Local Life - Wigan - February 2022

LocalLife

Wigan Edition

February 2022

Life & Times of

Wigan’s

Mr Pic

Pages 39-42

Get Active in 2022

Pages 48-52

On the Streets

Pages 24-25

Reducing Meat

Pages 34-35

Get in the Zen

Pages 54-55

Used Car Bargains

Pages 68-69

Photo Credit: Dave Green

LOCAL NEWS | EVENTS2GO | FOOD | HEALTH | WALks | competitions | home & garden SERVICES

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REGISTER

4

An influx of street furniture has hit the streets

of Wigan ahead of the launch of the Greater

Manchester Clean Air Zone (CAZ). As it stands

from when Local Life went to press (6/1/22), from May

this year buses, coaches, taxis, PHV’s, HGV’s and vans

over a certain age/fuel type will be charged up to £60 per

day to operate within the borders of Greater Manchester.

Before you turn the page and dismiss this as irrelevant,

allow me to make two points. One, any cost increase for

businesses is invariably passed onto customers, so GM

residents will indirectly end up paying more for some

products and services.

And two, the infrastructure of the GM CAZ has now

been installed, so changing the future parameters to,

say, include cars, would be straightforward. The new

Birmingham CAZ already charges certain car owners £8

a day with fines of up to £120, and Bristol will follow their

lead from June 2022.

The implementation of Clean Air Zones was brought

about when the government told councils to curb air

pollution levels. The decision on how to do this was left to

the discretion of individual local councils. York opted to

ban diesel buses from the city centre. Birmingham opted

to, and have since set up, a tight CAZ of approximately 5

square miles and other councils followed a similar route,

targeting city centres where pollution levels are high.

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority, made up

of the ten local councils including Wigan Council, went

in a completely different direction and decided that the

whole of Greater Manchester, all 493 square miles of it,

should be within the GM CAZ.

Clean air is vital, and modelling carried out by the GMCA

in October 2018 (www.cleanairgm.com/clean-air-zonemap/)

shows that the city centre, along with Wigan,

Bolton, Bury and other main town centres in GM have

issues with air pollution.

Outside of town/city centres, it just isn’t an issue apart

from a few pollution hotspots such as Poolstock and

Pemberton, long-standing problems which are being or

have already been addressed by Wigan Council.

The words ‘sledgehammer’ and ‘nut’ spring large.

Was the decision made by the GMCA for the health

benefits, for the extra revenue or for different reasons

entirely? Whatever the case – it’s

time for a rethink.

Chris Pearce, Publisher

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

5

This month’s highlights

39. Life & Times of Wigan’s Mr Pic

Contents

16. Beauty

Resolutions you’ll want to keep!

34. Reducing Meat

48. Active 2022!

44. Fresh New Year

18. Books

Fresh starts!

28. Health

Is sitting the new smoking?

36. Baking

Blueberry custard tarts.

37. Recipe

Chilli and lemon seafood spaghetti.

64. Puzzle Pages

Try these brainteasers for size!

68. Motoring

Used car bargains.

73. Home & Garden Services

Find the best local traders for you.

54. Get In The Zen

58. Icelandic Adventure

Want to

promote your

business in

LocalLife?

Next Issue - March

Advertising deadline - 9th February

Published - 23rd February

01695 627 999

www.locallife247.co.uk

6

Dance to Fitness

Wigan Council are offering free weekly dance sessions

to help those in need of support to improve fitness and

manage their weight.

Those residents of Wigan Borough aged over 18 years of

age with a BMI of above 25 can register for 12 free dance

sessions.

You’ll enjoy easy-to-follow steps combined with upbeat,

recognisable music to get your heart rate up and get you

singing along. You’ll also be provided nutritional advice

and the right tools to help you lose weight safely.

The dance classes are delivered by professionally trained

dancers with experience in choreographing dance for

any ability.

Classes are being held at various venues, including Robin

Park, Wigan Life Centre and Ashton Leisure Centre, and

are staged from Monday to Thursday at varying times of

the day.

For more details or to register, visit this section of the

Council’s website; https://www.wigan.gov.uk/BeWell/

Active-health/Weight-management/Dance.aspx

Artisan Market

Mix and mingle with designers, makers and producers at

the Parbold Artisan Market on Sunday, February 6 from

11am-4pm. On sale are gifts including ceramics, art,

fused glass, hand printed cushions, fashion, jewellery, art,

speciality plants and much more.

This promises to be a great day out for all the family with

a visit from rescued Birds of Prey. So, make a date in your

diary and head on down to Parbold Village Hall, where

entry and parking is free!

Pram Plea

The Storehouse Project in Wigan have made a plea for

unwanted prams and pushchairs. The Wigan-based

charity has been approached to help supply any donated

items to evacuees arriving in Greater Manchester from

Afghanistan.

If you have a pushchair gathering dust in the garage and

would like to donate it then you can drop it off at Unit

10 on the Pagefield Industrial Estate, off Miry Lane. If you

need help finding the unit, please call 07816 623612.

Premier Logs

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7

Wedding Fayre

If you heard wedding bells at Christmas and Santa left an

engagement ring for you under the tree, then you’ll be

interested in the Bridal Fayre that takes place on Sunday,

January 30 at the stunning Lancashire Manor Hotel on

Prescott Road, Pimbo, near Skelmersdale.

This is a great chance to view everything weddingrelated,

including the beautiful banqueting suites and

bridal suites at the hotel.

There will also be a chance to have a chat with the team’s

preferred suppliers who can help you with everything

from photography, venue dressing, hair, make-up,

entertainment and not forgetting the all-important

bridal gown!

On the day, there will be a fashion show put together

by Trudy Smith Bridal Boutique, to give you all the latest

ideas and trends in bridal gowns and grooms wear.

Pop down between 12/3pm on the day and make your

wedding dreams a reality.

For more information, please call the hotel on 01695

567260.

Tuesday

Shevington

Shevington Methodist Church, 1 Gathurst Road, WN6 8HA

9am, 3.30pm, 5.00pm & 6.30pm

Wednesday

Billinge

Bispham Methodist Church Hall, Crank Rd, WN5 7DT

8.30am & 10.00am

Wednesday

Starts 5th January

Orrell

St Luke’s Church Hall, Lodge Road, WN5 7AT

3.30pm, 5.00pm and 6.30pm

For further details

call Karen on

07789 227 871

Personal Support

Carer Wanted

To join an established team in a private

household – to support an adult female with

special needs in the Wrightington WN6 area.

The role will include providing companionship,

help with personal care, mobility around the

home, overseeing medication & housekeeping.

The ideal candidate will be:

• A motivated, fun-loving person with a positive

attitude & a kind, caring attitude

• Further specialist training provided

• 4 weeks rolling rota including 2 sleeps per week

• Female only applicants

• Full, clean driving licence essential

For more information or an

application form please call

07711 226177

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Couch to 5K

If the thought of running to catch a bus, let alone a 5k

route, fills you with dread then you are not alone.

Thankfully, the Be Well Couch to 5k groups have been

organised to offer support to those people unable to face

this task on their own. The concept is designed to get you

up off the couch and running 5k within 10 weeks, all you

need to bring is your trainers, a water bottle and some

willpower.

Sessions are suitable for all abilities, including complete

beginners, and take place at 10am every Monday at Orrell

Water Park, 12.30pm every Wednesday at Standish Leisure

Centre, 6.30pm every Thursday at Robin Park Leisure

Centre and 10am every Sunday at Wigan Life Centre.

Sessions cost £1.50 per person and there is no need to

book, just turn up to your chosen venue and introduce

yourself to the run leader.

For more information, please email wellbeing@bewell.

org or call 01942 488481.

Tell Us Your Story!

Local Life is always on the look out for news stories

from the local communities we serve. Are you

raising money for charity? Are you a member of a

community group with something to shout about?

Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a

claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be

appearing in the next

edition!

LocalLife

Wigan Edition


January 2022


Pages 48-52

On the Streets

Pages 24-25

Fresh New Year

Pages 44-45

Adventure of a Lifetime

Pages 58-60

Life & Times of

Wigan’s Mr Pic

LocalLife

Life & Times of

Wigan’s

Mr Pic

Wigan Edition

February 2022

LOCAL NEWS | EVENTS2GO | FOOD | HEALTH | WALkS | COmpETiTiONS | HOmE & GArDEN SErViCES

Pages 39-42


Simply contact us on editorial@locallife247.co.uk

or call us on 01695 627999

Pages 39-42



Pages 48-52

On the Streets

Pages 24-25

Reducing Meat

Pages 34-35

Get in the Zen

Pages 54-55

Used Car Bargains

Pages 68-69

New Choristers Appeal

If pursuing a new pastime is your goal in 2022, you might

be interested to know that Haydock Male Voice Choir are

looking for potential new members? This award-winning

choir celebrate their centenary next year in 2023.

No previous experience is required and it’s an excellent

opportunity to get fitter and healthier, and to have some

fun along the way with this friendly group.

The choir rehearse on Tuesdays at Haydock Conservative

Club and on Thursdays at the United Reform Church

in St Helens. You can check out some audio of their

performances on www.haydockmvc.com. For more

information about rehearsals call 07742 312565 or email

secretary@haydockmvc.com.

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• Dog friendly

• Lovely covered heated

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All our spaces are available to hire for business meetings,

baby showers or any family celebration.

Enjoy ouR

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Coming in 2022

Theme NighTs - cheese & wiNe, TApAs, curry,

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All information will be posted on our Facebook and

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Phone: 01257 427397 Email: timewn6@outlook.com

25, Preston Road • Standish • WN6 0JH

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10

The Jockey Club Live have announced three 2022 dates

for the return of their popular live music nights at

Haydock Park Racecourse.

Paloma Faith will be appearing on Friday 1st July, Olly

Murs will return on Friday 5th August and iconic 80’s

band Madness will be appearing on Saturday 16th July.

2021 saw a season of incredible live shows at The Jockey

Club racecourses, ranging from a sold-out show for

Tom Jones at Haydock Park to an afternoon of joyful

singalongs with McFly at Newmarket Racecourses.

Despite the challenges of staging a season in 2021, the

events marked the return to live music for thousands of

fans.

Having last headlined at Haydock in 2015, Madness have

become one of the music industry’s best loved British

bands.

Fronted by the charismatic Suggs, Madness’ ability to

write songs that sparkle with the stuff of British life, that

find poetry in everyday reality, has led them to their

many hits.

Madness Return

Dickon White, Jockey Club Racecourses’ North West

Regional Director said “We are so excited about our

fantastic line-up of music nights in 2022. With the

addition of Madness to the season, we have something

for everyone for what is set to be a wonderful summer of

music and racing at Haydock Park.”

Tickets for the events at Haydock Park are now available

at www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/live/

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Interior Design Services

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Home consultations available

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12

Parkside Plans in Motion

Almost thirty years since its closure in 1993, Parkside

Colliery in Newton-le-Willows is about to be transformed

as a major industrial estate and logistics hub.

The Parkside development has been hailed as a project

that will bring ‘significant economic benefit’ by the

Government. In his response approving the plans,

Michael Gove, the Secretary of State for Levelling Up,

Housing and Communities, agreed with the inspectors

that the first phase of the regeneration of the former

colliery site in Newton-le-Willows would help deliver

great benefits for the entire region.

The announcement also saw approval of the Parkside

Link Road, which will create a direct link between the

site and the nearby M6. This, says the Government, will

be pivotal in unlocking the sites full potential for future

development and help to support the local environment.

The first phase will cover a 93,000 square metre site,

bringing almost 500 jobs during the construction and

the potential of more than 1,300 new jobs offering a

variety of skills in the completed buildings.

St Helens Borough Council’s Cabinet have approved the

next steps for the development which will see Balfour

Beatty start work on the site imminently to create the

Parkside Link Road which will prove a real benefit for the

local community and commuters by creating a direct link

to the M6 from the site.

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Project wins Award

A heritage project spearheaded by Wigan Council has

been recognised for its potential to transform the town

centre. The King Street Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) won

the Future Cities Forum’s 2021 ‘High Streets’ award last

month.

The accolade acknowledges how regeneration projects

use heritage aspects to improve the high street from

economic and aesthetic perspectives. Judges referenced

the HAZ’s work in reusing and reviving historic buildings

such as the Royal Court Theatre and its links with the Fire

Within cultural manifesto.

Strengthening the relationships between culture,

communities and historic places is at the heart of the

HAZ initiative and the council is working closely with

The Old Courts, and a consortium of borough-based

organisations, to deliver some fantastic arts and cultural

activities on the street.

The Future Cities Forum awards highlight projects that

‘show real vision in their concept and design’ and use

‘sustainability in how they will be delivered’. Awards

judge Claire McColgan from Culture Liverpool, said:

“Wigan’s King Street is important because it is about

using the arts to regenerate a high street using brilliant

story-telling.”

For its King Street HAZ plans, Wigan Council is providing

match funding which, along with private sector and

other sources, will see investment of around £2.5m.

As part of the project, Wigan Council is now working

with Historic England to develop and deliver schemes

that will transform and restore disused and dilapidated

buildings into new homes, shops, workplaces and

community spaces, restoring local historic character and

improving public realm.

56 Miles for CRUK

Cancer Research UK is challenging joggers to run 56

miles in February to raise money for cancer research.

Those accepting the challenge, equivalent to 2 miles

a day, can register for a free t-shirt online and sign up

for a Facebook group aimed at supporting all those

undertaking the challenge.

For further details and to register for the challenge, visit

the website www.cancerresearchuk.org.

15

16

7 Easy

You’ll want to keep

Supercharge your bath

Who doesn’t love

a soak in the bath

on a cold winter’s

night? Make yours

a treat for your

skin and senses

with a handful of

fragranced bath salts. Dove’s are a

good choice. They’re made from

pure sea salt to ease aching muscles,

with added natural moisturisers

to boost hydration. And you have

a choice of three aromatherapyinspired

fragrances, at £6.99

from www.boots.com and www.

superdrug.com.

Use SPF

Your skin doesn’t need to be at risk

of burning to be damaged by UV

rays. So it’s important to protect it all

year around. A good facial sunscreen

shouldn’t feel greasy or block pores.

Alternatively, you can just opt for a

moisturiser with added SPF, but to

get the full benefit, you may need to

use more than usual.

Give your nails a break

Gels and acrylics

are great, but your

nails do need a rest

now and then to

recuperate. If your

nails are feeling

brittle, file them short

to reduce the risk of breakage. Treat

them to a weekly nail-strengthening

treatment and a daily cuticle oil. If

you want some colour, choose a

gentle nail polish. Nailberry polishes

(£15, www.nailberry.co.uk) are

breathable and free from alcohol,

phthalates and harsh chemicals.

Treat your hair

If you struggle to find

the time for a weekly

hair mask, try an

overnight one. JOICO’s

Defy Damage Sleepover

Treatment contains

moringa seed oil to

add shine and softness,

along with other natural

ingredients that help to strengthen

hair and protect it from further

damage. It’s non-greasy and you

don’t even need to rinse it out the

following morning. It costs £20 at

www.lookfantastic.com.

Try something new

It’s all too easy to get stuck in a

beauty rut. If you fancy trying

something new, book yourself in

for a skin consultation or mini

makeover at a cosmetics

counter. Or visit a few

counters and ask for their

recommendations. You

could also sign up for a

beauty box subscription,

like those by Birchbox, Glossy

Box and Look Fantastic, which will

give you the chance to sample lots

of different brands.

Switch to green beauty

It’s simpler than you might think

to make more eco-conscious

choices. To start with, look for easily

recyclable, zero-waste packaging.

Check that the brands you use are

certified cruelty-free. And swap

disposable products for reusable

ones, such as a bamboo razors,

refillable deodorants and washable

cleansing pads. To make life easier,

buy from retailers that have strict eco

policies, like www.biggreensmile.

com, www.naturalcollection.com

and www.lovelula.com.

Feed your skin

Boost a healthy diet with a vitamin

supplement. Manifesto’s Beauty

gummies (£39.90, www.manifestonutrition.co)

are a good choice as

they’re packed with vitamins and

antioxidants and taste great. The

hero ingredient is astaxanthin,

which has been found to improve

skin’s elasticity. There’s also zinc,

biotin and Vitamin A to help

strengthen your hair

and nails, collagen

boosting Vitamin

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Fresh starts

Give your New Year’s resolutions a helping hand…

Running Made Easy – Lisa Jackson and Susie Whalley

Whether you’ve got your mind set on running a marathon this year, or you just want to

complete Couch to 5K, this book could prove as invaluable as the right pair of trainers. Within

its pages, you’ll find plenty of tips, running plans and advice, mainly aimed at beginner

runners. Perhaps most importantly, however, you’ll also find lots of motivational real-life

stories of people who’ve used running to dramatically improve their lives..

The Book of Hopes – Edited by Katherine Rundell

This book brings together poems, short stories, essays and illustrations – all designed to ‘comfort,

inspire and entertain’. It’s perfect for dipping into on a coffee break or when you’re in need of a moment

of solace. While it’s aimed at children, there’s no reason why The Book of Hopes can’t be enjoyed just as

much by adults. A beautiful book to give or receive.

Everyday Cook – Donal Skehan

Is your New Year’s resolution to cook more meals from scratch? Most of the recipes in Everyday Cook

are designed to take you from fridge to table within half an hour. (Some dishes can be whipped up in

just fifteen minutes.) There are also meals to freeze for days when you really don’t have the energy to

cook. The recipes might be simple, but they’re far from boring. Think Cheat’s Spring Risotto, Kung Pao

Chicken and Aubergine, and Spicy Prawn Aglio e Olio.

The Wildlife Gardener – Kate Bradbury

British wildlife has declined dramatically over the last few decades. Once common species, such as

the hedgehog, are under threat. If you want to play a role in helping to reverse the decline, this book

is a good starting point. It’s packed with practical tips on encouraging all manner of wildlife into your

garden. You’ll find step-by-step projects, ideas for plants and plenty of gorgeous photography. And

you’ll also be taught how to identify some of your new garden visitors.

Farrow & Ball Recipes for Decorating – Joa Studholme

Planning to refresh your home in 2022? Before you go anywhere near a paintbrush, get some advice

and inspiration from the experts. Farrow & Ball’s no-nonsense guide covers everything from creating

different moods using colour, to tackling common problems such as dark rooms and small spaces.

There are several case studies and tons of photos. Whether you’re craving an ultra-modern living room

or want to bring some country-cottage comfort to your kitchen, this book is for you.

The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide – Jen Gale

Going green can feel pretty daunting, but this book sets out small steps we can all take to help combat

climate change, reduce plastic and cut waste. It’s about making more conscious, informed choices –

from small swaps that you’ll barely notice to more impactful life changes. There are no lectures, no guilt

trips and no preaching – just relatable, easy-to-read advice and ideas.

19

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Cover photo © Ian Bonnell Photograpthy

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22

Rotary Success

The Wigan Rotary Club’s fundraising efforts in December

raised almost £5,000.

Restrictions introduced in December meant that the

club were prevented from carrying out a full range of

fundraising activities in the run up to Christmas, but

despite these restrictions, Santa and his helpers toured

many Wigan housing estates on a float throughout

December and also raised funds via Santa Zoom sessions

for Wigan’s toddlers.

Wigan Rotary President Santi Nandi was delighted

with the efforts, “I would like to thank all the parents,

grandparents, children and friends who met Santa via

Zoom or on the float.

“Thank you for the generosity in supporting us in this

second year of the zoom venture.

“Along with the takings from our famous float collection

this will enable Wigan Rotary Club to continue their

support for local, national and international charities to

which we are committed.

“The comments we received along the routes are heartwarming,

an amazing testament to the organisation put

in to bring it all off”.

Hamper Winner

The competition to win a Lancashire Day hamper, featured

in the November issue of Local Life was won by Gemma

Walls. Gemma’s mother Joan Walls (pictured) of Coniston

Avenue in Ashton-in-Makerfield collected the hamper on

Gemma’s behalf. Thank you to all who entered.

Theatre & Sports

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Ideal for all sports groups

£30.00 per hour

There are a wide range of other facilities available,

all of which can be booked at weekends

For more information or to book, please contact Dean Trust Wigan on:

01942 511987 ext. 7509 or email stuartparry@deantrustwigan.co.uk

Dean Trust Wigan | Greenhey | Orrell | Wigan | WN5 0DQ

www.deantrustwigan.co.uk

23

Footy for Her

Women’s Walking football sessions are now up and

running at Wigan Athletic’s Academy on Stadium Way,

off Scot Lane in Newtown.

These indoor sessions take place at 2pm on Fridays at

the venue and are hosted by Age UK Wigan Borough,

assisted by Winstanley Walkers FC, Be Well and Wigan

Athletic Community Trust.

Potential footballers of all abilities are welcome, even

complete beginners, and these sessions represent a

great way to have fun, meet new friends and keep fit.

In addition, free refreshments are available after each

session.

For more details call Steven Edwards on 01942 615880 or

email steven.edwards@ageukwiganborough.org.uk

Afternoon Fun

If you’re looking for some good company or a few

ideas on how to while away an afternoon, then the

Wrightington Pensioners Association would like to invite

you to their weekly meetings.

The group meets every Tuesday afternoon at the

Pensioners Hall at St James the Great Church on Chisnall

Avenue in Wrightington (WN6 9RR) between 1.30-4pm,

to enjoy an afternoon of bingo, whist and dominoes,

along with a cup of tea and a chat.

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Fete Slots

Would you like to host a stall at the next Shevington

Fete? Booking has opened, so you can bag your spot for

this year’s event on Saturday, June 18.

Stalls cost from £10, and all stallholders must have valid

public liability insurance at the time of the fete.

For more information or to book your place, please email

shevingtonfete@outlook.com or go online at www.

shevingtonparishcouncil.net/fete-stalls/

24

Faith on the Streets

By Nicola Gray

When people say, ‘charity begins at home’ they often

mean that you should look after your own circle first

and then extend your kindness to people in the wider

community. This isn’t the case though for local charity,

Wigan Street Pastors; their mission is to come to the

rescue of vulnerable people on the streets of Wigan and

in turn make their community safer.

Wigan Street Pastors are led by a local coordinator and

have support from local churches and community groups

in partnership with the police, Wigan council and other

statutory agencies. Street Pastors is basically the Church

in action on the street, responding to a crisis. It is about

volunteers rolling up their sleeves and getting involved

in practically responding to the problems of crime and

safety in their area.

The overall mission is to provide a calming presence, a

listening ear and practical help to vulnerable people in

the night-time economy of Wigan, showing God’s love

to anyone and everyone they meet. Being a street pastor

can look like so many things, but what does this help look

like in a practical sense?

The volunteers often find themselves being a listening

ear for someone who in that moment really needs it; or

just providing some practical help by giving out water,

flip flops, space blankets to help keep people warm and

spikeys, which can be placed into bottles to help prevent

drinks being spiked.

The street

pastors are

often able

to sign post

people to

services that

can really help

them; and other

times they are

just making

sure that people

get home safely.

Ultimately their

caring services

are used as a tool that they use to be the hands and feet

of Jesus; to show kindness and compassion and the love

of God to everyone they meet.

The Wigan faction is a growing team of volunteers from

local churches, the group currently stands at 6 active

members and is growing all the time. The team undertook

their first patrol in November 2017, and they are still

patrolling on Friday and Saturday nights four years later

reach more and more people in a vulnerable position.

Up until last year the team had been patrolling the town

centre streets from 10.30pm to 4am and then COVID

hit, and everything stopped. The pandemic obviously

stopped teams from going out as we the nature of the

role puts volunteers up close with the people they are

trying to help, and they couldn’t put their volunteers at

risk. The team were efficient when it came to re-training

when restrictions were lifted, and they have been back

out on the streets over the Christmas period.

The charity largely runs on donations from the church

and with services being stopped during lockdown, like

many other organisations, they have felt a real financial

hit, and any donations or financial support would be

greatly appreciated.

The aim for the future is to recruit and train more

volunteers, requirements are simple, to be a Street Pastor,

25

Review Of

The Year

QUIZ

you must be 18+ and you must have been a member of a

Church for 12 months or more. You will be required to fill

in an application form and your church leader will also be

asked to provide a reference for you.

All Street Pastor volunteers must undergo a full DBS check

and commit to 42 hours of training including dealing

with drugs and alcohol, listening skills, knowing your

community, first aid, mentoring and police awareness.

If you would like to learn more about the Street Pastors

and their initiatives, become a volunteer or if you would

like to donate, please get in touch and see how you can

help.

Donations

www.paypal.com/paypalme/WiganStreetPastors

Email

wigan@streetpastors.org.uk

Web

www.streetpastors.org

1. Which computer pioneer and codebreaker

features on the new Bank of England 50 pound

note that entered circulation in 2021?

2. Before later admitting it was an April Fool’s joke

to help promote its upcoming electric cars,

which car manufacturer said in a press release

that it was changing the fourth letter in its name

to a “t”?

3. At the 2021 Brit Awards, who became the first

ever all-female group to win the Best British

Group award?

4. Which online fashion retailer bought the brand

Debenhams in January and the brands Burton,

Wallis and Dorothy Perkins in February?

5. Name the only two players to score for England

in the penalty shoot-out of the UEFA Euro 2020

Final.

6. Which British city was stripped of its UNESCO

World Heritage status in 2021 due to

developments along its waterfront?

7. In 2021, El Salvador become the first country in

the world to make what legal tender?

8. Instead of its usual course on the River Thames,

the 2021 University Boat Race was held in

Cambridgeshire on a stretch of which river?

9. 2021 saw which 83-year-old become the oldest

ever person to win an Academy Award for acting?

10. Name the three countries who finished above

Great Britain in the medal table at the 2020

Summer Olympics.

Quiz solutions can be found on page 71 of this magazine

26

Hospice Homeless Care

Wigan and Leigh Hospice have been awarded a grant

of £25,000 by The Masonic Foundation for a project to

support people who have palliative and end of life care

needs and do not have a permanent home.

Initially the project, led by the Hospice in your Care Home

team in partnership with Wigan Council, is focussed on

getting as many staff as possible who work with homeless

or vulnerably housed people onto the hospice’s 12-week

training course in palliative care.

Debbie Jones, Manager of Hospice in your Care Home,

said, “We want to ensure that the wishes and preferences

of the homeless and vulnerably housed are heard and

respected, so that they have equal access to palliative

and end of life care.

“We also want to identify people with health problems

earlier on, rather than reach them only in the last 12

months of life, so support is in place before it is needed.

“These are people who rarely access hospice services and

we want to remove barriers to improve end of life care

and promote choice and dignity.”

Organisations working with the hospice and Wigan

Council’s Homelessness Services include The Brick;

Health Outreach team; and the Drug and Alcohol Service.

Debbie added, “We feel that hospice care should be

available to anyone who needs it, and we are excited that

this project will help us to reach these harder to reach

communities but also educate staff who work with these

vulnerable individuals.

“Therefore, even if they don’t access to hospice care

directly, they will have benefitted from our expertise in

palliative and end of life care.”

Councillor Keith Cunliffe, cabinet portfolio holder for

adult services and deputy leader of Wigan Council, said,

“We are really pleased that Wigan Council is able to

work alongside Wigan and Leigh Hospice to deliver this

important service.”

27

28

Is sitting the

new smoking?

According to a growing number of experts, sitting is

the latest health hazard to look out for. But why is a

sedentary lifestyle so bad for us, and what can we do

about it?

Working from home, online shopping and periods of selfisolation:

since the first lockdown, many of us will have

noticed that we’re sitting down more than ever before.

Unfortunately, this change of lifestyle comes at a cost.

Evidence suggests that excessive sitting can expose us to

a range of health issues, from backache and varicose veins

to diabetes. The reason? Humans were built to stand, with

the heart, cardiovascular system and bowel functioning

far more efficiently when we’re upright.

29

Now, this isn’t great news for the thousands of us that

have desk-based jobs – but don’t lose hope just yet. There

are lots of things you can do to help:

Invest in a standing desk

If you work in an office or from home, one of the easiest

ways to reduce your sitting time is to invest in a standing

desk.

Standing is certainly better for us than sitting. However,

there is evidence to suggest that standing still for long

periods of time isn’t hugely beneficial to our bodies either.

Balance is key; start by standing for 30 to 60 minutes a day

and gradually increase until you’re alternating between

standing and sitting every hour.

Take regular breaks

It can be hard to motivate yourself to leave your desk

during the working day. However, taking regular breaks

– even if it’s just to grab a cuppa – can make a world of

difference.

In the office and need to send an email? Get away from

your desk and relay the message in person. Working from

home and fancy a coffee? Treat yourself by taking a walk

to your local cafe. And on days when you’re too busy to

take a lunch break, set a timer to remind you to stretch or

have a little walk around.

Sit the right way

If you’re spending much of your working life at a desk, it’s

important to invest in an office chair that will help you

perfect your posture.

Choose a chair with lumbar support to ensure your lower

back curves to the shape of the chair, and make sure it’s

adjusted so your feet are resting on the floor. You should

also avoid crossing your legs and try to keep your back

straight as much as you can. Doing so will make the hours

you do spend sitting as comfortable as possible.

Get some exercise

Evidence suggests that we need between 60-75 minutes

of moderate-intensity activity per day to combat the

dangers of excessive sitting – but the more frequent the

better. You’ll be glad to hear that this doesn’t mean you

have to hit the gym every day. Moderate exercise could

be a brisk walk on your lunch break, a light bike ride or

even those slightly more exerting cleaning duties, such as

vacuuming, window cleaning or mopping the floor.

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32

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33

Are you a first-time buyer struggling to get on the

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Email: info@mortgagefactoryltd.com

34

Reducing your

Meat Intake

The headlines about meat-eating are

all about why you shouldn’t. The main

focus is on how rearing animals for

food is a major contributor to climate

change, but you don’t have to look far

to understand that animal welfare and

personal health are also significant

motivators for the increased adoption

of a more plant-based food intake.

It was recently reported that over the last decade, the UK’s

meat consumption dropped by 17%. That’s a great start,

but although we know why we should consider this new

way of eating, the how seems to have less attention. Let’s

look at some simple changes that might help in making

your diet less focused on animal products.

Cooking from scratch

The easiest option is to eat pretty much as you always did,

but to use meat-free alternatives.

Mince, burgers,

sausages, fish and

chicken all have

vegan substitutes

available and in

some cases it’s really

quite difficult to spot

the difference. Even when it’s not a perfect replication

of meat, it’s just as tasty so you won’t mind the change.

Beyond Meat burgers are a good example of this and are

available in some supermarkets and in many pub and

restaurant chains.

Giving up dairy and eggs takes a bit of getting used to.

Oat milk is the winner for its sustainability credentials,

with almond milk now generally frowned upon. Butter

substitutes have been around for years; vegan cheese is

available but is a bit of an acquired taste. Replacements

for eggs depends on the recipe, so you’ll have to do your

research.

If this way of eating is going to stick, you’ll want to try

some new recipes. The internet is full of vegetarian and

vegan cooking ideas, but you’ll notice they typically have

considerably more ingredients than meat-based meals

do, including herbs and spices. If you love cooking and

have lots of jars of flavourings in your cupboards you

won’t mind this. Otherwise, you might want to consider

a ready-to-cook option.

For this, the booming market of recipe boxes is a great

start. British company Gousto offer around 60 recipes

each week, with 20% vegan and a further 30% vegetarian

(meaning over half the meals don’t contain meat).

Around 80% of HelloFresh meals contain meat so they are

not a great choice but their sister brand GreenChef and

another company Mindful Chef are both worth a look.

35

Ready-to-eat

The supermarkets have a selection of plant-based ready

meals, which is particularly good if you need something

quick or are eating alone. Frozen meal deliveries are

available from a number of companies, including Planty

and Allplants.

Take-away food is a bit more challenging – chicken,

pizza and kebabs feature at the top of the list of the most

popular purchases. It is possible though and the online

menus should offer a clear indication of which of their

options are vegetarian and vegan.

Eating out

What you don’t want is to go to a pub or restaurant where

there are just a couple of non-meat choices tucked away

at the bottom of the menu. You should be offered many

of the same options as usual but in a veggie version, and

some recipes that are specifically targeted for non-meat

eaters. Even better is a restaurant that has a specific vegan

menu, and Wagamama deserve recognition for having

introduced this at the start of 2021.

Ideally, choose a vegetarian restaurant that is guaranteed

to have vegan choices too. You can search on TripAdvisor

Increase your

Sales in 2022!

for ‘Vegetarian friendly’

and ‘Vegan options’

from the dietary

requirements. However,

the eatery can qualify

for this even if they only

have a couple of dishes.

A better place to start

would be Happy Cow

(happycow.net) as

there’s far more of a

focus on plant-based

restaurants and cafes.

A general Google search is also useful, or your local

Facebook group will have lots of people giving you

recommendations (or ‘avoids’).

Be realistic

Like any new regime, a wholesale overnight change will

be challenging and will often lead to failure. But even

if you could just do one no-animal-products day each

week, you will have cut your meat intake by 14% and

in time you’ll realise that you often prefer the veggie or

vegan option.

Prices start

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Call us now on 01695 627999


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36

Blueberry

Custard

Tarts

These fruity tarts have a rich

creamy custard filling with a

crisp pastry case. If you prefer

you can use shortcrust pastry.

Makes: 8

Ready in: 1 hour, plus cooling

Ingredients

75g caster sugar

3 medium egg yolks

2 tbsp cornflour

1 tsp vanilla extract

350ml milk

500g puff pastry, thawed if frozen

Flour, for dusting

100g fresh blueberries

Method

1. Whisk the sugar, egg yolks, cornflour and vanilla extract together

in a heatproof bowl until smooth. Heat the milk in a pan over a

medium heat until almost boiling. Whisk the hot milk into the egg

mixture then pour back into the pan. Gradually bring the mixture to

the boil, stirring all the time, until a smooth custard forms.

2. Remove the pan from the heat and cover the surface closely

with greasproof paper to prevent a skin forming. Leave to cool

completely.

3. Meanwhile roll the pastry out on a lightly dusted surface to a 3mm

thickness. Stamp out eight 12cm rounds of pastry and use to line

eight 8cm fluted tartlet tins. Prick the bases with a fork and chill in

the fridge whilst the custard is cooling.

4. Preheat the oven to 200C, 180C fan, gas mark 6. Divde the cooled

custard mixture between the pastry cases and scatter over the

blueberries. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is crisp and

golden. Serve warm or cold.

TIP: Place a baking sheet in the oven to heat up then place the filled tartlet tins on it for baking. The extra burst of

heat will help to ensure a crisp pastry base.

Chilli & Lemon Seafood

Spaghetti

37

Serves: 4

Ready in: 20 mins

Ingredients

400g spaghetti

2 tbsp virgin olive oil

2 garlic cloves, crushed

Small pinch of dried crushed chillies

2 whole dried chillis, halved lengthways

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

100ml dry white wine

150g raw king prawns

150g squid rings, thawed if frozen

Handful fresh mussels, cleaned (see TIP)

2 tbsp fresh finely chopped coriander,

plus extra sprigs to garnish

Salt and freshly ground pepper

Handful fresh basil leaves, to garnish

On the table in less than 30 minutes, this is a a great

speedy supper to serve any day of the week. Serve

with slices of toasted ciabatta and a rocket salad.

Method

1. Bring a large pan of lightly salted water to the boil. Add the pasta and cook

for 12 minutes, or according to the packet instructions, until just tender.

2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large, deep pan over a medium heat. Add

the garlic and stir for 2–3 minutes until soft, but not brown. Add the chilli

flakes and whole chillies and cook for 1 minute then stir in the lemon

zest and juice and wine. Bring to the boil and let the liquid bubble for 1

minute.

3. Add the prawns, squid and mussels to the pan and cover and simmer for

5-6 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the prawns are pink and

the mussels have opened (discard any that remain closed).

4. Drain the pasta and add to the pan with the chopped coriander. Toss well

to coat the pasta in the pan juices. Season to taste with salt and freshly

ground black pepper. Serve in warmed pasta bowls garnished with the

coriander sprigs and basil leaves.

TIP: Scrub the fresh mussels clean and pull away the straggly ‘beards’. Discard any that don’t shut tightly when

firmly tapped.

38

BRIDAL FAYRE

Fashion show by Trudy Smith Bridal Boutique

Sunday 30th January 2022, 12-3pm

Come along, view the beautiful bridal suites

and chat with our preferred suppliers.

Includes photographer, venue dressing, gowns, grooms wear, stationery,

hair and makeup, jewellery, cars, entertainment, cakes and chocolate fountain.

Lancashire Manor Hotel | Prescott Road | Pimbo | Nr Wigan | WN8 9QD

01695 567260

www.lancashiremanorhotel.com

39

Life-Changing

If anyone doubts the value of the inspirational quote

‘With one kind gesture

you can change a life’

then Dave Green’s story might give you cause to re-consider.

40

41

When Dave’s dad was with the

RAF in Aden in the late 50s, he

bought an AGFA camera that he

later passed onto a 10 year old

Dave in the early 70’s, together

with instructions on how to

use it. That kind gesture set

Dave on a path to developing a

talent that has not only brought

lifetime enjoyment but has also

enhanced his career.

Brought up in the area around

Ashton Heath, Dave’s early years

included spells at St Thomas’

Primary and Ashton Grammar

School, and one of his first jobs

was working for Manchester

City Council as a Land Surveyor.

When Wigan Council were working on Atherleigh Way

in the early 1980’s, the call went out for a computerliterate

surveyor to help with the project. Dave secured a

secondment onto the project, and later moved to Wigan

Council in the Engineers Department.

Dave said, “It was the time when PC’s appeared overnight

on peoples’ desks and later I was the designated lead

officer for IT liaising with Central IT. So I was helping to

install PC’s and setting colleagues up on the network etc”.

He also spent time developing his graphic design skills

and worked on an in-house magazine for the Engineering

department, before moving to the Planning Department

as a Graphic Designer, a job title he took with him to the

newly-formed Communications Department in 2008 and

quickly becoming the go-to guy for council photography.

On the home front, Dave has lived in Winstanley with

his wife Lorraine for the past thirty years, and the couple

have two daughters and a son.

In early April 2020, Dave’s world stopped when he

caught Covid-19 and he ended up in Wigan Infirmary. It

was a grim time for the photographer and

his family as he was moved from ward to

ward. After seeing fellow patients die, he

volunteered to try the C-PAP treatment

which was undergoing trials, where patients

are subject to continuous positive airway

pressure via very tight and bulky mask.

Suffering from a shoulder and hip injury

from his martial arts days, Dave found the

C-PAP mask unbearable at night as patients

are required to sleep on their fronts. After

speaking to the doctor, Dave recollects that

he received a stark warning “You can sleep

on your front and we’ll fix up your shoulder

and hip for you later on, or you can sleep on

your back and probably die – it’s up to you.”

After ten days, he went home but

faced months of outpatient treatment

at Wrightington Hospital undergoing

physical therapy and counselling, even

42

now, he estimates he’s only 90% the man he used to be.

“It’s changed my life in quite a number of ways”, states

Dave. “It brought home what is really important in life.

Your health and your family.”

a small selection of the thousands of Dave’s images that

have brought pleasure to Wiganers over the years – thank

you Dave and enjoy that retirement!

Dave recently retired after spending 32

years with Wigan Council. The ubiquitous

presence of Dave and his camera was felt

at pretty much every main Council event of

the past couple of decades, and if there was

an award for most recognisable face from

the council, he’d surely be up there with the

nominations.

“The Council have been so supportive of

me, I can’t speak highly enough of how I was

treated by everyone there, and they gave

me a fantastic send-off too”, said Dave.

So, what now for Dave?

“I have some freelance work lined up over

the next few months, some for the council,

but I’m going to enjoy my retirement and

spend more time with my grandson, Oliver,

who is just 8 months old”.

In these pages, we’re privileged to carry just

Photo Credits: Dave Green & Wigan Council

43

Opening Times:

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44

Fresh New Year

January is a great time to catch up on all those household

chores and get going with an early ‘spring’ clean. Make

it more enjoyable and planet-friendly by choosing goodlooking

tools and eco-conscious supplies.

This coconut fibre scourer

has a bamboo handle, both

of which are plant-based and

biodegradable; the stainlesssteel

wire is easily recyclable.

Bambaw reusable bamboo

dish brush, £6, beaumonde.

co.uk.

Good-looking storage makes organisation

more enjoyable.

Matt black steel and bamboo caddy, £10;

all-purpose hob cleaner, £3; bamboo and

plastic scrubbing brush, £2; bamboo round

dish brush, £2; all dunelm.com.

Make light work of house cleaning

• If you can’t bear the thought of tackling all the

cleaning at once, divide it into manageable tasks,

and devote perhaps an hour a week – or else tackle

one room at a time, maybe over a weekend.

Generously sized and made from pure

cotton, this gingham apron features a pair

of handy patch pockets.

Auberge apron in Wedgwood blue,

£16.99, waltonshop.co.uk.

Take the effort out of everyday cleaning.

Long-handle dustpan and brush, £25,

gardentrading.co.uk.

The sustainable

way to clean dirty

dishes. Simply

compost when

finished with them.

Natural latex

rubber gloves, £3,

zerozen.co.uk.

• Be prepared. Have a thorough clear-out and tidy,

change into old clothes and rubber gloves, and

gather the necessary equipment and products.

This is where a sturdy caddy, a tool belt, or an apron

with plenty of large pockets becomes invaluable –

keeping everything with you as you go will save lots

of time.

• As you work, try to be organised, whether it’s one

room at a time or one task at a time. The chores will

generally divide into five main areas: vacuuming,

dusting, mopping/scrubbing, washing and wiping,

and polishing, so bear this in mind when planning,

so as not to miss anything out.

• Don’t forget specific tasks such as turning

mattresses, spot-cleaning upholstery, deepcleaning

the oven, defrosting the freezer, descaling

the shower head and steam cleaning carpets.

• Work from the top of a room to the bottom (in other

words, dust the pendant light before polishing the

table beneath it). Prioritise the hardest-to-clean

item in the room to do early on – then the rest of

the room will be a breeze.

45

This eco-friendly cleaner works on a range of high-gloss

surfaces, and comes in a reusable aluminium bottle along

with a microfibre cloth.

Glass cleaner starter pack, £6.99, wearthlondon.com.

Make light work of dusting without the need for toxic

chemicals.

Living Nostalgia genuine natural ostrich feather duster,

kitchencraft.co.uk.

These heavy-knitted cloths can be used, washed, and used again.

Bleached stockinette dishcloth, £1.79, waltonshop.co.uk.

This lemon-scented washingup

soap bar is 100% natural,

biodegradable, plastic-free and

contains no palm oil.

Dish-washing soap bar in lemon,

£7.99, suusco.com.

46

What Will House Prices

Do In 2022?

When Boris and Co won the election in December 2019, it was

a turning point in the housing market. A new Government

with a sizeable majority meant certainty for the markets,

and estate agents nationwide reported an immediate

increase in prices and interest, dubbed the ‘Boris Bounce’.

Just 50 days later, on 31st January, a very unwelcome

visitor landed in the UK – the COVID-19 virus - and by the

time the country was subsequently locked down on 23rd

March, there were fears that the growing housing market

activity would be curbed again as a result.

Instead, we have seen one of the busiest 18-month

periods in the housing market in more than a decade.

Around one in 16 homes in the UK changed hands this

year, fuelled by a mix of the pandemic-led reassessments

of lifestyle, the need to work from home and maximise

living space, and the tax break of the stamp duty holiday.

The demand in the market has caused a tightening

of housing stock levels, and put upward pressure on

house prices, with the annual rate of house price growth

now at 6.9%. House prices in Wigan have increased by

approximately 8% in the last 12 months, but the number

of new properties coming to the market in Wigan is

slowing. House prices are still increasing but at a slower

rate, suggesting the property market may be starting to

moderate.

My housing market prediction for 2022?

I expect buyer demand to climb again as we move into

Q1 of 2022. While the stamp duty holiday has ended,

demand from buyers remains 28% higher than average,

suggesting that the property market has further to run

this year. Supply levels will also begin to rise again, as new

listings are typically 50% higher at the end of January

compared to the beginning of December.

As we move through 2022, supply pipelines will have a

chance to rebuild after the busy early year market and the

balance between supply and demand normalises. This is

one of the factors that will ease the upward momentum

on pricing.

Alongside this, next year will mark the emergence of

economic headwinds as the rising cost of living, and

potentially mortgage interest rates, creates an impact on

household finances.

Even with several quarter point interest rate rises though,

mortgages will remain relatively low compared to longerterm

norms, and the fact that many homeowners with

mortgages are on fixed rates will shelter parts of the

market from any immediate impact.

It remains to be seen how many properties will be sold in

2002, but I do not expect as many will be sold as this year,

but still more than previous years.

To summarise then, I expect more properties will be sold

in 2022 than average, though not as many as 2021. House

prices will continue to rise in value, but I expect a slowdown

in the rate of growth and by the end of 2022, I expect house

price growth to be running between 3% and 5%.

Alan Batt is a member of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and has

worked within the Wigan property market for over 40 years.

Alan Batt

For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis on the Wigan property market, check out his blog at

www.alanbatt.co.uk

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www.alanbatt.co.uk

48

Active

2022!

It’s been almost two years since Covid-19 entered our lives and changed them

for the worse. A Covid-free world doesn’t appear to be happening any time

soon, so we’ve been out and about looking for some inspirational activities for

you to try in 2022. As the saying goes, life is not a dress rehearsal, so let 2022

be the year when we embrace activity, healthiness, and happiness!

A

rt

Where better to start our 2022 awakening

than art? Ashton Art Group is a great place to

discover your inner artist. The group meets weekly every

Tuesday at 8pm-10pm at the Community & Childcare

Centre in Hilton Street in Ashton-In-Makerfield (formerly

the YMCA).

There is no formal tuition, but the group runs

demonstrations and workshops which help to develop

skills and ideas and run regular life model sessions.

www.ashtonartgroup.co.uk

Back to Sport

Whether you are looking to play recreational

sport, meet new friends, access coaching or play

competitive sport, then get in touch with The Back to

Sport team. As part of Wigan Council, they can help you

to enjoy a wide range of leisure and sporting activities.

If you are an individual or a group interested in taking

up regular sports activities including netball, walking

football and badminton then get in touch with the team

on 01942 828535 or go online at www.wigan.gov.uk/

BacktoSport

C heerleading

Give me a C, give me an H – you get the idea

but on a serious note Cheerleading classes can

be a whole lot of fun! The Wigan Vipers Cheer squad is a

fun and friendly place, filled with family values!

They offer classes in cheerleading, pom dancing, urban

cheer and tumbling, they even have a masters pom dance

class for anyone over 25. www.wiganvipers.co.uk

D iving

Discover the world of scuba diving with Mid

Lancs Sub Aqua Club; formed in 2005 this

group trains divers from the age of 12 and upwards, as

well as organising interesting scuba diving expeditions in

the UK and overseas.

Pool sessions take place at Wigan Life Centre every

Tuesday from 8pm-10pm and the club meets every

Monday night at 8pm in Standish at the Unity Club on

Cross Street. www.divemidlancs.co.uk

E

ducation

There’s a whole host of opportunities to further

your education and expand your knowledge

with Wigan & Leigh College, Wigan Council and further

afield with St Helens College!

With everything from digital skills, short online courses

to floristry and photography on offer, there’s never been

a better time to take up lifelong learning. Check out the

websites for more details.

www.wigan.gov.uk/Resident/Jobs-Careers/Adultlearning-course

www.wigan-leigh.ac.uk/adult-courses

www.sthelens.ac.uk/adults/adultcourseguide

F oraging

You can take part in foraging and other

sustainable activities with the team at the Carbon

Landscape Partnership, who look after the wetlands in our

area. Brass rubbing, hedge planting, making birdboxes,

bug hotels and nature art are just some of the actions

undertaken by the group.

For more information about the group or how to get

involved in their events please go online at www.

facebook.com/carbonlandscape

G eocaching

Geocaching is a hi-tech treasure hunt for the

digital generation; individuals and groups set

up caches (hiding places for small items) and you try

to find them using the GPS location coordinates. With

hundreds of caches in Wigan alone you won’t be lost

for places to hunt. And the best bit – the treasure hunt

is always in your pocket should you travel further afield.

www.geocaching.com

H iking

Wigan & District Ramblers are a seasoned

group of walkers who love to get out and about

walking for their health, pleasure and appreciation of our

wonderful countryside, including everything from family

footpath walks, 12-mile coach rambles and weekends away.

For information and bookings, feel free to contact Geoff

Stanley on 01257 482799 before 9.00 p.m. or email

info@wigananddistrictramblers.org.uk

In Bloom

This horticultural competition has been running

across British villages, town and cities for almost 60

years. But In Bloom is more than a competition, it gives

residents a chance to make their neighbourhood a more

aesthetically pleasing place.

There are groups already established in Appley Bridge,

Shevington, Orrell and Ashton, but if you want to set

up a group in your area, you can do this via the RHS at

www.rhs.org.uk/get-involved/britain-in-bloom/register

www.wigan.gov.uk/Resident/Leisure/In-Bloom

J ogging

49

You’ve spent the entire Christmas holiday binge

watching Netflix and finishing off the Quality

Street. Now it’s time to get moving! For many people

Couch to 5K is the beginner plan of choice.

However, if you’re not in great shape, you might want to

try a ‘lite’ version of this idea called None to Run, which is a

free alternative that takes things at a slower pace. There’s

also a paid-for app which can guide you through each run

on your iPhone or Apple Watch.

www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/couch-to-5k-week-byweek/

www.nonetorun.com/

50

K arate

Wigan Goju Ryu Karate Club was formed in

1999 and has introduced hundreds of students

to karate and produced many adult and cadet black belts.

But if your ambitions aren’t that lofty, that’s fine too, most

members share goals of fun, exercise, and fitness at their

base at Robin Park Leisure Centre. Adults and children

welcome – check out the website for details.

www.wigankarate.co.uk

Litter Picking

If you’re looking to make your community tidier

by picking up litter, just check out the Wigan

Litter Pickers group on Facebook. The group consists of

over 1,500 members from across the borough who take

pride in their own little patch of town.

If you are interested in getting involved in litter picking

or to book litter pickers, bin bags, and a waste collection,

please request online at www.wigan.gov.uk just search

for ‘volunteering’.

M ovies

Wigan Cinema Discussion Group is a

monthly club that brings together film

fans to talk about the many aspects of cinema. Agreeing

in advance which films to watch, the group meet every

month at a chosen location for evenings of informal

discussion that can be as serious, moving, light-hearted

or technical as you would like it to be.

www.facebook.com/groups/wiganfilm/

N etball

If you know your Goal Attack from your Goal

shooter then you’ll know how to play netball,

but did you know that there’s a thriving Netball league

in Wigan? The Wigan Roses Netball league has 10 teams

playing in the league, meeting at Newbridge School

in Platt Bridge and Dean Trust Wigan in Orrell every

Wednesday night.

www.wiganroses.co.uk

O rienteering

If you’re a keen walker who wants a bit of a

challenge, then you might like to take a peek

at the world of orienteering. With more than 60 courses

popping up within a 25-mile radius of Wigan, including

parkland, virtual and wheelchair accessible routes, you’re

sure to find something that takes your fancy.

www.goorienteering.org.uk

Pedalling Power

If you’re new to cycling or looking for moderate

exercise only, then check out Wigan Borough

Community Cycling Club. This group enjoy the great

outdoors without an abundance of Lycra. They cycle

every Tuesday and Thursday from Trencherfield Mill,

covering up to 20-miles, with mandatory café stops.

If you’re looking for a more high-powered challenge, then

check out the Wigan Wheelers and Triathlon Club, which

operates racing events and weekly time trials as well as

swimming, cycling and running sessions.

www.wbccc.uk

www.wiganwheelers.org

Quiz Nights

Not the most active of pursuits admittedly,

but the return walk to the local pub, and the

mental efforts in recollecting the year when the Warriors

won their first Challenge Cup etc. is better than sitting on

the couch watching Corrie.

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52

Roller Skating

Getting fit can be a tedious slog sometimes, but

there’s one imaginative way to achieve fitness

and have fun too! Roller-skating has wheeled through

many dips and rises since its beginnings in the 1880’s but

is undergoing a new surge in popularity.

Wigan Roller Rink boasts Europe’s biggest indoor wooden

rink and is a destination the whole family can enjoy.

www.wiganrollerrink.com

S inging

If you would like to take your vocal cords out for a

spin in 2022, then Wigan Community Choir is the

choir for you. They believe that if you can talk, you can

sing!

Working under the musical direction of Imelda Shirley,

they sing anything from traditional choral and foreign

language songs to folk and pop.

For more information about rehearsal times and

venues please go online at www.facebook.com/

groups/276111479794

Table Tennis

A recent study showed that table tennis

improved more brain function than dancing,

walking or gymnastics. Not only that, it’s a great way

to keep fit all year round. Wigan Table Tennis Club is

a competitive but friendly setup, whose members

practice and hold coaching sessions at Platt Bridge

Community Centre on Victoria Street. So, whether you

want to play in the local leagues or take advantage of

their bat and chat sessions for the over 55’s, get in touch

www.wigantabletennis.com

U 3A

If you take one thing away from this feature it’s

this: If you’re no longer in full time work and

you want to get (or stay active), then join the Wigan U3A!

U3A is a UK-wide movement of locally run groups that

provides a wide range of activities for its members.

The Wigan U3A, has hundreds of members and acts as a

gateway to dozens of activities taking place across the

town. Members also can enjoy social events and coffee

mornings. Membership is just £10 a year and you can join

as many interest groups as you like, for which there may

be an additional charge. www.u3asites.org.uk/wigan

V olunteering

There are dozens of groups in the Wigan area

that are looking for volunteers to help them

do their good works. You can help support a range of

schemes including youth justice, mentoring, community

work and more.

Check out the website below to help you choose from a

selection of local volunteering opportunities.

www.wigan.gov.uk/Council/The-Deal/Volunteering

Forget the jam-making, today’s

Women’s Institute is a modern

organisation suitable for all ages.

During the pandemic, members

rushed to support foodbanks, arrange book deliveries

and create craft kits for families home-schooling their

children. Local WI’s meet in Appley Bridge, Standish,

Parbold, Newburgh, Aspull & Haigh. www.thewi.org.uk

X-perience Days

Fancy ticking off a few things on your bucket

list in 2022? This website contains a glut of

active experiences. Fancy a flying lesson, doing Britain’s

highest bungee jump, rock climbing, quad biking… you

can find these and thousands of other experiences on the

website below. www.experiencedays.co.uk

Y oga

The benefits of Yoga are well documented, and

you too can improve your strength, balance

and flexibility in 2022 by giving yoga a try. Hot yoga is

supposed to increase these benefits and can leave you

feeling calmer – and you can try it in Standish at Yogatown

on Almond Brook. www.yogatown.co.uk

Z zzz

Experts believe sleep and exercise have a

bidirectional relationship. In other words, the

more active you are during the day, the better quality

of sleep. And getting an adequate amount of sleep may

promote healthier physical activity levels the day after.

53

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Get in the Zen

Help yourself make it through

the final stages of winter with a

home refresh that includes natural

materials, uplifting colours, snuggly

textures and delicious scents.

Every year, Dulux colour experts

translate global design trends into the

new Colour of the Year. The shade for

2022 is Bright Skies, an airy and fresh

tone that opens up and breathes new

life into any space. dulux.co.uk.

Prioritise Comfort and Calm

• Let in the light! Clean your windows, pull your

curtains back and make sure blinds don’t hang

down and obscure the sunshine. There’s no greater

feel-good factor than natural light, especially

necessary at this time of year.

• Choose colours for the way they make you feel.

For cocooning at home, the best bets may be soft,

nature-inspired colours such as sky blue, misty

green and pastel pink.

• Choose natural materials as much as possible.

From wool and linen to bamboo and oak, they look

gorgeous, have an enjoyable texture and don’t ‘offgas’

noxious chemicals into your home.

Complete with Blue Lace Agate

crystals, this hand-poured, luxury

soy wax candle is infused with

natural essential oils to help you

de-stress, with soothing scents of

sweet orange, rose geranium and

ylang ylang.

Time for Calm Blue Lace agate crystal

candle, £32, aroralondon.com.

• Use all your senses. Add snuggly throws and

cushions for the ultimate in comforting texture, and

ensure that your home does not echo unpleasantly

by throwing down soft rugs and, where necessary,

adding wall hangings to dampen down unnecessary

sound.

• Create a feeling of relaxation with careful choices

of home fragrance. Natural wax candles made

with essential oils are better for you than paraffin

candles that use synthetic fragrances, or an electric

diffuser will fill your home with soothing scents and

can safely be left unattended.

Make a statement

(and do some

calming hanging

around) with an

indoor/outdoor

hanging chair.

Nest hanging rattan

outdoor chair, £395,

roseandgrey.co.uk.

55

Combining a natural, organic quality with a curvy,

contemporary design, this light would work as well above a

dining table as it would in a living space or a bedroom.

Lark pendant light in natural bamboo, £189, cultfurniture.com.

Fill with water, add a few drops of essential oil, and at

the touch of a button this pretty polyresin diffuser will

infuse the air around you with a fine mist of scented

vapour, as well as emitting a relaxing ambient light.

Made by Zen gem diffuser, £67.99, dobbies.com.

A simple desk, great storage, plenty of light and a gorgeous view: what

could be nicer for your home office?

Vandsted bamboo desk, £149.99; Vasby velvet dining chair, £79.99; both

jysk.co.uk.

Woven from 100% recycled plastic, this

contemporary garden rug is lightweight yet

weather-resistant and durable, perfect for

adding colour and style to your patio, decking

or paved seating area.

Ada Botanical outdoor rug (120 x 180cm),

£17.99, homescapesonline.com.

You won’t be able to resist

cuddling this soft and tactile

cushion, a lovely addition to a

chair, sofa or bed.

Lia faux sheepskin cushion,

£56, lovasi.co.uk.

This extra-deep love seat is soft and cosy,

perfect for settling down with a good

book or in front of a favourite movie.

Truffle love seat chaise, £1,645, loaf.com.

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Adventure of a Lifetime

Experiencing travel in the

past few months has been

like riding a rollercoaster.

The excitement of once

again being able to travel

has been thwarted by the

need to produce passenger

locator forms and adhere

to ever-changing traffic

light guidelines.

If there’s one upside for

those who have reduced their travel in 20/21, it’s that

most have increased funds available to spend on future

holidays. The expectation of the travel industry is that

we’re likely to be more discerning when choosing future

holiday locations.

So, who’s ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Welcome

to Iceland.

One of Europe’s most magical and unforgettable spots,

Iceland is a picture-perfect destination for travellers.

Dubbed the land of fire and ice, Iceland is a captivating

country where volcanoes, glaciers come together to

create a landscape that is like nowhere else on Earth. With

friendly locals, spectacular scenery, lots of adventure, and

a lively party scene, everyone should experience Iceland

at least once in their life.

From the seasoned city

break traveller looking

for something new, to

the adventurous family

set on a road trip round,

and the hedonistic party

lover looking for an

‘Instagrammable’ hotspot

– Iceland is a destination

for all.

Iceland is also becoming

an increasingly popular cruise destination, especially for

those who want to reach Iceland’s natural wonders and

wildlife. A selection of cruises from Fred.Olsen depart

from Liverpool and allows tourists to explore Iceland’s

most incredible highlights.

Here’s eight places that should be on your ‘Must Visit’ list

for Iceland:

Reykjavik blends Nordic heritage with a contemporary,

distinctly unique style, and this lively city is compact,

cosmopolitan and refreshingly different. Its charming

downtown of painted timber homes is watched over by

the soaring and unforgettable spire of the Hallgrimskirkja

church, while oodles of hearty Scandinavian vodka bars

and taverns litter the streets.

Mt. Kirkjufell

59

Seljalandsfoss Falls

Twenty-five miles from the capital is Iceland’s most visited

tourist attraction, The Blue Lagoon. Despite its

volcanic nature, the site was formed from the remnants

of a geothermal power plant in the 1970s. The mineralpacked

waters, – the reason for the shimmering, whitish

hue of the lagoon – is the driving force behind the spot’s

famed healing powers.

The majestic Gullfoss Waterfall roaring over the

escarpments and bluffshas long been a highlight for

tourists. It’s famous as one of the world’s most dramatic

waterfalls, and cascades over a series of stepped rocks

and terraces before plunging over a 100ft high gap

seemingly disappearing into the Icelandic subterrane.

The waterfall can often be arched over by rainbows

or shrouded in plumes of mist, added to the graphic

effects.

As the self-proclaimed capital of Iceland’s North,

Akureyri boasts one of the most beautiful harbours

in the country, whilst the town and its surrounding fjords

and mountains make it one of the most charming places

to visit. This fishing port and seaside gem is packed with

interesting independent cafes and teahouses, while

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60

Husavik

Skaftafell Ice Cave

the Hafnarstraeti shopping street offers up countless

boutiques and craft stores.

An easy 50-minute drive from the capital, Strokkur

Geysir (after which all geysers are named) is the most

popular fountain geyser in Iceland. This highly active hot

spring area lies by the Hvítá River and is a popular stop for

tourists. Boiling mud pits and around 100 other smaller

geysers are waiting to be explored here. ‘Hot Spring’

bread is popular with visitors too, rye bread that’s been

baking in hot springs for 24 hours.

Fully expanding on the multitude of attractions in

Iceland would have filled this issue of Local Life and a

few more besides. If there’s anything that the past two

years have highlighted though, it’s the importance of

making the most of your holiday time. In fact, it’s time

to ditch holidays and go on adventures instead – and

Iceland certainly qualifies as an adventure not to be

missed!

Vatnajökull National Park is one of three national

parks in Iceland and consists of glaciers and stunning ice

caves. The best time to visit Skaftafell Ice Cave is during

winter after heavy rain has washed the top layer of the

glacier away. If seen at the right time, the cave is bathed

in spectacular blue light. If you are in healthy shape, you

might consider doing a glacial trek in the park with an

experienced guide.

Grundarfjördur is approximately 2½ hours from

Reykjavik and is a small town centrally located on the

north coast of Snaefellsnes peninsula. The town lies in

a picturesque fjord, surrounded by mountains, with

Mt. Kirkjufell looming as a striking landmark. Eyrbyggja

Heritage Centre holds exhibitions on Grundarfjördur’s

seafaring history and this is the information centre for the

whole peninsula.

Húsavík is known as Europe’s number one spot for

whale and dolphin watching; in most summers, the tour

operators have 100% sighting rates. This picturesque

town, which enjoys gorgeous views over Skjálfandi Bay,

has many cute cafés and restaurants. Close by is Lake

Mývatn, a shallow volcanic lake known for its flora and

fauna, and Vatnajökull National Park.

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

Call 01942 216 058

www.millthropcottage.co.uk

61

Bespoke Kitchens ~ Bedrooms ~ Studies & Media Units

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n Free virtual plan and design service

n Media quarter now open in showroom

n Transform your bedroom with our sliding wardrobes

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Trade

Customers

welcome

Unit 4, Conway Trading Estate, Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DW

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CabinetMastersNorthWestLtd

www.cabinetmastersnorthwestltd.com

Showroom Opening Hours: 9am-5pm Mon- Thur, 9am-4pm Fri, 9am-1pm Sat

62

Investment Mistakes

Firstly, here’s to a happy, healthy,

and Prosperous 2022 to all Local

Life readers. Whilst life is slowly

starting to creep back towards

some form of normality, there

remains lots of opportunities

and challenges for both new and

existing investors.

Although there has been concern

around Covid throughout 2021,

markets have generally performed well, and investors will

have enjoyed decent gains. It is really important however

that investors are not swayed by emotion and/or shortterm

market movements as investment fundamentals

remain key for successful long-term investment .

There are several common errors that investors can make

– here’s a few to look out for.

Unrealistic Time Horizons

Usually, investors are far too conservative. With medical

treatment becoming far more effective, most people are

now living far longer than they imagine they will. Clearly,

the danger is that funds will be depleted before their lives

are over. It is important to have a sound financial strategy

that will provide stability throughout one’s life.

Investment Objectives / Portfolio Strategy

Aligning your investment objectives with your portfolio

strategy is critical to determining your long-term

investment success. Generally, the longer the investment

time horizon, the more risk one can take on. Too many

investors focus on short-term volatility rather than

focusing on long-term probabilities of achieving their

objectives. Those with a short time horizon objective that

overly expose themselves to risk can create a real danger

of asset loss during a short-term period of volatility, which

can put their entire financial future in jeopardy.

Overlooking Risk Factors

Managing a diversified portfolio can be fraught with

hidden risks. Too often portfolios are overexposed to

certain risk factors that were never properly recognised.

Factors such as sector, country and currency all play

David Barton

APFS Cert CII (MP)

Chief Executive Officer

a role in a sensibly diversified

portfolio. Quite often two different

securities that, on the face of it,

appear different, can have similar

correlation, and consequently

market factors can affect both

holdings in the same way.

Ignoring Global Markets

If you suffer from a home country

bias (even with diversification

across different sectors) the returns are still in part linked

to the overall economic performance and political climate

of the home country. Geographical diversification is a key

part to building a well-constructed portfolio that will

grow your assets. Investing abroad can help strengthen

your portfolio by creating a larger pool of opportunities

from which to find worthy investments.

Over Confidence

It is only natural to experience emotional fluctuations as

you watch the ups and downs of the market each day, after

all it’s your financial future. Many investors focus on their

successes and forget the mistakes they have made and this

may lead to taking on excessive portfolio risk. That is why

it is vital to create an environment that is detached from

emotion, one that relies on data and impartial analysis to

make the right decisions for your financial future.

Have you made any of these mistakes?

It is very difficult to avoid all investment pitfalls - even for

the most experienced of investors. Many investors simply

do not have the time or resource to process the vast

amount of data available, and then to apply it correctly to

their personal investment requirement.

If you need any guidance please do not hesitate to

get in touch on 01257 423800. The initial consultation

is at our expense and is without obligation.

The value of investment and the income from them can fluctuate which may result in clients receiving

less than initially invested. Past performance should not be seen as an indication to future returns.

64

Puzzle Pages

CROSSWORD

across

3. Onyx marble (9)

8. Crack in a lip caused usually by cold (4)

9. Pretending one set of feelings and acting under

the influence of another (3-5)

10. Glacial period in Earth’s history (3,3)

13. Greek muse of love poetry (5)

14. Painfully desirous of another’s advantages (7)

down

1. Copyist, scribe (9)

2. Implanted device that controls heartbeat (9)

4. Milky plant substance that coagulates on

exposure to air (5)

5. Sell illicit products such as drugs or alcohol (7)

6. Unwanted email (4)

7. Fencing sword (4)

11. Mental illness in which the mind is dominated

by a single thought or idea (9)

12. Of a triangle, having two sides of equal length (9)

14. Container used to store jam, dried fruit, etc (3)

15. Facility caring for the terminally ill (7)

18. Make cloth by interlacing threads (5)

19. Strong, forceful wind (4)

20. Mammal having partially webbed feet; valued

for its fur (4)

15. Ugly, evil-looking old woman (3)

16. Citizen who has a legal right to vote (7)

17. Devoutly religious (5)

21. Breathe out (6)

22. Early Christian church (8)

23. Bake in a kiln so as to harden (4)

24. Apiarist (9)

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: 20 or more words

Good: 16 words

W

T

N

R

I

E

Fair: 12 words

65

WORDSEARCH

Music

Banjo

Drum

Bass

Flute

Bodhran

Guitar

Castanet

Harp

Cello

Mandolin

Chimes

Oboe

Cittern

Pennywhistle

Clarinet

Piano

Cornet

Cymbal

Didgeridoo

Sitar

Tambourine

Trumpet

Viola

Violin

SUDOKU

word LADDER

Change one letter at a time (but not the position

of any letter) to make a new word - and move from

the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the

bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.

FOOT

WIGGLE WORDS

CLUE: to talk

nonsense and say

things that aren’t true.

Trace a path through all

the letters to find the

word or phrase that fits

the clue.

R I A T

T F H O

O O L L

B E F U

YARD

All the puzzle solutions can be found

on page 71 of this magazine

66

CMA Accountancy

Self Assessment - on Time, Saves Fines!

By Kieran Fitzgerald MAAT

We’ve spent the last few editions discussing all things

MTD and Xero, however it’s time to dial in and talk

about the one thing you’ve put off the whole year… Self-

Assessment. The deadline for the Self-Assessment

Return for the Tax Year Ending 5th April 2021 is fast

approaching. You need to ensure you have submitted

your return online by 31st January 2022.

Remember, a Self-Assessment Return isn’t purely for the

self-employed, you need to complete a return if you:

• Are a director of a limited company

• Receive income from renting out a property

• Have earnings relating to your savings, investments

and dividends

• Receive income from foreign sources

• Earn tips or commission payments

If you earn more than £1,000 from these sources then you

fall within the criteria to submit a return, so get in touch

as soon as possible if you think this might apply to you!

If this is your first year submitting a Self-Assessment

Return, perhaps because you finally took the plunge and

set up a side hustle during the COVID lockdowns, you may

be unaware of complexities in the UK tax system for those

who submit Self Assessments, and could find yourself

with a higher tax bill that you were expecting!

In addition to the tax you owe for the current year, you

may be required to make ‘payments on account’ towards

next year if you are a UK taxpayer, who pays less than 80%

of your income tax at source, and your overall tax bill for

the year is over £1,000.

Payments on account are advanced payments towards

your following year’s income tax bill. The amount that you

have to make for each payment on account is equal to half

of your previous year’s tax bill. So, if your tax bill for the

2020/21 tax year is £2,000, then you would need to make

two payments on account of £1,000 (totalling £2,000)

toward the 2021/22 tax bill.

Payments on account are due on the 31st January during

the tax year, and the 31st July after the end of the year.

For instance, you will be required to make payments on

the 31st January 2022 and 31st July 2022 towards your

income tax for the 2021/22 tax year, based upon your

earnings for the 2020/21 tax year, despite the fact that

your Self-Assessment Return will not be due until 31st

January 2023 for the 2021/22 tax year.

If the payments on account you make are greater than

the next tax bill you have, the difference will be refunded,

either via a bank transfer/cheque or by deducting the

refund from your next tax bill.

If you haven’t got all of this in hand, allow us to take the

burden from you and complete this on your behalf. We

might be able to help you claim certain tax reliefs you

have not previously considered, and reduce your tax

bill! Get on top of your Self-Assessment now and allow

yourself a stress-free New Year.

Our expert team of accountants are ready to help with

all aspects of your Self-Assessment needs. Check out

our website at www.cma-accountancy.com for the latest

and greatest tips, and you might want to sign up to our

weekly newsletters whilst you’re there!

Check out our website at www.cma-accountancy.com for

the latest and greatest tips, and you might want to sign

up to our weekly newsletters whilst you’re there!

Kieran Fitzgerald – CMA Accountancy

39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR

01257 255521 info@cma-accountancy.com

www.cma-accountancy.com

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

Used car bargains:

the models that are escaping

the big price rises

In recent months, with new car production badly affected

by a shortage of components – namely due to limited

supplies of semiconductors, which are used in everything

from reversing cameras to safety assistance systems –

buyers are flocking to used cars like never before.

It’s having a huge knock-on effect on the prices of used

cars too – especially on the models with long waiting

times for a brand-new version. In fact, recent data from

automotive analysts Cap HPI showed that values rose

by 20.3 per cent in a five month period, with some cars

jumping in value by nearly 50 per cent in that time.

It means that used cars are now pricier than they’ve

ever been. However, there is still a range of models that

continue to offer great value for money. Here are the used

car bargains still available.

BMW X3 M Competition

BMW’s M division is best known for its sports saloons

like the M3 and M5, but these days the brand’s sporty

SUVs play an equally important part. Take the X3 M

Competition, for example, the brand’s entry-level M

model in the SUV line-up – though with its 503bhp twin

turbo 3.0-litre engine under the bonnet, it’s far from basic

in terms of performance.

If you wanted a new model it would set you back an eyewatering

£83,000 (and that’s before you’ve chosen any

optional extras). But by looking at used versions instead

you can save a considerable chunk of money. We found

a 2020 car with just 5,000 miles on the clock for £60,000,

which is a vast saving off the original list price.

69

Vauxhall Astra

Though Vauxhall’s

Astra might not be

the most aspirational

car in its class, that

has never harmed

its popularity. And it’s this that works to its advantage if

you’re looking for a bargain, as with the huge choice of

models available, it helps to guarantee you a great deal

on a used example.

So while the soon-to-be-replaced Astra might cost you

£20,000 new, by looking at nearly-new versions you can

quite easily save yourself well in excess of £5,000. We

spotted a 2020 car with under 10,000 miles on the clock

for just £13,495 – you’d struggle to find a new city car for

that price. While it’s often overlooked, the Astra is still

good to drive, looks good and has a practical interior that

is ideal for families.

Volkswagen Arteon

Sometimes the best trick to finding a used car bargain is

to choose a car that flies under the radar, and one great

example is the Volkswagen Arteon. It’s the brand’s most

‘executive’ model these days, yet despite its striking

design it’s often cast aside by buyers who favour a more

premium badge.

By doing so they’re missing out on its refined driving

experience, upmarket interior and efficient engines,

though. However, you can use this to your benefit, as

a 2020 car in high-spec R-Line trim with low miles is

available from around £26,000 – an almost ridiculous

£13,000 less than the list price of a new example. So, while

used car values might be rising at a silly rate, there are

most certainly still bargains that can be had.

Audi e-tron

Due to the increased

popularity of electric

cars, it often means

bargains are quite

rare. One exception to that rule is the Audi e-tron – the

brand’s flagship SUV – which, despite its high-quality,

tech-laden interior and comfortable drive isn’t holding its

value quite as well as you might expect.

But that just makes it a terrific used buy, especially as a

2020 car with under 10,000 miles on the clock can be had

for £45,000 – a huge £15,000 saving on what you’d pay

for a brand-new model. Just be aware that this applies to

the ‘50’ model with the smaller battery option, which only

allows for an electric range of around 200 miles.

Mercedes SL

While Mercedes

might be gearing

up to launch its new

‘SL’ as its convertible

flagship, its recently axed predecessor is well worth

your attention. Though more old-school in its character,

this glamorous drop-top is still dripping in class, with a

punchy engine that would prove effortless on the longdistance

trips this Mercedes is meant for.

Though no longer available to buy new, a factory-fresh

version would have set you back upwards of £80,000.

But today, you could expect to find a one-year-old

example with just a few thousand miles on the clock for

around £65,000 - a very generous saving off the original

asking price.

Vehicle Repairs ~ Servicing

Diagnostics ~ Air Conditioning

Exhausts ~ Tyres ~ MOT’s

Unit 3 – Otterswood Square

Martland Mill Ind. Est.

Wigan WN5 0LF

01942 211 986

07961 135 393

www.jdmechanical.com

info@jdmechanical.com

JD Mechanical Services

For friendly

advice, affordable

rates and over 30

years expertise,

call us today.

AIR-CON SERVICING

70

M.O.T. & Service Centre

WE NOW OFFER HYBRID SERVICING

O MOT (Cars, Light Commercials & Motorcyles)

O Hybrid Servicing

O Service & Repairs (Petrol & Diesel)

O Air-Con Servicing

O Diagnostics

O Tyres

Tel: Allan 01257 254934 | www.ataylorautorepairs.co.uk

7 Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Nr. Wigan, Lancs WN6 9AP

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

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save

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We’ll fix your;

Paintwork Scratches

Bumper Scuffs

Alloy Wheel Damage

Minor Dents

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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

71

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

Puzzle Solutions

CROSSWORD

WORDWHEEL

Across: 3. Alabaster, 8. Chap, 9. Two-faced, 10. Ice age, 13. Erato, 14. Jealous, 15. Hag,

16. Elector, 17. Pious, 21. Exhale, 22. Basilica, 23. Fire, 24. Beekeeper.

DOWN: 1. Scrivener, 2. Pacemaker, 4. Latex, 5. Bootleg, 6. Spam, 7. Épée, 11. Monomania,

12. Isosceles, 14. Jar, 15. Hospice, 18. Weave, 19. Gale, 20. Mink.

aNSWER:

WINTER

T I

W N

E

R

WORDSEARCH SUDOKU WIGGLE

WORDS

PUB QUIZ

To Be Full of Hot Air

WORD

LADDER

Here is one possible

solution (others may exist)

FOOT

hoot

hood

hoed

heed

herd

hard

YARD

1. Alan Turing

2. Volkswagen

3. Little Mix

4. Boohoo.com

5. Harry Kane and Harry Maguire

6. Liverpool

7. Bitcoin

8. The Great Ouse

9. Anthony Hopkins

10. USA, China and Japan

72

What is good

garden design?

Award Winner

Hubby has a favourite saying. It goes something like

“I thought the garden was finished”. Well for me, the

design of your garden is every bit as important as

the interior design of your home, and as your home

is continually undergoing changes in terms of redecoration,

new furniture and so on, so it is with the

garden.

A well planned garden that is good to look at will

make you want to use it all year round and in these

days of limited space the best gardens work as an

extension of the home. The key to success is the

coming together of practicality and good looks.

Garden design is all about making your outside

space work for you by matching your needs and

wants with the constraints of your plot ie. size, aspect, soil

type and so on. These are the things you can’t change.

Gardens also have to fulfil a number of needs – planting

to give texture and colour and to soften hard landscaping;

space for relaxation, entertaining and cooking; room

for childrens’ play, and space for growing some herbs or

vegetables.

Here are my top design principles:

• Use texture to create interest – both in planting and

hard landscaping

• Incorporate a lawn and whenever possible - real grass

if you can - not the plastic variety. A lawn gives a

wonderful foil for planting, it is safe for children to play

on, environmentally sound and good for wildlife

• Use focal points around the garden and in borders to

by Angie Barker

draw the eye and make your garden unique. This can

be something as simple as a large pot or bird bath

• Include more than one seating area wherever space

allows. This will give you the option of viewing the

garden from a different aspect and at different times of

the day in sun

• Decide what style or look you are going for – clean

lines suggest contemporary whereas curves are more

traditional. You should try and blend the look with the

style of your house

• Above all, the garden must meet the needs of your

family and work for them

So as the new year gets underway, give some thought

to your outside space, because now could be the perfect

time to make some changes. (Hubby puts his head in his

hands).

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

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

3 Tree Dismantling,

Felling & Pruning

3 Crown Reduction,

Thinning & Lifts

3 Pollarding

3 Removal of dead,

dying & diseased

trees

3 Stump Grinding

3 Hedge Trimming & Removal

We also sell hardwood seasoned logs

Call today for your FREE quotation:

01257 435501 07805 325231

www.jjhtreesolutions.co.uk

73

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

Quality Fencer

required for

these pages

Call 01695 627 999

LocalLife


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

QUALIFIED & INSURED

FREE ESTIMATES

TELEPHONE:

01695 623 909

07903 290 878

www.gardenrescue-treeservices.com

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 363630

BILLINGE BASED

74

Driveways - Paving

Fencing - Turfing

Decking - Artificial Grass

Our aim is to deliver a

creative, personal service

adhering to our customers

requirements and within

budget.

All aspects of garden design

& build - from large projects

to small makeovers

www.pdhomeandgarden.co.uk

07946 751308

01942 206503

Felled

Topped

Pruned

Re-Shaped

Stump Grinding

•

•

• 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

GARDEN GATES

£159

fitted

Call

Graham

07801 300 842

01257 425 958

www.ashfieldhomeimprovements.co.uk

crown reduction

Fencing

Flagging

Turfing

Artificial Grass

Call us today for a free

no obligation quote

07879 024070

01925 271108

01942 387067

crown Thinning

20%

OFF

ALL

autumn

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Email: fourseasons.treespecialists@gmail.com

• Landscaping

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WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON

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MOBILE

07796 494 463

All tree work including

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• Stump Grinding Service

• Fencing & Decking

• Turfing &

Artificial

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Man

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75

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.

Call Paul

Locksmiths

Established 2000

A Registered Insured NCFE Certified Company

Call Paul for a Fast, Reliable, Professional Service

• 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

TELEPHONE

01942 901103

MOBILE

07932 718362

WWW.CALLPAULLOCKSMITH.CO.UK

76

A.J.S.

BAILEYS

ELECTRICAL

All electrical work undertaken

Free quotations

• Friendly reliable service

• Mains board upgrades

• Extra sockets to full rewires

• Cctv & Ajax wireless alarm

01942 215 769

07739 709 005

a Installation & Maintenance

a Inspection & Testing

a Nest Pro Installer

a CCTV & Alarms

Tel: 07738 117712

Orrell based

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

Call: 0800 6446100

or 07904 127663

Covering all North West Areas

4 NAPIT part ‘P’ registered

4 JIB Approved Technician

4 38 Years Experience

4 Local, Honest & Reliable

4 Domestic

4 Industrial & Commercial

JIB Approved Electrician

All domestic electrical work

24/7 call out service

Friendly, reliable &

professional

Call 07557 795 892

www.johnboughey-electrical.com

Parbold/Wigan Areas

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

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

All Electrical Installations,

Maintenance & Repairs

From full re-wires to

outside lighting to socket

replacements

No job too small

24/7 emergency call-out

with no call-out charges

Over 30 years’ experience

Call Steve on

07874 352501 or 01744 368055

www.billingeelctrical.co.uk

77

Having a Clear Out?

Whatever you’re clearing – call us today!

• House & garden

• Garage or Shed

Fast, RELIABLE and

PROFESSIONAL service

northwestwaste

• Office, Warehouse or Shop

• Probate

Our services are;

4 Cheaper than a skip

4 Fully licenced by the

Environmental Agency

4 Completed by smart and

friendly staff

The Meadows, Ruskin Drive, St Helens, WA10 6RP

01744 758 349 / 07557 764 940

Email: transport@northwestwaste.co.uk

www.northwestwaste.co.uk

Man

& a Van

available for

removals

• Interior & Exterior Decorating

• Trustworthy & Reliable

• Fully qualified with 15 years

experience

No job too big or too small

Call Gavin for a free estimate on

07870 632 041

gavowen1984@gmail.com

• Quality workmanship

• Interior & exterior

work

• No job too

big or too

small

01942 392398

or 07707 321383

Need a new

look for your

home?

Skilled interior and

exterior work undertaken

at reasonable prices!

Chris Smith - Painter and

Decorator

01257 415388

or 07545 065119

Shevington based business

4 Exterior & Interior

Decorating

4 Domestic &

Commercial work

undertaken

4 Competitive rate

Award Winner

Contact Graham now

free estimate provided

01257 426234

07954 139069

graham@topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk

J&P

MOORCROFT

LTD

Professional Painting

and Decorating

• Domestic & Commercial

Work

• Interior & Exterior work

welcomed

• Old/listed buildings a

speciality

Call us today for a free quotation

Home Service available

Choose from 1000s of paint &

paper samples in the comfort of

our own home

Quality Tiler

required for

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01942 212096

07831 102 511

www.jpmoorcroft.com

Call 01695 627 999

www.topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk LocalLife www.locallife247.co.uk

for

as

78

FROM

£85

regular sweep & checks

new homeowner inspections

professional & reliable

01942 387079

book online at mr-soot.com

Quality Removals

required for

these pages

Call 01695 627 999

LocalLife


Wigan’s premier domestic

cleaning service

Aspinall’s

Chimney Sweep

• Chimney Sweeping

• Chimney Pots & Cowls – supplied & fitted

• Bird Nests removed & Birdguards fitted

• Chimney Stacks re-pointed

• CCTV Chimney Inspections

No Mess Guaranteed!

ContaCT

Patrick

for a free quote

01942 375 076

07449 456 980

www.aspinallschimneys.co.uk

e-mail patrick@aspinallschimneys.co.uk

prices

start from

£45

let us clean your oven so

you don’t have to!

• professional oven cleaning

• environmentally friendly

• we repair ovens too!

call Steven on 07393 818 392

www.ovenrescue.co.uk/wigan

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

Design & Print

Flyers, postcards, brochures

Quality carpets & flooring, expertly fitted at competitive prices

and distribution service.

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)

Carpets and Rugs

Laminate Flooring

Hard Wood Flooring

www.bespoke-floors.co.uk | bespoke@wjdflooring.co.uk

No.2 The Old Smithy, Church Road,

Rainford WA11 8HD

01744 88 55 14

Bespoke Fl oring is the trading name of WJD Retail

& Online Solutions Ltd – Company Number 1248484

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


A l Saints’ Primary School | Finch Lane | Appley Bridge | WN6 9DT

01257 252647

www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com


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

79

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

• Professional Carpet, Rug

& Upholstery Cleaning

• Leather Cleaning & Restoration

• FREE Pre-Inspection Visit & Quotation

T: 01942 409401

M: 07881 816839

helen@carrolls-cleaning.co.uk

• Business Telephone

Systems

• Voip & Structured Cabling

• Residential Extensions

• Faults & Gen Enq

Call today for a free consultation

& no obligation quote

Call - 01257 251221

Mobile - 07908 770808

www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk

New Name -

Same Fantastic Cleans!

• 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

Call us

today for

a free quote

01942 470 081

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

Tel: 01942 441221

Askus@LJTelecomServices.co.uk

www.LJTelecomServices.com

Quality Upholsterer

required for

these pages

Call 01695 627 999

LocalLife


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

www.alliancecleaningsystems.co.uk

e: sales@alliancecleaningsystems.co.uk

80

Total Cleaning North West

www.totalcleaningnorthwest.co.uk

Unit 6a,

1 Miry Lane,

Wigan

WN3 4AG

One-stop cleaning jobs for your home and garden

• Clean your dirty Driveway or Patio

• Clear out your blocked gutters with our video SkyVac

• Make your Conservatory sparkle • Render cleaning

• Clean Gutters, Soffits and Fascias

• We’ll leave Carpets & Upholstery clean and fresh

Check out our fantastic 5* reviews on Facebook & Google

Call or text David now for a no obligation quote

£60

FIXED PRICE

GUTTER

CLEARING

ONLY

01942 530483 • 07771 924 887 • www.totalcleaningnorthwest.co.uk

Call Clint for a free no obligation quote

01942 470 089

07834 241 642

www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com

get your

gutters

cleared

Book any service

FREE!

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

Quality Tiler

required for

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Call 01695 627 999

LocalLife


Elite

Bathrooms

& Wet Room Installation

• Bathrooms • Wet Rooms

• Wall & Floor Tiling

Please call for a FREE Estimates

07703 448890

01942 208926

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

AGBathrooms.net

Quality bathrooms at

reasonable prices

Complete bathroom

installations from design

to completion.

For free quotes, call Adrian on

07816 394 292

Check out our work on

www.AGBathrooms.net

Convert your bath to a

Walk-In Shower

AJC

WALK IN SHOWERS

Typical price

£2200

Fully guaranteed

One day installation

No mess - no fuss

Easy to clean & maintain

Call Anthony on

07919 876 825

Workshop address: Bulldog Tools Ind. Est.

Darlington Street East, Wigan WN1 3BT

Microshop address: Hardshaw Centre,

Church Street, St. Helens WA10 1EB

We also fit full bathrooms!

Aerial & Sky

Services

RX-12 Digital TV Aerials

£75 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

01257 277802

07966 488585

Call anytime for a quote or email:

andy@aerialandskyservices.co.uk

TT20778

www.aerialandskyservices.co.uk

• TV Aerials Installed

• TV Wall Mounting

• Telephone Lines

• Setup Service

Ring Paul on

01942 514 532

07709 490 095

81

for

as

82

651511

Boiler Installation

Boiler Servicing & Repairs

Boiler Finance Available

Landlords Gas Safety Reports

Experienced, Reliable & Friendly Service

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

0%

Finance

available

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

• Brand New Bathrooms

• Boiler + Central Heating

Installs, Servicing + Repairs

• Extended warranties

available

• 24 Hour Call-out

Freephone:

0300 3030121

Dave: 07769 942218

Matt: 07969 183809

506515

FINANCE

OPTIONS

AVAILABLE

• Domestic + Commercial

New showroom opening soon at:

2a Gathurst Lane, Shevington WN6 8HA

Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk

www.orrellheating.co.uk

Quality Tiler

required for

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Call 01695 627 999

Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan LocalLife www.locallife247.co.uk

Installation ~ Repairs ~ Service

Design & Print



Central Heating Systems

Boilers & Gas Appliances

General Plumbing

Gas Safety Certificates

Call Andy for a free quote on

01942 564 226

07397 391 935



Carpets and Rugs

Laminate Flooring

Hard Wood Flooring



Rainford WA11 8HD

01744 88 55 14



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




Call 01695 627 999







£29 for a fu l day










01257 252647


Over 70

Lancashire

walks

FREE to download at

locallife247.co.uk

acampbellheatingandgas

597379

LocalLife


LocalLife

83

We’ve got you covered

for all aspects of

plumbing and heating

Boilers Gas Heating Plumbing Drainage

Installation • Maintenance • Repairs

626792

Want a new boiler with

ZERO upfront cost?

Pay monthly with servicing and warranty included.

Call us now to find out how!

01942 575730

07565 060530

166 Gidlow Lane • Wigan • WN6 7EA

www.blueflameltd.co.uk

craig@blueflameltd.co.uk

Family run business with 20+ years experience.

Check out our reviews:

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

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

Registration No.

88604

WE REPAIR ALL

MAKES OF BOILERS!

Telephone:

01257 421 660

Tel: 01942 504 429

Mob: 07515 505 501

Accredited Installer & Service Partner

84

Home Security:

How safe is

your home?

The ways in which we protect our homes have changed.

From CCTV systems to good old-fashioned burglar

alarms, the list of home security gadgets is endless. But

just how safe is your home?

Last year there were more than 260,000 cases of home

burglary in the UK, the majority of which were conducted

by amateur thieves. Statistics show that your home is

five times more likely to be targeted if no visible security

measures are in place.

How do I know if my home is secure?

With an understanding of basic theft prevention and

an assessment of your property’s security, you will

be in a better position than most to know if security

improvements are needed.

Keep valuables out of sight

Removing valuables from an outside viewpoint gives

thieves no reason to target your property. This includes

car keys, smart devices, bags and jewellery. Even the

packaging of expensive items shouldn’t be left outside as

this acts as an advertisement to criminals.

Check for vulnerable entry points

Forcing entry to a doorway is the most common tactic

for burglars to enter your property. Ensure all entrance

points are secured with suitable locking mechanisms.

Windowless doors with a minimum of two locks are best.

Keep sheds and garages secure

Thieves will often enter a rear garden to obtain tools from

a shed or garage. Never give an intruder the opportunity

to use your own belongings against you.

Think like a thief

Attempt to gain access to your own home without using

a key. Understanding your home’s weaknesses will help

you to understand what improvements are needed.

Don’t make it easy for them

If you lose your house keys, replace the locks immediately.

You should never leave house keys under the doormat or

flowerpot; this is the first place intruders will check.

The most effective methods for

protecting your home

Under lock and key – the simplest solutions are always

the most effective. Over 70% of home intruders gain

access to properties by entering the front door.

Always ensure it remains locked, along with all other

entrances, windows, gates and garages.

Let there be light – outdoor security lighting on

timers or infrared motion sensors are a low-cost

solution for deterring would-be intruders. Make sure

you focus on dimly lit areas, which are hotspots for

attacks, muggings and altercations with criminals

who can take possession of your house or car keys.

Smile for the camera – an alternative option to a full

CCTV system without breaking the bank is a wireless

doorbell camera. Burglars tend to knock on the front

door before entering a property, to check if anyone is

at home. With a door camera you will naturally deter

intruders, be able to see who is knocking on your

smart device and have the added benefit of recording

their face should future evidence be required.

Home and away – the longer a house is uninhabited

the more vulnerable it becomes. Use automatic

lighting and timers for electronic devices to come on

in the evenings, to give the illusion that your house

remains occupied.

Play it safe – if all of the above fails and an intruder

has managed to enter your property, fear not. With

a simple safe box your goods

stand a better chance of

remaining in your home. Fixing

your safe securely in place in a

hidden spot is the tried

and tested method

for preventing thieves

escaping with your

valuables.

for

as

85

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

Alarm installations,

repairs & upgrades

Domestic and commercial

work welcome

Free security assessment provided

DF

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

Installations,

Upgrades

& Repairs

Winstanley-based

www.gdrdriveways.com

Call Gareth for a FREE quotation: 01942 217 113 or 07715 177 754

ALARMS

New systems from £395

12 years experience

CCTV – supplied and fitted

Friendly & reliable service

07506 518 646

www.dfalarms.com

DF Alarms | 58 Chapel St | Pemberton | Wigan

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

Design & Print





Carpets and Rugs

Laminate Flooring

Hard Wood Flooring



Rainford WA11 8HD

01744 88 55 14



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




Call 01695 627 999







£29 for a fu l day










01257 252647



JJ Driveways

Imprinted Concrete

Specialists

Huge range of colours

& patterns

• Resin Driveways

• Block Paving

• Indian Stone

• Flagging

We can also revive

your old drive!

Ask about our sealing

service

Call Joe for a

free quotation on

01942 621 959

07867 697 972

www.jjdriveways.co.uk

Quality Fencer

required for

these pages

Call 01695 627 999

LocalLife


86

PH Profiles

Re-modelling your

home in 2022?

Quality orangeries, conservatories and sunrooms

designed and constructed.

Finest installations of all windows, doors

bi-folds, porches and UPVC Roofline.

Call Paul today

for a free estimate and friendly advice.

01942 204421 | 07841 923230 | www.phprofiles.co.uk

6 consecutive

Certificate of

Excellence awards

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

Quality Fencer

required for

these pages

Call 01695 627 999

Quality Tiler

required for

these pages

Call 01695 627 999

LocalLife


• 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

Fully

qualified

&

Insured

Plasterer.

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

All plastering work

undertaken including:

• All types of rendering • Listed Building Plastering

• Skimming • Dry lining • Damp proof courses

• Basement tanking

Call Westley Gillett for a

FREE no obligation quote

07802 710685

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

LocalLife


www.despilling.org.uk

for

as

87

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

www.mtjoinery.co.uk

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

• Timber cladding

• Bespoke furniture

• All aspects of joinery

• Fabrication / steel work

Contact:

07800 580532

01744 747787

www.funkytimber.co.uk

Unit 17b, Wharton Street,

St Helens, WA9 5AA

Your Property Maintenance Experts

• Handyman Services

• Pest control

• Waste removal

For a free quote with no obligation,

call 01942 741 124

or 07450 614 219

www.twolions11ltd.co.uk

£10 discount when you mention

Local Life

Handy

Andy

Building / Joinery

Plastering / Tiling

Plumbing / Roofing

Flatpack Assembly

Call Handy Andy on

01257 369 685

07899 752 225

tradesbyandy@gmail.com

All

jobs

considered

Prices include

supply & fit

Orrell

based

6 Doors

from

£370

Oak Door

from

£140

All aspects of joinery

Call Mike for a free quote

01942 590514 • 07988 260621

www.orrelljoinery.co.uk

HANDS ON

Property Maintenance

& Handyman Services

3 Kitchens & Bathrooms

3 Painting & Decorating

3 Building & Joinery

3 Electrical

3 Paving, Decking

& Fencing

3 Tiling

3 Plumbing

Check out my work at

keith.anderton

Telephone Keith on

07812 110476

Design & Print





Carpets and Rugs

Laminate Flooring

Hard Wood Flooring



Rainford WA11 8HD

01744 88 55 14



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




Call 01695 627 999







£29 for a fu l day










01257 252647



88

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

30 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

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

NEIL SIMPSON

BUILDER

Can’t find a reliable local

builder?...look no further

brickwork

joinery roofing

plastering

internal alterations

all types of building work undertaken

garden construction

garden walls patios

gravel gardens

flagging decking

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No job too small

Reasonable prices

Quality work

Call Neil

07939 961190 (day)

or 01942 230402 (eve)

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

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with 30 years experience

Call us now for a free,

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01695 622 704

07968 652 320

www.baberry.co.uk

WILSON

BROS

• •

Est. 1985

Roofing & Roofline

Specialists

• All aspects of

maintenance & repair

• Fascia & soffit

installation

• Guttering and felting

services

Call us now for

a free estimate

01695 633173

Colin: 07958 302 166

Brian: 07760 160 988

www.wilson-bros.co.uk

for

as

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

K Stone

Building Services

All types of building

work undertaken

• Brickwork

• Pointing

• Garden Walls

• Patios

25 years

experience

• Roof Repairs

• Flagging

• Alterations

• Driveways

01942 495412

07974 496676

89

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rural Vi lage

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rated by

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Reliable, Friendly,

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01744 88 55 14



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01257 252647


• Conservatories & Orangeries • Garage & Loft Conversions

• Extensions

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• Refurbishments & Alterations • Doors & Windows

• Fencing & Decking

• All aspects of joinery work

“Attention to detail is second to none. Can’t recommend Phil enough”

Facebook Review, July 2018

LocalLife


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Quality installations of windows,

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Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria Street, Leigh, WN7 5SE

warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk

Representative example: Total cash price £1164, deposit £0, amount borrowed £1164 over 12 months. 12 monthly repayments of £97. Interest

rate 0%. Total repayable £1164. Credit is subject to the lenders T&C. Warmlight Windows, Doors and Conservatories Ltd is authorised and

regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN 7700524. We are a credit broker, not a lender and have a facility with one lender.

Tomorrow’s Home Improvements Today!

Quality ~ Choice ~ Value

Windows

Bi-Fold Doors

Thermally-efficient conservatory roofs

expertly fitted by accredited installers

©

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Manufacturers and installers since 2004

Contact us on 01744 891717 for a no obligation quote

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

www.orrellwindows.co.uk

28544

Local Life - Wigan - February 2022

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