LocalLife
Wigan Edition
November 2020
Catching up with the
Hotpots
Pages 44-47
Crafty Christmas
Pages 22-23
Then & Now Pemberton
Page 24
Education Section
Pages 34-41
Making an Entrance
Pages 56-59
Jack’s Tracks – Tontine
Pages 72-74
LOCAL NEWS | EVENTS2GO | FOOD | HEALTH | WALKS | COMPETITIONS | HOME & GARDEN SERVICES
2
TIMBER, FENCING & DECKING NWTT
AGGREGATES
TIMBER DECKING
MADE to
MEASURE
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NEW
COMPOSITE
DECKING
PAVING
ARTIFICIAL GRASS
SHEET MATERIALS
FENCE
PANELS
SOFTWOOD TIMBER
& PROFILES
CUT to
SIZE
SLEEPERS
NEW
BUILDING
MATERIALS
TAKE AWAY
TODAY
LOCAL FAMILY RUN BUSINESS
FOR OVER 30 YEARS
Ashton-in-Makerfield - Lockett Rd, South Lancs Ind Est, WN4 8DE
St. Helens - 304 Jackson Street, WA9 3AZ T: 01744 454110
01942 720777|sales@nwtt.co.uk|www.nwtt.co.uk
Ashton-in-Makerfield • St Helens • Walkden • Skelmersdale • Rossendale
Supplying everything for the job - timber and much more...
FASCIA &
GUTTERING
NWTT
NORTH WEST TIMBER TREATMENTS
Timber & Builders Merchants
Open to the Public & Trade
Mon-Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-12 noon
STRUCTURAL / PLANED TIMBERS | FENCING TIMBERS | GATES & FITTINGS
DECKING | DECORATIVE AGGREGATES | BRICKS & BLOCKS | FLAGS
SAND/CEMENT/STONE | PLASTERING & INSULATION PRODUCTS | AND MORE
3
KEEP WARM THIS WINTER
Fires - Fireplaces - Stoves - Gas - Electric - Multifuel
All tastes & budgets catered for
Our reputation is your guarantee!
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ireplace
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wiganfiresandfireplaces.co.uk
4
Hands up if you feel like ‘doing a hedgehog’ and
going into hibernation for the winter, only
emerging when this madness ends?
Unlike the last lockdown, which took place amid some
glorious weather, the latest restrictions will take in a dark
and cold time of year and they could take a much heavier
mental toll on those who are feeling isolated or fragile.
Please do your best to recognise who these people are,
as it is not always obvious, and do your best to keep in
touch with them. A simple phone call, text or message
can mean a lot.
Let us also try and rethink the way we do Christmas this
year. Instead of starting our Christmas shopping in city
centre crowds, on the web and in the supermarkets, let’s
try the local option first. There are many local outlets with
imaginative ranges of Christmas gifts (some of them in
this magazine).
And despite everything that’s happening, please don’t
lose sight of the fact that things will get better in 2021.
The vaccines are already rolling off the production lines
and it’s just a matter of time before the human race
defeats this virus.
Yes, this Christmas is going to be strange but just look
forward to the party we’re going to have next Christmas
making up for lost time!
On behalf of all at Local Life, our best wishes for a happy
and safe Christmas and we’ll see you in 2021. Now where’s
the nearest pile of leaves?
Chris Pearce, Publisher
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
Keep in touch with the
LocalLife Team!
LocalLife
Telephone: 01695 627 999
info@locallife247.co.uk
locallifemagazine247@locallifemedia
Local Life 247 Ltd, PO Box 779, Wigan WN1 9UB
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the
publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss
or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of
this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.
5
This month’s highlights
44. Catching up with the Hotpots
Contents
24. Then & Now
22. Crafty Christmas
34. Education Section
12. Beauty
Gifts of Gorgeousness
28. Food
Cranberry, Orange and Nut Loaf
32. Puzzle Pages
Try these brainteasers for size.
60. Books
Historical Fiction to Dystopian Lit.
64. Travel
Travel Insurance Advice.
68. Health
Managing your Stress.
76. Motoring
Vokswagen e-Up Review.
81. Home & Garden Services
Find the best local traders for you.
52. Pep Up Your Hallway
72. Tontine Walk
Want to
promote your
business in
LocalLife?
Next Issue - December 2020
Advertising deadline - 11th November
Published - 26th November
01695 627 999
www.locallife247.co.uk
6
Hospice Support
Hospice UK, the national charity
which leads Hospice Care Week,
estimates that UK hospices have
lost in the region of £70m in
income so far this year, with charity
shops closed throughout the
first lockdown and many major
fundraising events having to be
cancelled.
You can help Wigan and Leigh
Hospice face this unprecedented
financial challenge by buying your
Christmas cards from the Hospice
this year. The Hospice has a range of eight Christmas
cards and these are sold in packs of ten cards for £2.99
each online at www.wlh.org.uk.
You can also support Hospice’s annual Light for a Life
appeal, which provides an opportunity to celebrate and
remember those you love and have loved. A light is lit
on the Hospice Christmas tree
for every dedication made each
year and every name is featured
in a Book of Dedications which is
printed into a bound hard-backed
book and is available to view all
year round.
Dedications can be made to
anyone, there does not need to
be a connection to the Hospice.
It is a simple and moving way of
remembering those you love or
have loved at Christmas time. For
more details, visit www.wlh.org.uk.
The tree switch-on ceremony will be held this year on
Tuesday 8th December at 6.30pm, but the public are not
invited due to COVID-19 restrictions. You can watch this
on the Hospice’s Facebook page or on the Wigan and
Leigh Hospice YouTube channel. Please do not attend the
Hospice.
7
Paddle & Pottery
Join the team for a paddle around Scotman’s Flash at
dusk. You will paddle out in rafted canoes, bellboats and
katakanus to see what spookiness lies on the water. When
you return to shore there will be a campfire to warm up
by and you will be able to paint a piece of Halloween
themed pottery from Haigh Stables Gallery to take home
with you.
If you fancy a bit of a treat you can even take your own
marshmallows, chocolate biscuits and flask of hot
chocolate to enjoy around the fire.
The session is suitable from ages 3+ and will take place
on Saturday 31st October from 3.30-5pm and the cost
is £12 per person. To book your place, please email
outdooradventure@ihlmail.org with the number and
ages of the people wanting to take part, preferred boat
and your contact number.
Big Bike Revival Returns
If your pushbike has seen better days or you just don’t feel
confident in giving it a bit of a tune up, then the Big Bike
Revival in Wigan might be just the thing you need. The
workshops are funded by Cycle UK and are delivered by
Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles, you simply book a slot, take
your bike for a free check-up and repair and that goes for
bikes of all ages sizes and types.
Sessions will be available in 20-minute timeslots, with
fully qualified bike mechanics carrying out all work and
Covid-19 procedures in place to ensure everything is as
safe as possible. You might even be able to pick up some
cycling goodies and find some information about where
to ride and how to keep your bike in tip-top condition.
Gifts From £12
Complimentary Christmas
gift wrapping available
• Gearing Up Workshop, The Brick Works, Wigan
Saturday 31st October, 9am-1pm
• Ashton Leisure Centre
Friday 6th November, 4pm-7pm
• Standish Leisure Centre
Saturday 7th November, 10am-1pm
Booking is essential so for further information and to
book a time slot, get online and visit
www.getactivecycling.eventbrite.co.uk/
38 Church Road Rainford WA11 8HD
01744 881 588 www.ellamora.co.uk
/ellamora38
8
Quality Furniture at Discount Prices
OuR fANTASTic chRiSTmAS RANGe iS NOW iN!
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Ashton-in-Makerfield
WN4 9AA
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Open Mon-Sat: 9-5pm, Sun: 10-4pm (Nov-Dec only)
800 Ormskirk Road
Pemberton
WN5 8AX
01942 205988
Open Mon-Sat: 9-5.30pm, Sun: 10-4pm
Now available at
9
Your friendly, quality discounter of essentials, homewares, greeting cards, candles and so much more.
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80 x 40 x 95cm
RA-5DN-TR 5 Drawer Chest
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RA-LS-TR Large Sideboard
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115 x 34 x 80cm
RA-GWR-TR Gents Wardrobe
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90 x 52 x 185cm
RA-6DC-TR 6 Drawer Chest
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RA-LBSC-TR 3 Drawer Bedside
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42 x 35 x 58cm
RA-SBSC-TR 2 Drawer Bedside
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RA-SFT-TR Square Dining Table
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75 x 75 x 78cm
RA-12BET-TR Extending Table
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RA-16BET-TR Extending Table
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160/200 x 85 x 78cm
RA-N3T-TR Nest 3 Tables
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60 x 38 x 50cm
RA-N2T-TR Nest 2 Tables
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50 x 32 x 50cm
RA-LCT-TR Large Coffee Table
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90 x 50 x 45cm
RA-CTV-TR Corner TV Unit
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90 x 44 x 48cm
RA-STV-TR TV Unit
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90 x 38 x 45cm
RA-30-TR Bed - 3ft
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RA-46-TR Bed - 4ft 6in
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RA-50-TR Bed - 5ft
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Order online or in-store
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customerservices@geestees.co.uk
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10
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) is
urging communities to do their bit this Autumn and stay
safe, as the Halloween and Bonfire season gets underway
this week.
Festivities will look very different this year as a result of
COVID-19 restrictions, with organised displays cancelled
across Greater Manchester.
With more people expected to celebrate at home,
firefighters are calling on people to take extra care and
remind themselves of Bonfire and firework safety advice
that is available at www.manchesterfire.gov.uk
GMFRS’ Chief Fire Officer, Dave Russel, said: “The
Halloween and Bonfire period will be as busy as ever
with the expectation that more families and households
will opt to host their own small firework display due to
organised events having been cancelled.
“Our advice would be to not have fireworks and bonfires
this year – instead, stay at home, stay safe and protect our
emergency services. If you do choose to purchase fireworks,
you must do so safely by checking for the CE mark, and you
Safe4Autumn
must follow the Fireworks Code when using them.
“Bonfires can be dangerous if not managed correctly and
they cause problems for our emergency services. If you
are going to have a bonfire in your garden, please do
so safely by following the advice on our website www.
manchesterfire.gov.uk. It’s more important than ever that
people across Greater Manchester celebrate this autumn
safely and responsibly.”
Dino Safari
Haigh Hall have launched a new Dino Safari attraction for
kids! They have teamed up with Love Exploring, which is a
free app that lets you explore your surroundings.
Activities to choose from include the Dino Safari, which
will help you and the kids track down dinosaurs with an
augmented reality game.
You can download the app now by searching for Love
Exploring in your App Store or Google Play Store.
ASHTON UPHOLSTERY
CUSTOM MADE SUITES DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER
Family run business for over 30 years. Open 7 days.
FREE Home consultation
now available for any
upholstery needs
23 desiGNs,
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Fabrics
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Ashton Upholstery, 263 A Bolton Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan, WN4 8TG
01942 271268 • ashtonupholstery@outlook.com
Like our page for fantasic special offers www.ashtonupholstery.co.uk
PHONE OR EMAIL FOR FREE BROCHURE
11
NEW 2021
BROCHURE
OUT NOW!
Holidays ~ Short Breaks ~ Day Excursions
Call us on 01942 728960
for your FREE copy
or download a copy from
www.memorylanetravel.co.uk
WiNTER WaRMiNG BREaKS FOR EaRly 2021
Cornwall & Poldark country
11th February – Only £289
5 days/4 nights Dinner B&B
Rosemundy House Hotel, St Agnes
Full Entertainment Package ~ Excursions to
Port Isaac, Padstow, St Ives, Truro ~ Cream Tea
Bodelwyddan Castle
29th January – Only £224
4 days/3 nights Dinner B&B
Full leisure facilities
Entertainment
Excursions to Llandudno and Betws-y-Coed
WHy TRavEl WiTH MEMORy laNE?
3 Home pick-up for holidays 3 Executive coach travel 3 Quality hotels 3 Local well-established operator
Moss industrial Estate,
William Way,
leigh WN7 3PT
01942 728960 • www.memorylanetravel.co.uk
Memory Lane Holidays is a trading name of Ashcrofts Mini Travel Ltd. Company Number 06950361
12
Gifts of
Gorgeousness
Beauty gifts that Santa will wish he thought of, from stocking fillers to luxury treats
Eco lovers will appreciate Biovene
Solid Shampoo and Conditioner
Bars (£4 each). They’re also a great
gift for anyone planning on going
travelling next year, as they take up
very little space in a suitcase but last
for weeks. The bars are free from
parabens, sulphates and other harsh
chemicals and use natural goodies
like macadamia oil and shea butter
to gently cleanse and nourish hair.
See www.justmylook.com.
Alternatively, the Eco Warrior Mini
Cube by the Little Soap Company
(www.littlesoapcompany.co.uk)
is as pretty as it is eco. For £8, you
get a Sensitive Facial Bar, Exfoliating
Bar, Shampoo
Bar and Shaving
Bar. They’re all
plant-based, free
from synthetics
and packed
with natural
ingredients such as essential oils,
pink clay, oatmeal and coconut oil.
What make-up lover isn’t a fan of
Urban Decay’s Naked Eyeshadow
Palettes (£43)? The Ultraviolet one
is likely to cause squeals of delight
on Christmas Day from any fan of
a bold smoky eye.
The twelve shades are a mix of
mattes, metallic and shimmers. The
focus is purple, from lilac to deepest
aubergine (but with names like
‘Euphoric’ and ‘Cyber Punk’…), and
there are complementary nudes and
golds to create the perfect dramatic
eye. As you’d expect from Urban
Decay (www.urgandecay.co.uk), the
shadows go on easily and stay put
for hours. Pair the palette with the
Lash Freak Mascara (£21) for extra
brownie points.
Most of us rarely treat ourselves
to a new make-up bag, but they’re
always nice to get. (Because, let’s
face it, how many of us ever get
around to cleaning out the powder,
lipstick stains and other gunk that
accumulates in them?) The Tierra
Palm Multi-coloured Makeup Bag
(£16.50) from Oliver Bonas is likely
to be well-received. If you’re feeling
especially generous, team it with the
coordinating Wash Bag (£24).
Do you make your own Christmas
crackers? Forget a plastic fish or
silver napkin ring, pop in a Leighton
Denny Back to Nature Nail Polish in
Peony or Forest (£12) instead. They’re
vegan, 75% natural and designed to
have a lower impact on
the environment than
most nail varnishes.
See www.LD-Boutique.
com.
Give someone the gift
of a good night’s sleep
with the Tonic Velvet
Eye Mask (£15 from
www.amara.com) and
This Works’ Choose Sleep Kit (£10
from www.thisworks.com). The
mask is velvet on one side and satin
on the other, so it feels lush against
skin. The Choose Sleep Kit contains
miniatures of two of This Works’
bestselling products – the Deep
Sleep Pillow Spray and Stress Check
Roll-On.
Know someone who loves
luxuriating in the bath tub? A
Biovene Hair Wrap Treatment (£3
from www.justmylook.com) would
make a great stocking filler. It’s easy
to use: just pop it over your hair, use
the sticky tab to keep it in place, and
then rinse off after twenty minutes.
It smells divine
and leaves hair
feeling softer and
healthier.
13
Shop safe, stay local
We stock a wide range of Christmas
presents for both women and men.
Exclusive Christmas gift packs
from Clarins and Espa
You can order Christmas gifts or beauty products by phone, via email or
via our online store, with free delivery within a 7-mile radius of Billinge.
Gift wrapped options are available.
Socially distanced personal shopping trips to pick out your Christmas
gifts can be pre-booked, please call us to book a convenient time.
Looking for inspiration?
Christmas gift vouchers are available online or via our app.
Visit our website or Facebook page to check out the latest offers
Expressions Of Beauty
161-171, Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PA
01744 894 214
www.expressionsofbeauty.co.uk
14
Specialists in:
• Family Law • Personal Injury
• Wills & Probate
Call us today to arrange a
free 30 minute consultation
Rachel Jane Taylor
Solicitor & Director
RJT Solicitors
44 High Street,
Standish,
Wigan,
WN6 0HF
Donna Gamble
Solicitor
01257 228027 / 01942 409154
www.rjtsolicitors.co.uk
60 Second
Mortgage
Review
With rates still historically low,
call us today to see if we can save £’s off
your existing mortgage
Call us on
01257 441580
or for more information visit
www.armortgagesuk.com
YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS
ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT.
Alexander Ross Mortgages is a trading style of WE Financial Services Limited
which is an appointed representative of LJ Financial Planning Limited which
is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
15
Heritage Survey
Wigan Council are looking for residents to complete
a survey about the Borough’s heritage environment.
This includes historic buildings, structures and ruins,
conservation areas, historic gardens and landscapes.
If you want to have your say about buildings such as
Winstanley Hall and Haigh Hall, here is your chance.
This consultation draft Historic Environment Strategy sets
out the Council’s vision and priorities for the protection
of the borough’s historic environment, together with a
robust framework to support the delivery of projects that
affect it.
The Council owns several heritage assets, but most are
owned and managed privately by people and businesses,
or by local community groups and voluntary bodies.
The council wants this strategy to be used by all those
groups, so that they can work in co-operation with local
communities and the council to help conserve and
enhance the borough’s historic environment.
This survey will close on Monday 9th November 2020 –
to have your say just visit; www.wigan.gov.uk/Council/
Consultations/Consultations.aspx
16
Volunteers Needed
Wigan Borough Community Partnership are on the
lookout for volunteers. The Wigan Borough Volunteer
Hub is run by Wigan Borough Community Partnership, a
registered charity which exists to provide advice, training,
and support to the voluntary, community and social
enterprise sector of Wigan Borough.
The Hub is looking for people who would be willing to
support individuals in the community who are selfisolating,
by helping with a range of activities including,
personal shopping, food deliveries and care calls.
Can you help? If this sounds like something you might
like to get involved with please contact the Community
Partnership on 01942 363621 or by emailing info@
wbcommunitypartnership.org
2021 Concerts
Family portraits
Personalised keepsakes
Souvenir shirts
Sporting memorabilia
Cross-stitching and Craft
We don’t just make frames,
we frame memories
Wide choice of quality frames
Expert advice and efficient service
Call 01942 718602
25 Bolton Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, WN4 8AA
Open: Tuesday-Friday 10-4, Saturday 9.30-12
On-site Parking
www.artisanframingservices.co.uk
Despite the effect
that the current
health crisis is
having on the arts
and entertainment
industry, Jockey
Club Live are busy
lining up race night
events for the 2021
season at Haydock
Park and Aintree
racecourses. The
Jockey Club Live
events are renowned for combining a fun-filled evening
at the races with a spectacular evening concert in the
informal and relaxed open-air setting of the hallowed turf.
Confirmed events at Haydock so far are Tom Jones (19th
June) and Olly Murs (17th July), and the confirmed event
at Aintree so far is Nile Rodgers & Chic (11th June). Jockey
Club Live events are also held at Newmarket, Sandown
and Carlisle racecourses.
Tickets for all the events are now available at www.
thejockeyclublive.co.uk and the Jockey Club Live offer a
money back guarantee if cancelled.
Keep your eyes peeled for Local Life issues early in 2021
when we will be running a couple of ticket giveaways for
these events.
17
18
Rememberance Sunday
Preparations have been made for Wigan Borough to mark
Remembrance Sunday in a different way this year. The
council usually arranges 14 events but a new format is
required in light of the global pandemic and to ensure
public health guidelines are adhered to.
It means officers will focus on supporting services at the
parish churches in Wigan and Leigh where restrictions on
the number of attendees will be in place. To avoid large
gatherings, no parades or outside services are being
organised.
At each cenotaph managed by the council, poppy signs
will be installed to help residents with social distancing
and there will be marshals in the areas during busy
periods. Residents who would like to lay wreaths or
pay their respects are asked to do so throughout the
day, rather than gathering at 11am. The council are also
encouraging residents and schools to display poppy
posters and designs in their windows.
The respective services at Wigan and Leigh parish
churches will have limited attendance with priority given
to Armed Forces organisations. Following the services,
which will be streamed live, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor
will lay wreaths at the respective cenotaphs.
Local churches may organise their own services but
will be required to have their own risk assessments and
Covid-safety provisions in place.
Mini Makers
If you are looking for something to occupy your little
one, then why not have a go at the monthly mini makers
session at Wigan Steam? You and your budding artist can
enjoy a morning of crafty activity including messy play,
making, sticking, gluing and lots of creative learning fun!
There are two sessions a month and the next one will be
held on Wednesday 4th November at 10am. The cost of
the ticket is £2.50 and this admits one child and one adult,
to help the centre adhere to social distancing measures.
You can book your tickets by going online at www.
wigansteam.co.uk/events
Beautifully furnished
Stone Cottage
Holiday Let
– sleeps up to 4
Situated near Sedbergh,
in the Yorkshire Dales,
and also within easy
reach of the Lake District
Children & pets welcome
FREE PICKUP & DELIVERY
Call 01942 216 058
www.millthropcottage.co.uk
19
Goodyear
Furniture Centre
One of the most
Inspirational Showrooms
in the North West!
We have over 20’000 sq.ft of
showrooms, displaying some
of the finest furniture.
Choice, quality, service
and value for money
Wide selection of quality lounge suites
in fabric or leather, Dining and Cane
conservatory furniture.
Large selection of occasional furniture,
mirrors, pictures, lamps and other
accessories.
Goodyear Furniture Centre:
18 New Street, Mawdesley, Lancashire. L40 2QP
Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm / Sat 10am - 4pm / Sun 11am - 4pm
www.goodyearfurniture.co.uk
01704 821577
Ample free
onsite parking
A highly recommended family name established in 1982
20
A Christmas like no other
With Christmas markets closed and many unwilling to risk the crowds in city centres and
large shopping centres, you may be wondering just how you can buy imaginative and personal
gifts for those family, friends and neighbours who have gone over and above to help this year.
The gorgeous Love It Gallery in Billinge has an excellent range of original gifts to suit all
budgets, made from craftspeople, many of them local. From Christmas cards, wrapping, advent
calendars and decorations, right through to gifts sets, accessories, jewellery, ceramics, and
soft furnishings, the Love It Gallery has got something for everyone this Christmas.
Demand is sure to be high this year, so call
in soon for a great selection of gifts.
Love It Gallery, Winstanley Road, Billinge WN5 7XG
Open: 9.30am-5pm Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm Sunday
Telephone: 01695 622 332
21
As the home of Morpheus Glass,
it’s not surprising that the range
of inspirational glass art at Love
It Gallery is huge, with clocks,
bowls, mirrors, vases, wall
panels and much more featuring
prominently, many pieces carrying
the rainbow theme of 2020.
On site at the gallery is the
Bag & Bean café, where
you can enjoy coffee, cake
and light lunches, socially
distanced style - with
additional outdoor and
undercover seating with
heating.
22
Wishing you a
Crafty Christmas
By Nicola Gray
Is there anything more treasured or satisfying come to think
of it, than homemade Christmas decorations? There is one
sure-fire way to get into the Christmas spirit, and in my
opinion that is a bit of Christmas DIY. In our house we still
lovingly decorate our tree with past their best sourdough
decorations made in the 80’s and cardboard stars that
have long since lost their glitter. The pudding making starts
months in advance and we have been known to knock up
the odd Christmas cupcake.
Whether it is a reindeer cut out by your little ones or a
homemade festive wreath adorning your front door,
make-your-own decorations will always take pride of
place. These days the options are endless, with craft
fayres, wreath making courses and children’s craft kits,
you cannot fail to be inspired.
With social distancing threatening to put a bit of damper
on festivities this year, we thought we would take a
look at what is on offer, from decorating gifts, crafting
handmade gifts for your loved ones and getting the kids
involved with some scrumptious treats.
Wreath Making
Wreath making has become exceedingly popular over
the last few years, and what’s not to love? You can
craft your own front door decoration, match it to your
preferred colour scheme and have a mulled wine or two
whilst you’re at it! Here are a few wreath making classes
available in the area.
The Lily Pot – this is an online tutorial that you can
do from the comfort of your own home. The workshop
takes 2 hours and starts at £32.93 per wreath. Dates are
available from Monday 16th November right the way
through to Monday 21st December. For more information
go to www.thelilypotstandish.co.uk
Olive Owl – will be hosting wreath workshops at the
Posthouse and the Gelato House in Orrell starting from
Tuesday 24th November. There are variety of dates
available and you can book on to a traditional wreath
making class, a dried wreath class or if you fancy a bit of
a party try the wreath and rave workshops. Prices start at
£35 and tickets and information on social distancing
can be found at www.oliveowl.co.uk
Blossom Room – will be hosting a
Christmas Wreath class at Alberts
in Standish on Sunday 29th
November and Sunday 6th
December. They will also
be hosting a Christmas
Centrepiece workshop on
Monday 21st December
at their base at Windy
Arbour Farm in Billinge.
Prices start at £45 and
you can secure your
place by calling 01942
212900.
23
Christmas Crafts
What could be better
than making your own
Christmas cards and gifts
tags? Getting the children
involved and ramping up the
Christmas spirit, that’s what!
Cedar Farm in Mawdesley will be
hosting a variety of Christmas craft
workshops great for adults and children
alike – sounds like festive heaven.
• The Christmas calligraphy workshop will take place
on 3rd December with a focus on making extra special
Christmas stationery. The price is £55 and all the materials
and kit needed are included in the price. To book your
spot email mellorandrose@icloud.com
• Also, on the list at Cedar Farm is a parent and toddler
Christmas craft session on Wednesday 2nd December
from 9.45am. You can spend an hour getting creative with
your little one making paper mosaics and decorations.
The cost is £7.50 per adult and toddler and this includes
refreshments. For more information or to book your place
please go online at www.cedarfarm.net
Christmas Cupcakes
Now, if like me you can burn water, cake making and
festive baking might not be your strong suit. Not to worry
because Rainbow and Rolling pins in Wigan have got you
covered and you too can have homemade festive treats
for Christmas Day.
• Rainbows and Rolling Pins will be offering a Christmas
cupcake box. Each kit includes 4 plain cupcakes, a
tube of buttercream, 4 printed toppers, a selection
of Christmas sweets and a bag of festive sprinkles.
Each kit costs £10 and are available
to order from December 1st to
be collected on December
23rd. To order you kit
please contact Rachel on
07887 397687 or email
rainbowsandrollingpins@
yahoo.com
24
Then & Now Pemberton
The foundation stone for the Carnegie Library in Pemberton
was laid on 12th September 1906 and the grand opening took
place 15 months later on 11
December 1907, attended
by Lord Balcarres and Sam
Wood, the Mayor of Wigan.
A view of Pemberton
Station and assorted staff.
The station’s ticket office,
with its Billinge Road
entrance, is to the right-hand side of the bridge and the
waiting room is in the foreground on the left. Year unknown.
A Wigan-bound steam
tram and trailer near the
Lichfield Street/Ormskirk
Road junction, circa 1903.
Houses in the snow at Spring Bank, Pemberton, thought to
be in December 1899. The snowfall caused the first of four
postponements of the Wigan County vs. Southport in the
Lancashire Senior Cup at Springfield Park.
Wigan’s Cultural and Heritage venues are open and
warmly welcome you with two new exhibitions….
RADICALS, REBELS & REFORM: Fighting for Change (Museum of Wigan Life, Wigan).
& We Will Always Be Together (The Fire Within, The Galleries, Wigan).
Please check website and social media for facilities, opening days and times.
www.wigan.gov.uk/museum | www.thefirewithin.org.uk
25
Harmony
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Blinds | Shutters | Smart blinds | Remote control blinds
01942 311 342
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26
Cash for Culture
Arts at the Mill CIC has been awarded £945,621 as part
of the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund
(CRF) to help face the challenges of the coronavirus
pandemic and to ensure that the organisation has a
sustainable future, the Culture Secretary announced
recently.
Arts at the Mill are one of 1,385 cultural and creative
organisations across the country receiving urgently
needed support.
£257 million of investment has been announced as part
of the very first round of the Culture Recovery Fund grants
programme being administered by Arts Council England.
Further rounds of funding in the cultural and heritage
sector are due to be announced over the coming weeks.
The Arts at the Mill Marketing & Communications Director,
Rebecca Davenport said:
“We feel lucky and extremely grateful to have been
awarded this grant. We had to make the difficult decision
to close our doors in March 2020 due to the Coronavirus
pandemic so this money will go a long way in covering
losses incurred in the organisation due to closure”.
Rebecca continued “We now broadcast live performances,
workshops, tutorials, seminars, vlogs and more several
times per week to continue to provide creative output
and to maintain cultural engagement for all. Doing
this has meant we’ve been able to continue offering
paid work in a time when opportunities for artists have
become extremely limited”.
She added “In addition, we’ve thankfully been able to
maintain employment for all our staff members with a
number of them continuing to work and some, having
been furloughed, using their time to volunteer for the
Covid-19 Community Response Team. We can’t thank
DCMS and Arts Council England enough for giving us this
incredible lifeline.”
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28
READY
in 1hr 45mins
plus cooling
Makes 8-10
Cranberry,
orange and nut loaf
This simple cake makes a delicious alternative to a classic Christmas cake.
Add the icing and fresh cranberry topping on the day of serving.
Ingredients
175g unsalted butter, softened
175g golden caster sugar
225g self-raising flour
2 tsp ground mixed spice
½ tsp baking powder
3 large eggs
75g sweetened dried cranberries
50g walnuts & 50g hazelnuts, chopped
Zest of 1 orange
1 tbsp orange juice
FROSTING
Half of a 400g tub ready-made royal icing
2 tsp snowflake sugar sprinkles
75g fresh cranberries
Fresh mint sprigs, to decorate (optional)
Icing sugar, for dusting
Method
1 Preheat the oven to 170C, 150C fan, gas mark 3. Grease a 900g loaf
tin and line the base and up two long sides of the tin with baking
parchment.
2 Place the butter, sugar, flour, spice, baking powder and eggs in a large
bowl and beat with an electric whisk for 2-3 minutes until thoroughly
combined. Fold in the dried cranberries, nuts and orange zest and juice.
3 Spoon the mixture into the tin and level the surface. Bake for 1hr-1 hr 15
minutes or until risen and golden and a skewer inserted into the centre
of the cake comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes then
turn out onto a wire rack and leave to cool completely.
4 Spread the royal icing over the top of the cake. Scatter over the sugar
sprinkles and fresh cranberries, plus the fresh mint sprigs if using. Leave
in a cool place until set. Serve sliced.
TIP: Instead of the fresh cranberries you could scatter over more festivethemed
sugar sprinkles and add a dusting of edible gold spray for a really
sparkly finish.
29
30
READY
in 30 mins
plus chilling
Serves 6
Potted
Smoked Salmon
This is the perfect starter for the lunch on the big day –
the recipe will easily double up if you are feeding a crowd at Christmas!
Ingredients
275g honey roast salmon flakes
250g smoked salmon slices, chopped
100g unsalted butter, softened
125g full-fat soft cheese
2 tsp creamed horseradish
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh dill sprigs and green
peppercorns, to garnish
Slices of toasted brown or granary
bread, to serve
Method
1 Reserve about 25g of the salmon flakes for garnish (cover and chill in
the fridge until required).
2 Place the rest of the salmon flakes in a food processor with the smoked
salmon, butter, soft cheese, horseradish and lemon juice. Process until
smooth and creamy. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black
pepper and process for a further few seconds.
3 Divide the mixture between 6 small ramekin dishes and level the
surface. Cover and chill in the fridge until required. Garnish with the
rest of the salmon flakes, dill sprigs and green peppercorns. Serve with
toasted brown or granary bread.
TIP: Most supermarkets sell packs of ready-flaked honey roast salmon but if unavailable just buy ready-cooked smoked salmon
fillets and roughly flake the fish, discarding any skin and fine bones.
31
32
Puzzle Pages
Sponsored by
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1. French town that serves as a
ferry port to England (6)
7. Acting game, popular at
Christmas (8)
8. Steal cattle (6)
10. Brie or Edam, for example (6)
DOWN
1. Country, capital Nicosia (6)
2. Communist state of Asia (4)
3. Sloping mass of rocks at the base of a cliff (5)
4. Item commonly eaten on Shrove Tuesday (7)
5. Live-action film about a piglet (4)
6. Capital of Finland (8)
9. US novelist, creator of Tom Sawyer (5)
12. Worship of images (8)
14. Alloy of copper and zinc (5)
15. Unit of relative loudness (7)
18. Equal portions into which the capital stock of
a corporation is divided (6)
19. Involuntary muscular contraction (5)
21. ___ Karenina, novel by Leo Tolstoy (4)
23. Large container (4)
11. Plant fibre used to make rope (5) 20. Overland journey by hunters (6)
13. Japanese art of flower arranging (7) 22. Formerly the basic unit of
16. Person whose duty is to throw
money in Spain (6)
troublemakers out of a bar (7)
24. Daughter of a sovereign (8)
17. Group which released the 2006 25. ___ dancers, traditionally
album Stop the Clocks (5)
associated with May Day (6)
WORDWHEEL
Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten
minutes to find as many words as possible, none of
which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns.
Each word must be of three letters or more, all must
contain the central letter and letters can only be used
once in every word. There is at least one word that uses
all of the letters in the wheel.
TARGET
EXCELLENT: 58 or more words
GOOD: 47 words
W
R
N A
P
P E
S
E
FAIR: 39 words
33
WORDSEARCH
THEME: COMPUTERS
Find the hidden words in the word search grid
BUG
CHIP
COPY
CYBERSPACE
DESKTOP
DISK
DRIVER
ETHERNET
FONT
HACKER
HARDWARE
INPUT
JPEG
KEYBOARD
MENU
MODEM
PORT
REBOOT
SAVE
SCROLL
SERVER
SOUNDCARD
SPYWARE
UPLOAD
USB
VIRUS
WINDOWS
SUDOKU
WIGGLE WORDS
CLUE: Having very
little overall influence
Trace a path through all
the letters to find the
word or phrase that fits
the clue.
C U B E
K N T H
E I P O
T A D R
NUMBER BLOCK
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.
6
7 1
2 5
5 8
17 17 21
18
17
19
12
12
30
16
All the puzzle solutions can be found
on page 90 of this magazine
34
Are you thinking of teaching as a career?
Become a Teacher with North West Learning Partnership School Direct.
(Previously known as St Mary and St Thomas C E Primary Alliance)
Who are we?
North West Learning Partnership School Direct is an
established School Direct Provider working in partnership
with Liverpool John Moores University.
As one of only 40 Maths Hubs in the country, we are
able to provide outstanding training at the forefront of
developments in mathematics education.
The North West Learning Partnership continues to be
above the National norm for School Direct provision and
are classed as a high-flying alliance in terms of numbers of
applications and successful recruitment.
Why train with us?
We are committed to ongoing development of all trainees
for at least 3 years.
Trainees have access, free of charge, to our highly effective
NQT and RQT programmes.
• High employment rates
• Only Good to Outstanding schools within our Alliance
are used for placements
• Placement schools are across St Helens, Wigan, Bolton,
Halton & Knowsley
• Gain PGCE with Masters credits and QTS
• Highly effective school based tutors. All of a senior level
with a wealth of experience or are Specialist Leaders in
their field of expertise (SLEs)
• Personal support structures in place
• Quality Assured by several external agencies & as a
result the alliance provision continues to be graded as
‘Outstanding’.
We offer a range of courses for both
Primary and Secondary
Primary General
We offer a unique primary general teacher training
programme. Training with the North West Learning
Partnership means you become a staff member from day
one whilst receiving academic and University support.
Student feedback is key to ensuring quality and is
paramount to ensuring the quality of our programme.
Apply for this training programme through UCAS:
http://www.ucas.com
Training Provider 13N | Course code DF23 Primary
Primary General with Mathematics Specialism
We are excited to offer this primary general programme with
mathematics specialism in partnership with Liverpool John
Moores University. Trainees will engage with our successful
and unique primary general teacher training programme
with additional training units in mathematics.
Trainees will receive a PGCE with Masters credits and QTS.
Apply for this training programme through UCAS:
http://www.ucas.com
Training Provider 13N | Course code SDKJ
Primary General Salaried Route
This salaried School Direct programme is suitable for
experienced, non-teaching staff and career changers.
Applicants are recommended to have the support of a
school. The trainee is employed by the school as a nonqualified
teacher for one academic year.
The trainee teacher receives a personal training programme,
accessing our outstanding training at the North West
Learning Partnership and gains a PGCE with Masters credits
and QTS at Liverpool John Moores University.
This qualification includes 60 credits at Masters level.
Apply for this training programme through UCAS:
http://www.ucas.com
Training Provider 13N | Course code 3BFS
35
Secondary Mathematics
We are excited to offer a School Direct Secondary
Mathematics in school one-year teacher training
programme. You will be awarded PGCE with Masters
credits and QTS. The course is offered by the lead schools
Rainford High and Up Holland High in association with
the North West Learning Partnership and Liverpool John
Moores University. This unique training programme offers
exciting opportunities to be involved in:
• Working alongside specialists in Maths Mastery.
• Training with high quality relevant professionals with
an outstanding track record for delivering the highest
grades for young people at Key Stage 4 & Key Stage 5.
• Opportunity for leadership training and development
of strategic curriculum design.
• Commitment to develop examination expertise at KS4
and KS5
• Teaching opportunity across KS2,3, 4 & 5. Subject
specific and career impacting professional development
• High quality subject specific CPD opportunities with
nationally recognised speakers
• High quality guest speakers to support pedagogical and
subject specialism
• The discussion club focused on high quality academic
research linked to educational discussion at some of
the leading local restaurants and venues throughout
the year.
Apply for this training programme through UCAS:
http://www.ucas.com
Training Provider 13N | Course code JL80
Secondary MFL
This course is offered by the lead schools Rainford High
and Up Holland High in association with the North West
Learning Partnership and Liverpool John Moores University.
Due to the outstanding teaching in our schools, results in
MFL are significantly above national average and both
schools offer unique and dynamic training and teaching
opportunities for the right teacher training candidates.
• Training with high quality relevant professionals with an
outstanding track record for delivering the highest grades
for young people at Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 as well as
delivering exceptional transition for young people.
• Opportunity for leadership training and development
of strategic curriculum design.
• Commitment to develop examination expertise at KS4
and KS5
• The opportunity to take part in cultural language
exchange visits and programmes.
• Teaching opportunity across KS2, 3, 4 and 5.
• Subject specific and career impacting professional
development. Such as high quality subject specific CPD
opportunities with nationally recognised guest speakers
to support pedagogical and subject specialism.
• The discussion club focused on high quality academic
research linked to educational discussion at some of
the leading local restaurants and venues throughout
the year.
Apply for this training programme through UCAS:
http://www.ucas.com
Training Provider 13N | Course code SD90
Kathy Carman - North West Learning Partnership School Direct Strategic Lead
kathy.carman@three-saints.org.uk
https://www.facebook.com/nwlpschooldirect/
Sarah Knowles - North West Learning Partnership Administrator
sarah.knowles@three-saints.org.uk
For further details of all programmes please see our website:
http://www.northwestlearningpartnership.co.uk/index.php/workstreams/
school-direct
36
Do try this
at home…
A homemade lava lamp
This lava lamp is short-lived, but
pretty magical.
You’ll need:
• A glass
• Vegetable oil
• Water
• A bright food colouring (e.g. red or
green)
• An Alka-Seltzer tablet
What to do:
• Fill the glass to about halfway with
vegetable oil.
• Add around a fifth of a glass of
water.
• Add around 10 drops of food
colouring.
• Drop in the Alka-Seltzer tablet and
watch the marvel unfold.
Why it works:
The oil floats on the water. When
you drop the tablet in, it reacts with
the water to make carbon dioxide
bubbles. They carry the coloured
water to the top, before popping
and sinking back down.
Iceberg
For this experiment, you probably
have everything you need already.
You’ll need:
• A glass
• Ice cubes
• Salt
• String
What to do
• Dangle a piece of string in the
glass with one hand.
• Pop ice cubes into the glass so that
it’s at least half-full.
• Can you pull the ice-cubes out of
the glass using the string?
• Repeat the first two steps.
• Pour a couple of tablespoons of
salt over the ice cubes and the
string.
• Wait 10 seconds and pull the string
out.
• This time, the ice cubes should
come out with the string.
Why it works
The salt makes the edges of the ice
cubes start to melt but then they
partially refreeze, sticking to the
string as they do.
Runaway milk
Fun science experiments that the whole family will enjoy
Don’t worry, this is a lot less messy
than it sounds.
You’ll need:
• A plate or wide, shallow bowl
• Full fat milk
• Food colouring (ideally three
different colours)
• Washing-up liquid
What to do
• Pour some milk into the plate.
(You only need it to be around a
centimetre deep.)
• Add a few drops of food colouring
in different areas. Not too many,
there should be large gaps
between each one.
• Dip a finger in the washing-up
liquid and then touch one of the
spots of food colouring.
• Repeat with other spots of food
colouring.
• The colour will swirl away from
your touch.
Why it works
The milk and washing-up liquid
can’t mix. What you’re seeing is the
fat particles swirling away from the
washing-up liquid. Don’t have food
colouring? Try touching a felt tip
pen to the milk instead.
37
UNIVERSITY CENTRE ST HELENS
OUR DIGITAL 2021 HIGHER EDUCATION GUIDE IS NOW LIVE!
Discover a variety of higher-level qualifications and degrees, studied on
a full and part-time basis, with smaller class sizes and lower tuition fees.
Stay local and study a degree right in the heart of St Helens!
• Applied Chemistry
• Applied Microbiology
• Business Management
• Computing
• Criminal Justice
• Early Years
• Engineering
• Exercise, Health and Fitness
• Fine Art Painting
• Foundation Diploma in Art,
Design and Media Practice
• Game Art
• Graphic Design
• Media Production
• Social Policy, Health
and Housing
• Teacher Training
• Theatre and Performance
Download your copy at:
sthelens.ac.uk/applynow
38
Top Christmas Apps
Help your child or children discover the magic of Christmas by using these popular Christmas apps.
These apps are now available on both Apple or Android platforms and are either free or modestly priced.
Portable North Pole
Through the Portable North Pole (PNP)
app and website, parents can send
their kids personalised videos direct
from the North Pole. Video messages
are free, but for an additional fee parents can buy their
child more detailed personalisations, views of Santa’s
village and news of the naughty or nice list this year.
NORAD
For more than 60 years, the North
American Aerospace Defense
Command has been tracking Santa’s
whereabouts on Christmas Eve using
satellites and jet fighters. The 2020 NORAD Tracks Santa
website and app each offer a Christmas countdown,
games and other activities, in addition to NORAD’s iconic
reports on Santa’s travels come December 24.
Message From Santa
Parents who download the Message
from Santa app get unlimited
personalised calls from Santa and
can surprise their child with video
messages straight from the North Pole. Kids can also
leave Santa special voicemail messages or hold a text
conversation with him.
Elf Yourself
You can star in a series of personalised
videos featuring your face on dancing
elves. Upload up to five photos of
friends and family from Facebook
or your camera. Then select a dance and the app
automatically generates your custom video you can share
to social media.
Could you be one of tomorrow’s
outstanding teachers?
Individuals who are
passionate about working
with young children.
Join us at our virtual open evenings
using Microsoft Teams.
Monday 9th November 2020
Monday 7th December 2020
Monday 18th January 2021
Monday 1st March 2021
Monday 19th April 2021
5-5:30pm
5-5:30pm
5-5:30pm
5-5:30pm
5-5:30pm
Please email enquiries@wcpsd.uk to
request to join a virtual open evening.
Individuals who have
the potential to be
outstanding teachers
Accredited
Study days will be at Liverpool Hope University leading to a PGCE and QTS in primary teaching.
For more information and updates please visit www.wcpsd.uk and www.saintpatricks.wigan.sch.uk
To search the course please visit the ‘get into teaching’ website https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/
and search using the following provider and course codes.
Provider code 2A4 Primary course code (Age 5-11) 2XT7 EYFS course code (Age 3-7) AP55
39
40
For tech shoppers, November is Gadget Christmas.
That’s because the last Friday of the month, the
27th of November, is Black Friday. Black Friday is
when online shops and many high street retailers
offer amazing discounts on all kinds of products.
And the discounts can be massive, with hundreds
of pounds off high-end laptops, big TVs and other
big-ticket purchases.
The name Black Friday is a little misleading
because many of the retailers now run deals the
week leading up to Black Friday and/or the week
after.
Many of the deals are genuine, but it’s important
to do a little homework because some of them
are a little creative.
Some deals are rather like the supermarket wine
promotions where the price of a £6 bottle of wine
is briefly raised to £9; the shop then goes back to
the original price and sticks a ‘Save £3.00!’ sticker
on it. In tech, the same thing can happen with
prices going up just before Black Friday to create
a discount that isn’t really a discount.
Another common trick is to quote a recommended
retail price that nobody sensible ever paid. For
example, a TV supposedly reduced from £1,799
to £999 may well have been on sale for £1,099 for
the last six months. You’re still getting a saving,
but it’s not as exciting as the shop wants you to
think.
Technology can help here. Use Pricespy.co.uk
to see what other retailers are charging for
the same product, and for Amazon deals use
CamelCamelCamel.com to look at a product’s
Amazon price history to see if a deal is good or
just too good to be true.
As with any sale, don’t let the prospect of a big
discount persuade you to buy something you
don’t want or need, and if you pay by credit card
make sure you pay it off as soon as you can. The
interest on some cards can easily wipe out your
Black Friday savings.
Get a
good
tech
deal on
BIG-NAME LAPTOPS
Looking for a new laptop? You’ll see some
great deals on laptops from big names
such as Microsoft, ASUS and Lenovo.
Some of the best discounts are on the
most expensive models but you’ll find
good budget deals too.
Various prices,
www.currys.co.uk
AMAZON ECHO
Black
Friday
Amazon’s smart speakers get discounted
for every Amazon sale event and Black
Friday is no exception. The third-generation
Echo delivers surprisingly great sound
despite its compact dimensions.
Usually £89, www.amazon.co.uk
INSTANT POT
We love the Instant Pot, a
programmable electric pressure
cooker that’s brilliant for soups,
stews, chilli, curries, rice and pretty
much anything else you can cook
in a pot. It’s usually Amazon’s Black
Friday bestseller.
Usually £84, www.amazon.co.uk
PHILIPS AMBILIGHT TV
There are always great Black
Friday discounts on smart TVs,
and some of the biggest we’ve
seen were on Philips’ clever
Ambilight range, which uses
coloured light to make the
room match what’s on screen.
Various prices,
www.philips.co.uk
XBOX ONE X
Expect big discounts on Microsoft’s superb console and Sony’s PS4
too: as their replacements are imminent there will be big savings to
be had, especially on bundles with included games.
Usually £395, www.xbox.com
41
A live and interactive showcase of life at
winstanley college
Wednesday 4th November
5 – 7pm
Register now!
Visit www.winstanley.ac.uk or email admissions@winstanley.ac.uk
42
must be
The Price is Right
(or you could lose thousands).
The UK’s stamp duty holiday, which benefits buyers up to the
tune of £15,000, finishes on 31st March 2021 and all house
purchases must be completed by that date. Most people who
are selling a house are buying another house and obviously
want to take advantage of this tax break. This leaves you six
months to benefit – that’s ages away right?
In fact, the average time taken to sell and buy a house in
the UK is…six months, so if you want to take advantage of
the stamp duty then you need to get a wriggle on.
The single most important piece of advice I would give
anyone who is hoping to sell their house and buy another
in this time frame is this; Make sure your house is up for
sale at the right price.
Rightmove has recently completed a study on how
important it is for sellers to price their house currently. The
internet property platform analysed 300,000 newly-listed
homes across four months and the data showed those
houses that were reduced in price had a 33% chance of
finding a buyer within the 4 month timeframe, compared
to a 63% chance if priced right from the start.
Furthermore, Rightmove say homes priced right first time
are on average getting an offer accepted 26 days more
quickly than those that have had to have at least one
reduction before they get an offer accepted. The average
time to find a buyer if a property is priced right is currently
21 days, rising to 47 days if it needs to be reduced.
Believe it or not, there are some estate agents who will
deliberately overvalue your house just to get their hands
on your business. It’s a self-centred strategy that is all
about the agent and not about the customer, and it can
have a disastrous impact on your ability to move quickly.
For most people, selling a home is the largest financial
transaction of their life. It’s essential to go through the
process with an
agent you trust
to achieve the
best price. Ask
yourself these
questions:
Does your
Agent have a
website full of
properties that have had their prices reduced?
Out of the Agents who have valued the property, has this
agent given you the highest valuation?
Choose your agent carefully, it could make the difference
between you being able to complete on your dream
house by 31st March, or not. Up to £15,000 is at stake.
Top Tips for Selling
1 List the house at a realistic price.
2 Make sure the marketing photos are as good as
they can be and ensure exterior shots are taken on
a nice day.
3 Employ the services of a solicitor immediately
- bringing together the legal paperwork of the
property you are selling will save weeks between
the sale agreed and completion.
4 Galvanise your Agent – If your agent has a 4, 6 or
8 week notice period, serve it immediately and
get them to work even harder to find you a buyer
quickly.
5 Kerb appeal – paint the front door, gravel the
driveway if needed, use hanging baskets or potted
plants to make your house stand out.
Alan Batt is a member of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and has
worked within the Wigan property market for over 30 years.
Alan Batt
For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis on the Wigan property market, check out
www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk
43
Upholland Road, Billinge £550,000
Townfields, Ashton-in-Makerfield£330,000
• 6 Bed barn conversion
• Over 2,200 sq ft
• 4 Bed detached
• Over 3,300 sq ft
• Rural views to rear
• Ideal for entertaining
• Large secluded plot
• Gated access
SOLD
Orchid Close, Upholland £250,000
Kilburn Ave, Ashton-in-Makerfield £220,000
• 4 Bed detached
• Over 1,300 sq ft
• 3 Bed detached
• 3 Receptions
• 2 Receptions
• Not overlooked to rear
• Integral garage
• Large rear garden
SOLD
Newton Road, Billinge £200,000
Clapgate Lane, Goose Green £150,000
• 3 Bed period terraced
• 2 Receptions
• 3 Bed Semi
• 2 Receptions
• Rural views
• Off road parking to rear
• Over 900 sq ft
• Off-site garage
Wigan Office • 78 Market Street, Wigan WN1 1HX • 01942 233 999
www.alanbatt.co.uk
44
I’m a working man from
Lancashire…
by Nicola Gray
Since first taking to the stage
in 2007, The Lancashire
Hotpots have been putting
a smile on our faces with
their light-hearted view on
life. Their brand of music has
a distinctly Northern edge
and it has gained them a
cult following over the years.
From playing Glastonbury to
writing jingles for Holland’s
Pies, the Hotpots have been
successfully entertaining the
nation with comedy songs
about chippy teas and how
to ‘mek us a brew’. We caught
up with Bernard, Bob, Kenny,
Ron, Billy and Dickie to see
what fun they’ve been having
during lockdown.
Dickie reliably informs me
that the tale of how the
band met is one of folklore,
“It’s a tale of mystery, one that involves Noel Edmond’s
helicopter, a break in at the Uncle Joe’s Mint Ball Factory
and an after-hours session with Elton Welsby in Billinge!”
From their first answer I can already tell that this is going
to be an interview like no other and I can’t wait for the rest
of the answers. Bernard added, “Like that Queen film we
watched at the cinema last year, he may have included a
bit of dramatic licence there. In reality, me, Bob and Dickie
had been in a couple of bands previously and Kenny, Billy
and Ron were all musician friends that we knew and
asked to join along the way.”
Bernard Thresher and Bob Wriggles met while working
at Knowsley Safari Park and formed their first rock band
together, Korova. Whilst working at St Helens College,
Bob met Dickie Ticker and
the three became interested
in working together. After
Korova disbanded, Bernard
and Bob joined forces with
Dickie to create electronic
dance music under the new
guise of Emmet.
Billy McCartney was in
Liverpool band Lyons and
Tigers who supported the
Hotpots numerous times
around the North West and
Kenny Body was in several
St Helens based bands
including Jessica’s Ghost
and Giant Root Attack. Both
were enlisted to play in the
band following the death
of original drummer, Willie
Eckerslike.
But what about their good
old Lancashire upbringings?
Bernard told me, “I think we all had a pretty normal
upbringing in St Helens, mine certainly was; mum, dad,
brother, given a guitar at an early age and potato waffles
and baked beans for me tea most nights.” “You can’t ask
for more than that can you? Bob laughs.”
Bernard added, “I was successfully excluded from nine
schools for a series of harmless and humorous incidents,
involving small fires and the occasional release of school
pets into the wilds. He does admit afterwards that he may
be slightly exaggerating here for comic effect, but in all
honesty that is what we love about the Hotpots.
Get the Hotpots talking about their hometown and the
interview conducts itself, it’s just fun to be able to listen!
Talking about their old haunts Dickie chirps in, “Have you
45
ever been to the Three-Legged Fisherman in Heskin?
It’s just past Charnock Richard services, they serve the
best Chicken Kiev in Lancashire.” Bernard added, “Back
in the day when I’d just started drinking, I used to enjoy
a breath-taking night at ‘Jokers Bar’ in St Helens town
centre opposite Scala Snooker. Tuesday night’s there
were off the charts, especially when they had a 2 for 1
offer on MD20/20. Remember that?”
Although Bernard now lives in Coventry, (he really
does, it’s even documented in one of their songs, ‘This
Lancashire Town) it’s easy to see the love these chaps
have for their roots and how much it has shaped them.
Dickie, Kenny and Ron all still reside in the borough,
Kenny adds, “We love St Helens’ equidistance between the
throbbing metropolitan
hubs of Liverpool and
Manchester. That
and Burchall’s Pie
Shop on Westfield
Street.”
The band first dabbled with comedy music, producing a
remix of the Coldplay song “Clocks” for Radio One DJ Chris
Moyles in the style of the German dance group Scooter. In
a play on words they named the side project Moped. The
track proved popular with listeners of the show and they
went on to produce several more remixes. Then came the
idea of a folk band, who write songs and tell stories about
modern life and the rest, as they say, is history.
Music is in their blood; it makes them happy, but who are
their influences and who do they enjoy listening to? Ron
tells me, “The CD player in the Hotpots van will quite often
play a lot of Queen, early 80s pop, a bit of AC/DC and a
smattering of drum and bass…it’s a very broad church.
Bernard can’t remember the first record that he bought
but Dickie says, “My first record was The Smurf Song by
Father Abraham, this goes some way to explaining why
we make the music that we do.”
I am informed by the band members that all young men
in St Helens have the same aspirations growing up. Their
46
Gigs and tours are renowned for being
tireless and unrelenting, but the band seem
to have this under control as well. It was hard
for them to pinpoint just one show that had
been their favourite. Bernard added, “I can’t
remember coming off stage and thinking,
wow that’s me favourite but looking back
there was one gig we did at the Manchester
Academy where we had KFC and champagne
backstage. How do you beat that?”
Speaking of gigs, and the lack of them
now due to the pandemic, I have always
wondered if musicians really have a favourite
song. Dickie wistfully informs me that is a
question that can only be answered at a
certain moment in time as it changes for
them on an almost daily basis. He added, “At
the minute we aren’t playing any live shows
what with the virus. I was enjoying a little
ditty we do called The Austerity Blues which
is about the prices of everything going up;
we’re nothing if not topical.”
dream job was not playing gigs up and down the country
but was strapping on their boots and playing for Saints.
Bernard added, “Sadly my League career was cut short by
a series of broken collar bones, weak knees and lack of
rugby playing ability. I like to think that rugby’s loss has
been music’s gain.”
With their rugby playing days firmly behind them and
song writing and all things music making keeping them
busy, do they have time for anything else? Billy said,
“Things are perilous for a lot of people at the moment
work wise, but currently you could find us involved
in such jobs as lecturing, website coding and vehicle
manufacture. One of us has been known to mix up the
crisps in those bags of Walkers Mix Ups too.”
There is always a laugh to be had with the Hotpots
and even when asked about their proudest moments
since starting the band, that old Northern humour is
evident. Dickie says, “There was one gig back in 2009
where I remembered all the words and had a fault free
performance and it’s been downhill from there. Kenny
added, “Playing big stages for festivals like Kendal Calling
will always be a thrill for us. Oh, and getting to play live
on Radio 2 for Zoe Ball last Christmas was a blast but a
4am alarm call and a 6am soundcheck is not something I
would want to repeat in a hurry.”
Speaking of the current pandemic, I want to know what
the band has been up to during lockdown and as I’ve
come to realise over the course of this interview, the
answer isn’t what you’d expect. Bernard told me, “We’ve
kept ourselves busy with needlework, Nintendo Switch
digital golf, research into flying saucers and Uno. We’ll
have to get round to writing some new songs eventually.”
Before I let them go, I wanted to know about any funny
stories or things that have happened to the band through
the years. The lads do not disappoint as they tell me
about being unfortunate enough to suffer a flat tyre after
a gig. Bernard said, “All the lads had to stand in the rain on
the side of the motorway for hours. I of course had taken
a limousine back to the Premier Inn and was nibbling
Ferrero Rocher and quaffing Labatt lager till the wee small
hours. We did laugh.”
With Lancashire Day just around the corner, I couldn’t let
The Hotpots go with our hearing some of their favourite
Lancashire phrases. Some responses weren’t suitable
for publication, but they quickly agreed, and Dickie
answered, “My favourite phrases are ‘Y’In?’ (are you at
home as I would like to visit) and ‘Y’Owt’? (will you be out
later to meet with friends for light refreshments).”
47
Chips & Giggles Tour 2021
There’s only one thing more satisfying than a visit to the chippy and that’s an
evening with The Lancashire Hotpots! To book tickets for next year go
online at www.thelancashirehotpots.net and look for the events listing.
5th March 2021 St Helens, Theatre Royal
24th April 2021
22nd May 2021
17th July 2021
Bolton, Albert Halls
Southport, The Atkinson
Blackpool, The Grand TheatrE
48
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E: info@aquabathrooms.co.uk www.aquabathrooms.co.uk
49
left out in thE COld this winter?
4 Are you a homeowner?
4 Is your boiler over 6 years old?
4 Are you in receipt of benefits or tax credits?
You could get a frEE (or heavily subsided)
boiler via the ECO3 scheme.
What is the ECO3 Scheme?
This is a UK government energy efficiency scheme where
energy suppliers fund the installation of energy efficiency
measures, such as boilers, for homeowners in receipt of
benefits and tax credits.
GEt yOur bOilEr
fundinG tOday!
Call us now on 0800 689 1723
or visit www.invictusboilergrants.co.uk
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50
Competition Winners
The winners of our Rainbow Glass Art competition in the
September issue of Local Life were recently announced.
Janet Gray from Sandbrook Gardens in Orrell won the
main prize, which was a Rainbow Arch, Joanne Johnson
of Malvern Close in Ashton was the first runner up and
won a Rainbow Heart and Nicola Thomas of Netherwood
Grove in Winstanley won the 3rd prize, a Rainbow Bee.
The main picture shows Janet’s granddaughter Jodie
picking up the arch from Stephanie O’Brien, the co-owner
of the Love It Gallery. Also pictured are Joanne’s husband
Pete and Nicola with their prizes.
The pieces are just part of the collection of rainbow
glass art available at the Love It Gallery, which is based
on Winstanley Road in Billinge. The Love It Gallery is
open from Tuesday to Sunday. For more details visit the
Facebook page @loveitgalleryltd.
Joiner
Required
Established Wigan-based
joinery company seeks
time-served Joiner.
Immediate start.
For more information
call Manos on
07852 202 867
www.mtjoinery.co.uk
Want your
tills to ring
this Christmas?
Successfully promote your business in Local Life
magazine or via our leaflet distribution services.
For more details call us on
01695 627999
or visit www.locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife
51
Kitchens ~ Bedrooms ~ Studies
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52
Pep Up
Your Hallway
Give your entrance a stylish update with new furniture or accessories.
SAY HELLO TO HALLWAY STYLE
• Choose a runner that leads guests from the front
door to the heart of your home. Consider how its
colours and patterns interact with adjacent rooms
– and avoid light colours that show the dirt.
• Shoe and coat racks, console tables, benches
and the like can be selected with an eye for style
as much as storage. An upcycled or vintage piece
could really make a statement.
• A hallway mirror is not only an essential but can
really up the fashion stakes. All sorts of designs are
available, and a rattan frame is very on trend.
• Include a row of hooks for more impact, whether
rustic or traditional, industrial or modern. They
come in a multitude of shapes, sizes and colours.
• Add an accessory or two, such as a work of art, a
table lamp or a pot of succulents to complement
and enhance your hall’s colours and textures.
Ensure that the combination of pieces makes
you feel happy when you come home.
A clean-lined shape and subtle
colour makes this a useful piece
for any style of hallway.
Garden Trading Clockhouse hallway
storage bench, £260, Cuckooland.
In a soft colour palette and matt
finish, these striking hooks have a
minimal, Nordic feel.
MADE Essentials Apartment wall
hooks in tonal grey, £35, made.com.
With a small footprint but a big
impact, this glamorous lacquer and
brass cabinet is finished with solid
acrylic cabochons.
Globo console, £1,995, Jonathan
Adler.
Get the luxe look with a gilded
mirror that also offers convenient
space on the shelf below for bits
and bobs.
Medium Lene Bjerre Hildia mirror in
gold, £90, Sweetpea & Willow.
Handy for post,
reminders and
invitations, this wirework
display rack has an
appealingly functional
feel that would look
great in a modern space.
Farringdon memo
board, £30, Garden
Trading.
Generously sized hooks in a
traditional design will hold
coats, scarves and even hats
comfortably.
Country wall hooks,
£75, A by Amara.
This vintage-inspired piece will make
a bohemian statement in your home.
Bali rattan coat stand, £125, Oliver
Bonas.
A soft rug will welcome guests. This
runner is rich and inviting, in patterned
peach, nude and grey.
Nova Runner, £150, Cox & Cox.
53
54
West Lancs Support
Clinically vulnerable residents of West Lancashire who
have no other support in place from their household,
support bubble or neighbours, and who may need
additional support to arrange online shopping or
prescription deliveries, are being asked to contact West
Lancashire Together on the free helpline 0800 616 667,
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm.
Current advice for clinically vulnerable residents is to
stay at home as much as possible and significantly
reduce shopping trips, shopping online where possible.
West Lancashire Together can help signpost you to
online shopping for food and household items and for
prescription deliveries if no other support is available.
Further information about West Lancs Together is
available on the Council website www.westlancs.gov.uk
Wellfest Returns
Wigan’s wellness festival returns as a virtual event this
week. Wellfest is back with a brand-new online platform
making it easier than ever for residents to keep their
body and mind healthy this winter. Residents can browse
online to discover ideas how to eat well, along with
further information and support.
Live sessions will be streamed via the new events channel
– This is Wigan. You can follow This is Wigan on social
media channels for updates on the festival and for details
of how to stream the live main stage from 28th October.
Be as Warm as Worcester
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Website: premiergas.com
55
56
Making an
Entrance
Greenwich large sideboard, £229,
Nala mango wood table lamp, £25;
Butterscotch rush basket, £22;
all Dunelm: 0345 165 6565; dunelm.com.
Colour and pattern for the walls
Choose a paint colour or wallpaper that you love, and that
coordinates with the colours visible in adjoining rooms.
While pale colours reflect light and emphasise space, dark
schemes can be cosy and interesting.
It’s sensible to protect the lower halves of the walls from
wear if you have young children and pets. Extra-tough
paint is a good choice, or consider a dado rail with tongueand-groove
panelling, tiles or vinyl wallpaper cladding
the walls below. Patterned tiles or embossed wallpapers
are appropriate for older properties with period features.
Choosing the right flooring
Flooring should be durable, non-slip, dirt-resistant and
easy to keep clean. Tiles are easy to care for, and options
include stone, ceramic or quarry, or colourful Victorian
encaustic. Floorboards or parquet need regular polishing
or waxing, but avoid cheap wood laminates that may not
last long. Good quality vinyl flooring is sturdy, cleanable
and comfortable underfoot. A luxurious dark wool carpet
in an 80:20 mix of wool and nylon with a twist pile should
withstand heavy usage, or how about tough natural
matting such as coir, sisal or rush?
Lighting makes all the difference
Halls should be welcoming, lead the eye into your home
and safely illuminate steps or thresholds. Consider a
specialist light-reflecting paint or wallpaper with a metallic
sheen, and add a large mirror. Wall lights are not ideal in a
narrow hall; recessed ceiling downlights are better or, if
ceilings are high, a pendant (or a row of them) works well.
Storage is essential
Built-in storage makes the most of every inch of space.
Shallow, floor-to-ceiling cupboards with doors the same
colour as the walls, or mirrored to maximise light, will
hold masses yet be barely noticeable. Alternatively, use
free-standing, perhaps vintage or upcycled, cupboards,
sideboards or benches. Umbrella stands, dog beds and
boot racks suit spacious, country-style halls, while narrow,
urban halls might benefit from a high-up bike hook and a
slim radiator shelf for post and keys.
Tegola Westminster traditional
oak wood flooring, £49.99 m 2 ;
natural coir Bee doormat, £15;
both Carpetright: 0330 333 3444;
carpetright.co.uk.
Add a finishing touch
In a hall with windows, choose blinds or curtains that
complement the space. A floor runner adds pattern and
texture on hard floors but needs a non-slip underlay.
Hang paintings or photographs in coordinating frames
on the walls, in rows or informal groupings. Perhaps add
plants, books or a lamp on a console table for a beautiful
display that creates a lovely welcome to your home.
57
ModerniseYourStairs
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58
Your hallway needs to be a good-looking,
welcoming space for visitors and a practical
storage area for storage. Get the basics right,
says Katherine Sorrell, and the rest will follow.
Wiltshire console table in natural solid oak, £299.99,
St Ives tallboy in natural and painted oak, £299.99;
both Oak Furnitureland: 0800 440 2254;
oakfurnitureland.co.uk.
59
60
The Book Nook
From historical fiction to dystopian
literature plus new releases to older
books that deserve more attention,
there’s plenty to get your teeth stuck
into this month.
Gather the Daughters
Jennie Melamed
On the island, girls are little more
than wives-in-training – following
the decrees of the founding
ancestors and submitting to every
demand of their fathers. They have
one brief period of freedom over
the summer, when they live wild
and do as they please. The summers are short-lived, and
the girls know that they’re destined to be married once
they hit puberty. But one day they decide to take back
their freedom, at whatever cost. Gather the Daughters is
pretty disturbing and there are a lot of triggers, but as
dystopian literature goes, it’s one that will stick with you
for a very long time.
Little Fires Everywhere
Celeste Ng
Whether you’ve watched the
Amazon Prime series or not, the
book is well worth a read. To the
outsider, Shaker Heights seems like
the perfect town. And no one is
more perfect than Elena Richardson.
Her daughter Izzy, on the other
hand, is impetuous and disinclined to follow the rigid
path laid down by her mother. When artist Mia Warren
arrives on the scene with her daughter Pearl, the fragility
of a ‘perfect’ life becomes all too apparent. A manylayered
read about motherhood, secrets, race and the
many nuances of right and wrong.
The Midnight Library
Matt Haig
Nora’s overdose doesn’t result in, as
she’d hoped, nothingness. Instead,
she’s transported to the Midnight
Library, where she gets the chance
to try the other lives she could have
led if she’d made different choices.
As she faces her regrets (from not marrying to not
becoming an Olympic swimmer), Nora discovers that the
path not taken isn’t always the panacea she thinks it is.
A Room Made of Leaves
Kate Grenville
A Room Made of Leaves is the
fictionalised account of a real
woman’s life – Elizabeth Macarthur.
It’s set in the late eighteenth century.
Women had few prospects beyond
marriage, so when Elizabeth marries
the cold, ambitious John Macarthur
she has little choice but to follow him wherever he decides
to go, even if that’s to the other side of the world to live in
a new settlement in Australia. A must for historical fiction
fans.
A Song for the Dark
Times
Ian Rankin
Rebus is back, but this time it’s
personal: his son-in-law is missing.
Rebus heads out to solve the
mystery. His daughter seems to be
the obvious main suspect, so which
role will Rebus prioritise – detective
or father? Meanwhile, back in Edinburgh, DI Siobhan
Clarke is on her own case, that of the murder of a wealthy
Saudi student. These two very different cases may turn
out to be part of the same tangled web. A Song for the
Dark Times is a gripping crime thriller with plenty of twists
to keep you turning the pages.
61
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62
Is Inheritance Tax
Voluntary?
It was the late Lord Jenkins that said, “Inheritance Tax is a
voluntary tax paid by people who distrust their beneficiaries
more than they dislike the Inland Revenue”.
Inheritance tax was always considered to be a tax on the
rich, but it really isn’t!
Levied at a fixed rate of 40 per cent, it is possible to become
a higher rate taxpayer after you die. If you are single or
divorced, UK legislation allows the first £325,000 (2020/21
tax year) of your estate to be free from Inheritance Tax.
If you are married, or in a civil partnership or widowed,
this amount could rise to £650,000. In addition to this, the
resident’s nil rate band will enable the nil rate band to be
uplifted further if you are living in your own property and
will be passing your estate on to direct descendants.
Inheritance tax can cost your loved ones hundreds of
thousands in the event of your death, yet it’s possible to
legally avoid huge swathes of it, or possibly pay none at
all. How do you manage this? Just by sensible planning.
The main exemptions
• Most transfers between spouses and civil partners.
• The first £3,000 of lifetime transfers in any tax year plus
any unused balance from previous year.
• Gifts of up to but not exceeding £250 p.a. to any
number of persons.
• Gifts in consideration of marriage or civil partnership of:
up to £5,000 by a parent, up to £2,500 by a grandparent
or great grandparent, or up to £1,000 by any other
person.
• Gifts made out of income that form part of normal
expenditure and do not reduce the standard of living.
• Gifts to charities, whether made during lifetime or on
death.
from when the transfer is made for the gift to fall outside
your estate. During the 7 year period the amount of tax
payable reduces each year. This is known as Taper Relief.
However, this relief only applies to the part of a gift which
is in excess of the nil rate band (£325,000).
Trusts
This method allows for the placement of monies out of your
estate into a suitable investment which is then wrapped
within a trust. You as trustee remain in control of the
investments on behalf of the beneficiaries and can decide
when and if any capital will be paid out in part or in full.
There are a wide variety of trust options available and
therefore careful consideration needs to be given to
ensure that the trust is suitable.
• Are you happy to waive your right to income and
capital from the trust?
• Would you prefer to receive a regular income from the
trust?
• Would you like access to capital from the trust?
Clearly, one size does not fit all and therefore further
advice should be taken.
Inheritance Tax is quite a technical area and therefore
before embarking on a course of action I would strongly
recommend that you seek professional advice. We
have advisers with advanced qualifications within the
taxation and trusts arena who if need be will be more
than happy to guide you.
Should you wish to have a chat
with one of our qualified financial
planners please feel free to give
us a call on 01257 423800.
Making Gifts
In most cases, any direct gift either made direct or into
an absolute trust by any one person over the exempt
gift allowances, is a Potentially Exempt Transfer (PET).
This means that you as the donor, need to live 7 years,
David Barton
APFS Cert CII (MP)
Chief Executive Officer
Remember all investments can fall as well as rise in value so investors could get back less than they invest.
63
64
Travel Insurance
Advice
As thoughts turn to holidays in 2021, the issue of travel
insurance has never been more complicated. The disruption
from COVID-19 led many travellers to discover their policy
wasn’t quite as comprehensive as they assumed.
With local lockdowns, travel bans and quarantine an everchanging
situation in recent months, all too many people
have found planned trips either impossible or no longer
quite what they expected.
If you’ve got an annual policy, your first step should be
checking the date the policy began. The precise details
will vary between insurers, but as a general rule any
ordinary policy taken out after the start of April 2020 will
almost certainly exclude any claims related to COVID-19.
Instead, you’ll need to look for a policy that specifically
covers coronavirus. Most such policies will only cover
the medical effects, though a few policies will also cover
cancellation.
Whether you are relying on a pre-April 2020 policy or take
out a new one that includes COVID-19 cancellation, check
the conditions that will trigger a payout. Some policies
will only cover you getting COVID-19 while some will
pay out if a family member gets it. Some will only cover a
positive diagnosis while others will cover cases where you
are told to self-isolate, for example because you’ve been
in close contact with somebody who has tested positive.
Coronavirus has also brought much greater attention
to Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advisories,
something that’s normally only been an issue for people
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Sunshine?
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Book with an established travel agent
and benefit from financial and legal
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Or visit us online
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65
travelling to far-off war-torn nations. At the time of
writing, the FCO still had a default position advising
against any non-essential travel to any country that
wasn’t specifically exempted.
If you do travel to a country that’s under such an advisory,
your insurance is automatically invalid. However, a
travel insurance policy almost certainly won’t cover you
cancelling a trip because the FCO advice has changed.
If you decide against travel altogether, you can usually
cancel an ongoing annual policy and get a refund
in proportion to the remaining time, minus any
administrative fee. This won’t be allowed if you’ve already
made a claim on the policy during the cover period, for
example from a previous trip.
Despite the increased limitations, travel insurance may
soon be even more important in Europe. At the time of
writing, the UK and the European Union had yet to agree
an extension of the UK’s participation in the European
Health Identity Card program beyond the end of 2020.
The EHIC isn’t insurance, but rather a mutual agreement
that covers European Union countries, Iceland,
Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Anyone with an
EHIC is entitled to medical treatment on the same basis as
residents of the country where they fall ill.
EHIC has never been a substitute for travel insurance, as
it doesn’t cover disruption from illness or injury such as
having to rebook flights home. However, if the UK does
leave EHIC, travelling to the continent without travel
insurance could lead to hefty medical bills even for basic
treatment.
family fun
advEntuRE
luXuRy
City BREaK
Rail EXPlORE
CRuiSE/RivER CRuiSE
Call your personal travel expert
01942 912334 / 07786 311 282
julie.moss@notjusttravel.com
@NJTJulieM
www.juliemoss.notjusttravel.com
WEddinG/HOnEymOOn
66
Covid Support
for Businesses by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy
It goes without saying that it has been an extremely difficult year for all of us and particularly those that
run a small business. This article will outline the measures taken in the Winter Economic Plan to support
businesses over the next 6 months.
JOB SUPPORT SCHEME
This scheme will replace the Job Retention or “Furlough”
scheme that ceased at the end of October. Under the new
scheme, commencing in November, the government
will contribute towards the wages of employees who are
working fewer hours than normal.
Basically, employers will pay the wages for the hours
an employee works, and for the hours not worked the
government and the employer will each pay one third
of their equivalent salary. This scheme is designed to
support viable jobs.
For businesses that have required by law to close, the
government has expanded the scheme. Where an
employee is unable to work for 7 days, a grant will be
available covering 2/3rds of their normal pay.
JOB RETENTION BONUS
This scheme is a £1,000 one-off taxable payment paid
to employers for each eligible employee that they
furloughed and kept continuously employed until 31
January 2021.
SELF EMPLOYED INCOME SUPPORT SCHEME –
SEISS
This grant for the self-employed has been extended for
the period from Nov 2020 to Apr 2020. Grants will be paid
in two lump sums, each covering a 3 month period and
will be worth up to 20% of their average monthly trading
profit, capped at £1,875 per claim.
TAX CUTS AND DEFERRALS
1. The temporary reduction of VAT to 5% for the tourism
and hospitality sectors has been extended to March
2021.
2. Businesses that deferred their VAT payment earlier this
year can now apply to pay this back in 11 interest free
instalments from April 2021 rather than in full in March
2021.
3. Self-assessment taxpayers will also be able to apply
from a separate 12-month extension meaning
payments deferred from July 2020 will now not need
to be paid until January 2022
FLEXIBILITY TO PAY BACK LOANS
Businesses who took out a Bounce Back Loan can use a
Pay as You Grow flexible repayment system to ease the
burden of repayments.
All the schemes introduced have had tremendous impact
on businesses and in many cases have allowed them
to retain staff and manage the obvious impact that the
lockdown has brought.
And finally, I just wanted to mention the benefits of
cloud accounting practices. These packages, in particular
Xero, have proved invaluable over the past few months
as we have been able to offer hands on support for our
customers, using up-to-date information to help clients
track their cashflow, apply for loans and discuss payments
plans with HMRC.
If you’re looking to consolidate and grow your business in
2021, then we have a range of solutions to assist businesses
of all sizes, starting with our Essentials package for startups
and sole traders, the Growth package to help you
take control of your accounts and the Premier package
designed to help you drive your business forward.
If you’d like a free initial consultation on how
CMA can help your business in 2021, please get
in touch. We can meet in our COVID-safe office or
over a Zoom call to discuss your requirements.
Chris Alcock ACMA - CMA Accountancy
39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR
01257 255521 info@handsonaccounting.co.uk
www.handsonaccounting.co.uk
67
Do you need
help and
guidance with;
Company Accounts?
Auto Enrolment?
Self Assessment?
Cloud-based Software?
Payroll Services?
Making Tax Digital?
AE
SA deadline
VAT
Benefits
SA
FREE
INITIAL
CONSULTATION
Call CMA Accountancy today
www.cma-accountancy.com
info@cma-accountancy.com
Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521
68
Managing Your Stress
Persistent stress can affect our health and even cause
serious illness, so we need to know how to reduce stress
and its effects.
Stress can:
• Affect your mental health, causing depression and
exacerbating existing mental health issues.
• Affect your physical health by preventing proper
sleeping or eating, and causing excess cortisol and
adrenaline release. This makes you feel unwell and may
eventually lead to serious conditions, e.g. heart disease,
asthma, stroke, diabetes and some cancers.
What Causes Stress?
• Major changes or events: bereavement, moving home,
financial crises, exams, redundancy, retirement, job
change, marriage, relationship break-up, illness/injury,
pregnancy/parenthood. ‘Happy’ events put extra
pressure on us not to appear stressed.
• Continual pressure: job, health or relationship worries.
• Feeling out of control and unable to change situations.
• Uncertainty, e.g. potential redundancy.
• A life that lacks change, purpose or activity.
• Clutter and disorganisation, e.g. always running late.
Research shows just the sight of clutter causes stress.
Symptoms of Stress
• Avoiding the stress source.
• Irritability, impatience, aggression, restlessness.
• Depression or anxiety.
• An inability to enjoy yourself/take an interest.
• A sense of dread.
• Feeling neglected or tearful.
• Difficulty making decisions and concentrating.
• Poor lifestyle choices: biting your nails, smoking or
drinking, eating too much/too little.
• Shallow breathing/hyperventilating.
• Panic attacks.
• Insomnia or disturbed sleep.
• Muscle tension.
• Blurred eyesight or sore eyes.
• Loss of libido.
• Teeth grinding or clenching your jaw.
• Headaches.
• Chest pains.
• High blood pressure.
• Indigestion or heartburn.
• Constipation or diarrhoea.
• Nausea or dizziness.
• Fatigue.
DON’T
ignore stress
Tackle it
now!
69
Reducing and Coping with Stress
Reducing your responsibilities and using timemanagement
or organisational techniques can help to
reduce stress in your life. You can find time management
tips at www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxietydepression/time-management-tips/
and www.mind.org.
uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/stress/
dealing-with-pressure/, which also has coping strategies
for specific pressures, such as being a student.
Reducing the causes of our stress is important, but
sometimes we can’t change stressful situations. However,
we can learn to improve how we react to them.
Self-help strategies include:
Complementary therapies
Therapies like yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, massage,
acupuncture and ecotherapy (time spent in nature) may
help you relax.
Lifestyle Changes
A healthy diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep help.
Spend time with family and friends and talk through your
problems. Make time for hobbies and relaxation.
Changing Your Mind
Develop a more positive outlook. This video discusses
replacing negative thinking with positive: www.nhs.
uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/moodzonemental-wellbeing-audio-guides/
Breathing exercises
You can find instructions at www.nhs.uk/conditions/
stress-anxiety-depression/ways-relieve-stress/
Stress-busting apps and courses
Try the NHS’ Chill Panda apps.beta.nhs.uk/chill-panda/,
Silver Cloud apps.beta.nhs.uk/silvercloud/ and the Stress
& Anxiety Companion apps.beta.nhs.uk/stress-anxietycompanion/.
For further help, visit your GP, who can recommend:
Talking treatments
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps you
understand your stress triggers and reaction to them.
• Mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR) combines
mindfulness, meditation and yoga to reduce stress.
Medication to reduce symptoms
E.g. antidepressants, sleeping pills, irritable bowel
syndrome treatments and high blood pressure medication.
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70
Are you
eating
enough
fibre?
Discover the benefits of increasing your fibre intake
by Guts UK charity
Fibre is the indigestible part of plant-based foods that does
not get absorbed into our body. Many of us are aware of fibre
and know it’s an important component of any healthy diet,
yet most of us don’t eat enough of it.
We used to believe that fibre didn’t do much at all,
assuming that because the human body couldn’t digest
it, it just ‘travelled’ through our digestive system. In fact,
fibre is absolutely vital for gut health, helping to prevent
constipation and even bowel cancer.
Fibre makes us feel full and affects the way that the small
bowel absorbs fat, but perhaps most importantly, fibre
is the food for over 100 trillion microorganisms that live
in your gut. This ‘good gut bacteria’ is vital to your wellbeing,
defending against harmful microorganisms and
easing absorption of some essential vitamins. Therefore,
it’s important that we feed it!
“The average person in the UK eats less than 20g of fibre
per day, or less than two-thirds of the recommended
30g amount. Through recent research, we know that
additional fibre in the diet reduces the risk of chronic
common conditions, such as bowel cancer, cardiovascular
disease, strokes and type 2 diabetes,” says Julie Thompson,
specialist dietician and information manager at Guts UK
charity.
Foods that are rich in fibre include wholegrain cereals,
wholewheat pasta, oats and wholegrain bread. Fruit
and vegetables such as berries, pears, melon, oranges,
broccoli, carrots and sweetcorn are also rich in fibre, as
are peas, beans, pulses, nuts, seeds and potatoes.
There are a number of simple steps you can take to
increase your fibre intake, like swapping white or brown
bread for wholegrain, opting for wholewheat pasta or
choosing potatoes with skins, such as baked potatoes,
wedges or boiled new potatoes. When snacking, try fresh
fruit, rye crackers, oatcakes and nuts or seeds.
Think about adding beans, lentils or chickpeas to stews,
curries and salads. If you’re struggling to encourage
your children to eat their vegetables, adding plenty of
vegetables to stews or curries is a good start.
Pay attention to food labelling, as pre-packaged food will
most likely include the amount of ‘dietary fibre’ included.
Don’t make assumptions – despite beans being known as
71
a fibre-rich food, a small 200g tin of beans only
provides 7.4g of fibre.
“If you are planning to increase the amount of
fibre in your diet, you should do this gradually,”
Julie continued. “Increasing your fibre intake
dramatically and suddenly could cause
symptoms such as wind and bloating.”
The science never lies. A paper published
in the Lancet medical journal that analysed
185 studies and 58 clinical trials discovered just how
important fibre can be in contributing to a long and
healthy life. “The paper suggests that if you shifted 1,000
people from a low fibre diet (less than 15g) to a highfibre
one (25-29g), it would prevent thirteen deaths and
six cases of heart disease,” Julie explained. “The paper
analysed really robust studies that tended to follow
people and their diets for one to two decades. It’s simple
– the more fibre we eat, the better!”
under-represented for decades. With new knowledge
and research, we can diagnose earlier, develop kinder
treatments and ultimately, a cure. Learn more at
gutscharity.org.uk, call 01484 483 123 or email info@
gutscharity.org.uk – we’re here to help.
Guts UK is the charity for the digestive system. The
digestive system is truly fascinating, but it is very
complex. Millions are affected by digestive diseases,
yet our guts have been underfunded, understaffed and
72
Tontine
by Chris Pearce
Distance: 6 miles Difficulty: Medium
For many, 2020 has been a year where we have spent more
time at or near to home than normal. Many of my prescribed
60-minute walks were taken on or about the area known
as the Billinge and Orrell Ridge and it is from there that this
pleasant 6.2 mile walk is located. The walk starts and finishes
at the Delph Tavern, an award-winning free house pub in the
West Lancashire enclave of Tontine. Walkers are welcome to
park in the car park there from Monday-Thursday, but do
pop in for a pint if you can.
Leave the car park at the Delph and turn left, then left
again at the mini roundabout. Take the first right up Lawns
Avenue and walk up past the houses and a children’s’
park to Lawns Farm. Carry on in the same direction when
you cross the farmyard, past the pigs and goats before
heading up the steep path.
Once you get through the gate, turn right and head out
into the open countryside. Coming into immediate view
is the three ventilation shafts known as the ‘pepper pots’,
which mark the route of the rail tunnel between Orrell
and Upholland. At a path-junction near the first ‘pepper
pot’ bear right towards the second, and once you reach
the third, bear left towards the stone farmhouses that
make up the hamlet of Higher Pimbo.
You’ll emerge from a small wooded section opposite
Higher Barn; turn right here and then take a left 50 yards
on. Follow the path for 300 yards until you reach the
entrance to Pimbo Bushes, home to a disused quarry and
a long-standing nature habitat.
Turn right at the gate and follow the path for 400 yards
until you reach a small pond on the left and then, on the
73
edge of a field, you’ll have a choice of three paths; take a
90 degree right turn and follow the path which will take
you across fields, arriving at the track leading to Heaton
House. Cross the track and continue in the same direction.
Cross through some overgrown ferns into the next field
and follow the path round the perimeter leading to
Promised Land Farm.
Once you reach the farm, turn left through the farmyard
and follow that path for half a mile until you reach the
Shaley Brow section of Crank Road. Turn right and take
the footpath within 40 yards on your left, cross the bridge
and head across open fields.
The path winds to the left to run parallel to woodland
before you cross a bridge on the right. Follow the path
past the green corrugated shed, turn left and then follow
the path diagonally to the right towards the green chain
link fence, emerging from the path at a single-track road.
Turn right and follow the track for 450 yards down Red
Barn Road and, directly after Houghwood House, take the
footpath on the left and start the steep climb uphill. Once
you reach the tarmac road, (formerly the access road
to Billinge Quarry) turn left and carry on walking uphill
where the footpath path and road run parallel.
When the road and path diverge, follow the path to the
left and approximately 60 yards further on, take the left,
lesser-used path that runs parallel to woodland. The golf
course to the left is Houghwood which, on a clear day
boasts amazing views over the Mersey coastline
and Snowdonia. Once you reach the road (Crank
Road), turn right and take the footpath 50
yards up on the left. Just before you reach
the house turn right and follow the
clearly defined footpath.
Carry on in the same direction
for over ½ mile, crossing a stile
en-route. Just after the steep
flights of steps you’ll arrive at
Mountains Farm. Ignore the
public footpath sign directing
you to the left and instead
head right on a singletrack
road towards a new
housing estate.
74
Well Cross Farm
Just after the Brickworks Fishery on the left
and before the new housing estate, turn
left through a gap between metal bars
Tontine
across what initially looks like wasteland
M58
but morphs into a footpath. Follow the
path and when the path forks, take the left
fork and follow for 300 yards until you reach
a hedge and then turn right for 175 yards.
Sandbrook Road
Once you cross over the Sandbrook into
the next field, turn left and head on the
Upholland
Far
Moor
path towards the ‘pepper ‘pots’ once again
and follow that path for over half a mile
until you reach Sandford Road. Follow the
Higher
Pimbo Farm
Higher End
road to its junction with Sandbrook Road
and turn left and your starting point of The
Delph is downhill on the right hand side.
Heaton
House
Mountains
Farm
Daisy Wood
Smethhurst Road
Oak Wood
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.
Hangman’s Wood
Promised
Land Farm
Brownlow
Shaley Brow Farm
Crank Road
Derbyshire
House
Crank Road
Billinge Hill
Rainford
Brook Farm
Red Barn Road
For those with the OS Maps
app on your desktop, mobile
or tablet, this walk is named:
JT-Tontine
75
Fireworks Phobia
If your pet becomes really distressed during bonfire
season, it could be that they have ‘firework phobia’.
RSPCA animal behaviour expert Dr Samantha Gaines
says: “Firework phobia in pets is a treatable condition and
we recommend planning ahead to help your pet cope.
For example, if your dog really seems to suffer, your vet
may suggest referral to a clinical animal behaviourist to
teach him/her to deal with the sounds, or suggest the use
of diffusers which disperse calming chemicals into the
room.”
It is also a good idea to provide your dog with a safe
haven – perhaps under some furniture or in a cupboard
– and it is best to get them used to this before the season
starts. Choose somewhere quiet and help him to learn
that being there is positive and that no harm will come
to him. You can do this by giving him toys or a variety of
chew toys.
Small animals that live outside should have lots of extra
bedding so they can burrow. Some of their enclosure
could be covered by a blanket for extra insulation and
soundproofing. If you are planning to bring them indoors
just before the fireworks are likely to start, then introduce
this a week or two in advance.
Finally if you are using fireworks yourself, try to stick to
traditional celebration dates like Bonfire Night, when
most animal owners will be expecting fireworks and will
hopefully have made preparations to help their animals
cope.
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76
First Drive:
Volkswagen e-Up!
Volkswagen has improved its electric e-Up! but how have things changed?
In the race to gain EV supremacy, it seems that many
manufacturers have forgotten that often the best
application of electric technology is in smaller city cars.
But the Volkswagen e-Up! is different. It’s quite small – as is
the standard Up! – and it doesn’t look too ‘out-there’ either.
VW has given the e-Up! bigger batteries to improve that
all-important range, but can this little car battle it out in a
segment dominated by leviathans?
What’s new?
The exterior of the e-Up! doesn’t look particularly
different from the car it replaces, nor does it appear all
too dissimilar to the standard combustion-engined car.
The bulk of the changes have been made under the skin.
As mentioned, Volkswagen has boosted the battery count
in the e-Up!, helping to extend its range and bolster its
appeal. The firm has also added the ability to fast-charge
the car, which should help to drive down the time you’ll
be waiting at the plug.
What’s under the bonnet?
The e-Up! has an electric motor linked to a 32.3kWh
battery. Power is sent to the front wheels through a
single-speed gearbox, and in total it pushes out 80.5bhp
and a healthy 210Nm of torque.
The e-Up takes 11.6 seconds from 0-60mph with a
maximum speed of 81mph. Volkswagen claims that you’ll
be able to do 159 miles between charges, while the ability
to use combined charging system technology means that
the car can be taken from zero to 80 per cent charge in
just an hour via a 40kW DC charger. A standard domestic
wall box does the same in four hours, while via a three-pin
plug needs around 16 hours for a full charge.
What’s it like to drive?
Despite weighing in at 1,160kg – well over the regular
car’s 926kg – the e-Up! is still a hoot to drive. That sense
of fun remains, with the zippy acceleration you only get
from an EV really adding to the whole experience. The
77
steering is well-judged and nicely weighted,
while the ride is good too.
It’s nimble around town and unflustered
even at higher speeds on the motorway.
Surprisingly for an EV, acceleration from
50mph to 70mph isn’t bad at all.
How does it look?
We already liked the understated styling
of the standard Up!, so it’s fair to say that
we appreciate the undercover looks of
this electric version too. Only slim LED
running lights up front help to denote it as
something different to the ‘norm’, while the charging port
is integrated into the place you’d usually find the filler cap.
The compact proportions lend the Up! to town driving,
while the short overhangs and relatively slim wheel
arches make it a doddle to park. In terms of electric
vehicle design, it certainly rests on the conservative end
of things, but we’re sure that this will appeal to many.
What’s it like inside?
Like the exterior, the cabin of the e-Up! is business as
usual. There’s no main infotainment screen – just a cradle
for your smartphone – so the forward part of the interior
feels pleasantly uncluttered. The steering wheel has a
good amount of adjustment, while the seats are wellpadded
and comfortable. There’s good forward visibility
too.
Our five-door model granted easy access to the rear of
the car, and rear legroom is adequate – though of course,
the car’s size does have its limitations. Very tall passengers
will likely find headroom a hard-to-find aspect of the Up!
FACTS AT A GLANCE
Model: Volkswagen e-Up!
Price as tested: £20,905 (with grant)
What’s the spec like?
Our test car came in at £20,555 after the government’s
plug-in car grant, which doesn’t seem like bad value at
all given the kit on offer. Cruise control, parking sensors
at both front and rear and a rear-view camera are all
thrown in as standard, while a dinky five-inch colour
touchscreen system – essentially a small ‘strip’ screen –
houses Bluetooth connectivity and DAB radio.
Volkswagen also – importantly – includes two charging
cables, one 16amp unit for use at wall boxes and charge
points and another 10amp cable for charging at the
mains.
Verdict
The plucky e-Up! has hit the nail on the head. No, it
can’t deliver the headline ranges boasted by larger
EVs, but with around 150 miles per charge it can offer
a genuinely usable range. Short trips to town and even
longer journeys will unlikely trouble the bottom end of
the range, while that ability to fast charge means that if
you do need to plug in, you won’t be waiting all that long.
Most importantly, however, the e-Up! is fun, and that’s
certainly an aspect that many EVs have missed from the
process of driving.
Engine: Electric motor with batteries
Power: 80.5bhp
Torque: 210Nm
Max speed: 81mph
0-60mph: 11.6s
Emissions: 0 g/km CO2
Range: 159 miles
78
Many of the gifts we give or get at Christmas are
gadgets, and that means Santa has a few things
to think about in the days before the big
day. For example, if the kids have asked
him for a games console it’s highly
likely that the console will need to
download a big software update
before it can play online; the worst
possible time to do that download
is on Christmas morning when
everybody else in your street is trying
to do the same. If you can, connect any
new console to the internet in advance so
there’s no delay before the kids can play.
Another good idea is to prepare a bit of paper
with your Wi-Fi details and password on it: from
Amazon Echo speakers to Apple iPads and even
many kids’ toys, a Wi-Fi connection is needed
for them to work. Digging out the details in
advance will speed things up considerably on
the day.
It’s worth looking out any USB-ready charger
plugs (such as from iPhones or Kindle Fire
tablets), because to help reduce electronic
waste many USB-powered devices will come
with a cable but not the plug it connects to.
And of course, it’s a very good idea to check
what batteries any gadgets, toys or remote
controllers are going to need. If you don’t
already have one, a battery charger with a
couple of sets of AA and AAA rechargeable
batteries will come in very handy in the next
few days.
Last but not least, we’d recommend having a
multi-tool or a screwdriver set and some really
good scissors handy. We’ve found that many
kids’ toys come screwed to the packaging or
require very small crosshead screwdrivers to
open their battery compartments, and others
come in extremely strong clear plastic that’s
very hard to open.
Your
Christmas Tech
OCULUS QUEST 2
APPLE WATCH
Checklist
The top big-ticket Christmas gifts 2020
The Apple Watch is the best smartwatch ever
made. There are now three watches to choose
from, starting at £199 for the Series 3 and rising to
£399 for the Series 6.
£199, Apple.com
This is very geeky, we know, but the
Facebook-owned Oculus Quest delivers
an incredible virtual reality experience
without wires or the need for a computer.
£299, Oculus.com
PLAYSTATION 5
The next-generation PlayStation
is big, beautiful and it isn’t quite
as expensive as we feared: the
standard version is £449 and the
disk-free digital version is £359.
£449, Very.co.uk
FITBIT SENSE
If you or your loved one is a
fitness fan, the new Fitbit Versa
adds clever new features to its
tried-and-tested fitness tracking,
including EKG, temperature
sensing and even stress sensing.
£299, Fitbit.com
DYSON SUPERSONIC
If your time is money, then
Dyson’s high-tech hairdryer will
pay for itself very quickly: not
only does it make your hair look
amazing, but it does it in an
amazingly short time too.
£299, Boots.com
79
Services
Repairs
Diagnostics
for all makes & models
MOT Testing Centre
for Class 4
ExperienceReliabilityExpertise
Dingle Garage, Dingle Road, Upholland, WN8 0EN
Telephone: 01695 624 261
www.jwgaskellgarageservices.co.uk
Open: Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm & Saturday 8.30am-12.30pm
Call Chris on 01942 215 111 or 07969 357 751
www.cosmeticar.co.uk
ScuffS/ScratcheS mended
minor dentS repaired
alloy wheel repairS
no Vat charged
we’ll beat any quote!
PCP or lease
coming to an
end?
call me
now and
save
£000’s
We’ll fix your;
Paintwork Scratches
Bumper Scuffs
Alloy Wheel Damage
Minor Dents
No VAT
charged!
Quality repairs with a lifetime guarantee.
Mobile Service – we come to you!
For your free estimate, call Dave on
07970 915 504
c/o JW Gaskell Garages,
Dingle Garage, Dingle Road, Up Holland, WN8 0EN
Car Paintwork Repairs
80
Spring
Harbingers of
by Angie Barker
Award Winner
Long before most other plants start
to wake up in our gardens, spring
bulbs are putting on a show of
colour and delicate form which will
help to lift our spirits. Bulb planting
season should be well underway by
now. Snowdrops, Crocus, Narcissus
(Daffodils) and Iris reticulata to
name a few should all be planted
by now in pots, lawns or borders. If
not, then this is probably your last
chance to do so. Tulips however
should be planted a little later in
November or even into December.
They benefit from a period of frost
which helps to avoid the fungal
disease Tulip Fire.
Be generous with your planting
and go for groups or drifts. The
odd spring flower placed here or there looks odd and a
little sad – the opposite of the effect you should be trying
to achieve. If you are planting in a lawn for a naturalistic
effect, remember you shouldn’t cut the grass until the
leaves of the flowers have died down as this will allow
energy back into the bulb for next year. You could plant
your bulbs in a pattern (say a heart shape) which will
emerge next spring and make you smile.
Here are some bulbs which I have planted this season and
which I’m already looking forward
to seeing in spring:
Crocus ‘Prins Claus’. I must admit
I picked this one for its name
(Christmassy) as well as the
stunning flower which is white
with purple shades on the outside
of the petals
Narcissus ‘Rapture’. This is a very
cute, small daffodil which has
swept back petals as if it is in a
wind tunnel. They always make
small children (and Hubby) giggle
Iris reticulata ‘Alida’. This only grows
to around 15cm in height so best
in a pot where you can really
appreciate its beauty. A mid blue
flower with splashes of yellow
Narcissus ‘Thalia’. Pure white daffodil flowers which are
scented. They are also one of Monty Don’s favourites so
they must be good
Tulip ‘Orange Emperor’. This is one of the earliest Tulips
to emerge and will produce gorgeous orange coloured
flowers in March
Goodness knows we all need something to look forward
to next year so get planting and get your 2021 gardening
year off to a flying start!
Angie is a qualified awardwinning
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
www.angiebarker.co.uk
Award Winner
Garden
Make-Overs
Before
After
•Landscaping
•Driveways
•Decking
•Design
Call for free estimate
Colin 07958 302 166
Brian 07760 160 988
Wilson Brothers
01695 633173
www.wilson-bros.co.uk
Garden Design &
Quality Landscaping
Established 1994
Quality work & reliability
at competitive prices
Garden makeovers with artificial
grass a speciality
Call today for a
FREE quote
01942 510 986
07710 405 214
All aspects of garden
design and build
Driveways - Paving - Fencing
Turfing - Decking
81
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
Want a beautiful
garden without all
the hard work?
We’ll do it all
for you!
• GARDEN MAINTENANCE / ONE
OFF TIDY UPS
• JETWASHING DRIVEWAYS &
PATIOS
• APPLICATION OF LAWN
TREATMENTS
• HEDGES & SHRUB MAINTAINED
• WEED SPRAYING OF PATHS &
DRIVEWAYS
01744 893 477
or 07950 651 956
GreenhillsLC@gmail.com
BILLINGE BASED
Professional Lawn Treatment
& Garden Maintenance
~ Est. 2001 ~
feLLed
tOpped
pruned
re-ShAped
Stump GrIndInG
crOwn reductIOn
Call us today for a free
no obligation quote
07879 024070
01925 271108
01942 387067
crOwn thInnInG
fencInG
fLAGGInG
turfInG
ArtIfIcIAL GrASS
20%
Off
ALL
Autumn
BOOKInGS
Email: fourseasons.treespecialists@gmail.com
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
82
Promote your
company here for
just £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
www.locallife247.co.uk
www.treetechsolutions.co.uk
• All tree work
• Hedge cutting
• Grounds maintenance
• Stump grinding
NO JOB TOO SMALL
EMERGENCY CALL OUTS WELCOME
Call Wes for a free quote on
07713 121135 / 01695 322153
BILLINGE BASED
Over 70 Lancashire
Walks
LocalLife
FREE to download at
locallife247.co.uk
QUALIFIED & INSURED
FREE ESTIMATES
TELEPHONE:
01695 623 909
07903 290 878
www.gardenrescue-treeservices.com
•
•
• Gates and railings
• Repairs and restorations
• Ironwork and welding
• Traditional forge work
25 yeaRs of expeRTIse
Tel: 01695 721877
Mobile: 07951 764202
The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland
SMN
Tree and Landscape Management
Tree Felling & Pruning
Site Clearance
Tree Surveys and Reports
Invasive Weed Control
Ground Maintenance
Agricultural & Domestic Fencing
Firewood & Woodchip
Woodland Maintenance
24 Hour Emergency Tree Work
West Lancashire Borough Council
approved contractor
Wigan Council approved contractor
Day: 07970 521 692
Eve: 01942 214 121
www.smntrees.co.uk
steve@smntrees.co.uk
Promote your
company here for
just £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
www.locallife247.co.uk
• Landscaping
• Driveways & Patios
• Block Paving
• Indian Stone
WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON
QUALITY OR PRICE
UP TO 25% DISCOUNT
Call Al today for a free quote or advice
OFFICE
01942 396 818
MOBILE
07796 494 463
All tree work including
• Shaping & Pruning
• Felling & Topping
• Stump Grinding Service
• Fencing & Decking
• Turfing &
Artificial
Grass
MAN
& DIggER
for hire
83
Trading Standards has a directory of local traders you
can rely on.
Find the borough’s best online at www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader
or phone 03454 040506
and ask for Wigan Council’s Good Trader Scheme.
we do
oven
repairs
too!
prices start from £45
let us clean your oven so you don’t have to!
professional oven cleaning
environmentally friendly
we’ll restore your oven to near showroom condition!
call Steven today on 07393 818 392
www.ovenrescue.co.uk/wigan
Get your oven
looking like new!
We clean ovens, hobs,
microwaves and fans for over
500 regular customers.
Single ovens only £50
We only use non-caustic,
totally safe liquids.
0151 430 0766
0770 256 6393
www.theovencleanersgroup.co.uk
Having a clear out?
Call us now - we’re cheaper than a skip!
• House and garden clearances
• Rubbish removals
• Probate clearances
• Commercial clearances
4 Affordable prices
4 Smart and friendly staff
4 Free quotation
northwestwaste
The Meadows, Ruskin Drive, St Helens, WA10 6RP
01744 758 349 / 07557 764 940
Email: info@northwestwaste.co.uk
www.northwestwaste.co.uk
£29 for a fu l day
rural Vi lage
NUrSErY
FUNDED LANgUAgE
A l sta f
PLACES & SPortS
paediatric
Available for LESSoNS
& first aid
2/3/4
for
QUALIFIED
year olds pre-schoolers
oPEN
Large
£37.50
Mon-Fri
outdoor
per day
8AM-6PM
PLAY ArEA
www.cranknursery.co.uk
rated by
oFStED
as
oUtStANDINg
We cater for
CHILDrEN
3 months
- 4 years
NEWLY
rEFUrBISHED
in 2019
84
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote
01942 470 089
07834 241 642
www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com
ROOF CLEANING
• Moss Removal & Bio-Treatment
• Softwashing / Low Pressure
POWER WASHING
• Driveways & Patios etc.
CONSERVATORIES
• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)
UPVC CLEANING
• Windows, Fascias,
Gutters etc.
SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF ALL CLEANING PACKAGES
Promote your
company here for
just £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
www.locallife247.co.uk
Wigan’s premier domestic
cleaning service
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
Little Acorns Nursery
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time
We operate a b oking system for the
holidays which saves you money
We deliver 30 hours fr e entitlement
Flexible se sions available
We take children from 2 years old
Ca l Sarah on 01744 86166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain
lots of wonderful educational experiences.
We are big on the great outd ors & being down in the forest
which is g od for your child’s health and we l-being
A l Saints’ Primary Sch ol | Finch Lane | A pley Bridge | WN6 9DT
Li tle Acorns Nursery
www.locallife247.co.uk
01257 252647
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com
BOOK ONLINE 24/7
www.mr-soot.com
Stoves & Fireplaces Swept
Flues Tested
Liners Installed
PAY BY
CARD
Professional & Reliable
We only use
reliable, vetted
staff
Cleaning in the
Wigan area for
10+ years
• £11.95 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
Power
PB Washing
PROFESSIONAL EXTERNAL
CLEANING
• Driveways - Cleaning & Sealing
• Patios & Decking
• Walls & Brickwork
• Conservatories - Internal & External
• Gutters, Fascias & Soffits
• Gutter Vacuuming
• Roof Cleaning/Moss Removal
Over 70 Lancashire
Walks
LocalLife
FREE to download at
locallife247.co.uk
Call Paul today to arrange
a free quote
01257 402 113
07736 396 374
www.pbpowerwashing.co.uk
85
Promote your
company here for
just £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
• Carpets - Quick Drying
includes moving furniture for you
• Upholstery - Fabric & Leather
• Hard floors - Tile/Stone/Vinyls
FREE Test clean to see the results
• Curtains - Hassle free
Cleaned where they hang
• Rugs
Collection & delivery service
www.locallife247.co.uk
New Name -
Same Fantastic Cleans!
Call us
today for
a free quote
01942 470 081
www.alliancecleaningsystems.co.uk
e: sales@alliancecleaningsystems.co.uk
Carpet & Upholstery
Cleaning
• traditional service, state of the art results •
• Carpets
• Rugs
• Fabric & Leather
Upholstery
5 star rating with Wigan Trading
Standards Good Trader Scheme
Call today for a free consultation
& no obligation quote
Call - 01257 251221
Mobile - 07908 770808
www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk
Promote your
company here for
just £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
www.locallife247.co.uk
We repair
all kinds of surfaces.
Do your worktops, UPVC & glass,
baths & showers, tiled, stone or
wood flooring need some TLC?
We’ll make them as
good as new!
Check out before & after pics here;
www.magicnicksurfacerepairs.co.uk
Call Magic Nick for a free quote on
07925 768 534
Or email details to;
magicnick.repair@gmail.com
• Professional Carpet, Rug
& Upholstery Cleaning
• Leather Cleaning & Restoration
• FREE Pre-Inspection Visit & Quotation
T: 01942 409401
M: 07881 816839
helen@carrolls-cleaning.co.uk
for
as
86
a Installation & Maintenance
a Inspection & Testing
a Nest Pro Installer
a CCTV & Alarms
Orrell based
Tel: 07738 117712
J.Dillon
Electrical Services Ltd
Electrician ~ Standish
• All types of electrical work
• 30+ years experience
• Friendly, fast and reliable
• 24 hour call out service
Call: 01257 424918
or 07821 139826
www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk
Jon Wright
Electrical Ltd
All types of
Domestic & Commercial
work undertaken
• Inspection & Tests
• Repairs
• Solar PV
• Alarms
Call now on: 07983 387448
Email: jonwrightelec@live.co.uk
Certificate of excellence winner
2017, 2018 & 2019
Whatever your electrical needs,
GHE have the answer!
Complete re-wires
New/moving sockets
All lighting needs
Burglar Alarm systems
CCTV systems
Security Light installations
PAT testing & inspections
No Job too Small
Domestic and commercial work welcomed
Suite 1A, Kirkless Industrial Estate
Cale Lane, Wigan, WN2 1HF
Call us today for friendly advice and a free quote.
01942 836 937 www.ghewigan.co.uk
A.J.S.
BAILEYS
ELECTRICAL
All electrical work undertaken
Free quotations
• Friendly reliable service
• Mains board upgrades
• Extra sockets to full rewires
01942 215 769
07739 709 005
Design & Print
• Earwax Removal
• FREE Hearing Tests
• Hearing Aids & Repairs
• FREE 1 Week Hearing Aid Trial
Drop in or contact Darren on:
01942 215 391
8-10 Gathurst Road, O re l, WN5 8QH
www.wiganhearing.co.uk
10% off
Presen
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
Put your
hearing
first with
Ask us about our wide range of hearing aids
this voucher for 10% OFF your next
hearing test or earwax removal.
Contact us today for further information. Terms and conditions a ply
LocalLife
rural Vi lage
NUrSErY
A l staff
paediatric
& first aid
QUALIFIED
oPEN
Mon-Fri
8AM-6PM
FUNDED
PLACES
Available for
2/3/4
year olds
£37.50
per day
LANgUAgE
& SPortS
LESSoNS
pre-schoolers
Large
outdoor
PLAY ArEA
rated by
oFStED
oUtStANDINg
We cater for
CHILDrEN
3 months
- 4 years
NEWLY
rEFUrBISHED
in 2019
Ca l Sarah on 01744 886166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net
www.cranknursery.co.uk
For more information
Call 01695 627 999
Little Acorns Nursery
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time
We operate a booking system for the
holidays which saves you money
We deliver 30 hours free entitlement
£29 for a fu l day
Flexible sessions available
We take children from 2 years old
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain
lots of wonderful educational experiences.
We are big on the great outdoors & being down in the forest
which is good for your child’s health and we l-being
Little Acorns Nursery
A l Saints’ Primary School | Finch Lane | Appley Bridge | WN6 9DT
01257 252647
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com
www.locallife247.co.uk
W.Hurst & Son Ltd
ELECTRIC
CONTRACTOR
www.whurstandson.co.uk
• All types of electrical work
• 35+ years experience
• No job too small
• Friendly and reliable
For a free quote
& advice call Jeff
01695 622 191
07850 622 191
£29 for a fu l day
rural Vi lage
NUrSErY
FUNDED LANgUAgE
A l sta f
PLACES & SPortS
paediatric
Available for LESSoNS
& first aid
2/3/4
for
QUALIFIED
year olds pre-schoolers
oPEN
Large
£37.50
Mon-Fri
outdoor
per day
8AM-6PM
PLAY ArEA
www.cranknursery.co.uk
rated by
oFStED
as
oUtStANDINg
We cater for
CHILDrEN
3 months
- 4 years
NEWLY
rEFUrBISHED
in 2019
87
Electrical & Security Specialists
All aspects of electrical
work plus;
CCTV Installation
Burglar Alarm Installation
Outdoor/Security Lighting
SMART systems Installation
Automated Gates
EMERGENCY
ELECTRICIAN SERVICE
24 HOURS
NO CALL-OUT CHARGE
STANDISH
BASED
For a no-obligation quote
call 07470 655 925
Email: E4S_enquiries@outlook.com
Website: www.E4Systems.co.uk
Facebook: StandishElectrician
Promote your
company here for
just £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
www.locallife247.co.uk
Call Paul
Locksmiths
EstablishEd 2000
• uPVC & WOOdEN dOOR sPECialist
• Emergency door Opening
• uPVC door lock Repairs
• uPVC door lock Changes
• uPVC door lock upgrades
• Wood door lock Changes
• all Work Guaranteed
Alarm installations,
repairs & upgrades
Domestic and commercial
work welcome
Free security assessment provided
Emergency lock openings
Lock changes
No call-out charges
24-hour service
60 mins response
Call 01942 669505
www.uklocksandalarms.co.uk
info@ianwalkerservices.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!
Strawberry Cottage,
Pimbo Lane, Upholland
WN8 9QL
www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk
a Registered insured NCFE Certified Company
call Paul for a Fast, Reliable,
Professional service
tELEPhoNE
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
01942 901103
moBiLE
07932 718 362
WWW.CALLPAULLOCKSMITH.CO.UK
Specialists in
Replacement
Double
Glazed Units
Ring with sizes for
a FREE estimate
Open 7 days 8am - 8pm
Established Local Family Company
01942 470 085
0800 328 8573
www.steamywindows.net
Design & Print
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
Little Acorns Nursery
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time
We operate a b oking system for the
holidays which saves you money
We deliver 30 hours fr e entitlement
Flexible se sions available
We take children from 2 years old
Ca l Sarah on 01744 86166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain
lots of wonderful educational experiences.
We are big on the great outd ors & being down in the forest
which is g od for your child’s health and we l-being
A l Saints’ Primary Sch ol | Finch Lane | A pley Bridge | WN6 9DT
Li tle Acorns Nursery
www.locallife247.co.uk
01257 252647
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com
£29 for a fu l day
rural Vi lage
NUrSErY
A l sta f
paediatric
& first aid
QUALIFIED
oPEN
Mon-Fri
8AM-6PM
FUNDED
PLACES
Available for
2/3/4
year olds
£37.50
per day
www.cranknursery.co.uk
LANgUAgE
& SPortS
LESSoNS
for
pre-schoolers
Large
outdoor
PLAY ArEA
rated by
oFStED
as
oUtStANDINg
We cater for
CHILDrEN
3 months
- 4 years
NEWLY
rEFUrBISHED
in 2019
88
651511
Boiler Installation
Boiler Servicing & Repairs
Boiler Finance Available
Landlords Gas Safety Reports
Experienced, Reliable & Friendly Service
BOILER
SERVICES
FROM
£60
Credit Cards accepted
01942 221 996
07769 203 056
hartheatingwigan@gmail.com
Winstanley-based
Plumbing & Heating
Specialist
Complete Bathrooms
John Bailey
01942 495785
or 07721 040620
& 07710 153238
Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
Little Acorns Nursery
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time
We operate a b oking system for the
holidays which saves you money
We deliver 30 hours fr e entitlement
Flexible se sions available
We take children from 2 years old
Ca l Sarah on 01744 86166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain
lots of wonderful educational experiences.
We are big on the great outd ors & being down in the forest
which is g od for your child’s health and we l-being
Li tle Acorns Nursery
www.locallife247.co.uk
A l Saints’ Primary Sch ol | Finch Lane | A pley Bridge | WN6 9DT
01257 252647
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com
• Brand New Bathrooms
• Boiler + Central Heating
Installs, Servicing + Repairs
• Extended warranties
available
• 24 Hour Call-out
• Domestic + Commercial
FINANCE
OPTIONS
AVAILABLE
StoveS
by Andy
Save £££’s on
your install
• InStallatIonS
• MaIntenance
• ServIcIng
For a free quote and expert
advice call Andy on
01257 369 685
07899 752 225
stovesbyandy@gmail.com
Installation ~ Repairs ~ Service
Central Heating Systems
Boilers & Gas Appliances
General Plumbing
Gas Safety Certificates
Call Andy for a free quote on
01942 564 226
07397 391 935
acampbellheatingandgas
FULL BOILER
SERVICE
FROM JUST £58
597379
Freephone:
0300 3030121
Dave: 07769 942218
Matt: 07969 183809
21 Naburn Drive, Orrell wN5 8SB
Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk
www.orrellheating.co.uk
506515
4 Boiler Servicing & Maintenance
4 All aspects of plumbing and heating work.
4 Gas Safety Inspection reports undertaken.
Call MIKE on
0787 113 1012
Established since 1967
WIGAn BASEd
10238
89
ShOwROOM NOw OpEN at 19 Preston Road, Standish WN6 0HP
All plumbing services
including services & repairs
• Bathrooms/Wet Rooms designed and fitted
• Specialists in Disability
Installations & Conversions
• Emergency Call outs welcome
BOILER
SERVICING
FROM
£60
www.gphwigan.co.uk
No Obligation Quotes – Call Mark on
01257 473026
07515 894281
527090
EmErgEncy call outs
wElcomEd
• All aspects of plumbing
and heating
• No job too small
• Quality work guaranteed
• Local and reliable
No
call out
fee
Ring Ken for a free quote
01695 624769 or
07909 734978
Friendly and
professional service
• Boilers
servicing, repairs & installation
• Central Heating
upgrades and energy saving
• Smart Controls
installations & upgrades
4622825
enquiries@warmconnections.co.uk
Call Craig for a free quote;
07469 185 776
Upholland-Based
4 Installations, Services
& Repairs
4 Boilers
4 Central Heating
Bathrooms
4 573747
Call nico for a free quote on
07818 335 441
A Genuine Family Run Business
With Friendly & Courteous Staff
SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES
• Annual Boiler Servicing
• Landlord & Home Owner Gas Safety Checks
• Mechanical Power Flushing
• Thermostatic Valves Radiators Fitted
• All-in-One Air Conditioning & Heating Units for Home & Work
Telephone: 01942 504 429
TEL: 01257 421 660 MOB: 07515 505 501
Accredited Installer & Service Partner
WE REPAIR ALL
MAKES OF BOILERS!
Registration No.
88604
www.fgwelch.co.uk
90
Puzzle Solutions
CROSSWORD
WORDWHEEL
ACROSS: 1. Calais, 7. Charades, 8. Rustle, 10. Cheese, 11. Sisal, 13. Ikebana, 16. Bouncer,
17. Oasis, 20. Safari, 22. Peseta, 24. Princess, 25. Morris.
DOWN: 1. Cyprus, 2. Laos, 3. Scree, 4. Pancake, 5. Babe, 6. Helsinki, 9. Twain, 12. Idolatry,
14. Brass, 15. Decibel, 18. Shares, 19. Spasm, 21. Anna, 23. Ewer.
ANSWER:
NEWSPAPER
N A
W
P
R
P E
S
E
WORDSEARCH SUDOKU WIGGLE
WORDS
A Drop in the Bucket
NUMBER
BLOCK
2 6 4 7
7 1 3 1
3 2 5 2
5 8 9 8
17 17 21 18
17
19
12
12
30
16
£29 for a fu l day
rural Vi lage
NUrSErY
FUNDED LANgUAgE
A l sta f
PLACES & SPortS
paediatric
Available for LESSoNS
& first aid
2/3/4
for
QUALIFIED
year olds pre-schoolers
oPEN
Large
£37.50
Mon-Fri
outdoor
per day
8AM-6PM
PLAY ArEA
www.cranknursery.co.uk
rated by
oFStED
as
oUtStANDINg
We cater for
CHILDrEN
3 months
- 4 years
NEWLY
rEFUrBISHED
in 2019
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
Promote your
company here for
just £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627 999
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
AGBathrooms.net
Quality bathrooms at
reasonable prices
Complete bathroom
installations from design
to completion.
Convert your bath to a
AJC
WALK IN SHOWERS
Typical price
£1800
Fully guaranteed
One day installation
No mess - no fuss
Easy to clean & maintain
Call Anthony on
07919 876 825
91
Walk-In Shower
Workshop address:
Bulldog Tools Ind. Est.
Darlington Street East Wigan WN1 3BT
We also fit full bathrooms!
Elite
Bathrooms
& Wet Room Installation
LocalLife
www.locallife247.co.uk
Des Pilling
Plastering
• Plastering
• Skimming
• Artexing
Coving & Cornice work
also welcomed
Orrell based – Established 1986
Call Des on
07787 513 235
www.lakelandplastering.co.uk
www.despilling.org.uk
For free quotes, call Adrian on
07816 394 292
Check out our work on
www.AGBathrooms.net
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
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LocalLife
Little Acorns Nursery
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time
We operate a b oking system for the
holidays which saves you money
We deliver 30 hours fr e entitlement
Flexible se sions available
We take children from 2 years old
Ca l Sarah on 01744 86166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain
lots of wonderful educational experiences.
We are big on the great outd ors & being down in the forest
which is g od for your child’s health and we l-being
A l Saints’ Primary Sch ol | Finch Lane | A pley Bridge | WN6 9DT
Li tle Acorns Nursery
www.locallife247.co.uk
01257 252647
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com
• Bathrooms • Wet Rooms
• Wall & Floor Tiling
Please call for a FREE Estimates
07703 448890
01942 208926
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company here for
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LocalLife
www.locallife247.co.uk
£29 for a fu l day
rural Vi lage
NUrSErY
A l sta f
paediatric
& first aid
QUALIFIED
oPEN
Mon-Fri
8AM-6PM
FUNDED
PLACES
Available for
2/3/4
year olds
£37.50
per day
www.cranknursery.co.uk
LANgUAgE
& SPortS
LESSoNS
for
pre-schoolers
Large
outdoor
PLAY ArEA
rated by
oFStED
as
oUtStANDINg
We cater for
CHILDrEN
3 months
- 4 years
NEWLY
rEFUrBISHED
in 2019
92
Quality Handyman Service from a qualified Joiner
4 Flat-packs assembled
4 Laminated Flooring laid
4 Door Hanging
Handy
Andy
Building / Joinery
Plastering / Tiling
Plumbing / Roofing
Flatpack Assembly
Call Handy Andy on
01257 369 685
07899 752 225
tradesbyandy@gmail.com
All aspects of maintenance;
And so much more..
All
jobs
considered
4 Electrical appliances fitted
4 TV Mounting
4 Garden Maintenance
01942 387 090 / 07568 195 033
Fixouse Property Maintenance
HANDS ON
Property Maintenance
& Handyman Services
3 Kitchens & Bathrooms
3 Painting & Decorating
3 Joinery
3 Electrical
3 Building
3 Paving, Decking
& Fencing
3 Tiling
3 Plumbing
Telephone Keith on
GDR Driveways
ALL ASPECTS OF PAVING & tuRfING
4 Block Paving
Clean & Re-seal
4 Indian Stone
service available
4 Flagging
4 Turfing
4 Artificial Grass
No job
too
small!
fixouse@gmail.com
07812 110476
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
Little Acorns Nursery
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time
We operate a b oking system for the
holidays which saves you money
We deliver 30 hours fr e entitlement
Flexible se sions available
We take children from 2 years old
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
Ca l Sarah on 01744 86166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain
lots of wonderful educational experiences.
We are big on the great outd ors & being down in the forest
which is g od for your child’s health and we l-being
Li tle Acorns Nursery
www.locallife247.co.uk
A l Saints’ Primary Sch ol | Finch Lane | A pley Bridge | WN6 9DT
01257 252647
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com
01942 621 959
07867 697 972
www.jjdriveways.co.uk
Winstanley-based
www.gdrdriveways.com
Call Gareth for a fREE quotation: 01942 217 113 or 07715 177 754
£29 for a fu l day
rural Vi lage
NUrSErY
A l sta f
paediatric
& first aid
QUALIFIED
oPEN
Mon-Fri
8AM-6PM
FUNDED
PLACES
Available for
2/3/4
year olds
£37.50
per day
www.cranknursery.co.uk
LANgUAgE
& SPortS
LESSoNS
for
pre-schoolers
Large
outdoor
PLAY ArEA
rated by
oFStED
as
oUtStANDINg
We cater for
CHILDrEN
3 months
- 4 years
NEWLY
rEFUrBISHED
in 2019
Aerial & Sky
Services
RX-12 Digital TV Aerials
£65 supplied & fitted
Aerial Multi-room System
at £45 per room
TV Wall Mounting Service
Level 5 in Signal Path & Fault
Diagnostics
Domestic
& Commercial
work welcomed
30+ years
experience
01942 257804
07966 488585
Call anytime for a quote or email:
andyaerial@blueyonder.co.uk
• TV Aerials Installed
• TV Wall Mounting
• Telephone Lines
• Setup Service
Ring Paul on
01942 514 532
07709 490 095
• Business Telephone
Systems
• Voip & Structured Cabling
• Residential Extensions
• Faults & Gen Enq
93
Tel: 01942 441221
Askus@LJTelecomServices.co.uk
www.LJTelecomServices.com
www.aerialandskyservices.co.uk
Having
computer
problems?
• We come to you!
• Computer repairs and upgrades
• Internet and wireless problems fixed
• Quality new
systems built to
specification
• Virus removal
from £35
• Domestic and
commercial work
welcomed
Call us now for FREE
computer advice.
Call - 01942 863448
www.expertcomputers.co.uk
‘Excellence in Customer Service’ –
Winner
No Fix? No Fee!
We repair:
4 Phones & Tablets
4 Laptops & PC’s
4 Gaming Consoles
4 Apple Watches
We also build
gaming PC’s to all
specifications.
If we
can’t fix it,
no one
can!
QUALITY service
FREE estimates
FAST turnaround
Call the Tech Guys on 01744 410554
or email info@techguys360.co.uk
www.techguys360.co.uk
1st Floor, Rainford Parish Council Offices,
Church Rd, Rainford, St. Helens WA11 8HB
Over 70 Lancashire
Walks
LocalLife
FREE to download at
locallife247.co.uk
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
Little Acorns Nursery
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time
We operate a b oking system for the
holidays which saves you money
We deliver 30 hours fr e entitlement
Flexible se sions available
We take children from 2 years old
Ca l Sarah on 01744 86166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain
lots of wonderful educational experiences.
We are big on the great outd ors & being down in the forest
which is g od for your child’s health and we l-being
Li tle Acorns Nursery
www.locallife247.co.uk
A l Saints’ Primary Sch ol | Finch Lane | A pley Bridge | WN6 9DT
01257 252647
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com
COMPUTER
PROBLEMS?
• No Call Out Charges
• Local Company
• PC Experts
www.bodtree.co.uk
Broadband broken, computer slow
printer packed up, virus/spyware or
your keyboards gone kaput
Bodtree Systems fix all types of PC problems
in the comfort of your own home
Call Catherine Now
07540 222787
Tel: 01744 778381 - 01942 418763
£29 for a fu l day
rural Vi lage
NUrSErY
FUNDED LANgUAgE
A l sta f
PLACES & SPortS
paediatric
Available for LESSoNS
& first aid
2/3/4
for
QUALIFIED
year olds pre-schoolers
oPEN
Large
£37.50
Mon-Fri
outdoor
per day
8AM-6PM
PLAY ArEA
www.cranknursery.co.uk
rated by
oFStED
as
oUtStANDINg
We cater for
CHILDrEN
3 months
- 4 years
NEWLY
rEFUrBISHED
in 2019
94
Arley Cabinet
Company Ltd
• Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •
We Measure ~ We Make ~ We Fit
Drop into our
showroom or call us
for a free estimate
214a Gidlow Lane, Wigan, WN6 7BN
01942 246 190
www.arleycabinets.com
Home
Improvements
• Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms
• Garage & Loft Conversions
• Floors, Doors & Windows
• Composite Doors
• Garden Gates
For all your home
improvement needs
call David on...
01942 203 804
07851 225 876
DS Joinery
Prices include
suPPly & fit
Orrell
based
6 Doors
from
£350
Oak Door
from
£130
Joinery services include;
gates, decking, flooring, skirting,
handrails and balustrades, kitchen
makeovers, loft boarding and
ladders, fencing, external doors
and garden buildings.
call Mike for a free quote
01942 590514
07988 260621
www.orrelljoinery.co.uk
Promote your
company here for
just £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
www.locallife247.co.uk
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
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LocalLife
Superior
craftmanship at
competitive rates
• Home improvements
• Loft conversions
• Garage conversions
& Extensions
• Staircases
• Windows & Doors
For all aspects of renovations
and maintenance -
no job too small!
For a free quote,
call MT Joinery now.
01257 422317
or 07852 202867
Little Acorns Nursery
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time
We operate a b oking system for the
holidays which saves you money
We deliver 30 hours fr e entitlement
Flexible se sions available
We take children from 2 years old
Ca l Sarah on 01744 86166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain
lots of wonderful educational experiences.
We are big on the great outd ors & being down in the forest
which is g od for your child’s health and we l-being
A l Saints’ Primary Sch ol | Finch Lane | A pley Bridge | WN6 9DT
Li tle Acorns Nursery
www.locallife247.co.uk
01257 252647
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com
www.mtjoinery.co.uk
28 Years Experience
Extensions & Refurbishments
Kitchens & Bathrooms
Conservatories & Orangeries
Windows & Doors
Roofs & Fascia Boards
Decking & Balustrading
All aspects of building works
No job too small
Call Peter for a free quotation
Day: 07961 516 677
Eve: 01942 745 428
Cambridge Road, Orrell
Promote your
company here for
just £30 + VAT
Call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
www.locallife247.co.uk
• Quality workmanship
• Interior & exterior
work
• No job too
big or too
small
01942 392398
or 07707 321383
4 Exterior & Interior
Decorating
4 Domestic &
Commercial work
undertaken
4 Competitive rate
Award Winner
Contact Graham now
free estimate provided
01257 426 234
graham@topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk
www.topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk
SLATING
TILING
FLAT ROOFING
RE-ROOFS
FASCIAS
GUTTERING
POINTING
ALL WORK CARRIED OUT
PROFESSIONALLY AND
FULLY INSURED
FOR FREE QUOTES OR ADVICE
CALL TONY ON
07903 782488
or 01942 737120
AJH DECORATORS
Painting and Decorating
Quality work
assured
Over 30 years
experience
Free quotes
Mobile:
07784 876 338
Email:
ajhdecorators66@gmail.com
Quality work at a
competitive price
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
Mini Digger &
Track Dumper
Hire with Driver
for all your landscaping and
building
needs
Call John
07976 530939
95
J&P
MOORCROFT
Professional Painting
and Decorating
LTD
• 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
Number One for House
Maintenance!
• UPVC WINDOWS AND
DOORS.
• FASCIAS, SOFFITS AND
GUTTERS.
• GUTTER AND UPVC
CLEANING AND REPAIR
SERVICE.
• MISTED WINDOW AND
DOOR UNITS REPLACED.
• FENCING AND POINTING.
• GENERAL HOUSEHOLD
MAINTENANCE.
No job
too small!
Call Mike Darbyshire on
01942 513 584
07917 352 181
Orrell based
96
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
First Class
Workmanship
4 All types of re-roofs
4 Strip & re-slate or re-tile
4 Built up felt/flat roofs,
dormers etc.
4 Insurance work undertaken
4 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
WILSON
BROS
• •
Est. 1985
Roofing & Roofline
Specialists
• All aspects of
maintenance & repair
• Fascia & soffit
installation
• Guttering and felting
services
Call us now for
a free estimate
01695 633173
Colin: 07958 302 166
Brian: 07760 160 988
www.wilson-bros.co.uk
• All aspects of 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
• 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
All aspects of
roofing & roofline
NEW ROOFS
REPAIRS
FASCIAS, SOFFITS
& GUTTERS
Dormers and
Garages
Rubber Cover Roofing Specialist
Guaranteed 50 years
Call for free quote
M: 07894 687 384
97
K Stone
Building Services
Call us now for ALL your roofline requirements!
Facias, soffits, cladding, dry verge and gutters
We specialise in seamless
aluminium gutters.
Clean, stylish and guaranteed
for 25 years!
Call: 07917 352 182 / 07917 352 183
www.orrellroofline.co.uk
All types of building
work undertaken
• Brickwork
• Pointing
• Garden Walls
• Patios
25 years
experience
• Roof Repairs
• Flagging
• Alterations
• Driveways
01942 495412
07974 496676
ALPINE LTD
Roofing & Building Services
OAP
DISCOUNTS
SERVING
CHORLEY, WEST
LANCASHIRE &
WIGAN
Your local roofing company from repairs
to re-roofs, fascia’s, soffits & gutters.
• Flat roof specialists
• Damp proof specialists
• Quality workmanship
• Affordable pricing
• Quick response to all repairs
FULLY INSURED
Tel: 01942 410989
Mob: 07730 351523
www.alpineroofingandbuildingltd.co.uk
Cover photo © Ian Bonne l Photograpthy
98
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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
NEW Generation
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Established since 1999
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Office Number: 01942 871 777
Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria Street, Leigh, WN7 5SE
warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk
Conservatory Roof
Conversion System
Transform your conservatory
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100
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
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