Lake Volunteering 

Tues, June 26, 10am-2pm; Tues, July 10, 10am- 

2pm; Tues, July 24, 10am-2pm 

Volunteering with the West Lancs Countryside 

Rangers to bring the conservation and Fishing Lake 

area back to life. The group is hoping to welcome 

veterans fishing competitions back on the lake in 

the future and open it up for all to enjoy. 

Abbey Lakes, Orrell. 

80’s v 90’s Disco 

Friday, June 29, 7.30pm to Saturday, June 30, 

12.30am 

Battle it out on the dance floor on a musical journey 

from the 80’s greats, through to 90’s cheese! 

Whether you’re a new romantic, or a new kid on 

the block, there’ll be plenty of dance offs. It’s £18pp 

and includes a two-course meal. Telephone 01257 

472100 to reserve your tickets. 

Macdonald Kilhey Court, Chorley Road, Standish, 

WN1 2XN. Tel: 0844 879 9045

63 

Haigh Foodie Friday 

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

Foodie Friday is back at Haigh Woodland Park every 

month until October. There’ll be food from a variety 

of street food traders. 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 

Country Fair 

Friday, June 29, 2pm 

There’ll be bouncy inflatables, hook-a-duck, face 

painting, chocolate tombola, spin-the-wheel, 

summer craft, a mad scientist and football games 

with Coach Mike, and much more. Or you could 

even try your hand at baking cupcakes and sponges 

to be judged at the Great British Bake Off. 

Holy Family School, Cale Lane, Aspull 

Midsummer Ball 

Sat, June 30, 7pm, 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.

64 

Community Fete 2018 

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 

Young Musician Final 

Saturday, June 30, 7pm 

An opportunity for solo performers to compete for 

the coveted title of Wigan Young Musician of the 

Year. Tickets available at the door. For more info call 

01942 776169 or email musicservice@wigan.go.uk 

St Wilfrid’s Parish Church, 13 Rectory Lane, 

Standish, Wigan, WN6 0XA. Tel: 01257 421396 

Family Fun Day 

Saturday, June 30, 11am-late 

This family fun day is in aid of Bolton Armed Forces 

Centre. There’ll be stalls, live music, games, bouncy 

castle, army museum, army vehicles, food and bike 

auction. There’s a £2 donation on entry. 

Old Springs Inn, 126 Spring Road, Orrell, WN5 0JJ 

Summer Fayre 

Sunday, July 1, 12pm-3pm 

This event will raise funds to pay for vets fees, feed & 

bedding bills, accountants fees, public liability fees, 

and for maintenance etc. Meet the rescued animals 

that live here, have a bite to eat & drink. Grab a 

bargain at the Thrift market stalls and children’s 

crafts stall. Relax & unwind. 

LuckyHens Rescue Wigan, Amberswood Common, 

Manchester Road, HIndley, WN2 3DR. 

Gin Tasting 

Thursday, July 5, 7.30pm-10.30pm 

An evening of ‘educationally educating 

gintoxication’ which explores the history of gin that 

spans almost a thousand years. Enjoy five artisan 

gins that showcase the story and development of 

the favourite tipple. Tickets are limited and priced 

at £25 from fifteensstandish.com 

Fifteens at Standish, 73 High Street, Standish, 

WN6 0HD. Tel: 01257 424795 

Special Service 

Saturday, July 7, 6pm-7pm 

A special day for Rector Andrew as he celebrates his 

25th anniversary to the Priesthood. This is an open 

invitation for all to attend. 

Church of St Wilfrid, 13 Rectory Lane, Standish, 

Wigan, WN6 0XA. Tel: 01257 421396 

Summer Fair 

Saturday, July 7, 11am-1pm 

Come on down and support Orrell Holgate Primary 

School’s Summer Fair. There’ll be food, drinks, 

face painting and lots of stalls and activities and 

(hopefully) nice weather. It’ll be a lovely few hours 

out with the family. 

Orrell Holgate Primary School, Moor Road, Orrell, 

WN5 8SJ. Tel: 01942 776670 

Roller Dance Workshop 

Sunday, July 8, 4.15pm-5.45pm 

Join Roller Girl Gang’s Len and Mel for an energetic 

roller dance workshop. There’ll be a range of 

dance steps and sequences; recommended for 

intermediate level skaters who can skate forwards, 

backwards, crossover, turn and stop confidently. 

Tickets are £8. 

Wigan Roller Rink, Unit 2, Eckersley Mill, Swan 

Meadow Road, WN3 5BD. Tel: 01942 375675

65

66 

Grand Opening 

Monday, July 9, 1.30pm-3pm 

A forest school area grand opening. The Mayor and 

Mayoress of West Lancs will open proceedings; 

there’ll be fun forest-themed activities for children; 

parents and friends will be there too. The Woodland 

Trust is attending and there will hopefully be a band 

to provide some light entertainment! 

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Mossy Lea 

Rd, Wrightington, Wigan, WN6 9RE 

Barking Mad Dog Festival 

Saturday, July 14, 10am-6pm 

There’ll be 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 

Disney Singalong Breakfast 

Saturday, July 14, 10.15am-12.15pm 

With very special guest Elsa; includes breakfast 

banquet, magical meet and greet and photo 

opportunity, Disney singalong with songs from 

Frozen, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, Trolls and 

Moana. Just £8 per child. 

Pipsqueaks Play Café, Orrell Road, Orrell, WN5 

8QZ. Tel: 01695 229923 

NGS Open Garden 

Sunday, July 15, 10am-4pm 

The gardens have colourful flower beds, three 

ponds and a Chinese bridge donated by the 

Whitworth Art Gallery. The Dedicate a Daisy 

memorial garden and two courtyards also feature 

as the gardens. £3 entry. 

Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Hindley, 

WN2 3HZ. Tel: 01942 525566 

Wildflower Walk 

Sunday, July 15, 2pm-4pm 

Take a walk around Wigan Flashes to look out for 

the flowers that are in bloom. Expert Dave Winnard 

will be on hand to help with identification. 

Wigan Flashes Nature Reserve, Poolstock Lane, 

Wigan WN3 5HL 

Wigan Schools Gala Concert 

Monday, July 16, 1.30pm 

The Wigan Schools Orchestra performs Hoedown 

by Copland and In the Hall of the Mountain by Grieg. 

The Youth Orchestra will perform Peter and the 

Wold by Prokofiev and The Sorcerer’s Apprentice by 

Dukas. Contact 01942 776169 for more info. Tickets 

available on the door. 

Robin Park Indoor Sports Centre, Loire Drive, 

Newtown, Wigan, WN5 0UL. Tel: 01942 828550 

Wigan Flower Club 

Wed, Jul 18, 7.15pm; Wed, Aug 15, 7.15pm; Wed, 

Sept 19, 7.15pm; Wed, Oct 17, 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. 

Non-members welcome. 

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

Eating disorders Workshop 

Thursday, July 19, 6.10pm-8pm 

Learn about Anorexia, Bulimia and EDNS; new 

skills to support recovery and to notice the signs 

of refeeding syndrome. There’s a self-help guide to 

take away, and an online group support to meet 

other parents just like you. Ticket only event at 

£20pp from www.blueresilience.co.uk/ 

Wigan Central, No.1 Railway Arch, Queen Street, 

Wigan, WN3 4DY. Tel: 01942 246425

67 

Lakeside Summer Fayre 

Saturday, July 21, 1pm-4pm 

Get in the mood for summer! There’ll be a bouncy 

castle, raffle, face painting, hook-a-duck, tombola, 

barbecue and music. 

Lakeside Care Home, Chorley Road, Worthington 

WN1 2XN 

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. 

ARC Annual Country Fair 

Saturday, July 28, 10am-6pm and Sunday, July 29, 

10am-6pm 

The second annual country fair with lots to see and 

do, there’ll be quad bikes, bouncy castles and so 

much more. 

Charity Farm Fisheries, Charity Farm, Smithy 

Brow, Wrightington, WN6 9PP. Tel: 01257 451326 

Peter Rabbit & Friends 

Tues, July 31, 12pm-2pm (11.30am gates open) 

This musical adaptation follows some of Beatrix 

Potter’s favourite characters in their adventures as 

they roam the countryside. Bring a picnic, blanket/ 

chairs and imagination! All tickets £7.50, family 

ticket of 3 is £15, under 3s go free. Book at www. 

haightickets.co.uk or call 0800 788 0526. 


WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828280 

Parbulele Ukulele Festival 

Fri, Aug 3, 6.30pm-late; Sat, Aug 4, 11am-5pm and 

6.30pm-late; Sun, Aug 5, 11am-5pm 

The Parbulele Ukulele Festival features lots of 

musical events over the weekend. Tickets available 

from Gary Smith gs.svs-ltd@live.co.uk or phone 

07495332770 or pay on the day. Festival entry is £3 

per day or £5 for the weekend, and concerts are £15. 

Parbold 

Garden Party 

Saturday, August 4, 12pm-4pm 

A favourite for both young and old supporters. Pick 

up a bargain, enjoy a burger from the barbecue and 

win prizes in the raffles and tombolas. Enjoy games, 

raffles and stalls selling crafts, bric-a-brac, plants, 

refreshments and more. Free entry. 

Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Hindley, 

WN2 3HZ. Tel: 01942 525566 

Children’s Holiday Club 

Wed, August 8 - Fri, August 10, 10am-4pm 

The holiday club is for children aged 7-11. They 

can play team games; get involved in art and craft, 

music, and sports. Application forms available from 

St. Matthew’s Church and Vicarage. The Holiday 

Club is free. Places are “first come, first served”. 

St Matthew’s Church Hall, Billinge Rd, Highfield, 

Wigan, WN3 6BL 

Wigan Pride 2018 

Saturday, August 11, 11am-5pm 

Wigan Pride is back. It promises to be a free, fun, 

family friendly event jam packed with artists and 

local talent on the main stage and a range of 

different market stalls. This year it’s celebrating 

growth and community. It’s inclusive, diverse and 

tolerant for all. Autism Friendly. 

Market Place, Wigan, WN1 1

68 

Win tickets to 

Southport Flower Show 

For nearly 90 years gardeners and amateur growers 

have been flocking to the Southport Flower Show 

for its fabulous displays and floral competitions, and this 

year you could be joining them free of charge by winning 

one of three pairs of tickets to the annual seaside event. 

The three competition winners will each win a pair of day 

passes to the show, which is being held from the 16-19th 

August at Victoria Park in Southport. 

Southport is the UK’s largest independent flower show 

and is known for attracting some of Britain’s best celebrity 

gardeners and for putting on a packed programme of 

family entertainment. This summer’s show is no exception 

with a string of top gardening experts already confirmed 

and more big names from TV still to be announced. 

Britain’s best known gardening expert, Monty Don, will 

open the show on 16th August. Monty was awarded an 

OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours recently and has 

been the face of BBC show Gardeners’ World since 2003. 

Monty said; “I am very much looking forward to returning 

to Southport Flower Show this year and sharing the 

colour, talent and fun of a great local show. I look forward 

to seeing you there.” 

Gardeners looking for tips on how to give their flowers, 

fruit and vegetables a boost will be able to listen to 

broadcasters Christine Walkden, Carol Klein, David 

Domoney and Matthew Wilson during the show and may 

get a chance to ask the experts themselves. 

Children aged under 16 are given free entrance with an 

accompanying adult and this year’s Southport Flower 

Show has more entertainment for the kids than ever 

before. Children’s TV star Justin Fletcher, known to 

CBeebies’ viewers for his many characters including Mr 

Tumble, will be leading the family entertainment during 

the 2018 show.

69 

As well a series of kids workshops and events, in the 

outdoor arena, families can enjoy the shows by dog 

agility performers Adrian and Caroline Slater and 

Ben Potter’s eagle and vulture experience. 

Popular Countryfile presenter Anita Rani, who 

entertained fans on the 2015 series of Strictly Come 

Dancing, will be in the celebrity line-up meeting 

visitors on the opening day of the event. Anita will 

speak to guests at Southport’s Celebrity Theatre on 

Thursday August 16th at 3pm and be present at the 

Kuoni stand throughout the day. 

In the demonstration kitchen, cake Queen Flo 

Atkins, who starred in TV’s Great British Bake Off, 

is to demonstrate her cooking talents. Flo found 

fame as one of the contestants in the first series of 

GBBO to be screened by Channel 4, charming TV 

audiences with her traditional family recipes. 

General Manager Ray Roukin said: “We’ve got a 

brilliant show planned for 2018 with something for 

all the family and even our dogs are welcome this 

year.” Southport Flower Show takes place at Victoria 

Park, a 34 acre coastline park a short walk away 

from Southport town centre. 

To win one of the three pairs of tickets for Southport 

Flower Show, simply visit our website www. 

locallife247.co.uk, click on ‘free stuff’ and then on 

‘competitions’. 

To enter the competition just input your answer to 

the following question; 

What’s the name of the BBC Gardeners’ World’ 

presenter who will welcome guests on the 

opening day of the Southport Flower Show? 

The expiry date for the competition is Friday 20th 

July 2018. Entrants must be over 16 years of age. 

Only one entry per household. Local Life 247 cannot 

accept responsibility for entries that do not reach us. 

Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd and their families are 

not eligible to enter this competition. 

Winners will be contacted by 31st July 2018, 

and details will be publicised in our September 

magazines. Advance tickets to Southport Flower 

Show are available for £20 per person, for the 

Show’s website at www.southportflowershow.co.uk

70 

Taste test 

It’s that time of year when everybody is looking 

for the nearest beer garden to bask in the 

glorious sunshine with a refreshing pint and a bite 

to eat. 

We took advantage of the fabulous rays which 

showed no signs of dwindling and booked into the 

newly-renovated The Fox at Roby Mill. 

The Fox 

By Gemma Sherlock 

The historic hostelry has recently undergone a major 

refurbishment and with that comes a new name and 

new owners. 

Formerly the Fifteens at the Fox, the pub is now 

owned by business partners Wendy Green and Chris 

Wilson, who have turned the inn into a contemporary 

country pub, with a big focus on local produce and 

drink. 

Chris and Wendy turned around the establishment 

in a month, with a complete overhaul including new 

furniture, a new bar, new menus, new décor and a 

brand new name, The Fox at Roby Mill. 

Head chef, William Fitzmaurice was busy preparing 

for the lunch time rush as me and my colleague 

Niamh were seated in front of the views of the quaint 

beer garden. 

We couldn’t decide on the tempting dishes to start 

so we decided to give into our greed and share 

two – Black Pudding and Chorizo Fritters with Mrs 

Kirkham’s Lancashire Cheese Sauce and Warm Goat’s 

Cheese, Leek and Sunflower Seed Tartlet with herb 

mayonnaise and seasonal salad. 

I often avoid anything too heavy to start and was 

worried the Blacking Pudding fritters would be too 

rich and unsettle my palette but that didn’t happen 

here. The serving came with three fritters which 

were just enough – the meat inside the crispy shell 

was soft, textured and light and combined with the 

cheese sauce it offered a moreish mouthful which 

left you wanting more. The goat’s cheese tartlet was 

again not too heavy and the pastry was light and 

sweet, contrasting well with the citrus salad.

71 

like I am a cop out when I order one, a meal that 

won’t satisfy my hunger. But again I was proved 

wrong. The size of this salad was enough to feed two. 

Packed full with fresh greens and crispy, soft, warm 

potatoes, topped with succulent chicken breast in 

paprika and shards of bacon. 

Niamh went for the traditional pub lunch: Beer 

Battered Fish and Chips with mushy peas and tartare 

mayonnaise. We were told this was a best-seller at 

The Fox and we could certainly see why. The cod was 

beautifully cooked and almost filled the plate, the 

chips came lightly salted and who can’t beat mushy 

peas? A traditional classic served as a big portion is 

always a winner. 

To finish, I had the Crème Brulee with homemade 

biscotti and Niamh had Sticky Toffee Pudding with 

hot butterscotch sauce and Mrs Dowsons vanilla icecream. 

Crème Brulee is a favourite of mine; I have a 

very sweet tooth which was certainly catered for 

with this dessert. 

The caramelised top of the brulee offered a fun and 

interactive crunch as the spoon cracked the surface. 

The contents underneath was a nice surprise as 

there wasn’t too much. The smooth, creamy vanilla 

cleansed my palette and the biscuits offered that 

extra texture, providing a good dipping tool too! 

Niamh was in pudding heaven– the sticky toffee 

sponge was not too rich or stodgy as you can 

sometimes get with a heavy dessert. The sauce was 

a sweet merriment with the vanilla ice-cream and 

finished off the meal nicely. 

With the drinks in hand, we sat comfortably in the 

large, impressive oak furniture, admiring the garden 

which was busy with locals enjoying the sunshine on 

the decked seating area. 

We didn’t have to wait long for the main – just as 

well as the starters left us wanting more. I went for 

the Warm Chicken, Bacon and New Potato Salad with 

Honey and Paprika Dressing. 

It’s a long time since I ordered a salad. I always feel 

We enjoyed our time at the renovated Fox which 

has a fresh, contemporary feel yet still packed with 

periodic features. On our way out we had another 

chat with the owners, Chris, 25 and Wendy, 47, 

who have worked together for eight years. The duo 

have big plans for the future, including an outdoor 

prosecco and gin bar. 

To book and for a full list of the menu visit 

thefoxrobymill.co.uk 

The Fox at Roby Mill. 

24 Roby Mill, Up Holland, WN8 0QF 

01695 628178.

72 

Roast Pheasant 

Pheasant makes a nice change from chicken, and this recipe gives a richness to 

the meat, while madeira gravy adds something special. Serves 4 

Ingredients 

2 pheasants 

1 apple, chopped 

4 rashers streaky bacon 

seasoning 

For the gravy: 

2 tbsp madeira 

1-2 tsp arrowroot or cornflour 

300ml game or chicken stock 

Method 

Preheat the oven to 190C, 375F, gas mark 5. 

Lay the rashers of bacon over the breast meat and put some apple and 

pepper into the main cavity of the birds. 

Arrange the birds in a large roasting tin, pour the stock around the outside 

and roast in the oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the birds are cooked. 

When the pheasants are cooked, lift onto a carving board, cover with foil 

and leave to stand for 10 minutes. 

Prepare the gravy. Tip the cooking juices into a jug and skim away excess 

fat. If necessary, make up to 300ml with water. Return the juices to the 

roasting tin with the madeira 

and bring to the boil, simmering 

for a few minutes until a good 

flavour is obtained. 

Mix the arrowroot or cornflour 

with a little water and blend into 

the hot stock. Season to taste 

with pepper and strain into a 

gravy boat. 

Serve the pheasant with the 

gravy and a selection of roasted 

vegetables and/or parsnip 

chips.

73 

Low Fat 

Banana & 

Yoghurt Cake 

This low fat banana cake is a sweet treat without too many calories - which can 

be reduced by using a light margarine and 0% fat yoghurt. It is also a great way 

to use up over-ripe bananas. Serves 4 

Ingredients 

150g margarine 

150g brown sugar 

1 tsp vanilla bean paste 

3 eggs 

450g self-raising flour 

1/4 tsp bicarbonate of soda 

150g Greek-style yoghurt 

225g mashed over-ripe banana 

Chopped walnuts and sliced banana, to decorate 

For the Icing 

250g packet light cream cheese 

40g caster sugar 

300g Greek-style yoghurt 

Method 

Preheat oven to 180C. Grease a 7cm-deep, 19cm 

square cake pan. Line base and sides with 2 layers 

of baking paper. 

Beat margarine, sugar and vanilla for 3 to 5 minutes 

or until light and fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating 

until combined. Stir in sifted flour and bicarbonate 

of soda, yoghurt and banana until well combined. 

Spoon mixture into pan and level. 

Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes or until a 

skewer inserted in centre of cake comes out clean 

(cover cake loosely with foil if over-browning during 

cooking). Turn onto a wire rack to cool. 

Make Icing. Beat cream cheese and sugar together 

until light and fluffy. Fold in yoghurt until well 

combined. Spread icing over top of cake. Sprinkle 

with walnuts and top with sliced banana. Serve.

74 

Chipping & 

Knot Hill 

The last Bank Holiday actually delivered a day 

of gorgeous sunshine, so it was an early start 

for this 5¼ mile Jack’s Tracks in picturesque Chipping, 

located within the Forest of Bowland Area of Natural 

Beauty. On paper, the route promised much and it 

ultimately delivered a beautiful walk with lovely views, 

lots of points of interest and scrumptious bacon butty 

on completion! If you’re taking your four legged friend 

though, please be aware that there are lots of stiles 

to cross and much livestock too, so do make sure you 

have your lead. 

Turn left out of the car park (PR3 2QH) and head 

downhill, past the school and St Bartholomew’s 

church and then turn right at the Sun Inn pub 

down Windy Street for almost 1/3 of a mile. At the 

point that the road bends to the right, by the stone 

by Chris Pearce 

‘Welcome to Chipping’, there’s a bridge; go over the 

bridge and go through the gate, then follow the 

path on the left hand perimeter of the field. 

Make your way over a stile on the far side of the 

field, and then bear left, again follow the left hand 

perimeter of the two adjoining fields dodging 

through the clumps of grasses. You’ll arrive at Green 

Lane via a stile; turn left and then immediate right 

down a concrete road leading to the dairy farm. 

Once arriving in the farmyard, bear left and then go 

through a gate and head uphill away from the farm. 

You’ll arrive at another farm gate which opens onto 

a rural lane. Turn right at this point and follow the 

lane for ½ mile, past Leagram Mill, over the stream 

and then turn left up the wide track directly after 

Leagram Mill Barn. Follow the track up a slight

75 

incline for ¼ mile until you reach a clearing; go over 

the cattle grid and follow the track up Knot Hill. You 

can either follow the hairpin bend around the hill 

or clamber up and take in the tremendous views 

towards Longridge Fell, Totridge and Pendle Hill. It’s 

a great spot for a picnic, but be careful to stay away 

from the edge. 

Head west at this point across the field and towards 

the treeline. Proceed through a double stile in the 

fence and then down through the woods towards 

a footbridge over a stream. Scramble uphill and 

over a stile and then carry on in the same direction 

on the right hand perimeter of several fields for 

approximately ½ mile, crossing multiple stiles. Once 

you get to the final field in this series, a large and 

open one, head towards a hollowed out tree trunk 

Knot 

Hill 

FB 

Leagram Hall 

Farm 

Leagram 

Mill 

FB 

FB 

Chipping 

P 

Green Lane 

Garstang Road 

FB 

FB 

For those with the OS Maps 

app on your desktop, mobile or 

tablet, this walk is named: 

JT Chipping

76 

in the distance and just beyond that is a concrete 

track. Turn right and head uphill. 

Once you reach Laund Farm, bear left and keep 

left when it forks. Once you’ve passed the next 

buildings you’ll arrive at two tracks on the left 

running parallel, divided by a hedge. Take the 

second track to its conclusion and then hop over 

the stile. Look where the fence and hedge meets 

in the distance and head directly over the field 

towards that point. Go through the gate and head 

over the next field, roughly in the direction of the 

telegraph poles, dropping down to a stile in the far 

corner of the field. 

Follow the path down the left hand perimeter of

77 

hedge to the right in the direction of the houses. 

Make your way over the stile and between the 

houses to end up on a rural lane. 

Turn left downhill and then right when you see 

the public footpath sign shortly afterwards. Follow 

the track and then over the stile on the right hand 

side just before the gate to the house. Bear left and 

follow the path downhill on the left hand perimeter 

until you emerge onto Broad Meadow. Turn left and 

follow the road to the T-junction, turn left and walk 

along Garstang Road to the car park from where the 

walk started. 

the following two fields, dropping down to a rural 

lane (Malt Kiln Brow), with a mill pond opposite. 

Turn right and walk along the road until you reach 

a public footpath sign on the left. Hop over the stile 

and bear left, then cross the footbridge and head 

uphill. Take the overgrown path to the left behind 

the trees for a short distance and then follow the 

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. 

When can 

we go back to 

Dukes Barn 

Farm? 

Boarding kennels and cattery. 

Heated accommodation. 

Recommended by vets & clients for over 

38 years. 

Local authority licensed & approved. 

Open 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday 

Closed to customer visits on Sunday 

DUKES BARN FARM 

Animal care at its best 

Brook Lane, Pemberton, WN5 8JQ 

Call - 01942 217752

78 

Test Drive 

Isuzu D-Max 

Arctic Trucks AT35 

by Tim Barnes-Clay 

When it comes to getting the job done, there aren’t many pick-ups more 

hardcore than the Isuzu D-Max – a muscular all-rounder that just works. 

Master of all trades and the perfect blend of rugged capability, whether off-road or 

load-lugging; paired with performance and comfort. 

The D-Max is masculine enough on its own. But marry it with Icelandic vehicle 

modifier, Arctic Trucks, and it gets an extra dose of testosterone. 

The customised, off-road inclined D-Max AT35 has been offered in Nordic territories 

for some time, but over the last couple of years, UK consumers have been able to 

have a slice of the action. 

The Arctic Trucks conversion can be had in two variants: the four-door Double Cab I 

drove, and the extended cab. Both are built on the existing D-Max Utah specification, 

but add a few grand to the price-tag. 

The biggest difference between the AT35 and a normal D-Max are the outsized 35- 

inch tyres and the broader track. The truck has also been elevated by an extra 55mm. 

The tyres are so substantial that Arctic Trucks reckons the D-Max can glide over slush 

and snow, rather than plunge into it. Other outer surface conversions include burlier 

side steps, and wider wheel-arches.

79 

The standard Isuzu suspension has been given a 

seeing to as well, with superior Fox Performance 

dampers made to endure the toughest impacts. 

The additional ground clearance means you won’t 

ground it out on any off-tarmac obstructions you’re 

likely to find in Britain. What’s more, the approach 

and departure angles enable it to confront almost 

perpendicular inclines without throwing a wobbly. 

The D-Max still goes about its business without 

upmarket hill descent control, but the low-range 

four-wheel drive and manual gear selector on the 

automatic transmission lets you do things the 

old-school way, via engine braking. The 164PS 

2.0-litre oil-burner might not be as hard-hitting or 

sophisticated as Mitsubishi’s L200 pick-up on the 

asphalt, but it has bags of torque from low down to 

tug you out of bother. 

Fast Facts 

• 0-62 mph: 15 secs (est.) 

• Combined mpg: 36.2 

• Engine layout: 1898cc four-cylinder diesel turbo 

• Max. power (PS): 164 

• CO2: 220 g/km 

• Price: £45,535 

the balloon-like tyres. Hypothetically, you could 

use this special version of the D-Max to do the daily 

commute, but that would almost be an insult to its 

mud-plugging abilities. 

Not surprisingly, the Isuzu D-Max AT35 isn’t 

meant to be a motor you can hoon around twisty 

back roads; both performance and handling are 

impacted by the embellishments. 

What does amaze is the AT35’s talent to achieve and 

sustain motorway speeds without much tyre roar. 

The ride is very easy-going, too, although it does 

become quite wallowy the quicker you go, due to

80 

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www.cosmeticar.co.uk 

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Mobile Service – we come to you! 

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NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS 

We are now open for services and repairs at our 

brand new premises in Up Holland. 

Dingle Garage, Dingle Road, Up Holland, WN8 0EN 

01257 251 116 / 01695 624 261 

www.jwgaskellgarageservices.co.uk

81 

No excuses – 

get gardening ! 

by Angie Barker 

Award Winner 

When visiting peoples’ gardens, the two 

comments I hear most often are “nothing 

will grow there” and “I like gardening but I’m rubbish 

at it”. The former comment usually relates to a shady 

spot in someone’s garden and because they have 

tried to grow something there before which has not 

flourished, they assume that this area is doomed to 

be boring and unable to support plant life when in 

fact nothing could be further from the truth. 

A shady spot in your garden is an opportunity to 

grow a wonderful range of plants. The first thing 

you need to assess is whether your shade is dry 

shade or moist shade as this will determine which 

plants you can grow successfully. For example ferns 

such as Polystichum munitum (Sword fern) and the 

Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis) thrive in moist 

shade. Some hardy Geraniums such as Geranium 

nodosum do well in dry shade as well as Dicentra 

formosa (Bleeding Heart) and Lily of the Valley 

(Convallaria majalis). 

Now to address the “I like gardening but I’m rubbish 

at it” comment. First and foremost gardening 

should be about having fun, about enjoying a 

healthy pursuit out in the open air. Just have a go 

at it and through trial and error you will be amazed 

at how rewarding it can be. There is a wealth of 

practical information out there and one of the best 

publications is the Gardeners World magazine. 

Produced in conjunction with the BBC’s Gardeners 

World programme aired on a Friday night during 

the summer months, it provides masses of useful 

information and tips. And if you subscribe to it, 

there are lots of special offers available, including 

some free plants – what could be better! 

If flowers don’t float your boat (as the young ‘uns say) 

get inspired and grow some veg. Potatoes, lettuce 

and carrots are some of the easiest to grow and 

there really is nothing more satisfying than eating 

fresh produce from your own garden. Children love 

getting involved too and it keeps them away from 

the computer screen and gets them interested in 

nature. Even Hubby takes an interest in the garden 

– although of course I am firmly in charge ! 

So there you have it – no excuses – get gardening! 

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

82 

QUALIFIED & INSURED 

TELEPHONE: 

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07903 290 878 

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• All tree work 

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Garden need a little 

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• 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 

SMN 

Tree and Landscape Management 

West Lancashire District Council approved contractor 

Day: 07970 521 692 Eve: 01942 214 121 

www.smntrees.co.uk steve@smntrees.co.uk 

Qualified Tree Surgeon NCA RFS NPTC 

All types of Tree and Hedge Work 

Fully Insured 

Felling, Reducing, Pruning, Shaping

83 

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 

Creative Garden 

Construction 

Landscapes 

Creating the ideal outdoor 

living space 

Garden Design & Construction 

All aspects of Paving, Driveways & Patios 

Award Winner 

scope2scape 

scope2scape.co.uk 

T 01257 464221 M 07761 808413 / 07900 224849 

Call Stewart Ashcroft on; 

01695 622460 or 07894 217191 

email:westdene41@btinternet.com 

Winstanley Road, Billinge 

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 

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 

Our aim is to deliver a creative, personal 

service adhering to our customers 

requirements and within budget. 

Large projects or small makeovers are all 

carried out with the same commitment and 

dedication. We take great pride in completing 

all projects to the highest possible standards. 

www.pdhomeandgarden.co.uk 

07946 751308 01942 206503

84 

ORRELL MACHINERY 

SALES • SERVICE • SPARES • REPAIRS 

Service your mower 

now for Spring 2018 

We also service 

all power tools 

GARDEN GATES 

£145 fitted 

Call Graham 

07816 386 548 

01257 425 958 

www.ashfieldhomeimprovements.co.uk 

FREE 

NO VAT CHARGED 

pick up & drop off! 

for mower services 

• • 

• Gates and railings 

• Repairs and restorations 

• Ironwork and welding 

• Traditional forge work 

25 years of expertise 

Unit 6, Hewitt Business Park, Orrell WN5 7XB 

Call - 01695 682 043 

Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202 

The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland 

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 

Inspirational design and practical 

solutions to transform your garden. 

Professional, affordable garden design 

Free, no obligation initial consultation 

www.lindsay-clegg-garden-design.co.uk 

M: 07989 414477 T: 01257 464711 

Want to promote your 

company in Local Life? 

Call Sally: 01695 627 999 

locallife247.co.uk 


85 

Want a beautiful 

garden without all 

the hard work? 

At GreenHills we don’t just treat your lawns, we 

offer a complete service all year round. 

• APPLICATION OF LAWN TREATMENTS 

• GARDEN MAINTENANCE / ONE OFF TIDY UPS 

• JETWASHING DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS 

• HEDGES & SHRUBS MAINTAINED 

• WEED SPRAYING OF PATHS & DRIVEWAYS 

• BILLINGE BASED 

Professional Lawn Treatment 

& Garden Maintenance 

~ Est. 2001 ~ 

01942 200 039 or 07950 651 956 

GreenhillsLC@gmail.com 

Garden 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 

garden maintenance 

weed control to lawn & 

driveways 

hedge cutting 

garden tidy ups 

Garden Services & Lawncare 

fertilising & moss control 

turfing & landscaping 

tree surgery 

one off jobs or regular 

maintenance 

HND qualified. PA1 PA2 & PA6 spraying qualifications. 

20 years experience. Billinge based. 

jmagardenservices.co.uk 

day: 07929 366769 eve: 01744 302793 

Garden maintenance ~ General tidy ups 

Hedge cutting ~ Pressure washing ~ Fencing 

Call - 01942 225711 or 07773 296880 

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 

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

86 

Home Services 

- sponsored by 

www.expertcomputers.co.uk 

‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner 

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 

Boost your Business in 2018 

Advertising packages start from £39 + VAT a month. 

For more information call 01695 627 999 


87 

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 

All electrical work 

undertaken 

• Friendly reliable service 

• Mains board upgrades 

• Extra sockets to full 

rewires 

Free quotations 

A.J.S. 

BAILEYS 

ELECTRICAL 

01942 215 769 

07739 709 005 

J.Dillon 

Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826 

www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk 

• All types of electrical work 

• 20+ years experience 

• Friendly, fast and reliable 

• 24 hour call out service 

Electrical 

Services Ltd 

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

Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved 

forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and 

embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that 

cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working 

with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect 

every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding 

Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety 

Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced 

Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road, 

Wrightington, WN6 9RS 

Dennis Goulding 

(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’) 

A5209 

B5250 

J27 

Shevington 

A49 

Standish 

Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon 

www.dglwindows.co.uk 

Unit 4a, 

o f Miry Lane, 

Wigan. 

WN6 7TP 

or 

88 

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’s premier 

domestic 

cleaning service 

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 



Call Sally: 01695 627 999 



Wigan Good 

Trader Of 

The Year 

2015 

• Carpets • Rugs 

• Fabric & Leather Upholstery 

Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote 

Call - 01257 251221 

Mobile - 07908 770808 

mr-soot.com 

5 star rating with 

Wigan Trading 

Standards Good 

Trader Scheme 

www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk 

Design & Print 

Lashes 

Spray Tan 

Sunbeds 

Acrylic & Gel Nails 

Natalies @ Studio 84 

Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories, 

Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors 

Gel 

Nails 

normally £20 

now £15 

84 Rainford Road, Bi linge WN5 7PG 

Telephone: 07814 619 400 

Open: 

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM 

Closed Thursday & Sunday 

Mo sy Lea Road 

Solar Thermal 

& Solar PV 

Wind Turbines 

Heat Pumps 

LED Lighting 

...and general 

Energy Savings 

Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily... 

T 

Y 

R 

E 

S 

Book 

your FREE 

home survey 

Telephone: 01257 427 000 

and we’ l provide you with a 

detailed report showing the 

returns available from your 

own solar panels 

CAR & VAN SERVICING 

...and motorcycles too 

FREE 

Car Health Check 

(10% typical return) 

Visit our showroom at 

Cricket Street Business Park 

for all residents of Croston and Bretherton 

Keep me until you need me! 

Book your FREE Car Health Check 

Call now on 

TwinLakesMotorEngineers 

01772 603923 

REPAIR & WELDING 

Mr Soot 

CHIMNEY SWEEP 

Woodburners Open fires Stoves 

07724 311 992 

Saving money is 

the clear benefit! 

Slash your electricity and 

water heating bill 

Protect your household from 

future energy price rises 

Reduce your household’s 

impact on the environment 

E 

X 

H 

A 

U 

S 

T 

S 

Call us now 

0843 224 9555 

07595 420237 

Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk 

Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk 

Flyers, postcards, brochures 

and distribution service. 



89 

PB 

Orrell Laundry 

11 Sefton Road, Orrell, WN5 8UP 

01695 623 796 

• Bedding & duvets • Domestic washes 

• Commercial washing • Ironing services 

• Dry cleaning • Team sports kits welcomed 

Open 7 days 

see website for 

opening times 

Power 

Washing 

HOUSE CLEANING AT ITS BEST 

Driveways 

Conservatories 

Patios & Decking 

Gutters & Fascias 

Bricks & Walls 

Free pick-up 

& drop off! 

www.orrell-laundry.co.uk 

BEFORE 

AFTER 

Call Paul today to arrange a free quote 

01257 402 113 ~ 07736 396 374 

www.pbpowerwashing.co.uk 

Serving the 

community for 

over 50 years 

Free pICk-up & DrOp OFF 

service to/from Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Highfield, Marus Bridge, 

Kitt Green & Up Holland 

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 

Ovenclean will transform your oven and 

put the sparkle back into your kitchen! 

• Ovens 

• Grills 

• Extractors 

• BBQ’s 

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

90 

Specialists in boiler installations, repair & maintenance 

All work fully warranted 

Email ops@hotmail.co.uk 

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 

Book a boiler health check for £65 

& get a carbon monoxide 

alarm (RRP £29) FREE! 

Call the team on 

01744 892437 

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 




FINANCE 

OPTIONS 

AVAILABLE 

506515 


Great Value Bathrooms! 

Full Bathrooms & En-Suites 

Showers, Trays & Cubicles 

Relocation of Bathroom Suites 

25 years bathroom experience 

Call Chris now for a free quotation 

C L Bathrooms 

01942 749085 

or 07801 295483 

www.clbathrooms.co.uk 

Elite Bathrooms 

Installation & Tiling 

• Bathrooms 

• Wall Tiling 

• Floor Tiling 07703 448890 

FREE Estimates 01942 208926 

• 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
















Telephone: 01257 427 000 



A5209 

Standish 

Shevington 

B5250 

Open: 

J27 

A49 

TwinLakesMotorEngin ers 

Wind Turbines 

Heat Pumps 

LED Lighting 

.and general 







Visit our showr om at 

Unit 4a, 

Cricket Street Busine s Park 



WN6 7TP 

or 



91 

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 

• Central Heating Installations 

• Boiler Installations 

• Maintenance & Servicing 

• Power Flushing 

186237 

Your one stop shop for central heating 

434 Ormskirk Rd, Wigan, WN5 9DF 

01942 221221 

info@premiergas.com / www.premiergas.com 

Plumbing & Heating Specialist 

Complete Bathroom 

& Tiling service 

John Bailey - 01942 495785 

or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238 

Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan 

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 

www.gphwigan.co.uk 

C& 

D 

Plumbing and Heating 

COMBI 

BOILERS 

FROM 

£999 

527090 

Heating & Bathroom Specialist 

Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P 

07973714222 

01695625171 

No 

call out 

fee 




For more information call 

01695 627 999 


Gel 

Nails 

norma ly £20 

now £15 

Lashes 

Spray Tan 

Sunbeds 




Telephone: 07814 619 400 




T 

Y 

R 

E 

S 

Solar Thermal 

& Solar PV 

Book 

your FREE 

home survey 


FREE 


.and motorcycles too 

for a l residents of Croston and Bretherton 



Ca l now on 

01772 603923 





water heating bi l 



E 

X 

H 

A 

U 

S 

T 

S 



Ca l us now 

0843 224 9555 

07595 420237
















Telephone: 01257 427 000 



A5209 

Standish 

Shevington 

B5250 

Open: 

J27 

A49 


Wind Turbines 

Heat Pumps 

LED Lighting 

.and general 








Unit 4a, 

Cricket Str et Busine s Park 



WN6 7TP 

or 



92 

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 

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 



Call Sally: 01695 627 999 


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 

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 





01695 627 999 

Gel 

Nails 

norma ly £20 

now £15 

Lashes 

Spray Tan 

Sunbeds 




PLASTERER 

Re-skims Dot & dab Rendering 

2 coat work Unwanted artex 

84 Rainford Road, Billinge WN5 7PG 

Telephone: 07814 619 400 



For a free quote, call Ian Ridley on 

01942 218 160 

or 07958 695 116 


T 

Y 

R 

E 

S 

Solar Thermal 

& Solar PV 

Book 

your FREE 

home survey 


FREE 



for all residents of Croston and Bretherton 



Ca l now on 

01772 603923 








E 

X 

H 

A 

U 

S 

T 

S 



Ca l us now 

0843 224 9555 

07595 420237

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 





Puzzle Solutions 

TV Aerials installed & repaired 

Sky, Freesat, Talk Talk & BT 

Setup Service 

Telephone/Broadband repair 

Tv Wall mounting & CCTV 

93 

Ring Paul on www.wiganaerials.com 

01942 514532 - 07709 490095 

WIGGLE WORDS: DROP DEAD GORGEOUS 

2 3 4 7 

5 5 8 1 

7 9 5 6 

4 8 9 1 

18 25 26 15 

28 

16 

19 

27 

22 

13 

WORD MIX UP: PEAK DISTRICT, SOUTH DOWNS, LOCH LOMOND, WETLAND, LANDSCAPE, NEW FOREST, TROSSACHS, MOUNTAINS

94 

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 


WN6 7BN 

Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm 

Sat: 9am - 12pm 

tel: 01942 246190 

• Conservatory repairs 

• Locks, handles and hinges 

• Replacement glass 

• Windows and doors installed 

• Replacement conservatory roofs 

Call MARK now on 

01942 737 381 / 0776 315 1720 

conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com 

www.fixmyconservatory.com 



Call Garage Sally: 01695 and 627 entrance 999 doors 

locallife247.co.uk in matching styles 


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 

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












A5209 

B5250 

Open: 


J27 

Shevington 

A49 

Standish 




Telephone: 01257 427 000 




Wind Turbines 

Heat Pumps 

LED Lighting 

.and general 








Unit 4a, 

Cricket Street Busine s Park 



WN6 7TP 

or 



Driveway Medic 

Natural Stone 

Driveway Cleaning 

Driveway Sealing 

Block Paving 

Pattern Imprinted Concrete & Tarmac 

High Reach Cleaning 

Call us now to discuss how Driveway Medic can help you; 

our quotes are always friendly and Free. 

T: 01942 239 874 M: 07984 034 574 

driveway-medicnorthwest.co.uk 

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 





01695 627 999 


Gel 

Nails 

norma ly £20 

now £15 

Lashes 

Spray Tan 

Sunbeds 




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 


Call us now 

0843 224 9555 

07595 420237 

PROFESSIONAL 

CLEANING & SEALING 

S E R V I C E S 

95 

SPECIAL OFFER 

Up to 10 sq m Cleaned & Sealed 

Just £49 

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
















Telephone: 01257 427 000 



A5209 

Standish 

Shevington 

B5250 

Open: 

J27 

A49 


Wind Turbines 

Heat Pumps 

LED Lighting 

.and general 







Visit our showroom at 

Unit 4a, 

Cricket Str et Busine s Park 



WN6 7TP 

or 



96 

28 Years Experience 

T: 01942 248 537 

M: 07749 806 566 

Easy Mix 

Easy Mix 

Ready Mixed Concrete 

• Delivered or Collected • Perfect for builders & DIY 

01942 224571 for advice 

Lamberhead Ind. Est., Pemberton 

• Brickwork, 

Extensions, 

Re-pointing 

• Garden Walls, 

Decorative 

Walls 

• Platform 

Steps, Paths 

& patios 

• Home improvements 

• Loft conversions 

• Garage conversions & Extensions 

• Staircases 

• Windows & Doors 

Don’t Move – Improve! 

• House Renovation 

• Loft & Garage Conversion 

Call me for advice and a free quotation 

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 

01257 251 534 

07973 143 289 

www.sjcollier.co.uk 





01695 627 999 


Gel 

Nails 

norma ly £20 

now £15 

Lashes 

Spray Tan 

Sunbeds 




Telephone: 07814 619 400 




T 

Y 

R 

E 

S 

Solar Thermal 

& Solar PV 

Book 

your FREE 

home survey 


FREE 






Call now on 

01772 603923 










Call us now 

0843 224 9555 

07595 420237 

DS Joinery 

E 

X 

H 

A 

U 

S 

T 

S 

01257 422317 or 07852 202867 

www.mtjoinery.co.uk 





97 

K Stone 

Building Services 

All types of building 

work undertaken 

25 years experience 

• Brickwork 

• Pointing 

• Garden Walls 

• Patios 

• Roof Repairs 

• Flagging 

• Alterations 

• Driveways 

01942 495412 / 07974 496676 

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 

• WILSON BROS • 

Est. 1985 

Roofing & Roofline Specialists 

• All aspects of maintenance & repair 

• Fascia & soffit installation 

• Guttering and felting services 

Call us now for a free estimate 

01695 633173 

Colin: 07958 302 166 

Brian: 07760 160 988 

www.wilson-bros.co.uk 

All 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 

• 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 

01942 561 848 | 07725 909 257 

www.freshbuildconstruction.co.uk 

PLANS TO IMPROVE 

• Plans drawn and submitted. 

• Extensions, conversions, structural alterations. 

• Structural calculations. 

E mail info@stuartsplans.co.uk 

Call Stuart on 07973143289

98 

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 

All aspects of roofing & roofline 

NEW ROOFS REPAIRS 

FASCIAS, SOFFITS & GUTTERS 

Dormers 

and Garages 

Rubber Cover 

Roofing Specialist 

Guaranteed 50 years 

T: 01942 864 624 

M: 07894 687 384 

M: 07868 713 520 

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 

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

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 - July 2018

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