Local Life - Wigan - March 2022
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<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
<strong>Wigan</strong> Edition<br />
<strong>March</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
Title<br />
Orrell RU Vets Mark ’72 Win<br />
Pages 17-20<br />
Upholland GS Through the Ages<br />
Pages 47-50<br />
Labour of Love<br />
Pages 68-69<br />
Jack’s Tracks - Cheshire Castles<br />
New!<br />
Pages 70-72<br />
Alan Titchmarsh Column<br />
Page 74<br />
Colour your Home Happy<br />
Pages 44-45<br />
LOCAL NEWS | EVENTS2GO | FOOD | HEALTH | WALks | competitions | home & garden SERVICES
2<br />
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EST 1992<br />
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Showroom<br />
126 Frog Lane, <strong>Wigan</strong> WN6 7DS<br />
www.transformstaircases.co.uk<br />
info@transformstaircases.co.uk<br />
01942 323980 07947 413246
3<br />
The<br />
ireplace<br />
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INC<br />
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Telephone: 01942 583 558<br />
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Follow us:<br />
Plenty FREE parking to the rear of the showroom<br />
wiganfiresandfireplaces.co.uk<br />
REGISTER
4<br />
I’m far from being a Royal cheerleader, but I have, I<br />
suspect like many readers, an enormous amount of<br />
respect for Her Majesty the Queen.<br />
For someone to pledge, as she did in 1947 to the nations<br />
that make up the Commonwealth, ‘that my whole life,<br />
whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your<br />
service’ was a substantial commitment from a 21-yearold,<br />
and remarkably, one that the Queen has adhered to<br />
in the 75 years that have passed since.<br />
Not sure about you, but I don’t remember much about<br />
being 21 (apart from the hangover from hell the day<br />
after my birthday), but I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t have<br />
had the presence of mind to promise anything of that<br />
magnitude and still be able to uphold that promise 75<br />
years on. Would you?<br />
There’s lots going on to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum<br />
Jubilee, but if you’re planning to host a local celebration<br />
then we’d love to help you publicise it in our next<br />
issue free of charge. Just email details of the event to<br />
editorial@locallife247.co.uk along with your name and<br />
contact number.<br />
See you next time<br />
Chris Pearce, Publisher<br />
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk<br />
Keep in touch with the<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong> Team!<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
Telephone: 01695 627 999<br />
info@locallife247.co.uk<br />
locallifemagazine247@locallifemedia<br />
<strong>Local</strong> <strong>Life</strong> 247 Ltd, PO Box 779, <strong>Wigan</strong> WN1 9UB<br />
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the<br />
publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss<br />
or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of<br />
this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of <strong>Local</strong> <strong>Life</strong> 247 Ltd.
5<br />
This month’s highlights<br />
17. Veterans Commemorate Cup Win<br />
Contents<br />
12. Beauty<br />
16 genius beauty hacks.<br />
22. Health<br />
The dangers of ultra-processed foods.<br />
26. Food<br />
Seared lamb fillets with garlic dressing.<br />
28. Baking<br />
Gluten-free chocolate caramel tarts.<br />
44. Colour Your Home 47. Upholland Grammar<br />
52. Home<br />
A facelift for your front door.<br />
56. Tech<br />
Keep taking the tablets.<br />
68. Puzzle Pages<br />
Try these brainteasers for size!<br />
70. Jack’s Tracks - Cheshire Castles<br />
74. Greenfingers...<br />
New!<br />
The Alan Titchmarsh column.<br />
75. Home & Garden Services<br />
Find the best local traders for you.<br />
58. Top 5 Cruises<br />
64. Labour of Love<br />
Want to<br />
promote your<br />
business in<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong>?<br />
Next Issue - April<br />
Advertising deadline - 9th <strong>March</strong><br />
Published - 23rd <strong>March</strong><br />
01695 627 999<br />
www.locallife247.co.uk
6<br />
Planning a Platinum Party?<br />
There’s a double Bank Holiday weekend being held in<br />
June (2-5 June) to commemorate The Queen’s Platinum<br />
Jubilee. The country and the Commonwealth will be<br />
celebrating The Queen’s 70 years of service.<br />
This event, and the end of those damned restrictions,<br />
give us a great opportunity to party like we never have<br />
before! Street parties have long been associated with<br />
times of national celebrations, and if getting together<br />
with your neighbours at bunting-covered tables laden<br />
with food and drink to chat, laugh, sing, and dance the<br />
day (and night!) away is your idea of fun, then this is an<br />
opportunity surely not to be missed.<br />
Good planning is essential for any party, and the larger<br />
the party, the more planning is needed.<br />
The first thing you’ll need to do is ask the council’s<br />
permission to close your road (or part of your road), so<br />
that everyone can enjoy the celebrations safely, and it’s<br />
best to do this as early as possible.<br />
As long as your road isn’t a major transport route it should<br />
be a smooth process.<br />
<strong>Wigan</strong> residents should download the application form<br />
here; https://www.wigan.gov.uk/Docs/PDF/Resident/<br />
Parking-Roads-Travel/Roads/Street-Party-Application-<br />
Form.pdf<br />
Residents of West Lancashire should download the<br />
application form here; https://www.westlancs.gov.uk/<br />
more/your-community/roads-and-travel/organising-astreet-party.aspx<br />
Both councils recommend that you take insurance cover<br />
for street parties, and if you plan to do so, then you can<br />
expect to pay at least £50, depending on the scale of the<br />
party. They may also ask you to check with other residents<br />
on the street to make sure there are no objections to the<br />
party.<br />
There are a number of organisations including www.<br />
streetparty.org.uk and www.edenprojectcommunities.<br />
com who can provide free packs offering great ideas,<br />
inspiration, and tips to help you get the party started and<br />
can also help you overcome any obstacles.<br />
Party on!<br />
<strong>Wigan</strong><br />
&<br />
Rose Bridge<br />
3G Pitches!<br />
Ideal for summer leagues & competitions<br />
Availability during the weekday evenings<br />
Discounts on both pitches from<br />
<strong>March</strong> to September<br />
For more information or to book, please contact Dean Trust <strong>Wigan</strong> on:<br />
01942 511987 ext. *7509 or email stuartparry@deantrustwigan.co.uk<br />
Dean Trust <strong>Wigan</strong> | Greenhey | Orrell | <strong>Wigan</strong> | WN5 0DQ<br />
www.deantrustwigan.co.uk
7<br />
Healthwatch Asks<br />
Every year Healthwatch <strong>Wigan</strong> and Leigh asks the public<br />
what their top concerns are regarding the improvement<br />
of health and care services, and they are waiting for you<br />
to get in touch.<br />
The Healthwatch team are the independent champion<br />
for people who use health and social care services.<br />
They’re here to make sure that the people running health<br />
and care services, put people at the heart of health and<br />
care services.<br />
They would like to know what you think they should<br />
be focusing on over the next 12 months, what your top<br />
three priorities are within health and social care services<br />
and what you feel are the main issues are with those<br />
services.<br />
To get in touch with a member of the Healthwatch <strong>Wigan</strong><br />
and Leigh team please call or text 01942 834666, email<br />
info@healthwatchwiganandleigh.co.uk or complete<br />
the short survey at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/<br />
M93WMWW<br />
Ashton Pantry<br />
<strong>Local</strong> businesses, together with St Thomas & St Luke’s<br />
Church in Ashton are working to reduce the amount of<br />
food going into landfill. The pantry at St Thomas’ Church<br />
Hall on Warrington Road is regularly stocked with food<br />
that is near its sell by date but can still be used to feed<br />
bellies, not bins.<br />
The annual membership of the Pantry is £5 with a<br />
minimum donation of £3 per visit and a maximum of 2<br />
visits per week. The pantry is open Tuesday 11am-12pm,<br />
Thursday 3pm-4pm, Saturday 11am-12pm and Sunday<br />
3pm-4pm. Money raised by the initiative, will be used to<br />
build a pantry and kitchen behind the Church Hall. For<br />
more information, please call 01942 727275.<br />
Season Starts<br />
The Orrell YMCA Crown Green Bowling Club opens on<br />
Friday, April 1 for the summer season. The club is open<br />
from 10am-8pm every day up until October and is<br />
located on Winstanley Roadin Orrell behind the YMCA.<br />
New members are always welcome, at a cost of £25 for<br />
the season. For more information about membership,<br />
please contact Brian Atherton on 01695 622138 or<br />
Harold Preston on 01942 519042.<br />
Tell Us Your Story!<br />
<strong>Local</strong> <strong>Life</strong> is<br />
always on the<br />
look out for<br />
news stories<br />
from the local<br />
communities we<br />
serve. Are you<br />
raising money<br />
for charity? Are<br />
you a member<br />
of a community<br />
group with<br />
something to<br />
shout about?<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
<strong>Wigan</strong> Edition<br />
<strong>March</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
Maybe you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a<br />
claim to fame? If so, let us know and you could be<br />
appearing in the next edition!<br />
Simply contact us on editorial@locallife247.co.uk<br />
or call us on 01695 627999<br />
Title<br />
Orrell RU Vets Mark ’72 Win Jack’s Tracks - Cheshire Castles<br />
Pages 17-20<br />
Pages 70-72<br />
Upholland GS Through the Ages<br />
New!<br />
Alan Titchmarsh Column<br />
Pages 47-50<br />
Page 74<br />
Labour of Love<br />
Colour your Home Happy<br />
Pages 68-69<br />
Pages 44-45<br />
LOCAL NEWS | EVENTS2GO | FOOD | HEALTH | WALkS | COmpETiTiONS | HOmE & GArDEN SErViCES
8<br />
Clean Air Zone Update<br />
The Clean Air Zone, planned to start in Greater Manchester<br />
on 30th May, has been abruptly delayed after a blizzard<br />
of protests from residents and businesses across Greater<br />
Manchester.<br />
The scheme was put on hold after Boris Johnson branded<br />
the GMCA plan as ‘completely unworkable’ at Prime<br />
Minister’s Questions in the House of Commons and said<br />
that the GMCA ‘must find an alternative that doesn’t<br />
punish local residents’.<br />
A few days later, a joint communique from Jo Churchill,<br />
Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department<br />
for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Andy Burnham,<br />
Mayor of Greater Manchester and Cllr Andrew Western,<br />
GMCA portfolio lead for clean air included this statement:<br />
“We have agreed to a short time-limited pause. We will<br />
work together to deliver, by the middle of the year, a plan<br />
for clean air for Greater Manchester, one that is fair to the<br />
businesses and residents of the city-region. “<br />
A statement released by #RethinkGM, the 85,000 strong<br />
Facebook group that opposes the Clean Air Zone says<br />
that ‘RethinkGM welcomes the mayor’s proposals, but<br />
stipulates that any charging scheme is not acceptable,<br />
and using new technology, construction methodologies,<br />
transport window modelling, vehicle movements,<br />
highway design and other methods could be utilised to<br />
meet targets, without financial burdens being imposed<br />
on Greater Manchester citizens.’<br />
#RethinkGM also claims that the ‘TfGM, GMCA and<br />
the Mayor’s office created the scheme, imposed it on<br />
residents of Greater Manchester and agreed the financial<br />
subsidies.’<br />
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said that while<br />
it was positive news that the concerns of companies<br />
were being listened to, the measures announced were<br />
insufficient and the entire Clean Air Zone needs to be put<br />
on hold for a comprehensive rethink.<br />
The FSB’s development manager for Greater Manchester<br />
Robert Downes said: “We are pleased to see business<br />
sentiment is at last being listened to be decision makers<br />
within the GMCA, but what they have proposed amounts<br />
to precious little and doesn’t go nearly far enough”.<br />
the auction centre<br />
The leading Auctioneers and Valuers<br />
• Modern saleroom at Manor Park, Runcorn<br />
• RICS and NAVA registered auctioneers and specialist consultants<br />
• Probate and Insurance valuation reports undertaken<br />
• Full house clearance service available<br />
• Regional valuations centres around the north-west<br />
St Helens Valuation Days<br />
4th Wednesday of Every Month<br />
St Thomas Church, Peter Street, WA10 2EB<br />
9.30 – 12 noon<br />
Check website for Details<br />
Call 01744 881 477 for more information<br />
<strong>Wigan</strong> Valuation Days<br />
2nd Tuesday Of Every Month<br />
Purposed <strong>Life</strong> Church, Greenhough Street, WN1 3SU<br />
12 noon – 2.30pm<br />
Check website for Details<br />
Call 01942 299 057 for more information<br />
9 Berkeley Court, Manor Park, Runcorn, WA7 1TQ<br />
Telephone: 01928 579796 Email: enquiries@theauctioncentre.co.uk<br />
www.theauctioncentre.co.uk
9<br />
Visit our showroom to view our fine selection of<br />
fabrics, wall coverings, paint and much more<br />
Home consultations available<br />
Interior Design Services | Bay Windows Specialists<br />
Bespoke Curtains & Blinds | Upholstery Services<br />
Proud stockists of<br />
Millan Interiors | 5/7 Mill Lane | Parbold | WN8 7NW | T: 01257 46 34 77<br />
Opening Hours: Mon, Tues, Weds, Fri 10am-4pm | Thurs 10-1pm<br />
www.millaninteriors.co.uk
10<br />
Fun on the Farm<br />
It’s ten years since Greenslate Farm in Billinge opened as<br />
a Community Farm, and the members will be celebrating<br />
its 10th anniversary by holding a series of events<br />
throughout the year.<br />
The Farm has a long-standing reputation for staging<br />
vibrant and engaging community events, and members<br />
are promising a return to those type of events now that<br />
Covid restrictions have eased.<br />
The first is a<br />
Family Fun Day,<br />
which is being<br />
held on Sunday<br />
10th April from<br />
10 am to 4 pm.<br />
This will consist<br />
of an artisan<br />
market, an<br />
Easter Egg Hunt<br />
for the children,<br />
live music<br />
throughout the day and many more attractions.<br />
Delicious coffee and cakes, tasty snacks and wholesome<br />
meals will all be available at the Straw Bale Cafe and, of<br />
course, the donkeys and other animals will be welcoming<br />
visitors, just as they do every weekend.<br />
If you are a local person looking to sell your craftwork or<br />
produce at the Family Fun Day, or you’re a musician who<br />
could help to entertain the visitors, please contact the<br />
Greenslate Community Farm Community Nurture Team<br />
via patdavies99@icloud.com or bowyer21@hotmail.co.uk<br />
Green Fingers<br />
The social group Ashton Circle has added another string<br />
to its bow after acquiring a little allotment on Bolton<br />
Road. The group hopes to grow fruits, vegetables, flowers<br />
and create habitats for local wildlife.<br />
Group members are currently in the process of clearing<br />
the land but once it is safe and ready, they would love<br />
to welcome members old and new to go help out. To<br />
become a member or get involved with the allotment,<br />
please email becky@community-circles.co.uk<br />
Offering top end High Street & Designer ladies fashions for sale at a fraction of the original cost!<br />
267 The Green, Eccleston, Chorley, PR7 5TF<br />
Tel: 01257 676 254<br />
Open: Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 4pm<br />
• Receive 50% of the selling<br />
price for your garments.<br />
• New stock daily.<br />
• 1st class service.<br />
• Spring & Summer Stock<br />
Now Arriving.
11<br />
Anniversary Concert<br />
The Golborne Ex-Miners will be hosting their 43rd<br />
anniversary concert at St Thomas’ Church in Golborne on<br />
Friday, <strong>March</strong> 18.<br />
The concert takes place in remembrance of the Golborne<br />
Colliery disaster in which an underground explosion led<br />
to the death of ten miners, exactly 43 years to the day on<br />
<strong>March</strong> 18, 1979.<br />
Joined by the Parkside Colliery male voice choir, this will<br />
be a fitting tribute to those who were killed and those<br />
who survived. The concert will begin at 7.30pm and the<br />
entry fee is £6 per person, payable on the door.<br />
Baby Goods Sale<br />
From cots to buggies and toys to baby clothes, the<br />
Poolstock Pre-Loved Baby Sale will have it all this<br />
Saturday, February 27. The sale will take place at Clifton<br />
Street Community Centre on Poolstock Lane, next to The<br />
Bold Pub. If anyone wants a table, there is still time to<br />
secure yours for a cost of £15 - please contact David on<br />
07487 835489.<br />
Entry is free and the sale will run from 11.30am-1pm.<br />
Refreshments will be available to purchase and there will<br />
be free chicken nuggets and chips for any children who<br />
attend.<br />
St Patrick’s Parade<br />
The Brian Boru Club in Ashton are excited to invite you<br />
to their 36th annual St Patrick’s Day parade On Sunday,<br />
<strong>March</strong> 13.<br />
After missing the last two parades due to the pandemic,<br />
club members are determined to make this the biggest<br />
and best parade they’ve ever had.<br />
Members will be hosting a St Patrick’s Mass from 12pm at<br />
the club on Bryn Street, followed by the parade around<br />
the town leaving from Ashton market square at 1pm.<br />
You can enjoy the best craic in town with outstanding<br />
Irish entertainment, including the Liverpool Irish Pip<br />
Band, the Comhaltas musicians, Wet the Tea and Michael<br />
Coyne.<br />
For more information, please contact the club on 01942<br />
7275376 or go online at www.brianboruclub.com
12<br />
From make-up tips to haircare advice,<br />
these tips could make your life easier.<br />
When you paint your nails, start from your little finger<br />
1 rather than your thumb. You’ll lower the risk of<br />
smudging your freshly painted nails.<br />
2<br />
Matte lipstick is on-trend but very unforgiving. Before<br />
using it, mix a dash of olive oil with half a teaspoon of<br />
brown sugar to treat your lips to a DIY lip scrub.<br />
Clean your make-up brushes regularly with facial<br />
3 cleanser or a mild shampoo. Rinse thoroughly and<br />
leave to air dry.<br />
Don’t test foundation on your hand – you won’t get<br />
4 a good colour match. Instead, try it on your jawline.<br />
Wrap a small scoop of porridge oats up in a muslin<br />
5 cloth and tie the ends to secure. Drop it in your bath<br />
while the water is running. The oat oils work wonders on<br />
dry skin.<br />
Leave at least a day between shaving/waxing and<br />
6 applying fake tan. Otherwise, you risk causing<br />
irritation and ending up with a patchy tan.<br />
Not keen on heavily fragranced body oils? Switch to<br />
7 pure almond oil. Add a few drops of essential oil if you<br />
want a hint of natural fragrance.<br />
8<br />
Leave your facial cleanser<br />
to soak in for a few minutes<br />
before wiping it off. It’ll act as a mini<br />
face pack. This works particularly<br />
well with balm cleansers.<br />
Apply eye cream with your ring<br />
9 finger. It’s the weakest so you’re<br />
less likely to pull at the skin. Dab<br />
(rather than rub) the cream in.<br />
If you often forget to apply SPF in the cooler<br />
10 months, try swapping your foundation for a<br />
tinted SPF cream.<br />
11<br />
Hair feeling lank or lacklustre? Try switching to a<br />
shampoo that’s free from sulphates and silicones.<br />
Sulphates can strip hair of its natural, healthy oils, while<br />
silicones can build up over time and weigh hair down.<br />
12<br />
Put wet hair in multiple plaits before bed for easy<br />
curls the next day. Brush through if you want<br />
looser waves.<br />
Freshly washed hair is<br />
13 harder to style. So if you<br />
have a big night out coming up,<br />
wash your hair the day before.<br />
It’ll then hold its style better for<br />
your evening out.<br />
14<br />
Rather than splashing<br />
out on expensive travelsized<br />
products (they can be<br />
more than double the price per<br />
ml), decant your usual products<br />
into small reusable containers.<br />
15<br />
Do you subscribe to Birchbox or a similar<br />
subscription box? Save the products you don’t<br />
fancy throughout the year. By Christmas, you’ll have a<br />
stack of cracker prizes and stocking fillers. You could<br />
even use them to fill a personalised advent calendar for<br />
a friend.<br />
Skin and hair changes as we age, so what worked<br />
16 for you a few years ago may not be as effective<br />
today. Embrace the chance to try something new!
13<br />
Reveal beautiful skin<br />
with Clarins professional<br />
treatments<br />
Book two selected Clarins treatments<br />
in <strong>March</strong> and receive the candle gift set<br />
WORTH<br />
£25*<br />
* Offer limited to both<br />
treatments booked for<br />
one person<br />
Choose From:<br />
Clarins Skin Expert Facials<br />
Wellness Body Treatments<br />
Ultra-Relaxing Facial<br />
Deep Tissue Massage<br />
Rebalancing Massage<br />
Wide range of gift sets for<br />
Mothering Sunday – now available<br />
Expressions Of Beauty<br />
161-171, Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PA<br />
01744 894 214<br />
www.expressionsofbeauty.co.uk
14<br />
Increase your<br />
Sales in <strong>2022</strong>!<br />
Did you know that <strong>Local</strong> <strong>Life</strong><br />
delivers leaflets in the<br />
<strong>Wigan</strong> & St Helens areas for<br />
businesses & other organisations?<br />
Prices start<br />
from<br />
£27.50<br />
per<br />
1,000<br />
+ VAT<br />
Having a Ball<br />
The <strong>Wigan</strong> Youth Zone are hosting their annual ball next<br />
Saturday, to bring back some much-needed glitz and<br />
glamour to <strong>Wigan</strong>’s social scene, and to help the charity<br />
raise funds to help them recover from the damage<br />
caused by COVID restrictions.<br />
Join the team and their army of supporters at Kilhey<br />
Court Hotel, on Chorley Road in Standish next Saturday<br />
5th <strong>March</strong>, 19.00 till late. The ball will be an evening of<br />
celebration and glamour starting with a champagne<br />
reception, followed by a three-course meal.<br />
During the evening there will be entertainment from<br />
young people and opportunities to raise funds for the<br />
WYZ, before everyone takes to the dance floor at the end<br />
of the evening with a live act followed by a DJ.<br />
The cost is £1000 for a table of ten, with tables already<br />
selling fast be sure to get in touch and reserve yours.<br />
To book your table or to discuss other way of supporting<br />
the <strong>Wigan</strong> Youth Zone, please contact Sharon on 01942<br />
612061 or email Sharon.mclaren@wiganyouthzone.org.<br />
Distribution is<br />
monitored using<br />
GPS<br />
tracking<br />
We can also design and print<br />
your leaflets!<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
Call us now on 01695 627999<br />
www.locallife247.co.uk
15<br />
Beer Festival Returns<br />
To the disappointment of drinkers from miles around,<br />
2021 was the first year for 33 years that the <strong>Wigan</strong> Beer<br />
Festival didn’t run, but the good news is that it’s back for<br />
<strong>2022</strong>!<br />
Drinkers can quench their collective thirsts next weekend<br />
(3rd-5th <strong>March</strong>) at the festival, which is being held at the<br />
Robin Park Sports Centre in Newtown.<br />
Organisers at <strong>Wigan</strong> CAMRA are incredibly excited.<br />
Sandy Motteram outlines the selection of drinks available<br />
at the festival, “We have a huge selection of real ale,<br />
craft beer, cider, perry and foreign beers for enjoyment<br />
of festival goers, and our friends from the Wayfarer in<br />
Parbold are joining us to offer a range of gins, prosecco<br />
and rum, so there should be something for everyone.<br />
“You will also discover new food vendors and we’ve laid<br />
on some incredible entertainment too, including Baron<br />
Otto Von Funcke & The Schunkelers, Annette Fairclough,<br />
Andy Mack and the Easystreet Big Band.”<br />
Fellow organiser Brian Gleave added “We wouldn’t<br />
be able to run our festival without the support of our<br />
sponsors including Prospect<br />
Brewery, Swinley Plumbing<br />
& Property Services, Real<br />
Crafty, The Swan & Railway<br />
Hotel, Bank Top Brewery,<br />
Blackedge Brewery, Wily<br />
Fox Brewery, Hophurst<br />
Brewery, the H Taphouse and<br />
the Bobbin Micropub.”<br />
The sessions will run from 5.30-11pm on Thursday 3rd,<br />
noon until 11pm on Friday 4th, and 11.30am -9.30pm<br />
on Saturday 5th <strong>March</strong>. For those who prefer to enjoy a<br />
quiet drink, the quieter sessions are on Thursday evening<br />
and Friday afternoon.<br />
<strong>Wigan</strong> Transport Trust will again be running a free shuttle<br />
bus service from Hallgate and <strong>Wigan</strong> North Western<br />
railway to the festival using their beautifully restored<br />
heritage buses.<br />
For more information, please visit the website www.<br />
beerfestival.wigancamra.org.uk<br />
Premier Logs<br />
Your Kiln Dried Wood Fuel Specialist<br />
WS315<br />
8
16
17<br />
Veterans Commemorate<br />
Cup Win<br />
50 years ago, in April 1972, Orrell RU first hit the rugby<br />
spotlight after winning their first-ever Lancashire Cup.<br />
Veterans from the winning team are now organising<br />
an Anniversary Dinner at Houghwood Golf to mark the<br />
occasion.<br />
Chris Pearce sat down with five of the 1972 team; Peter<br />
Bayman, Bill Lyon, Barry Fishwick, Peter Philips and Bernard<br />
Lundy, to get their take on that great day and what life was<br />
like as an Orrell RU player in the 1970’s.<br />
Back in the 1970’s, rugby union clubs in England only<br />
played friendlies and cup competitions, and so the<br />
re-introduction of the Lancashire Cup in the 1971/72<br />
season, after an 80-year long hiatus, was welcomed by<br />
the Lancashire clubs.<br />
Just a few years earlier, in 1968, Orrell became the first rugby<br />
union club in Lancashire to have floodlights installed, and<br />
this move enabled the First XV to play matches in midweek,<br />
in addition to their weekend games. More matches meant<br />
better a standard of fitness for the First XV and, once news<br />
emerged about the re-introduction of the Lancashire Cup,<br />
Orrell fancied their chances.<br />
According to Barry, Orrell’s fitness quest gave them the<br />
edge over their competitors at the time. “Ken Taberner<br />
and Des Seabrook were a great team for Orrell, Ken used<br />
to do the physical stuff and Des was the tactics man, and<br />
along with the floodlight situation, this meant we were<br />
fitter than many of our opponents.<br />
(l-r) Peter Philips, Barry Fishwick, Bill Lyon,<br />
Bernard Lundy and Peter Bayman
18<br />
Barry Fishwick, scoring Orrell’s second try<br />
“Training took place twice a week, and, in addition,<br />
matches were often played on Wednesdays and<br />
Saturdays.<br />
“The Lancashire Cup final was my 50th match of the<br />
season, that’s how many games we used to play.”<br />
Bill added, “We all had full time jobs, and then we’d get to<br />
training for 6.30pm and finish at 9.30 at night.”<br />
“All except me, I was a student at the time”, chipped in<br />
Peter Philips, who travelled back from university to play<br />
in the final.<br />
Strange as it may seem today, when some sportsmen and<br />
women earn hundreds of thousands of pounds a week,<br />
the players of this Orrell team played for the pleasure and<br />
the honour.<br />
To emphasise this point, the players shared a story of<br />
one brave member of the team who approached the<br />
Club Chairman, Eric Smith, after the final to ask if the club<br />
would organise a memento of the final for the players,<br />
suggesting something like a commemorative tankard,<br />
and was summarily dismissed by Eric who allegedly said,<br />
‘You might have been one of the 15 who were lucky<br />
enough to be on the pitch, but it was Orrell won the Cup,<br />
not you’.<br />
Club discipline at the time was strict and competition for<br />
places was fierce, stressed Barry, “If you didn’t train, you<br />
were dropped – it didn’t matter who you were or how<br />
long you’d played for Orrell.<br />
“And Orrell had a good second team, so if you were<br />
dropped, those players would step up and you might lose<br />
your place for good.”<br />
Bill highlighted how vital the Lancashire Cup was to<br />
Orrell: “The Lancashire Cup was very important, as the<br />
winners got a place in the following season’s National Cup<br />
(renamed in 1976 to the John Player Cup) and it gave us a<br />
chance to play against the big teams of the time, such as<br />
Coventry or Northampton.”<br />
Peter added, “None of the big clubs wanted to play Orrell,<br />
we were dismissed as a minor team from ‘up North’ but if<br />
we won the Lancashire Cup, they would have to play us.”<br />
The road to the first Lancashire Cup Final was<br />
straightforward. In fact, Orrell didn’t concede a single<br />
point in the Lancashire Cup that year, a great achievement.
19<br />
They beat Southport in the first round 23-0, overpowered<br />
the aviation company team Hawker Siddeley 47-0 in<br />
round two. Orrell then scored 40 points without reply<br />
from Ormskirk in the third round and narrowly beat St<br />
Helens’ West Park 6-0 in the semi-final, to qualify for the<br />
Lancashire Cup Final against the mighty Liverpool, to be<br />
played at Waterloo’s ground in Blundellsands on Sunday<br />
16th April 1972.<br />
Orrell, playing their first Lancashire Cup Final, were the<br />
definite underdogs, as Bill admitted, “Liverpool were the<br />
big names, we (Orrell) were the nobodies.”<br />
Liverpool’s team had two internationals playing, one was<br />
Fran Cotton, the <strong>Wigan</strong> lad who went on to represent<br />
England and the British Lions and is the former co-owner<br />
of the clothing firm Cotton Traders.<br />
The day of the final began like any other match day, Barry<br />
confirmed, “We met, as we normally did, at the Colliers<br />
Arms on Moss Road (now demolished), for lunch and a<br />
chat, then we travelled by coach arriving at Waterloo’s<br />
ground in Blundellsands about 1.30pm.”<br />
One national newspaper put the crowd at 11,000, and<br />
though many of those spectators were from other clubs<br />
rooting for a win for the underdogs, a fair few travelled<br />
from Orrell.<br />
Bill scored the first try and Orrell went into half time 7-0<br />
in front. The second try, scored by Barry, came in the very<br />
closing seconds of the game to wrap up a 16-0 victory<br />
for Orrell.<br />
Orrell’s after-game celebrations at Waterloo went on for<br />
so long, that the crowds waiting to welcome the team<br />
back in Orrell had long since retreated into the Orrell<br />
clubhouse by the time the team arrived.<br />
Bernard confirms, “Three old ladies on the corner of Edge<br />
Hall Road waving, that was our welcome when we arrived<br />
back in Orrell.”<br />
The Lancashire Cup victory in 1972, and the subsequent<br />
wins in 1973, 1975, 1978, 1981, 1982 and 1983 set the<br />
tone for the glory years, when Orrell played and beat<br />
many top teams in the National/John Player Cup.<br />
The fitness regime established by Ken Taberner at Orrell<br />
also helped the club to succeed at 7’s rugby. Over a period<br />
of around 10 years, the squad won 30 major tournaments<br />
all over Britain.<br />
The Lancashire Cup winners of 1972
20<br />
The patronising attitude of Rugby’s big boys towards<br />
Orrell still persisted though. This was epitomised by a<br />
comment from a committee member at London-based<br />
Harlequins, who complained after a loss at Edge Hall<br />
Road about being ‘beaten by a layby off the M6’.<br />
When the Courage League was founded in 1987, the<br />
opening season of a national rugby union league, Orrell<br />
joined Waterloo and Sale as the northern representatives<br />
amongst the upper echelons of Division One. In 1992, only<br />
the width of a goalpost stopped Orrell being crowned<br />
English champions; and that season represented the<br />
highest summit of Orrell’s story.<br />
So far.<br />
Despite not being based at Edge Hall Road, Orrell RU<br />
is still a thriving club with three open age teams, nine<br />
junior/kids teams and a girls section. They enjoy the<br />
fantastic facilities at the Drive Medical Arena at St John<br />
Rigby College and have advanced plans to build a<br />
new home with Winstanley Park Cricket Club, next to<br />
Winstanley College. For details visit the club’s website;<br />
www.orrellrugbyunion.com<br />
Fingers crossed, the club’s time for glory will come again,<br />
and that one day, they will emulate the heroes of 1972.<br />
1972 Lancashire Cup Final<br />
Orrell 16 - Liverpool 0<br />
Orrell Team: T.J. Abbott, P. Phillips, W.Lyon,<br />
S.M. Littler, B. Fishwick, S.M. Lockwood, J. Waring,<br />
J.S. Leigh, D. Jones, W.F. Anderson, M.J. Derman,<br />
D.Seabrook, B. Lundy, M. Beattie, P. Bayman<br />
Orrell’s Lancashire Cup Wins<br />
1972 16-0 vs Liverpool<br />
1973 32-7 vs West Park<br />
1975 9-3 vs Manchester<br />
1978 12-3 vs Liverpool<br />
1981 12-6 vs Liverpool<br />
1982 17-12 vs Liverpool<br />
1983 26-3 vs Liverpool<br />
1988 23-6 vs Liverpool St Helens<br />
1989 48-6 vs Broughton Park<br />
1997 27-17 vs Preston Grasshoppers<br />
Edge Hall Road today<br />
The Anniversary Dinner will be held on<br />
Friday 6th May at Houghwood Golf on Crank Road, Billinge.<br />
If you’d like further details about the event or you’d like to book tickets, please call<br />
Bernard Lundy on 07986 825096.
21
22<br />
The dangers of<br />
ultra-processed<br />
foods<br />
More than half the calories we eat in<br />
the UK now come from ultra-processed<br />
foods. But what does this mean for our<br />
health, and how can we cut back?<br />
Ultra-processed food is everywhere, and it probably<br />
makes up more of your shopping trolley than you’d think.<br />
The term is often used interchangeably with ‘processed<br />
food’ but they’re not the same. So, what exactly are ultraprocessed<br />
foods, how are they affecting our health and<br />
what can we do to cut back?<br />
Generally, most of the food we eat has been processed in<br />
one way or another. Milk is pasteurised to make it safe to<br />
drink, beans are dried and canned to extend their shelf<br />
life, and seeds are pressed to produce oils. However, this<br />
doesn’t necessarily make these foods unhealthy. Ultraprocessed<br />
foods, on the other hand, contain ingredients<br />
you wouldn’t typically find in your kitchen cupboard.<br />
Chemicals, colourings, sweeteners, preservatives – ultraprocessed<br />
foods are littered with them.<br />
Some of the foods that fall into this category are<br />
unsurprising. Crisps, fizzy drinks, biscuits and ice cream<br />
are all highly processed, but did you know that even<br />
breakfast cereals, white bread and ready meals are too?<br />
It can be hard to detect highly processed foods, which<br />
unfortunately makes us even more likely to add them to<br />
our shopping basket. But what damage does this do to<br />
our bodies?<br />
Created to be convenient, cheap and tasty, ultraprocessed<br />
foods are typically high in sugars, refined<br />
grains, fats and salt. They also have very little nutritional<br />
value and are highly addictive, which explains why they’re<br />
so prevalent in our diets. They’re hard to resist! Recently,<br />
highly processed foods have also been linked to heart<br />
disease, diabetes, obesity and even some cancers.<br />
As with anything though, moderation is key. There’s<br />
nothing wrong with a biscuit dipped in your cup of tea or<br />
a takeaway every now and again. The trick is to eat ultraprocessed<br />
foods as part of a healthy balanced diet. So,<br />
how can we limit the amount of highly processed foods<br />
we consume?<br />
Check your labels<br />
One of the easiest ways to check whether a food product<br />
is highly processed is to read the ingredients list. A label<br />
full of long words you can’t pronounce is one sign that a<br />
food is highly processed. You can also check the Nutrition<br />
Information Panel to identify foods with high amounts of<br />
saturated fat, sugar and sodium (salt).
23<br />
Find substitutes<br />
There are plenty of substitutes to ultra-processed foods<br />
on the market. Instead of crisps try low-fat popcorn,<br />
which is wholegrain and a good source of fibre. Swap<br />
sugary cereals for unsweetened oatmeal, and replace<br />
white bread with a homemade or granary loaf.<br />
Cook more meals from scratch<br />
When you prepare a meal from scratch, you have more<br />
control over the ingredients you’re consuming. You can<br />
also pack in plenty of whole foods, such as vegetables,<br />
beans, legumes and whole grains. Start compiling a list of<br />
quick and easy meal ideas to prepare when you’re feeling<br />
lazy. Salads, omelettes and stir-fries require little effort,<br />
and are super tasty too.<br />
Be wary of false advertising<br />
Don’t be fooled by phrases like ‘fat-free’, ‘natural’, ‘no<br />
added sugar’ and ‘sugar-free’. Foods that are advertised<br />
as healthy often contain artificial ingredients or other<br />
chemical additives, such as artificial sweetener, which<br />
make them significantly more processed – and unhealthy<br />
– than they might first appear. Remember to check the<br />
ingredients list!<br />
Keep healthy<br />
snacks on hand<br />
If you’re in a rush, grabbing<br />
a packet of crisps and a<br />
cereal bar on your way<br />
out the door is tempting.<br />
However, keeping your<br />
kitchen stocked with<br />
portable, nutritious<br />
snacks can make it much<br />
easier to make healthy<br />
choices on the go. Fresh fruit, unsalted nuts and hard<br />
boiled eggs are all good examples of simple but tasty<br />
snacks that’ll keep you energised throughout the day.<br />
Take it slow<br />
If ultra-processed foods constitute a large portion of your<br />
diet, it’s a good idea to reduce your intake of these foods<br />
slowly at first. This is because going cold turkey increases<br />
your likelihood of craving the high-fat, high-sugar foods<br />
your body has become accustomed to. Plus, sometimes<br />
highly processed food is simply more convenient. Start by<br />
trying to enjoy one unprocessed or minimally processed<br />
meal a day, and gradually increase as you see fit.<br />
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24<br />
Parking Crackdown<br />
A camera car will be used to enforce a Red Route Clearway<br />
to stop parking problems at Fairy Glen in Appley Bridge,<br />
frequently named as one of the UK’s most popular spots<br />
for day-trippers.<br />
Lancashire County Council’s cabinet are introducing<br />
the clearway to stop parking across the entire width of<br />
the highway, including the pavements and grass verges<br />
at the beauty spot. Fairy Glen has seen huge numbers<br />
of visitors, especially in the past two years, with many<br />
people visiting from outside the area.<br />
County Cllr Edwards said that the red route measure was<br />
designed to “discourage inconsiderate parking, remove<br />
the potential damage that can occur on footways and<br />
verges and keep the route clear of potential visual<br />
obstruction due to parked cars”.<br />
Cllr Edwards explained how the council would ensure<br />
that visitors stick to the rules.<br />
“With these red route clearways, we can enforce them<br />
by a camera car, where we have these available. A car<br />
just needs to drive down the road and [penalty charge<br />
notices] will be captured as part of the journey – so<br />
it’s much more efficient and something we would be<br />
[looking] to implement further across the network in the<br />
future”.<br />
Aside from a lay-by opposite, Fairy Glen has no dedicated<br />
parking and the large numbers of cars parked along<br />
grass verges on the A5209 between Parbold and Appley<br />
Bridge has raised serious safety concerns for visitors for<br />
and other traffic on a busy road.<br />
Head over Heels<br />
If you fancy learning your bridge from your backwards<br />
walkover, then have a look at the adult gymnastic classes<br />
at <strong>Wigan</strong> & Ashton Gymnastics Club.<br />
The classes are aimed at everyone over the age of<br />
13 and all abilities are welcome, with structured and<br />
unstructured classes available on request.<br />
The classes take place at the gym on Richard Street in<br />
Ince (WN3 4JN) every Thursday between 8.30-9.30pm.<br />
Your first session is free and £5 per session thereafter,<br />
with discounts for block booking. For more information<br />
or to book your space please contact the gym on 01942<br />
568 440.<br />
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8-10 Gathurst Road, Orrell, WN5 8QH
25
26<br />
Seared Lamb Fillet<br />
with Beans and Garlic<br />
Minted Dressing<br />
Serves 4<br />
Prep time: 15 minutes<br />
Marinate: 1 hour or overnight<br />
Cook time: 50 minutes<br />
Succulent beef served with a delicious<br />
rich and tangy garlic and herb sauce<br />
makes a sensational feast. Any leftover<br />
meat can be served cold with salad the<br />
following day.<br />
Ingredients<br />
500g lamb fillet<br />
1 garlic clove, crushed<br />
Grated zest of 1 lemon<br />
1 tsp cumin powder<br />
1 tbsp olive oil plus a little extra for frying<br />
150g green beans or sprouting broccoli,<br />
trimmed<br />
250g mixed green leaves, baby spinach or<br />
rocket leaves<br />
150g cherry tomatoes, halved<br />
½ red onion, finely diced<br />
Dressing<br />
1 bulb of garlic<br />
Drizzle of olive oil<br />
200g Greek yoghurt<br />
Handful of mint leaves<br />
1 tsp honey or maple syrup<br />
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar<br />
Pinch of cumin<br />
½ tsp Dijon mustard<br />
Method<br />
1. For the lamb, mix together the garlic, lemon zest, cumin and olive oil<br />
and rub over the lamb. Leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 1<br />
hour or overnight.<br />
2. For the dressing, place the garlic bulb in a piece of foil and drizzle<br />
over a little oil. Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes. Cool slightly<br />
then squeeze out the garlic pulp into a blender. Add the remaining<br />
ingredients for the dressing and blend together. Season to taste.<br />
3. Preheat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas mark 7. Sear the lamb in a<br />
frying pan with a little olive oil so that it is brown all over. Place in<br />
the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes.<br />
Slice thinly.<br />
4. Blanch the beans or broccoli in boiling water until al dente, drain<br />
and refresh under cold water. Pile the green leaves on a platter and<br />
top with the beans, tomatoes and onion. Arrange the lamb on top<br />
and drizzle over the dressing to serve.<br />
Nutritional information per serving: 437kcal, fat 33g (of which saturates 15g), carbohydrates 6.7g<br />
(of which sugars 5.7g), protein 28g, fibre 1.9g.
27<br />
Mother’s Day<br />
Sunday 27th <strong>March</strong> <strong>2022</strong><br />
Treat your Mum on Mother’s Day here at the<br />
LANCASHIRE<br />
MANOR<br />
3 course<br />
CARvery<br />
£19.95 per adult<br />
£10.95 per child<br />
(10 years and under)<br />
Lancashire Manor Hotel,<br />
Prescott Road, Pimbo,<br />
<strong>Wigan</strong>, WN8 9QD<br />
01695 567260<br />
Free GLASS<br />
OF FIZZ<br />
for every<br />
Mum<br />
Booking essential!<br />
www.lancashiremanorhotel.com<br />
reception@lancashiremanorhotel.com
28<br />
Gluten-Free Chocolate<br />
Caramel Tarts<br />
Makes 8 or 12 tartlets,<br />
or one 20cm tart<br />
Serves 8-12<br />
Ingredients<br />
Pastry<br />
200g gluten-free plain flour<br />
¾ tsp xanthan gum<br />
100g butter, cut into small pieces<br />
1 egg<br />
Caramel filling<br />
150g pitted soft dates, soaked in hot<br />
water for 10 minutes then drained<br />
40g maple syrup<br />
2 tbsp peanut butter or almond nut<br />
butter<br />
3 tbsp coconut oil<br />
2-3 tbsp boiling water to blend<br />
1 tbsp vanilla extract<br />
Chocolate Ganache<br />
50ml double cream or coconut cream<br />
200g dark chocolate chips<br />
If you love Snickers this is the dessert for you! With a gorgeous caramel<br />
centre and topped with chocolate, this is a rich indulgent treat. For smaller<br />
portions, use a pastry cutter and line a 12-hole tart tin in the same way as<br />
if making jam tarts.<br />
Method<br />
1. Preheat the oven to 190C/170C fan/gas mark 5.<br />
2. Make the pastry. Place the flour and xanthan gum with the butter in a<br />
food processor and whiz to form breadcrumbs. Add the egg and a little<br />
water, if needed for the mixture to come together, to form a moist,<br />
slightly damp dough.<br />
3. Roll out the pastry between two sheets of cling film – this will make it<br />
easier to roll out.<br />
4. Line either 8 individual tart tins or a 12-hole tart tin, or one 20cm / 8-inch<br />
fluted tart tin. Ideally use tins with removable bases to make it easier to<br />
remove the tarts when baked.<br />
5. Prick the bases all over with a fork and line with baking paper, then fill<br />
with baking beans and bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are just<br />
browning. Remove the baking beans and paper and bake for a further<br />
5-10 minutes or until golden brown all over. Cool completely before<br />
using. If using a 12-hole tart tin bake them for around 5-10 minutes until<br />
golden.<br />
6. To make the caramel filling, simply place all the ingredients in a food<br />
processor and blend to form a thick paste.<br />
7. Spoon the caramel into the tart cases then chill for 1 hour to firm up.<br />
8. Place the cream and chocolate in a small saucepan and warm gently.<br />
Beat well until the chocolate has melted and you have a thick ganache.<br />
9. Pour the chocolate over the caramel filling and place back in the fridge<br />
for 1 hour to set.<br />
Nutrition per serving (one tartlet of eight): 470kcal, fat 30g (of which saturates 19g), carbohydrates<br />
42g (of which sugars 24g), protein 7.6g, fibre 2g<br />
Nutrition per serving (one tartlet of twelve): 314kcal, fat 20g (of which saturates 13g), carbohydrates<br />
28g (of which sugars 16g), protein 5.1g, fibre 1.3g
29
30<br />
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31<br />
Trader Scheme Offer<br />
Every year, over 40,000 residents of <strong>Wigan</strong> Borough use<br />
the Good Trader Scheme to source good quality local<br />
tradespeople to do maintenance, improvement and<br />
emergency work in their homes and gardens.<br />
The Good Trader Scheme has been run by the Trading<br />
Standards team at <strong>Wigan</strong> Council for over 15 years. It’s<br />
amongst the top ten local authority schemes in the<br />
country, with over 180 local trader members.<br />
For tradespeople, the scheme obviously offers the chance<br />
to gain local work within the <strong>Wigan</strong> Borough, and you<br />
can also save hundreds of pounds in advertising costs.<br />
Joining the Good Trader Scheme will cost your business<br />
a fraction of cost of joining similar schemes such as<br />
CheckaTrade, Rated People and TrustATrader.<br />
The Good Trader Scheme is offering local traders the<br />
chance to join with no membership fees up to the end of<br />
<strong>March</strong> <strong>2022</strong>. Businesses will just need to pay a one off £40<br />
administration fee to process their application.<br />
If you like the scheme and the benefits it brings your<br />
business, you can renew in April for less than £100 for a<br />
standard membership.<br />
For details please email regulation@wigan.gov.uk. If you<br />
want to join the 40,000 local residents using the Good<br />
Trader Scheme, visit www.goodtraderscheme.com.<br />
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32<br />
Hospice Funding Boost<br />
<strong>Local</strong> Vocals Community Choir has earmarked <strong>Wigan</strong><br />
and Leigh Hospice as their charity of the term. The choir<br />
was founded just twelve months ago by Laura Bennett,<br />
a graduate of LIPA, and has since grown to nearly two<br />
hundred voices across three choirs in <strong>Wigan</strong>, Rainford<br />
and Leyland.<br />
Research shows that singing in a choir has tremendous<br />
benefits for physical and mental wellbeing and the<br />
opportunity to meet weekly with likeminded people can<br />
help us guard against social isolation.<br />
As well as the weekly rehearsal, <strong>Local</strong> Vocals have access<br />
to a host of resources online and the chance to engage<br />
in community activities ranging from art sessions to<br />
rambling.<br />
Each term, a charity is chosen by the choir members and<br />
all events are targeted towards raising money for that<br />
charity. In their first year, <strong>Local</strong> Vocals raised well over<br />
four thousand pounds for <strong>Wigan</strong> Stars, Derian House and<br />
Northwest Blood Bikes – something they are very proud<br />
of.<br />
This year, they are hoping to increase their fundraising<br />
efforts further and would appreciate the support of<br />
anyone who sees them perform at local events.<br />
If you would like to know more about <strong>Local</strong> Vocals or<br />
you’d like to support their charity fundraising efforts, visit<br />
their website www.localvocalschoir.com or email office@<br />
localvocalschoir.com.<br />
Rugby Women Wanted<br />
Ashton Bears Rugby League team, based at Low Bank<br />
Road, are recruiting for their brand-new women’s openage<br />
team, starting in <strong>2022</strong> or 2023.<br />
You don’t need to have any previous playing experience,<br />
just a drive to improve. If you’re interested then please<br />
call Mark Webster on 07795 101260<br />
Take a Punt<br />
<strong>Local</strong> American Football team, <strong>Wigan</strong> Bandits are<br />
currently recruiting for the <strong>2022</strong> season. No experience is<br />
necessary, but you need to be aged 16-19.<br />
Full kit will be supplied. To start your American Football<br />
journey simply email wiganbanditsyouth@outlook.com<br />
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34<br />
Shops<br />
QUIZ<br />
1. What name would be used in the UK for what<br />
would be called an op shop in Australia and New<br />
Zealand?<br />
2. The 2018 BBC TV documentary series Flatpack<br />
Empire went behind the scenes of which retailer?<br />
3. A 2021 Christmas TV advert for Tesco was<br />
cleared of causing widespread offence after over<br />
5,000 complaints were made regarding a scene<br />
in which Father Christmas proves he is what?<br />
4. In the film Notting Hill, Hugh Grant’s character<br />
owns a shop that sells what?<br />
5. Which well known retailer has a logo that<br />
features a yellow arrow going from the first letter<br />
in its name to the fourth to represent the wide<br />
variety of products it sells?<br />
6. In January 2021, which online retailer bought<br />
the Debenhams brand and website for 55 million<br />
pounds?<br />
7. Specialising in home shopping, the letters in the<br />
name of the company QVC stand for what three<br />
words?<br />
8. In the Harry Potter novels, Ollivanders is a shop<br />
that sells what?<br />
9. Which of the following retailers started life as a<br />
“penny bazaar” in 1884, using the slogan “don’t<br />
ask the price, it’s a penny”?... a) John Lewis; b)<br />
Marks and Spencer; or c) Sainsbury’s?<br />
10. In 2019, who launched an online shop called<br />
Gross Domestic Product, with a disclaimer<br />
saying it “may prove to be a disappointing retail<br />
experience - especially if you’re successful in<br />
making a purchase”?<br />
Quiz solutions can be found on page 85 of this magazine<br />
Get into Golf<br />
Deanwood Golf Club will be hosting a free Open Day<br />
starting at 11am on Sunday, <strong>March</strong> 13, with an aim to<br />
show ladies how golf can help them to achieve their<br />
fitness goals.<br />
The ladies’ ‘Get into Golf’ programme at the Lafford<br />
Lane course was hugely successful in 2021, and the club<br />
welcomed a number of new ladies.<br />
Golf can go a long way to helping you feel good about<br />
yourself. You can master a new skill, and push yourself to<br />
achieve your 10,000 daily steps in beautiful surroundings.<br />
If you’re worried about your current skills with a club,<br />
fear not as the club’s PGA professional, Sam will teach<br />
you the basics of golf and offers 10-12 lessons for just<br />
£100 if required.<br />
Once you’ve got the hang of the game, you will be able<br />
to progress at your own pace, right the way through to<br />
full membership. Current ladies will be waiting to help<br />
you, and will share their experiences and passion for the<br />
game.<br />
If you’re interested, call the club on 01695 622219 to<br />
register for the Open Day.<br />
Earn extra<br />
cash!<br />
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Winstanley<br />
Sandstone Rd, Crowther Dr & Pepperwood Dr areas<br />
390 copies £26.33 + leaflet pay<br />
Longshaw<br />
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35<br />
Designs for <strong>Life</strong><br />
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36<br />
Towards Zero, a nail-biting thriller written by Agatha<br />
Christie and Gerald Verner, is the next production<br />
scheduled at <strong>Wigan</strong> Little Theatre in Crompton Street.<br />
When a house party gathers at Gull’s Point, the seaside<br />
home of Lady Tressilian, Neville Strange finds himself<br />
caught between his wife Audrey, and his new flame Kay.<br />
The play probes the psychology of jealousy before<br />
bringing the story to a pointed ending. Towards Zero<br />
runs from Wednesday 9th to Saturday 19th <strong>March</strong>.<br />
And arriving in April at the <strong>Wigan</strong> Little Theatre is Gordon<br />
Steel’s comedy, Albert Nobbs.<br />
After a life of hard graft, retirement isn’t at all what<br />
On the Stage<br />
Albert Nobbs had expected. Instead of taking things at<br />
a leisurely pace, Albert finds himself bored and nagged<br />
senseless by his wife Connie.<br />
But Albert’s world is rocked by the sudden death of<br />
Connie, and he struggles to find a reason to carry on –<br />
until Connie returns as a ghost and sets about organising<br />
a fulfilling retirement for Albert, including setting him up<br />
with her best friend Rose.<br />
Albert Nobbs runs from Wednesday 20th to Saturday<br />
30th April.<br />
To book tickets, visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/wiganlittle-theatre-box-office/<br />
or call in at the Box Office.<br />
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37
38<br />
Keeping Good Tenants<br />
Rents in the UK are increasing<br />
at the fastest-ever rate as<br />
tenant competition doubles,<br />
according to a recent survey<br />
from Rightmove.<br />
Average asking rents are<br />
now £924 per calendar<br />
month in the North West,<br />
an increase of 12.5% year on<br />
year, and the average yield in<br />
the region is now 6.6%.<br />
Rightmove predicts that asking rents will rise by 5% in<br />
<strong>2022</strong>. Therefore, it’s not surprising that landlords are<br />
striving to ensure that their rental income is maximised<br />
by keeping hold of good tenants.<br />
As a landlord, some of the reasons tenants move on are<br />
out of your control, while others can be managed. Here<br />
are five of the most common reasons why renters choose<br />
to move on, and how you can possibly prevent that<br />
happening…<br />
Can’t Afford the Rent - Tenants may move out because<br />
the rent has become too expensive for them as some<br />
landlords increase their rental price annually. Another<br />
reason could be a change in their own financial situations.<br />
Sometimes it can be advantageous to keep the rent low<br />
and dodge the void period… just make sure the numbers<br />
add up!<br />
Time to Upscale - A marriage, the birth of a child, starting<br />
a home business, relatives coming to live full-time are just<br />
some of the reasons that can force your tenant to search<br />
for a bigger property. There’s not much you can do to add<br />
space, but if you have a bigger rental available yourself, it<br />
might be worth mentioning it to them.<br />
Neighbours - As the theme tune goes, everybody needs<br />
good neighbours. But what can you do if the neighbours<br />
are annoying your tenants to the point where they want to<br />
move? This might sound like<br />
something that’s out of your<br />
hands, but it is resolvable.<br />
The first thing to do is speak<br />
to the neighbours yourself as<br />
they may not realise they’re<br />
doing anything wrong. If<br />
they’re renting too, the next<br />
step is to have a discussion<br />
with your fellow landlord.<br />
If all else fails, turn to the<br />
council and seek advice on how to address issues such as<br />
noise and poor levels of hygiene.<br />
Ready to Buy - With some rental prices increasing each<br />
year and interest rates low, many are making the leap to<br />
buy homes whilst they can. This could be due to various<br />
reasons, for example, they can finally afford to join<br />
the property ladder, they are expecting a family or are<br />
relocating.<br />
Poor Maintenance – It is your responsibility as landlord<br />
to keep the structure and exterior of the property well<br />
maintained and in good repair and provide your tenant<br />
with a safe place to live in. Landlords are responsible for:<br />
pest control, damp, gas, water and electricity, leaking<br />
roofs etc. By acting quickly and resolving maintenance<br />
issues as they pop up, you’re much more likely to save<br />
money in the long run by keeping a good tenant and<br />
avoiding void periods. If you’re too busy or live far away, a<br />
letting agent is a good solution, able to solve problems as<br />
they arise, especially in emergency situations.<br />
Final thoughts:<br />
There are several reasons good tenants can leave, even if<br />
they like the property they are in. Smart landlords will get<br />
out in front of these issues and find ways to keep those<br />
tenants in their property to avoid turnover costs.<br />
For more information about successfully letting<br />
properties in the <strong>Wigan</strong> area, please give me a call.<br />
Alan Batt is a member of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and has<br />
worked within the <strong>Wigan</strong> property market for over 40 years.<br />
Alan Batt<br />
For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis on the <strong>Wigan</strong> property market, check out his blog at<br />
www.alanbatt.co.uk
Free<br />
Rent Check!<br />
Scan Me!<br />
Place your phone camera over the QR code<br />
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<strong>Wigan</strong> Office • 78 Market Street, <strong>Wigan</strong> WN1 1HX<br />
01942 233 999<br />
www.alanbatt.co.uk
40<br />
Old Courts Update<br />
The Old Courts are starting <strong>2022</strong> as they mean to go<br />
and making up for lost time with a packed schedule of<br />
incredible productions.<br />
An Evening without Kate Bush is your first offering on<br />
Tuesday <strong>March</strong> 1; enter a strange Phenomena and howl<br />
with the hounds of love as acclaimed performer Sarah-<br />
Louise Young explores the music and mythology of one<br />
of the most influential and iconic voices in British music.<br />
Next up is Black is the Colour of my Voice on Wednesday,<br />
<strong>March</strong> 9 – This production is inspired by the life of Nina<br />
Simone, a successful jazz singer and civil rights activist<br />
seeking redemption after the untimely death of her father.<br />
And rounding up the month at The Old Courts is a<br />
production called Sleepover, which takes place on<br />
Thursday, <strong>March</strong> 31.<br />
The year is 1990, a time of back combed fringes, Just<br />
Seventeen magazines and White Musk perfume. Go<br />
and join the cast as they discuss all the best things<br />
about being a teenager and leave all your grown-up<br />
responsibilities behind.<br />
To book tickets for any of these productions please go<br />
online at www.theoldcourts.com or call the box office on<br />
0343 208 6015<br />
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41
42<br />
Out & About<br />
BeWell <strong>Wigan</strong> have announced a series of new activities<br />
for older adults at Haigh Woodland Park. The ‘Out and<br />
About’ sessions are designed to include those living with<br />
dementia and their friends and families.<br />
All the sessions are fully accessible for wheelchair and<br />
walking frames and include nature walks, adventure golf,<br />
arts and crafts, boccia and other indoor activities. Each<br />
session costs £3 per person and tea and coffee will be<br />
provided.<br />
The next couple of sessions will take place on Monday,<br />
<strong>March</strong> 14 and Monday, April 11 between 10.30am –<br />
11.30am. For a full timetable and to book your place<br />
please email activeinclusive@bewellwigan.org<br />
Funding Support<br />
Community groups hoping to launch a project have<br />
an opportunity to get a helping hand through the<br />
crowdfunding scheme run by <strong>Wigan</strong> Council, who are<br />
ready to match funds of up to £1,000 or 25% of a project.<br />
Anyone launching a project aimed at benefitting the<br />
people of <strong>Wigan</strong> Borough can take advantage of the<br />
offer by setting out their funding goals on any of the<br />
major crowdfunding platforms, including JustGiving and<br />
GoFundMe. Once a project has been launched, support<br />
can be applied for through the council’s website.<br />
If you are looking for advice on how to get the best<br />
results, you can attend one of <strong>Wigan</strong> Council’s bi-monthly<br />
Funding Friday events. The next one is due to be held on<br />
Friday 4th <strong>March</strong> at Shevington Library between 1pm<br />
and 3.30pm.<br />
Saturday Social<br />
If your child likes to get out into nature and explore their<br />
belongings, then we have the Saturday Social for you! My<br />
Outdoor Classroom will be running a Saturday group at<br />
Greenslate Farm in Billinge for children aged 4-11.<br />
Children will be given the chance to learn forest survival<br />
skills, make new friends, play in the woodlands and wolf<br />
down a few toasted marshmallow treats. The sessions<br />
will take place weekly between 10am-12pm and cost £12<br />
per session or £50 for 5 sessions. For more information<br />
or to book your child’s place please go online at www.<br />
myoutdoorclassroom.co.uk<br />
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43<br />
Pokemon Club<br />
If you’ve got children between the ages of 5 and 16<br />
then chances are you know your Pikachu’s from your<br />
Charizard’s. The Pokémon club event in <strong>Wigan</strong> takes<br />
place between 10am-12pm at the Geek Retreat on<br />
Standishgate and gives Pokémon fans the chance to get<br />
together and chat about all things Pokémon, trade their<br />
cards and generally have a great time!<br />
The event is for under 16s and entry is £5 per child, which<br />
includes a booster of Pokémon cards. New players are<br />
very welcome, and staff will be on hand to help. There is<br />
also an in-store café with a great selection of hot drinks<br />
and good food to keep the parents happy.<br />
For more information, please search for the Geek Retreat<br />
<strong>Wigan</strong> Facebook page or give them a call on 07722 265736.<br />
Flower Power<br />
Fresh flowers can lighten the dullest of days, so if you<br />
fancy brightening up your days and delving into the<br />
world of flower arranging, then make sure to contact<br />
the <strong>Wigan</strong> Flower Club. The group meets on the third<br />
Wednesday of each month at the Pemberton Band Room<br />
Now only<br />
£895<br />
*<br />
for a fully<br />
fitted electric<br />
garage door.<br />
WAS £1,354 INCLUDING VAT.<br />
on Enfield Street opposite Lidl, and all are very welcome<br />
to join. Meetings usually include demonstrations of fresh<br />
flowers by qualified demonstrators from the National<br />
Association of Flower Arrangers and the arrangements<br />
are raffled at the end of the evening.<br />
Meetings start at 7.15 pm and for more information on<br />
attending or becoming a member, please call Elizabeth<br />
Scally on 07881 483053 or Jennifer Halliwell on 07808<br />
811490.<br />
Band Returns<br />
Upholland Community Band have resumed their<br />
rehearsal schedule after their forced hiatus due to<br />
restrictions. If you know how to play a woodwind or<br />
brass instrument, then the band would like to hear from<br />
you. The group rehearse every Monday at 7:30pm in the<br />
Parish Room in St. Thomas the Martyr CE Primary school<br />
on Highgate Road.<br />
Band members range in age from 13 to 60+ so,<br />
everyone is welcome. If you are interested and would<br />
like more information, please email the band at<br />
uphollandcommunityband@gmail.com or text 07906<br />
234593.<br />
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44<br />
Colour Your<br />
Home Happy<br />
Lift your spirits and freshen up your<br />
space by introducing bold, clear shades<br />
Go for a tropical vibe with a bright and<br />
breezy accent lampshade, featuring<br />
abstract palm trees, a gold lining and<br />
looped fringing.<br />
Ravenala lampshade, £180, mindtheg.com<br />
Use colour in unexpected places – such as on a staircase,<br />
dado rails or skirting boards. This cheering yellow makes<br />
a great contrast to a grey sofa that’s adorned with fun<br />
cushions.<br />
Harlow grey L-shaped sofa, £999.99, furniturechoice.co.uk<br />
This cool lamp, in a ‘mootard’ glaze, would<br />
liven up any desk, table or shelf.<br />
Nellie table lamp, £112, with 35cm<br />
straight empire shade in Heraldic Ikat,<br />
£79, pooky.com<br />
Nothing beats a blanket or throw<br />
as an easy way to introduce fresh<br />
new colour, texture and pattern,<br />
whether over a sofa, chair or bed.<br />
Manhattan reversible super-soft<br />
merino lambswool blanket, from<br />
£150, thefinecottoncompany.com<br />
Replacing some cushions<br />
is one of the easiest ways<br />
to introduce personality<br />
and pops of colour.<br />
Combine plains with bold<br />
patterns for variety and<br />
interest.<br />
Jonathan Adler Milano<br />
Concentric Loops cushion<br />
in emerald/navy, £134,<br />
sweetpeaandwillow.com<br />
Choosing and using bright colours<br />
• Choose shades that are fresh and clear rather<br />
than muted or muddy, and neither too pale nor too<br />
dark. Mid-spectrum brights such as sunny yellow,<br />
fuchsia pink, emerald green and brilliant blue will<br />
make your home sing.<br />
• For this look, keep things simple with a backdrop<br />
of white or a pale neutral, which will allow you to<br />
experiment with adding pops of bold colour here<br />
and there as you wish. Some say it’s best to keep<br />
the area that’s covered by bold colours to around<br />
a quarter of the room at most, so as to let the eyes<br />
rest and not be overwhelmed.<br />
• Choose two, or maybe three, bold colours and<br />
add them in gradually – an accent sofa or chair,<br />
a cushion or throw, a vase or candlestick, and so<br />
on. Alternatively, make bold colour part of the<br />
architecture by painting or papering a feature wall,<br />
or even sections of woodwork. See how things look<br />
together, and move them around (or even take<br />
them out again) as necessary.<br />
• Lovers of pattern may feel confident enough to<br />
mix pattern-on-pattern with brights; most of us,<br />
however, will prefer to play a little safer and stick to<br />
plain colours plus the occasional minimal pattern.<br />
Simple geometrics look great with this look, and<br />
have a mid-century style that works really well.
45<br />
Coloured glass is one of the<br />
prettiest things – and this<br />
delightful vase is very ontrend,<br />
since Pantone’s colour<br />
of the year <strong>2022</strong> is Very Peri,<br />
a dynamic violet-blue.<br />
Small cushion vase in<br />
amethyst, £27, dartington.<br />
co.uk<br />
The smallest accessory in<br />
the right combination of<br />
colour and pattern can<br />
make all the difference, and<br />
a distinctive piece such as<br />
this terracotta vase, hand<br />
made in Portugal, is a great<br />
example.<br />
Tangerine Bold pitcher,<br />
£42.99, softstore.co<br />
Bold colour probably won’t<br />
work all around the room,<br />
but used on a small<br />
section can create an eyecatching<br />
feature.<br />
Out of the Blue paint<br />
by COAT, £42 per 2.5l,<br />
coatpaints.com<br />
A sofa, chair or – in this case – loveseat can make a good focal point<br />
in a room, especially in a warming, bold colour such as this.<br />
The Rebel 1.5 Snuggler in marmalade velvet, £899, snugsofa.com
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Upholland<br />
Grammar<br />
Through<br />
the Ages<br />
by Nicola Gray<br />
Grammar schools have been a part of our educational history for 500<br />
years; their aim was to provide a quality education, defined by their<br />
pursuit of academic excellence and preparing their pupils for life, not<br />
just for testing.<br />
One shining example of the dedication to schooling was Upholland<br />
Grammar School. Many people believe that the grammar school<br />
operated continually from 1661 in a stone building that still stands on<br />
School Lane in the village. But the road to Upholland’s scholarly success<br />
was formed almost sixty years earlier, in 1604, when a rudimentary<br />
version of the school existed in connection with the priory, known<br />
today as St Thomas the Martyr Parish Church.<br />
Little detailed information remains about the original school and the<br />
teaching practices of the day; we do know that pupils would attend<br />
their classes in a number of rooms that were located on top of each<br />
other,in what is now the bell tower of the church, gaining access to<br />
the tower from the now demolished monks’ quarters along a small<br />
corridor. Imagination only can conjure up what the classroom working<br />
conditions would have been, with little in the way of heating and the<br />
only source of light being an oil lamp.<br />
Ladders in Bell Tower to upper classroom<br />
Former entrance to the Bell Tower<br />
47<br />
Bell Tower - former lower classroom
48<br />
The school records jump to the early 1640s when<br />
headteacher, Adam Martindale was forced to close the<br />
grammar school and cease teaching due to the ‘constant<br />
alarms’ in the village during the civil war period.<br />
Some years after the wars had ended, in 1661, Upholland<br />
Grammar School, with thanks to the generosity of local<br />
benefactors, re-opened its doors to pupils just a short way<br />
down the lane from its priory birthplace.<br />
Some of the rules by which pupils were expected to<br />
conduct themselves makes for charming reading of a<br />
bygone era. The school day started at 7am from February<br />
1st, till the 1st of October and school departed at 5pm,<br />
with ‘the residue of the year we meet at eight and (de)part<br />
at four’. Another rule declared, ‘That offences against God<br />
immediately such as are cursing, swearing lying either<br />
within the school or without as also profaning of the<br />
Lords Day by playing or otherwise and such like offences<br />
be duly and truly corrected’.<br />
During the first 200 years of its history, Upholland<br />
Grammar School endured a roller coaster existence and<br />
the perseverance of all those involved to keep the school<br />
open is testament to the importance of and need for<br />
education in the area. The school found itself in decline<br />
and falling pupil numbers pointed to a curriculum that<br />
needed to move with the times.<br />
Fortune favoured the changes made by Reverend John<br />
Braithwaite, who was headmaster from 1782 to 1812. He<br />
changed the name of the school to Up Holland Academy<br />
Plaque for William Berridge in St Thomas Martyr Church<br />
and offered a more modern approach to learning to<br />
attract children from more middle-class families. Many<br />
pupils boarded with him and his family in one of the old<br />
priory buildings.<br />
In the coming years new headmasters tried and failed<br />
to reinstate a more classical curriculum, dominated by<br />
Latin and for many years the school again struggled for<br />
its existence. In 1864, Reverend William Berridge was<br />
appointed headmaster and immediately began to re-<br />
Model of former Priory buildings
49<br />
vitalise the upper school. He attracted more grammar<br />
school pupils but life on School Lane was congested<br />
and increasingly unbearable. The problem was partly<br />
solved when the junior pupils moved to a new building<br />
in Church Street in 1875, leaving both floors of the old<br />
grammar school to Mr Berridge and his pupils.<br />
Under William Berridge, Upholland Grammar School made<br />
remarkable progress and in 1878 the school moved to new<br />
premises on the Ox House Heyes Estate – the site of the<br />
present Upholland High School. The existing house, which<br />
became Upholland Grammar School had, since the 1700’s<br />
been the home of the Gaskell family of Upholland, and<br />
remnants of the original building can still be seen today in<br />
the high school grounds. The new building was ‘admirably<br />
adapted for scholastic purposes’ with a charming<br />
Government Inspector commenting that the school’s only<br />
‘misfortune is the name of <strong>Wigan</strong> on the address’. William<br />
Berridge left the school in 1890 and his presence was<br />
missed, and the school standards dropped again.<br />
By 1909 the school was under the financial control of the<br />
Lancashire Education committee and questions were<br />
asked about its ‘uncertain usefulness’. In fact, governors of<br />
the school were advised to consider its closure. In keeping<br />
with the spirt of the school, they appointed Charles Cox,<br />
who turned out to be a remarkable headmaster, turning<br />
round the fortunes of the school. He introduced many of<br />
the facilities, which were later to become common place<br />
in schools – including a library, debating society, games,<br />
museum, weather station, visits and field work.<br />
The school continued to attract increasing numbers<br />
of students, with records of pupils coming from Orrell,<br />
Billinge, Upholland, <strong>Wigan</strong>, Rainford, Kirkby, Knowsley<br />
and Bickerstaffe. The Ox House Hayes building was<br />
bursting at the seams. As a solution, Lancashire County<br />
Upholland Grammar School locations<br />
1st<br />
2nd<br />
Orrell Road<br />
ORRELL<br />
Church Street<br />
Orrell<br />
Post<br />
M58<br />
Moor Road<br />
Sefton Road<br />
Tontine<br />
St. James Road<br />
Edge Hall Road<br />
Church Street<br />
1st<br />
St Thomas the Martyr Church Upholland<br />
3rd<br />
Orrell<br />
Station<br />
Winstanley Road<br />
Orrell<br />
Water<br />
Park<br />
2nd<br />
School Lane<br />
Higher<br />
End<br />
Upholland Road<br />
Crank Road<br />
Greenslate<br />
Farm<br />
College<br />
4th<br />
Smethurst Road<br />
3rd<br />
Ox House Heyes Estate – Sandbrook Lane<br />
4th<br />
Winstanley Road
50<br />
Council proposed the merger of Upholland Grammar School and Ashton<br />
Grammar School on a new site. The outbreak of the Second World War<br />
put these plans on hold and, as we know they were never revisited.<br />
Just before the outbreak of war, Alfred Maggs became headmaster, and<br />
his first task was to steer the school through the difficult war years. He<br />
also had to contend with an influx of pupils, following the Education<br />
Act in 1944 which stated that all grammar school places should be free<br />
to those pupils who passed the 11+ exam. The Ox House Heyes site had<br />
become unfit for purpose and a parent described the classrooms as<br />
‘faintly reminiscent of the dungeons of the Tower of London’.<br />
The local community again stepped in and help for Upholland Grammar<br />
School came in the shape of Squire Bankes from Winstanley Hall. In July<br />
1944 he made ‘a most public spirited and munificent gift’ of 20 acres of<br />
land on Winstanley Road for a new school.<br />
By the time the new facility had been finished it was September 1953<br />
and Alfred Maggs moved all 461 of his pupils to start the next chapter<br />
in the school’s winding history. Brian Ellis was the next headmaster to<br />
take the reins and in true Upholland Grammar School style it continued<br />
to prosper and develop. In 1965 Lancashire Education Committee<br />
unveiled proposals to introduce comprehensive education in the<br />
county, which would mean that Upholland Grammar School could be<br />
changed beyond recognition.<br />
Their fears weren’t unfounded as the borough saw itself as being in the<br />
forefront of educational change and the same fate was befalling other<br />
schools in the area; <strong>Wigan</strong> Grammar School for boys had disappeared<br />
in 1972, becoming Mesnes High School, with <strong>Wigan</strong> Girls’ High School<br />
also closing to become Whitley High School and then a housing estate.<br />
In 1974, following local government reorganisation, the control of<br />
Upholland Grammar School transferred from Lancashire County to<br />
<strong>Wigan</strong> Metropolitan Borough. On 30 August 1977, Brian Ellis became<br />
the first Principal of a new sixth form college opened in the grammar<br />
school buildings. Upholland Grammar School came to an end and<br />
Winstanley College was born.<br />
Winstanley College has navigated its way successfully through the<br />
education tables and is consistently ranked as one of the best sixth<br />
forms in the country. The Upholland Grammar spirit is embedded in<br />
the ethos of the college and continues to pay tribute to the founding<br />
members who endeavoured to provide a top-class education by the<br />
light of an oil lamp.<br />
Collection of Grammar School student photos<br />
With thanks to David Robinson a former Grammar School Pupil and owner of Mugs61.co.uk<br />
a site for all ex pupils and anyone with an interest in up Holland Grammar School.<br />
If you would like to know more about the school or have any information<br />
you would like to share please go online at www.mugs61.co.uk<br />
or email davidrobinson@mugs61.co.uk
51<br />
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Become a foster carer and change the<br />
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52<br />
Porto design hinged door set in<br />
a RAL-painted finish in black.<br />
Urban Front: 01494 778 787;<br />
urbanfront.com.<br />
First impressions count, so give some<br />
thought as to how you can transform<br />
your entrance with colour, hardware,<br />
lighting… or even a whole new door.<br />
Front door painted in<br />
Lavender Quartz.<br />
Dulux: 0333 222 7171;<br />
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It’s a welcome to visitors, the first thing that greets you<br />
after a hard day at work, and vital security that keeps<br />
out noise, draughts, intruders and the outside world<br />
in general. But is your front door up to scratch? Taking<br />
a long, hard look may reveal ways in which it, too, can<br />
be improved. Both practically and aesthetically, the<br />
difference can be remarkable.<br />
When choosing a replacement door (if, for example, your<br />
door has warped, rotted or shrunk beyond repair), you<br />
may wish to replicate exactly what was there before – or<br />
it may be possible to update it with something better.<br />
It’s important to get it right, as a great front door is an<br />
investment that could even enhance the value of your<br />
home; get it wrong, however, and the reverse could be<br />
the case. Start by researching styles to suit the period<br />
of your property, and consider what material will work<br />
best. Wooden doors are still the most popular, and are<br />
ideal for period houses, while uPVC is usually a cheaper<br />
option that can be complementary for modern homes.<br />
Aluminium, though expensive, combines strength and<br />
stability with a cool, industrial look.<br />
Sometimes it may be appropriate to include some glazing<br />
with your new door – ideal for introducing extra light<br />
into a dark hallway. Consider whether you would prefer<br />
clear, frosted or perhaps even stained glass, depending<br />
on the overall style, how much privacy you require and<br />
whether security is an issue. Double-glazed, laminated<br />
glass is the best option to ensure intruders can’t gain<br />
access. Speaking of security, an upgrade to your locks<br />
may also be a good idea – check with your insurers, but a<br />
five-lever mortice is usually best for timber doors, while a<br />
uPVC door should have an anti-snap lock and multipoint<br />
locking system.
53<br />
Any door should fit well within its frame, but it may still be<br />
an idea to improve its energy efficiency by adding seals<br />
around the edges, and a brush strip along the bottom. An<br />
internal letterbox flap or brush is also a great idea.<br />
Good lighting is vital for when you’re struggling to find<br />
your keys or simply need to see the front path on a dark<br />
evening. It should not be too difficult for an electrician<br />
to swap your existing light for a swanky new one – or<br />
perhaps a pair, one on either side of the door. Again,<br />
you will probably wish to coordinate your lighting with<br />
the architectural style of your property, whether it’s<br />
a carriage, lantern or bulkhead model, a decorative<br />
hanging pendant or a sleek and minimal wall washer.<br />
If possible, add a motion sensor and always ensure the<br />
fitting is suitably rated for safe exterior use.<br />
The fastest way to transform an existing timber door is<br />
to give it a fresh coat of paint. What colour? It’s a matter<br />
of personal preference, of course, unless limited by a<br />
planning restriction, but it’s always a good idea to try to<br />
coordinate the colour with the style of your property and<br />
to take account of local approaches. A garish pink in a<br />
historic terrace where everyone else’s door is neutral may<br />
result in some unhappy neighbours! Painting a door also<br />
helps protect it from the weather, so it’s important to do<br />
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it properly. Start<br />
by washing it<br />
down with soapy<br />
water, and either<br />
remove or cover<br />
the hardware.<br />
Remove loose or<br />
flaking paint, fill any holes or cracks, and sand down. Use<br />
primer on unpainted wood, or undercoat on previously<br />
painted or uPVC doors – you may need several coats –<br />
then finish with a couple of coats of the final colour, in<br />
tough, exterior gloss.<br />
A lovely finishing touch is a brand new set of hardware<br />
– letter plate, knocker, knob and numbers, which are<br />
available in an array of durable styles. Provided you<br />
measure up correctly, it is surprisingly easy to swap them<br />
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56<br />
Keep taking the tablets<br />
The best tablets for everybody and every budget<br />
Tablets are among our very favourite devices.<br />
They’re fantastic all-rounders, capable of<br />
turning into glossy magazines or movie screens,<br />
children’s games or serious workhorses. And<br />
there’s never been a better time to buy one,<br />
whether you want a budget bargain or a highend<br />
tablet for work.<br />
Amazon’s Fire HD range offers exceptional value<br />
for money, with models starting at just £49 for<br />
the Fire 7 to £149 for the Fire HD 10. That’s less<br />
than half the price of Apple’s iPad, and Amazon<br />
offers big discounts on Fire tablets every time<br />
it has a big sales event. You can’t access the<br />
Apple or Google app stores but Amazon’s own<br />
App Store is very good, and there are models<br />
specifically for children, with features including<br />
tough protective cases and excellent parental<br />
controls, as well as a year’s free subscription to<br />
Amazon Kids books, games and TV shows.<br />
The 500lb gorilla of the tablet world is Apple,<br />
whose iPads are arguably the best tablets<br />
around. The pick of the range for most people is<br />
the standard iPad at £319, but if you need more<br />
power the iPad Air (£579) and its smaller sibling<br />
the iPad mini (£479) are better still. And if you<br />
need the ultimate iPad, the iPad Pro starts at<br />
£749 for the 11-inch and £999 for the 12.9-inch.<br />
If you’d rather have a Windows tablet,<br />
Microsoft’s Surface Pro (£995) is a real rival to<br />
the iPad Pro, while the more affordable Surface<br />
Go (£369) is an excellent alternative to the iPad<br />
and iPad Air. There are also lots of nice tablets<br />
and 2-in-1 laptop/tablet hybrids from the usual<br />
PC names.<br />
Android tablets don’t have a great reputation<br />
– the cheap ones are usually awful – but<br />
Samsung’s tablets are up there with Apple in<br />
terms of quality. Our pick is the Galaxy Tab S6<br />
Lite (£298), which is the best value Android<br />
tablet if you want to run apps from the Google<br />
Play store.<br />
Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids<br />
Like the normal Fire HD, don’t pay<br />
full price for this kids’ tablet: Amazon<br />
discounts them when it has sales.<br />
The Kids edition includes a year’s free<br />
subscription to apps, e-books and<br />
TV shows.<br />
£139, Amazon.co.uk<br />
Microsoft Surface Go 3<br />
Prefer Windows to iPadOS?<br />
Microsoft’s excellent tablet<br />
running Windows 10/Windows<br />
11 is fast, good-looking and very<br />
flexible.<br />
£369, microsoft.com<br />
Amazon Fire HD 8<br />
An ideal simple tablet for<br />
surfing on the sofa, its’s easy<br />
to use, has a good selection of<br />
apps including the big names,<br />
and doesn’t cost much.<br />
£89, Amazon.co.uk<br />
Apple iPad<br />
Apple’s control of the hardware<br />
and software delivers an<br />
unparalleled user experience,<br />
making them the best tablets<br />
made right now. The basic iPad<br />
is fine for most.<br />
£319, Apple.com<br />
Galaxy tAb S6 Lite<br />
It’s not quite up to Apple standards<br />
in terms of software, but the Galaxy<br />
Tab S6 Lite is a good option if you’ve<br />
already invested in Android apps<br />
or just prefer Google’s way of doing<br />
things.<br />
£298, Samsung.com
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58<br />
Top five<br />
Cruise<br />
destinations<br />
Is there anything more idyllic than waking on a cruise ship and<br />
drawing your blinds to reveal an endless expanse of ocean? Add<br />
in cocktails by the pool, daily entertainment and shopping galore,<br />
and you have all the ingredients for the perfect holiday. That’s not<br />
even touching on the destinations you stop off at along the way!<br />
From the Greek Islands to Scandinavia’s Norwegian fjords, cruises<br />
can take you all over the globe. To give you some inspiration, here<br />
are five of the world’s most popular cruise destinations for <strong>2022</strong>.
59<br />
The Norwegian Fjords<br />
If you’re more interested in adventure than sun,<br />
sea and sand, Norway’s dramatic fjords are sure to<br />
deliver. These narrow inlets make up the majority<br />
of the country’s northern coast and boast some<br />
of Scandinavia’s most exceptional scenery.<br />
When Cruising<br />
is the choice,<br />
we have all the<br />
answers…<br />
Exploring from a cruise ship promises to bring<br />
you close to Norway’s tumbling waterfalls and<br />
skyscraper cliffs; keep an eye out for rare seabirds<br />
and sperm whales if you’re lucky! Most cruises<br />
will also stop at remote fishing villages, where<br />
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60<br />
The Greek Islands<br />
With more than 6,000 Greek islands<br />
peppering the Aegean and Ionian<br />
seas, it’s no surprise that islandhopping<br />
cruises around Greece are<br />
some of the most popular cruises<br />
around. This is a corner of the world<br />
made for exploring by ship.<br />
Start in Athens and spend your first<br />
couple of days exploring the capital<br />
before embarking on your journey.<br />
Top cruise destinations include<br />
Mykonos with its waterside cocktail<br />
bars and white-sand beaches, Rhodes with its Old Town<br />
and uninterrupted swathes of sand, and Santorini, where<br />
the sunsets are world-renowned. Many cruises will also<br />
take you to the archipelago’s lesser known islands too,<br />
Chania and Thessaloniki being good examples.<br />
European Rivers<br />
For bags of culture, river cruising is a great option. Two<br />
popular cruising choices are the Rhine, which flows from<br />
Basel, Switzerland, to Amsterdam, passing primarily<br />
through Germany along the way, or the stretch of the<br />
Danube between Budapest and Passau, Germany, that<br />
runs primarily through Austria.<br />
A cruise here will make you feel like you’ve walked straight<br />
into one of David Attenborough’s documentaries. Sail<br />
past gigantic glaciers, snap photographs of sea lions from<br />
the ship, take a shore excursion to see brown bears and<br />
witness breaching whales; the cruise itineraries around<br />
Alaska’s largely untamed landscape are hard to beat. You<br />
can also expect visits to Alaska’s state capital of Juneau,<br />
only reachable by air or by water, Glacier Bay National<br />
Park, and Skagway, a compact city saturated with history<br />
from the Gold Rush era.<br />
Cruises along the Rhine and the Danube meander<br />
through a mix of big city culture, small town sleepiness<br />
and a few stretches of genuine rural scenery. On the<br />
Rhine, the big cultural capitals are energetic Amsterdam<br />
and Cologne, with Strasbourg and Basel also included,<br />
whilst on the Danube, you have Budapest and Vienna.<br />
The Caribbean<br />
The Caribbean’s wealth of white-sand beaches washed<br />
by turquoise seas make it an incredibly popular cruise<br />
destination for sun-seekers.<br />
Thanks to the islands’ close proximity, you could be<br />
snorkelling with turtles in Tobago one day and dancing<br />
to reggae beats in Jamaica the next. Although equally<br />
colourful, each island has its own distinct character,<br />
meaning there’s enough to please wildlife lovers, history<br />
enthusiasts, foodies and anyone who just wants to laze<br />
on the beach.<br />
Alaska<br />
Coined ‘The Last Frontier’, Alaska is the USA’s most<br />
sparsely populated state – and its wildest.<br />
Beautifully furnished<br />
Stone Cottage<br />
Holiday Let<br />
– sleeps up to 4<br />
Situated near Sedbergh,<br />
in the Yorkshire Dales,<br />
and also within easy<br />
reach of the Lake District<br />
Children & pets welcome<br />
Call 01942 216 058<br />
www.millthropcottage.co.uk
Cover photo © Ian Bonnell Photograpthy<br />
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62<br />
Short Term Noise<br />
It has certainly been an eventful start to <strong>2022</strong>.<br />
“Partygate” has dominated the headlines in the UK along<br />
with the military situation in Ukraine and, of course, we<br />
are still navigating our way through the pandemic as<br />
restrictions begin to be lifted again. The cost of day-to-day<br />
living continues to rise – with energy prices in particular,<br />
increasing significantly. This threat of inflation and the<br />
future path for interest rates as a result, has unsettled the<br />
global stock markets, leading to greater volatility – which<br />
can be quite unsettling when you consider the positive<br />
performance of stock markets over the second half of<br />
2020 and 2021.<br />
The global stock market is down by around 7% and the US<br />
by circa 9% at the time of writing this article. Those growth<br />
companies that performed particularly well through the<br />
pandemic, have been impacted the most. In contrast, the<br />
UK’s stock market has performed comparatively better on<br />
the world’s stage. The reason for this is largely due to the<br />
type of companies that are listed in the FTSE (e.g. energy<br />
companies, mining stock and banks – which have been<br />
more resilient).<br />
Naturally, because of all these goings-on, investors start<br />
to feel a little unsettled. It is in our nature to want to “fix”<br />
things when they don’t appear to be going our way.<br />
But a key ingredient to investment success is patience - not<br />
panicking, not ‘fixing’, trying not to let the short-term ‘noise’<br />
distract you from your objectives and the bigger picture.<br />
There’s an old saying: ‘<strong>Life</strong> knocks you down. Get up’, and<br />
so often, this is how global markets react as well. They<br />
roll with the punches, and sooner or later they tend to<br />
bounce back from adverse events. The trick is waiting for<br />
the storm to pass.<br />
Beyond the ‘Noise’<br />
There are positives too: we have the first indications<br />
of success from our national vaccination programme<br />
and people in England are now able to go about their<br />
business mask-free, if they feel comfortable doing so.<br />
Travel restrictions are easing, making it far easier to<br />
see friends and family and for some maybe even the<br />
thought of a holiday this year (if you can navigate all that<br />
paperwork of course!).<br />
We can all now see that there will be an end to this<br />
pandemic.<br />
Revisiting your financial plan is another way to look<br />
beyond short-term events, to re-focus on your objectives<br />
and look at current events from a wider perspective.<br />
It’s worth remembering that money only takes on true<br />
meaning, only achieves its true potential, when we turn<br />
it into financial security for ourselves and our family, or<br />
turn it into enjoyment, by drawing it out and spending it.<br />
This is where we see the financial plan becomes the most<br />
important thing to focus on. As long as that is still linked<br />
to where you want to be, and what you want to do, you<br />
can start looking beyond the short-term and ignoring the<br />
noise. We’ve built in the lifebelts to ensure you’ll still get<br />
from A to B, no matter how turbulent the journey.<br />
If you need any guidance please feel free to<br />
contact us on 01257 423800. The initial meeting<br />
is at our expense and is without any obligation.<br />
David Barton<br />
APFS Cert CII (MP)<br />
Chief Executive Officer<br />
The value of investments can fall as well as rise which could result in investors receiving less than initially<br />
invested. Past performance should not be seen as an indication to future returns.
64<br />
Labour of Love<br />
Thirty years ago this month, on Friday 13th <strong>March</strong> 1992<br />
to be exact, approximately 600 miners reported for their<br />
last shift at the last remaining pits in <strong>Wigan</strong> Borough –<br />
Bickershaw and Parsonage. The closure of Bickershaw<br />
and Parsonage left just Parkside in Newton-le-Willows as<br />
the last pit standing in the Lancashire Coalfield. Parkside<br />
closed just a year later in 1993.<br />
Careful environmental management, along with Mother<br />
Nature, has hidden the black landscapes, spoil heaps<br />
and other excesses, and nowadays many residents enjoy<br />
the legacy of the Lancashire Coalfield by walking round,<br />
fishing and enjoying a multitude of activities on the<br />
flashes in <strong>Wigan</strong> and at Pennington.<br />
The largest physical reminder of the Lancashire Coalfield<br />
is in Astley Green, a tiny village off the A580 near Leigh,<br />
which hosts the last surviving headgear and winding<br />
house in Lancashire at the Lancashire Mining Museum.<br />
The museum is on the site of the Astley Green Colliery,<br />
close to the Bridgewater Canal, and was opened in 1908<br />
by Edward and Alfred Pilkington. Astley Green was finally<br />
closed in 1970 by the National Coal Board, who cited<br />
that the pit was uneconomic to operate. The headgear<br />
and winding house, both of which now have scheduled<br />
monument and listed building status, and since 1980, a<br />
group of dedicated volunteers called the Red Rose Steam<br />
Society Limited have run the 15 acre-site.<br />
Currently the site is a work in progress. The winding<br />
house is at the centre of the attraction, with many historic<br />
exhibits and visitors can also browse round the miner’s<br />
cottage, the vintage tea-room and ride the narrow-gauge<br />
railway.<br />
Garden and the creation of an underground experience.<br />
Plans also include the opening up of the area between<br />
the site and the canal to facilitate tourism and to link<br />
up with other attractions, such as the historic Worsley<br />
centre, Spinners Mill in Leigh and the new RHS centre at<br />
Bridgewater.<br />
For the hardworking Red Rose volunteers, many of whom<br />
are retirees, developing the Mining Museum site has<br />
become a labour of love. Bidding for pots of money from<br />
various sources to fund restoration and development of<br />
the site has become an ongoing task, but if future plans<br />
come to fruition, the museum will become a fitting tribute<br />
to those miners who worked the Lancashire Coalfield.<br />
The Lancashire Mining Museum is operating on<br />
winter opening times until 31st <strong>March</strong> and is open<br />
from 1pm-4pm on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and<br />
Thursdays. For more details, visit the website www.<br />
lancashireminingmuseum.org<br />
Peaky Blinders<br />
Fans of the hit show Peaky Blinders will recognise the<br />
backdrop of the museum site from series 4 – some<br />
dramatic scenes were filmed there. A Set Dresser for<br />
the show, Alan Shaw, came back after filming was<br />
complete to produce an amazing reproduction of a<br />
miner’s cottage, which is now used as a feature for<br />
the museum.<br />
The museum also hosts an increasing number of events<br />
such as markets, Santa rides, a community bonfire, all<br />
of which raise the profile of the site and raise funds. You<br />
can check on future events on the Facebook page @<br />
TheRedRoseSteamSocietyLtd1.<br />
The far-reaching vision for the Lancashire Mining<br />
Museum is illustrated in a five-year plan which is available<br />
on their website www.lancashireminingmuseum.org, but<br />
highlights include the creation of an archive and library<br />
centre, an heritage education centre, a Miners Memorial
65<br />
image credit: Dave Green
66<br />
CMA Accountancy<br />
Tax Planning Opportunities for Individuals & Companies<br />
By Kieran Fitzgerald MAAT<br />
Our previous article covered the Self-Assessment<br />
deadline which has now passed for the 2020/21 tax year<br />
submissions. Although the Government allowed some<br />
room for late submissions, if you are yet to file a return<br />
and require some assistance, contact our team without<br />
any further delay.<br />
As is the way with all matters tax, the focus switches now<br />
to the end of another tax year, the 2021/22 period that<br />
ends on the 5th April <strong>2022</strong>. Now is a good time to stop<br />
and take a wider view of the actions required to make<br />
good use of the relevant tax planning opportunities that<br />
may apply to your individual and/or companies’ situation.<br />
In a perfect world, you would be making use of relevant<br />
opportunities throughout the course of a year. However,<br />
it is important to stop and take time to reflect and ensure<br />
the correct opportunities are pursued.<br />
Make the most of your ISA allowance<br />
ISAs are free from income tax and capital gains tax.<br />
The overall ISA allowance is currently £20,000 across all<br />
different types of ISA and does not carry over between tax<br />
years. The limits for different ISA types are:<br />
• Stocks & Shares: £20,000 a year<br />
• Junior ISA: £9,000 a year<br />
• Help to Buy ISA: £200 a month (now closed to new<br />
applicants)<br />
• <strong>Life</strong>time ISA: £4,000 per year<br />
Make use of your personal allowances within a couple<br />
If you are married or in a civil partnership, you may be<br />
able to save money by structuring your finances to take<br />
advantage of both spouses’ tax allowances. This can be<br />
particularly lucrative whereby one spouse pays tax at a<br />
lower rate than the other.<br />
Review your buy-to-let profit sharing<br />
Further to the tip above, in a circumstance where one<br />
spouse is a basic rate taxpayer and one a higher rate<br />
taxpayer, it makes sense for the lower earner to receive<br />
a greater share of rental profits so as to legally avoid a<br />
higher rate tax charge.<br />
Utilise your annual allowance for pension<br />
contributions<br />
Investments in your pension are free from income tax and<br />
capital gains tax. Each year you can contribute as much<br />
money as you earn, usually up to £40,000 (although this<br />
tapers down to £4,000 for higher earners). Basic rate tax<br />
relief is obtained at source and higher rate tax relief is<br />
obtained via your annual tax returns. You may also be<br />
able to make extra contributions by carrying forward any<br />
unused allowance from the last three tax years.<br />
Plan for the High-Income Child Benefit Charge<br />
This tax charge allows the Government to recover some,<br />
or all, of any Child Benefit claimed where the annual<br />
taxable income or the claimant or the claimant’s partner<br />
exceeds £50,000. To keep your taxable income below that<br />
threshold, you could reduce it by exchanging salary in<br />
return for employer pension contributions, or by making<br />
personal pension contributions.<br />
Our expert team of accountants are ready to help with<br />
all aspects of your tax planning needs. Check out our<br />
website at www.cma-accountancy.com for the latest<br />
and greatest tips, and you might want to sign up to our<br />
weekly newsletters whilst you’re there!<br />
Kieran Fitzgerald – CMA Accountancy<br />
39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, <strong>Wigan</strong>, WN6 9DR<br />
01257 255521 info@cma-accountancy.com<br />
www.cma-accountancy.com
67<br />
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Call CMA Accountancy today<br />
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Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521
68<br />
Puzzle Pages<br />
CROSSWORD<br />
down<br />
1. Building for housing horses (6)<br />
2. German submarine in World War II (1-4)<br />
3. Frame supporting the body of a car (7)<br />
5. Appear suddenly or unexpectedly (3,2)<br />
6. Windlass used when weighing anchor (7)<br />
7. Soft yellow substance secreted by aural<br />
glands (6)<br />
8. Expert in art, food or drink (11)<br />
14. Blue-flowered trailing plant (7)<br />
15. Brilliant and showy technical skill (7)<br />
16. Group of people assembled to sing (6)<br />
17. Mary ___, women’s pentathlon gold medal<br />
winner in the 1972 Olympic Games (6)<br />
19. Lofty nest of a bird of prey (5)<br />
21. Mixture of rain and snow (5)<br />
across<br />
1. Ornamental plaster used to cover walls (6)<br />
4. Native North American tribe (6)<br />
9. Pear-shaped fruit with green skin ripening to black (7)<br />
10. Writing material (5)<br />
11. Asian water lily (5)<br />
12. Volatile liquid used chiefly as a solvent (7)<br />
13. Narrow strip of rubber formed into a loop for holding<br />
objects together (7,4)<br />
18. Book of the New Testament (7)<br />
20. Long, narrow passageway (5)<br />
22. Measuring stick (5)<br />
23. Small guitar with four strings (7)<br />
24. Agitated (6)<br />
25. Insect which rests with forelimbs raised as if in<br />
prayer (6)<br />
Wordwheel<br />
Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten<br />
minutes to find as many words as possible, none of<br />
which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns.<br />
Each word must be of three letters or more, all must<br />
contain the central letter and letters can only be used<br />
once in every word. There is at least one word that uses<br />
all of the letters in the wheel.<br />
I<br />
N<br />
R<br />
E<br />
M<br />
target<br />
Excellent: 50 or more words<br />
Good: 43 words<br />
A<br />
T<br />
Fair: 38 words
69<br />
WORDSEARCH<br />
Fishing<br />
ANCHOVY<br />
BARRACUDA<br />
BASS<br />
BREAM<br />
CARP<br />
CATFISH<br />
COD<br />
CUTTLE<br />
DACE<br />
DOLPHIN<br />
EEL<br />
FLOUNDER<br />
FUGU<br />
GUPPY<br />
HAG<br />
HAKE<br />
HERRING<br />
PIKE<br />
PIRANHA<br />
POLLACK<br />
SALMON<br />
SARDINE<br />
SHARK<br />
SKATE<br />
SOLE<br />
TENCH<br />
TROUT<br />
TURBOT<br />
SUDOKU<br />
word LADDER<br />
Change one letter at a time (but not the position<br />
of any letter) to make a new word - and move from<br />
the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the<br />
bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.<br />
LEAF<br />
WIGGLE WORDS<br />
CLUE: The belief or<br />
hope that the third<br />
attempt at something<br />
will be successful.<br />
Trace a path through all<br />
the letters to find the<br />
word or phrase that fits<br />
the clue.<br />
I T D R<br />
M T H I<br />
E S A C<br />
M R A H<br />
STEM<br />
All the puzzle solutions can be found<br />
on page 85 of this magazine
70<br />
Cheshire Castles<br />
by Chris Pearce<br />
Distance: 4½ miles Difficulty: Easy<br />
When choosing Jack’s Tracks to feature in <strong>Local</strong> <strong>Life</strong>, we<br />
usually opt to choose the Lancashire area, often to the<br />
Trough of Bowland or the West Pennine Moors. However,<br />
Cheshire has its fair share of notable walks too, and it’s there<br />
that we turn to this month for the Cheshire Castles walk.<br />
At just over 4½ miles, this walk takes in two very different<br />
castles. Peckforton Castle was built in the 1840’s by the<br />
Tollemache family within their 36,000 acres of Cheshire<br />
countryside. It’s now best known as a hotel/wedding venue<br />
and features regularly on TV shows such as Cheshire<br />
Housewives.<br />
But we start the walk from the car park at nearby<br />
Beeston Castle (CW6 9TX). Beeston Castle was<br />
built by Ranulf, the 6th Earl of Chester in<br />
the 1220’s, and the castle ruins and the<br />
woodland park are now looked after by<br />
English Heritage. Members of English<br />
Heritage can use the car park free,<br />
otherwise the cost is £3.<br />
Leave the main car park opposite the castle entrance, turn<br />
right, and head up the footpath between the castle wall and<br />
the overflow car park. Stay left at first as you enter the pine<br />
woods, and the path eventually drops to Tattenhall Lane,<br />
from where you can see Peckforton Castle in the distance.<br />
Turn left on the road, and after a few yards you’ll pass<br />
Tabernacle Cottage; at this point turn right on a footpath.<br />
Follow the footpath into the distance until you come to<br />
a stream. After you cross the wooden bridge, the path<br />
splits. Follow the path denoted by the ‘S’ marker, which<br />
heads away from the stream through a field towards<br />
Peckforton Castle.<br />
After 200 yards, the path splits again; go right<br />
through the steel gate and head towards the<br />
black and white timber framed houses in<br />
the distance. When you exit the field by<br />
the houses mentioned, turn right down<br />
the single-track lane (Horsley<br />
Lane) for 240 yards.
71<br />
Elevation<br />
150m<br />
100m<br />
50m<br />
0.0km 2.0km 4.0km 6.0km 7.5km<br />
Lowest 64m<br />
Highest 173m<br />
Total ascent 139m<br />
For those with the OS Maps app on your desktop,<br />
mobile or tablet, this walk is named: JT-Cheshire-Castles<br />
https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/11130280/JT-Cheshire-Castles<br />
Castleside<br />
Farm<br />
Beeston<br />
Castle<br />
Tattenhall Lane<br />
Ettley<br />
Hill<br />
Castlegate Farm<br />
P<br />
Beeston<br />
Crimes Brook<br />
Gregory’s<br />
Wood<br />
Peckforton Road<br />
Sandstone Trail<br />
Moathouse Farm<br />
Peckforton Castle<br />
(Hotel)<br />
The<br />
Table Rock<br />
Horsley Lane<br />
Willis’s<br />
Wood<br />
River Gowy<br />
Peckforton<br />
Mere<br />
Pennsylvania<br />
Wood<br />
Stanner<br />
Nab<br />
Stone House Lane<br />
Eddisbury Way<br />
Barracks Lane<br />
Hill Lane<br />
Peckforton<br />
Higher<br />
Burwardsley<br />
Waste Hill<br />
Peckforton Hall Lane
72<br />
Just past Ivy Cottage, there’s an entrance on the left to the<br />
Peckforton Estate. Take this path, again denoted by the ‘S’,<br />
and after a bit of a climb, the path flattens out and you’re<br />
treated to great views over the Cheshire plains. Eventually<br />
you’ll arrive at a junction by a black barrier – take the path<br />
that goes straight on.<br />
A little further on, the path forks; take the lower path that<br />
is denoted ‘Cheshire East’ and head downhill. You’ll exit<br />
the woodlands shortly afterwards and head uphill on a<br />
quiet single-track road, which merges into Pennsylvania<br />
Lane. Pass the Pheasant Inn and then turn left at the<br />
crossroads into Fowlers Bench Lane. 40 yards further on<br />
and you’ll take a left into Rock Lane.<br />
Rock Lane forks shortly afterwards; take the right fork<br />
and follow this single-track road for over half a mile.<br />
You’ll pass a barrier as the road becomes a<br />
path going through woodlands, which<br />
eventually bears left as you reach<br />
a disused railway bridge.<br />
Once you’ve<br />
passed under<br />
the bridge,<br />
carry on down the cobbled lane heading towards a<br />
barrier. Forty yards on from the barrier, take a left turn by<br />
the yellow salt bin and then, ten yards after the turn, look<br />
up and take the path on the right that’s on a higher level.<br />
Follow the path downhill, over the stile and directly through<br />
the next field until you reach a stone stile that takes you<br />
down to Stonehouse Lane. Turn left and follow the road for<br />
¾ mile past the grand entrance to Peckforton Castle until<br />
you reach a T-junction. Bear right onto Peckforton Road<br />
and follow the road for a further 1/3 of a mile into Beeston.<br />
Turn left at the Smithy Cottage into Tattenhall Lane, and<br />
then turn right 100 yards later into Chapel Lane. Follow<br />
the road uphill and round a right-hand bend and you’re<br />
back at your starting point.<br />
Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear<br />
whilst walking. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure<br />
that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial<br />
contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to<br />
any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions<br />
resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.<br />
Diploma Qualified by Diane<br />
Tel: 01695 624 098<br />
Mob: 07442 015 490<br />
Email: OrrellPoochParlour@gmail.com<br />
Facebook: Orrell Pooch Parlour
73<br />
New Starts<br />
Forget January, there’s no better time for a new beginning than spring…<br />
The Meaningful Money Handbook – Pete Matthew<br />
If you need to get your finances in order (that’s most of us then), The Meaningful Money<br />
Handbook could prove invaluable. It’ll help you to cut through the confusion, figure out how<br />
to get out of debt, create a personal financial plan and grow your savings. If you’re already<br />
starting to wince at the thought of reading a book about finances, rest assured that there’s no<br />
jargon or judgement – just plenty of straightforward advice and useful tips.<br />
Atomic Habits – James Clear<br />
All too often, major change feels so daunting that we don’t act, or we give up after a few days. Instead,<br />
James Clear recommends making tiny tweaks to your daily routines. Atomic Habits shows the reader<br />
how to break bad habits and start new ones. James Clear sets out, step-by-step, how to make small<br />
improvements that, over time, become life-altering. His advice is backed by psychologists, but as Clear<br />
says, this book is “not an academic research paper; it’s an operating manual.”<br />
Consumed – Aja Barber<br />
Feel like you shop to fill a void? Uncomfortable with your role in fast fashion? Or do you just want to<br />
learn how to enjoy fashion sustainably and ethically? Whatever your motivation, this book is well worth<br />
a read. Aja Barber shares her story of how she came to understand the systemic injustices in the fashion<br />
industry. You’ll learn about the history of the textile industry, the growing issue of fast fashion and,<br />
crucially, what you can do to bring about change.<br />
Survival Skills for Freelancers – Sarah Townsend<br />
At some point, everyone dreams of quitting their job and becoming their own boss. Whether you’ve<br />
already made the move or you’re just thinking of taking the plunge, this book can help you to ride the<br />
roller coaster that is self-employment. It’s full of helpful advice, from how to avoid burnout and look<br />
after your mental health to how to tackle imposter syndrome.<br />
Decluttering at the Speed of <strong>Life</strong> – Dana K. White<br />
Clutter can be overwhelming. The more possessions you have, the more time it usually takes to<br />
organise, tidy and clean your home. Unlike other decluttering books, this one isn’t just a ‘how to’ guide;<br />
it also addresses the emotional challenges that make it difficult to let go of unnecessary possessions.<br />
It’s also packed with practical advice and tips. Plus, it’s funny.<br />
30 Day Kick Start Plan – Joe Wicks<br />
It’s hard to make healthier choices in the depths of winter, but lighter evenings and warmer days are<br />
just around the corner. 30 Day Kick Start Plan can help you eat better, move more and stay motivated.<br />
You’ll find 100 recipes to try, along with six workouts and weekly plans to help you stay on track. There’s<br />
also advice on everything from sleep and meditation to goal setting. In short, it’s far more than just<br />
another healthy-eating cookbook.
74<br />
Greenfingers…<br />
the Alan Titchmarsh column<br />
He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished<br />
gardener, talented novelist and all-round<br />
horticultural inspiration. This month,<br />
Alan Titchmarsh talks about how our<br />
gardens can move us to a place of peace.<br />
While gardens mean different things to all of<br />
us, it’s when I venture into these tranquil spaces<br />
that I truly get a sense of their calming and healing<br />
power, and I find that hugely enriching. Most gardens<br />
and landscapes naturally come with a real feeling of<br />
gentleness – from the choice of flowers and plants, to<br />
gentle sweeps and curves that guide the eye onwards, to<br />
a softness and subtlety that may be a world away from<br />
some of the physical or emotional struggles we are going<br />
through; and I feel it is this dramatic contrast that really<br />
transports someone back to a place of comfort, even if<br />
just for a little while.<br />
What is also really important for me when I visit gardens<br />
at hospices and hospitals, is the reminder that these<br />
spaces are not just for those who are residents. They also<br />
give hope, clarity, peace and a sense of calm to visiting<br />
families and, most importantly, the people who work<br />
there. Certainly, with everything that has happened<br />
over the past couple of years with Covid, and the<br />
realisation that we need to consider and protect<br />
workers and staff who look after us, I would like<br />
to think those on the frontline can wrestle<br />
back their own sense of contentment<br />
when soaking up the fresh air and beauty<br />
of a garden, where they can move away<br />
from a job that’s very hard and<br />
emotionally draining.<br />
I would like to see more attention given to gardens<br />
and outdoor spaces in our health institutions, and in<br />
workspaces in general. They are more important than we<br />
imagine. Simple sweeps of flowers, plants and foliage are<br />
inspiring; the sight of an olive tree can move our minds<br />
to far-off places; and we all know how calming a cascade<br />
of water can be. It’s all very peaceful and there’s nothing<br />
complicated or frenetic.<br />
Gardens are evolving, living things that are always<br />
changing – in fact they’re much like us in that respect!<br />
For me, on those days where I feel everything’s a bit<br />
fraught and frantic, and when I just can’t get to grips with<br />
anything, I go to sit in the garden or potter about to find<br />
myself, and it really works!<br />
<strong>Life</strong> is a compromise, and you can’t always<br />
be on top of things, but gardens truly<br />
prove to me the healing qualities<br />
that exist within nature, and we’re so<br />
fortunate to have them.
SMN<br />
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Day: 07970 521 692<br />
Eve: 01942 214 121<br />
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steve@smntrees.co.uk<br />
Over 70 Lancashire<br />
Walks<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
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locallife247.co.uk<br />
GARDEN GATES<br />
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• All tree work<br />
• Hedge cutting<br />
• Grounds maintenance<br />
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BILLINGE BASED<br />
75<br />
Leaflet Distribution<br />
Service<br />
Your leaflets delivered alongside this magazine<br />
to up to 39,000 local homes<br />
Flexible service for all businesses, large and small<br />
Prices from £27.50 per thousand (minimum 4,000 leaflets)<br />
Call or email us for a Leaflet Coverage List<br />
then simply chose the postcode areas<br />
you want to target<br />
Call us on 01695 627999<br />
Email chrisp@locallife247.co.uk<br />
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Distribution<br />
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& PRINT<br />
services<br />
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<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong>
76<br />
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Brian 07760 160 988<br />
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Garden & Tree Services<br />
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Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
Little Acorns Nursery<br />
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!<br />
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We operate a b oking system for the<br />
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Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland<br />
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79
80<br />
What is the new<br />
Range<br />
Rover<br />
up against?<br />
The new Range Rover has arrived, bringing with it a predictably luxurious take on the SUV recipe. Packed with<br />
technological advancements, the new Range Rover looks set to be the most futuristic to date, while a series of plug-in<br />
hybrid powertrains – alongside traditional petrol and diesel options – means that it’s more electrified than ever.<br />
But the Range Rover’s job isn’t an easy one. There are more rivals for it than ever, so let’s dive in and check out what this<br />
latest Range Rover is up against.<br />
BMW X7<br />
The X7 sits at the top of BMW’s SUV range, effectively sitting<br />
as a high-riding version of the firm’s luxurious 7<br />
Series saloon. It’s a hard car to miss, too, with<br />
its ultra-large front kidney grilles giving it<br />
a whole lot of presence out on the road.<br />
It’s also got space for seven, so it does<br />
have a focus on practicality, too. With<br />
a huge amount of interior space, it’s a<br />
really comfortable choice for longer<br />
journeys.<br />
Bentley Bentayga<br />
The Bentayga has proved to be a real hit<br />
for Bentley, encapsulating the luxury feel<br />
of the firm’s saloon and coupe models but<br />
in a high-riding SUV body style. Much like<br />
the new Range Rover, it’s available with a<br />
traditional petrol engine but also a plugin<br />
hybrid option, giving zero-emissions<br />
running at lower speeds.<br />
Bentley recently added a more sporty ‘S’<br />
version too, kitted out with a powerful<br />
4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8.v
81<br />
Audi Q8<br />
Though we could opt for the popular Q7 in this list, it’s the Q8 that stands out in Audi’s range of SUVs. Bringing a coupe-like<br />
design, the Q8 looks truly futuristic on the road, with its full-width rear light bar giving the car a really cool appearance at<br />
night.<br />
It’s just as futuristic inside, too, with a good range of materials ensuring that the Q8 feels particularly upmarket.<br />
Aston Martin DBX<br />
Aston’s first SUV – the DBX – has really<br />
made waves, delivering a sporting driving<br />
experience alongside a level of quality that<br />
you’d expect from the firm. Both comfortable<br />
and involving, the DBX is a car capable of<br />
making a twisty road fun while also taking the<br />
backache out of longer journeys.<br />
It’s also got a design in keeping with the rest<br />
of the Aston Martin range, while a 4.0-litre<br />
turbocharged V8 engine means it’s got the<br />
performance to match, too.<br />
Mercedes-Benz GLS<br />
The GLS is the largest SUV Mercedes offer and is, in fact, one of the largest<br />
SUVs on sale today. It’s fitted with some of the firm’s latest technology, too,<br />
including a superb MBUX infotainment operating system, accessed via a pair<br />
of 12.3-inch screens set underneath one single piece of glass to create a full<br />
widescreen effect.<br />
It’s also supremely comfortable, while the<br />
option of a range-topping GLS63<br />
adds a performance variant for<br />
those who want it.<br />
Vehicle Repairs ~ Servicing<br />
Diagnostics ~ Air Conditioning<br />
Exhausts ~ Tyres ~ MOT’s<br />
Unit 3 – Otterswood Square<br />
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07961 135 393<br />
www.jdmechanical.com<br />
info@jdmechanical.com<br />
JD Mechanical Services<br />
For friendly<br />
advice, affordable<br />
rates and over 30<br />
years expertise,<br />
call us today.
82<br />
We’ll fix your;<br />
Paintwork Scratches<br />
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Mobile Service – we come to you!<br />
For your free estimate, call Dave on<br />
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c/o JW Gaskell Garages,<br />
Dingle Garage, Dingle Road, Up Holland, WN8 0EN<br />
Car Paintwork Repairs<br />
Services<br />
Repairs<br />
Diagnostics<br />
for all makes & models<br />
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ExperienceReliabilityExpertise<br />
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Call Chris on 01942 215 111 or 07969 357 751<br />
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Minor dents repaired<br />
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83<br />
Trading Standards has a directory of local traders you<br />
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84<br />
Quality Flooring Fitter<br />
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Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
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J&P<br />
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4 Exterior & Interior<br />
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HANDS ON<br />
Property Maintenance<br />
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3 Kitchens & Bathrooms<br />
3 Painting & Decorating<br />
3 Building & Joinery<br />
3 Electrical<br />
3 Paving, Decking<br />
& Fencing<br />
3 Tiling<br />
3 Plumbing<br />
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• Quality workmanship<br />
• Interior & exterior<br />
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• No job too<br />
big or too<br />
small<br />
01942 392398<br />
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Handy<br />
Andy<br />
Building / Joinery<br />
Plastering / Tiling<br />
Plumbing / Roofing<br />
Flatpack Assembly<br />
Call Handy Andy on<br />
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All<br />
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considered
85<br />
Arley Cabinet<br />
Company Ltd<br />
• Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •<br />
We Measure ~ We Make ~ We Fit<br />
Drop into our<br />
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We repair:<br />
4 Phones & Tablets<br />
4 Laptops & PC’s<br />
4 Gaming Consoles<br />
4 Apple Watches<br />
We also build<br />
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If we<br />
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1st Floor, Rainford Parish Council Offices,<br />
Church Rd, Rainford, St. Helens WA11 8HB<br />
Puzzle Solutions<br />
CROSSWORD<br />
WORDWHEEL<br />
Across: 1. Stucco, 4. Apache, 9. Avocado, 10. Paper, 11. Lotus, 12. Naphtha,<br />
13. Elastic band, 18. Hebrews, 20. Aisle, 22. Ruler, 23. Ukulele, 24. Shaken, 25. Mantis.<br />
DOWN: 1. Stable, 2. U-boat, 3. Chassis, 5. Pop up, 6. Capstan, 7. Earwax, 8. Connoisseur,<br />
14. Lobelia, 15. Bravura, 16. Chorus, 17. Peters, 19. Eyrie, 21. Sleet.<br />
aNSWER:<br />
MINARET /<br />
RAIMENT<br />
T I<br />
W N<br />
E<br />
R<br />
WORDSEARCH SUDOKU WIGGLE<br />
WORDS<br />
Third Time’s a Charm<br />
WORD<br />
LADDER<br />
Here is one possible<br />
solution (others may exist)<br />
LEAF<br />
leak<br />
leek<br />
seek<br />
seem<br />
STEM<br />
PUB QUIZ<br />
1. Charity shop (“op” is short for<br />
“opportunity”)<br />
2. Ikea<br />
3. Vaccinated<br />
4. Books<br />
5. Amazon (the arrow goes from “A”<br />
to “Z”)<br />
6. Boohoo<br />
7. Quality, Value and Convenience<br />
8. Magic wands<br />
9. b) Marks and Spencer<br />
10. Banksy
£29 for a fu l day<br />
rural Vi lage<br />
NUrSErY<br />
FUNDED LANgUAgE<br />
A l sta f<br />
We cater for<br />
PLACES & SPortS<br />
paediatric<br />
CHILDrEN<br />
Available for LESSoNS<br />
& first aid<br />
3 months<br />
2/3/4<br />
for<br />
QUALIFIED<br />
- 4 years<br />
year olds pre-schoolers<br />
oPEN<br />
Mon-Fri<br />
8AM-6PM<br />
£37.50<br />
per day<br />
www.cranknursery.co.uk<br />
rated by<br />
oFStED<br />
as<br />
oUtStANDINg<br />
Large NEWLY<br />
outdoor rEFUrBISHED<br />
PLAY ArEA in 2019<br />
86<br />
New Name -<br />
Same Fantastic Cleans!<br />
• Carpets - Quick Drying<br />
includes moving furniture for you<br />
• Upholstery - Fabric & Leather<br />
• Hard floors - Tile/Stone/Vinyls<br />
FREE Test clean to see the results<br />
• Curtains - Hassle free<br />
Cleaned where they hang<br />
• Rugs<br />
Collection & delivery service<br />
Call us<br />
today for<br />
a free quote<br />
01942 470 081<br />
www.alliancecleaningsystems.co.uk<br />
Carpet & Upholstery<br />
Cleaning<br />
• traditional service, state of the art results •<br />
• Carpets<br />
• Rugs<br />
• Fabric & Leather<br />
Upholstery<br />
5 star rating with <strong>Wigan</strong> Trading<br />
Standards Good Trader Scheme<br />
Call today for a free consultation<br />
& no obligation quote<br />
Call - 01257 251221<br />
Mobile - 07908 770808<br />
e: sales@alliancecleaningsystems.co.uk www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk<br />
• Professional Carpet, Rug<br />
& Upholstery Cleaning<br />
• Leather Cleaning & Restoration<br />
• FREE Pre-Inspection Visit & Quotation<br />
T: 01942 409401<br />
M: 07881 816839<br />
helen@carrolls-cleaning.co.uk<br />
Quality Upholsterer<br />
required for<br />
these pages<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
www.locallife247.co.uk<br />
External Cleaning<br />
Specialist<br />
• UPVC & Conservatory cleaning<br />
• Pressure Washing for Driveways & Patios<br />
• Roof Cleaning, Sealing & Coating<br />
• Drain Clearing & Cleaning<br />
• Decking Cleaning & Sealing<br />
• Imprinted Concrete Sealing &<br />
Re-Colouring<br />
Billinge-based<br />
We’ll get<br />
the job<br />
done!<br />
• Business Telephone<br />
Systems<br />
• Voip & Structured Cabling<br />
• Residential Extensions<br />
• Faults & Gen Enq<br />
Call Darren (British Army Veteran) for a free quote<br />
07931 688 881<br />
www.proclean-ecs.co.uk quote@procleanecs.co.uk<br />
Quality Flooring Fitter<br />
required for<br />
these pages<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
www.locallife247.co.uk<br />
Design & Print<br />
Flyers, postcards, brochures<br />
and distribution service.<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
Little Acorns Nursery<br />
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!<br />
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time<br />
We operate a b oking system for the<br />
holidays which saves you money<br />
We deliver 30 hours fr e entitlement<br />
Flexible se sions available<br />
We take children from 2 years old<br />
Ca l Sarah on 01744 86166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net<br />
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland<br />
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain<br />
lots of wonderful educational experiences.<br />
We are big on the great outd ors & being down in the forest<br />
which is g od for your child’s health and we l-being<br />
Li tle Acorns Nursery<br />
www.locallife247.co.uk<br />
A l Saints’ Primary Sch ol | Finch Lane | A pley Bridge | WN6 9DT<br />
01257 252647<br />
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com<br />
Tel: 01942 441221<br />
Askus@LJTelecomServices.co.uk<br />
www.LJTelecomServices.com
87<br />
Having a Clear Out?<br />
Whatever you’re clearing – call us today!<br />
• House & garden<br />
• Garage or Shed<br />
Fast, RELIABLE and<br />
PROFESSIONAL service<br />
northwestwaste<br />
• Office, Warehouse or Shop<br />
• Probate<br />
Our services are;<br />
4 Cheaper than a skip<br />
4 Fully licenced by the<br />
Environmental Agency<br />
4 Completed by smart and<br />
friendly staff<br />
The Meadows, Ruskin Drive, St Helens, WA10 6RP<br />
01744 758 349 / 07557 764 940<br />
Email: transport@northwestwaste.co.uk<br />
www.northwestwaste.co.uk<br />
Man<br />
& a Van<br />
available for<br />
removals<br />
FROM<br />
£85<br />
regular sweep & checks<br />
new homeowner inspections<br />
professional & reliable<br />
01942 387079<br />
book online at mr-soot.com<br />
prices<br />
start from<br />
£45<br />
let us clean your oven so<br />
you don’t have to!<br />
• professional oven cleaning<br />
• environmentally friendly<br />
• we repair ovens too!<br />
call Steven on 07393 818 392<br />
www.ovenrescue.co.uk/wigan<br />
Get your oven<br />
looking like new!<br />
We clean ovens, hobs,<br />
microwaves and fans for over<br />
500 regular customers.<br />
Single ovens only £50<br />
We only use non-caustic,<br />
totally safe liquids.<br />
0151 430 0766<br />
0770 256 6393<br />
www.theovencleanersgroup.co.uk<br />
Aspinall’s<br />
Chimney Sweep<br />
• Chimney Sweeping<br />
• Chimney Pots & Cowls – supplied & fitted<br />
• Bird Nests removed & Birdguards fitted<br />
• Chimney Stacks re-pointed<br />
• CCTV Chimney Inspections<br />
No Mess Guaranteed!<br />
ContaCT<br />
Patrick<br />
for a free quote<br />
01942 375 076<br />
07449 456 980<br />
www.aspinallschimneys.co.uk<br />
e-mail patrick@aspinallschimneys.co.uk
88<br />
Outdoor Adventures<br />
Spring Cleaning Your Home’s Exterior<br />
In your home, you’ll realise when maintenance jobs need<br />
doing and rooms need cleaning. But particularly during<br />
the winter months, any deterioration to the outside of<br />
your property is likely to go unnoticed until the brighter<br />
spring days.<br />
The Roof<br />
If any part of your roof is north facing, near trees or both,<br />
you are very likely to see a build-up of moss. This is not<br />
only unsightly, it’s not good for your roof and the moss is<br />
likely to block your gutters too.<br />
If your roof is at a low level or can be accessed from an<br />
upper window, gently brush the surface to loosen the<br />
build-up. Generally though, unless you happen to own<br />
the specialist equipment to ensure you are safe on a roof,<br />
this really is a job for the professionals.<br />
The Gutters<br />
Some debris in your<br />
gutters will get washed<br />
away and will mulch<br />
down, but more often<br />
it’ll just build up. If your<br />
gutters are overflowing<br />
every time it rains, you<br />
are going to need a<br />
long ladder and a pair of thick rubber gloves to clear the<br />
slimy mess.<br />
A professional will have a camera on a pole to see where<br />
the worst spots are and to help them clear out all the<br />
winter debris. Ask about having gutter guards fitted, too<br />
to help prevent future build-ups.<br />
Facias and Soffits<br />
There are two options if your facias and soffits look tatty<br />
and the paint is peeling: repainting is lower cost but it<br />
won’t last that long and is fiddly to do; replacement facias<br />
and soffits are made of uPVC and will last for years. It’s<br />
well worth considering replacing the guttering at the<br />
same time.<br />
Pathways<br />
The inexpensive way to clean your path is a bucket of<br />
water and a stiff brush. Alternatively, a jet washer is very<br />
thorough and reasonably affordable, although you only<br />
need to use it once or twice a year.<br />
This is a job you can do yourself, but it’s blooming<br />
hard work! You will get quite a workout controlling the<br />
pressure washer hose or sweeping a brush.<br />
Windows<br />
This is another one of<br />
those jobs that is hard<br />
work and while it’s easy<br />
to access the inside<br />
of your windows, the<br />
upper floor of the<br />
outside is much more<br />
difficult.<br />
Furthermore, a one-off clean is not enough – you are<br />
looking at your windows all the time so you’ll notice them<br />
getting dirty again within a month or two. It’s better to<br />
have a regular arrangement with a cleaning company<br />
who will usually have a pole system to reach the heights.<br />
They normally use purified water, meaning that the<br />
windows dry sparkling clean.<br />
In Summary<br />
There are many jobs around the home that you are<br />
probably capable of doing yourself to save the pennies.<br />
But these external tasks don’t need to be done very<br />
often and a specialist will have the equipment, the safety<br />
training and the insurance to do the job efficiently and<br />
quickly.
89<br />
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote<br />
01942 470 089<br />
07834 241 642<br />
www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com<br />
get your<br />
gutters<br />
cleared<br />
Book any service<br />
FREE!<br />
ROOF CLEANING<br />
• Moss Removal & Bio-Treatment<br />
• Softwashing / Low Pressure<br />
POWER WASHING<br />
• Driveways & Patios etc.<br />
CONSERVATORIES<br />
• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)<br />
UPVC CLEANING<br />
• Windows, Fascias,<br />
Gutters etc.<br />
SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF ALL CLEANING PACKAGES<br />
Total Cleaning North West<br />
www.totalcleaningnorthwest.co.uk<br />
Unit 6a,<br />
1 Miry Lane,<br />
<strong>Wigan</strong><br />
WN3 4AG<br />
One-stop cleaning jobs for your home and garden<br />
• Clean your dirty Driveway or Patio<br />
• Seal and Protect your Driveway or Patio<br />
• Clear out your blocked gutters with our video SkyVac<br />
• Make your Conservatory sparkle • Render cleaning<br />
• Clean Gutters, Soffits and Fascias<br />
Check out our fantastic 5* reviews on Facebook & Google<br />
Call or text David now for a no obligation quote<br />
£60<br />
FIXED PRICE<br />
GUTTER<br />
CLEARING<br />
ONLY<br />
Your local<br />
family business<br />
01942 530483 • 07771 924 887 • www.totalcleaningnorthwest.co.uk
90<br />
A Genuine Family Run<br />
Business With Friendly<br />
& Courteous Staff<br />
Specialists in central heating installation,<br />
boiler replacements and upgrades<br />
• Annual Boiler Servicing<br />
• Landlord & Home Owner Gas<br />
Safety Checks<br />
• Mechanical Power Flushing<br />
• Thermostatic Valves Radiators Fitted<br />
• All-in-One Air Conditioning & Heating<br />
units for Home & Work<br />
Registration No.<br />
88604<br />
WE REPAIR ALL<br />
MAKES OF BOILERS!<br />
Telephone:<br />
01942 504 429<br />
Tel: 01257 421 660<br />
Mob: 07515 505 501<br />
Accredited Installer & Service Partner<br />
Plumbing & Heating<br />
Specialist<br />
Complete Bathrooms<br />
Installation ~ Repairs ~ Service<br />
Central Heating Systems<br />
Boilers & Gas Appliances<br />
General Plumbing<br />
Gas Safety Certificates<br />
Elite<br />
Bathrooms<br />
& Wet Room Installation<br />
John Bailey<br />
01942 495785<br />
or 07721 040620<br />
& 07710 153238<br />
Based in Kenyon Road, <strong>Wigan</strong><br />
Call Andy for a free quote on<br />
01942 564 226<br />
07397 391 935<br />
acampbellheatingandgas<br />
597379<br />
• Bathrooms • Wet Rooms<br />
• Wall & Floor Tiling<br />
Please call for a FREE Estimates<br />
07703 448890<br />
01942 208926<br />
We’ve got you covered<br />
for all aspects of<br />
plumbing and heating<br />
Boilers Gas Heating Plumbing Drainage<br />
Installation • Maintenance • Repairs<br />
626792<br />
Want a new boiler with<br />
ZERO upfront cost?<br />
Pay monthly with servicing and warranty included.<br />
Call us now to find out how!<br />
01942 575730<br />
07565 060530<br />
166 Gidlow Lane • <strong>Wigan</strong> • WN6 7EA<br />
www.blueflameltd.co.uk<br />
craig@blueflameltd.co.uk<br />
Family run business with 20+ years experience.<br />
Check out our reviews:
91<br />
Showroom now open at 19 Preston Road, Standish WN6 0HP<br />
All plumbing services<br />
including services & repairs<br />
BOILER SERVICING<br />
FROM £80<br />
• Bathrooms/Wet Rooms designed<br />
and fitted<br />
• Specialists in Disability<br />
Installations & Conversions<br />
• Emergency Call outs welcome<br />
No Obligation Quotes – Call Mark on<br />
01257 473026<br />
07515 894281<br />
527090<br />
www.gphwigan.co.uk • info@gphwigan.co.uk<br />
Bathroom Installation,<br />
Full Bathrooms &<br />
En-Suites<br />
Plumbing Services<br />
Wall & Floor Tiling<br />
Ceiling Panelling<br />
01942 397173<br />
07803 057940<br />
Douglas Drive, Orrell, <strong>Wigan</strong><br />
www.ljplumbingandbathrooms.co.uk<br />
651511<br />
Boiler Installation<br />
Boiler Servicing & Repairs<br />
Boiler Finance Available<br />
Landlords Gas Safety Reports<br />
Experienced, Reliable & Friendly Service<br />
0%<br />
Finance<br />
available<br />
Credit Cards accepted<br />
01942 221 996<br />
07769 203 056<br />
hartheatingwigan@gmail.com<br />
Winstanley-based
for<br />
as<br />
92<br />
Kitchens Bathrooms<br />
Floors Walls<br />
Pools & More<br />
16 years experience<br />
We lay all tiles, including marble, limestone,<br />
porcelain, ceramics and mosaic.<br />
Call Dan now to discuss your ideas<br />
and designs.<br />
07980 258 678<br />
Or email huxtilingservices@gmail.com<br />
Huxtilingservices<br />
AGBathrooms.net<br />
Quality bathrooms at<br />
reasonable prices<br />
Complete bathroom<br />
installations from design<br />
to completion.<br />
For free quotes, call Adrian on<br />
07816 394 292<br />
Check out our work on<br />
www.AGBathrooms.net<br />
Quality Removals<br />
required for<br />
these pages<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
www.locallife247.co.uk<br />
• Brand New Bathrooms<br />
• Boiler + Central Heating<br />
Installs, Servicing + Repairs<br />
• Extended warranties<br />
available<br />
• 24 Hour Call-out<br />
Freephone:<br />
0300 3030121<br />
Dave: 07769 942218<br />
Matt: 07969 183809<br />
506515<br />
FINANCE<br />
OPTIONS<br />
AVAILABLE<br />
• Domestic + Commercial<br />
New showroom opening soon at:<br />
2a Gathurst Lane, Shevington WN6 8HA<br />
Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk<br />
www.orrellheating.co.uk<br />
Convert your bath to a<br />
Walk-In Shower<br />
AJC<br />
WALK IN SHOWERS<br />
Typical price<br />
£2200<br />
Fully guaranteed<br />
One day installation<br />
No mess - no fuss<br />
Easy to clean & maintain<br />
Call Anthony on<br />
07919 876 825<br />
Workshop address: Bulldog Tools Ind. Est.<br />
Darlington Street East, <strong>Wigan</strong> WN1 3BT<br />
Microshop address: Hardshaw Centre,<br />
Church Street, St. Helens WA10 1EB<br />
We also fit full bathrooms!<br />
Quality Flooring Fitter<br />
required for<br />
these pages<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
www.locallife247.co.uk<br />
Great Value<br />
Bathrooms!<br />
Full Bathrooms<br />
& En-Suites<br />
Showers, Trays & Cubicles<br />
Relocation of Bathroom Suites<br />
25 years bathroom experience<br />
Call Chris now for a free quotation<br />
C L Bathrooms<br />
01942 749085<br />
or 07801 295483<br />
www.clbathrooms.co.uk<br />
Design & Print<br />
Flyers, postcards, brochures<br />
Quality carpets & flooring, expertly fitted at competitive prices<br />
and distribution service.<br />
Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)<br />
Carpets and Rugs<br />
Laminate Flooring<br />
Hard Wood Flooring<br />
www.bespoke-floors.co.uk | bespoke@wjdflooring.co.uk<br />
No.2 The Old Smithy, Church Road,<br />
Rainford WA11 8HD<br />
01744 88 55 14<br />
Bespoke Fl oring is the trading name of WJD Retail<br />
& Online Solutions Ltd – Company Number 1248484<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
rural Vi lage<br />
NUrSErY<br />
A l staff<br />
paediatric<br />
& first aid<br />
QUALIFIED<br />
oPEN<br />
Mon-Fri<br />
8AM-6PM<br />
FUNDED<br />
PLACES<br />
Available for<br />
2/3/4<br />
year olds<br />
£37.50<br />
per day<br />
LANgUAgE<br />
& SPortS<br />
LESSoNS<br />
pre-schoolers<br />
Large<br />
outdoor<br />
PLAY ArEA<br />
rated by<br />
oFStED<br />
oUtStANDINg<br />
We cater for<br />
CHILDrEN<br />
3 months<br />
- 4 years<br />
NEWLY<br />
rEFUrBISHED<br />
in 2019<br />
Ca l Sarah on 01744 886166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net<br />
www.cranknursery.co.uk<br />
For more information<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
Little Acorns Nursery<br />
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!<br />
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time<br />
We operate a booking system for the<br />
holidays which saves you money<br />
We deliver 30 hours free entitlement<br />
£29 for a fu l day<br />
Flexible sessions available<br />
We take children from 2 years old<br />
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland<br />
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain<br />
lots of wonderful educational experiences.<br />
We are big on the great outdoors & being down in the forest<br />
which is good for your child’s health and we l-being<br />
Little Acorns Nursery<br />
A l Saints’ Primary School | Finch Lane | Appley Bridge | WN6 9DT<br />
01257 252647<br />
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com<br />
www.locallife247.co.uk
£29 for a fu l day<br />
rural Vi lage<br />
NUrSErY<br />
FUNDED LANgUAgE<br />
A l sta f<br />
We cater for<br />
PLACES & SPortS<br />
paediatric<br />
CHILDrEN<br />
Available for LESSoNS<br />
& first aid<br />
3 months<br />
2/3/4<br />
for<br />
QUALIFIED<br />
- 4 years<br />
year olds pre-schoolers<br />
oPEN<br />
Mon-Fri<br />
8AM-6PM<br />
£37.50<br />
per day<br />
www.cranknursery.co.uk<br />
rated by<br />
oFStED<br />
as<br />
oUtStANDINg<br />
Large NEWLY<br />
outdoor rEFUrBISHED<br />
PLAY ArEA in 2019<br />
93<br />
GDR Driveways<br />
ALL ASPECTS OF PAVING & turfing<br />
4 Block Paving<br />
Clean & Re-seal<br />
4 Indian Stone<br />
service available<br />
4 Flagging<br />
4 Turfing<br />
4 Artificial Grass<br />
• TV Aerials Installed<br />
• TV Wall Mounting<br />
• Telephone Lines<br />
• Setup Service<br />
Ring Paul on<br />
01942 514 532<br />
07709 490 095<br />
Winstanley-based<br />
www.gdrdriveways.com<br />
Call Gareth for a FREE quotation: 01942 217 113 or 07715 177 754<br />
Quality Fencer<br />
required for<br />
these pages<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
www.locallife247.co.uk<br />
Aerial & Sky<br />
Services<br />
RX-12 Digital TV Aerials<br />
£80 supplied & fitted<br />
Aerial Multi-room System<br />
at £45 per room<br />
TV Wall Mounting Service<br />
Level 5 in Signal Path & Fault<br />
Diagnostics<br />
Domestic<br />
& Commercial<br />
work welcomed<br />
30+ years<br />
experience<br />
JJ Driveways<br />
Imprinted Concrete<br />
Specialists<br />
Huge range of colours<br />
& patterns<br />
• Resin Driveways<br />
• Block Paving<br />
• Indian Stone<br />
• Flagging<br />
We can also revive<br />
your old drive!<br />
Ask about our sealing<br />
service<br />
Call Joe for a<br />
free quotation on<br />
01942 621 959<br />
07867 697 972<br />
www.jjdriveways.co.uk<br />
Quality Removals<br />
required for<br />
these pages<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
www.locallife247.co.uk<br />
01942 257804<br />
01257 277802<br />
07966 488585<br />
Call anytime for a quote or email:<br />
andy@aerialandskyservices.co.uk<br />
TT20778<br />
www.aerialandskyservices.co.uk<br />
Design & Print<br />
Flyers, postcards, brochures<br />
and distribution service.<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
Little Acorns Nursery<br />
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!<br />
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time<br />
We operate a b oking system for the<br />
holidays which saves you money<br />
We deliver 30 hours fr e entitlement<br />
Flexible se sions available<br />
We take children from 2 years old<br />
Ca l Sarah on 01744 86166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net<br />
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland<br />
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain<br />
lots of wonderful educational experiences.<br />
We are big on the great outd ors & being down in the forest<br />
which is g od for your child’s health and we l-being<br />
Li tle Acorns Nursery<br />
www.locallife247.co.uk<br />
A l Saints’ Primary Sch ol | Finch Lane | A pley Bridge | WN6 9DT<br />
01257 252647<br />
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com
94<br />
DF<br />
Installations,<br />
Upgrades<br />
& Repairs<br />
ALARMS<br />
New systems from £395<br />
12 years experience<br />
CCTV – supplied and fitted<br />
Friendly & reliable service<br />
07506 518 646<br />
www.dfalarms.com<br />
DF Alarms | 58 Chapel St | Pemberton | <strong>Wigan</strong><br />
W.Hurst & Son Ltd<br />
ELECTRIC<br />
CONTRACTOR<br />
www.whurstandson.co.uk<br />
• All types of electrical work<br />
• 35+ years experience<br />
• No job too small<br />
• Friendly and reliable<br />
For a free quote<br />
& advice call Jeff<br />
01695 622 191<br />
07850 622 191<br />
J.Dillon<br />
Electrical Services Ltd<br />
Electrician ~ Standish<br />
• All types of electrical work<br />
• 30+ years experience<br />
• Friendly, fast and reliable<br />
• 24 hour call out service<br />
Call: 01257 424918<br />
or 07821 139826<br />
www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk<br />
Alarm installations,<br />
repairs & upgrades<br />
Domestic and commercial<br />
work welcome<br />
Free security assessment provided<br />
Emergency lock openings<br />
Lock changes<br />
No call-out charges<br />
24-hour service<br />
60 mins response<br />
Call 01942 669505<br />
www.uklocksandalarms.co.uk<br />
info@ianwalkerservices.co.uk<br />
A.J.S.<br />
BAILEYS<br />
ELECTRICAL<br />
All electrical work undertaken<br />
Free quotations<br />
• Friendly reliable service<br />
• Mains board upgrades<br />
• Extra sockets to full rewires<br />
• Cctv & Ajax wireless alarm<br />
01942 215 769<br />
07739 709 005<br />
a Installation & Maintenance<br />
a Inspection & Testing<br />
a Nest Pro Installer<br />
a CCTV & Alarms<br />
Tel: 07738 117712<br />
Orrell based<br />
All Electrical Installations,<br />
Maintenance & Repairs<br />
From full re-wires to<br />
outside lighting to socket<br />
replacements<br />
No job too small<br />
24/7 emergency call-out<br />
with no call-out charges<br />
Over 30 years’ experience<br />
Call Steve on<br />
07874 352501 or 01744 368055<br />
www.billingeelctrical.co.uk<br />
Jon Wright<br />
Electrical Ltd<br />
All types of<br />
Domestic & Commercial<br />
work undertaken<br />
• Inspection & Tests<br />
• Repairs<br />
• Solar PV<br />
• Alarms<br />
Call now on: 07983 387448<br />
Email: jonwrightelec@live.co.uk<br />
Certificate of excellence winner<br />
2017, 2018 & 2019<br />
JIB Approved Electrician<br />
All domestic electrical work<br />
24/7 call out service<br />
Friendly, reliable &<br />
professional<br />
Call 07557 795 892<br />
www.johnboughey-electrical.com<br />
Parbold/<strong>Wigan</strong> Areas
for<br />
as<br />
Superior<br />
craftmanship at<br />
competitive rates<br />
• Home improvements<br />
• Loft conversions<br />
• Garage conversions<br />
& Extensions<br />
• Staircases<br />
• Windows & Doors<br />
For all aspects of renovations<br />
and maintenance -<br />
no job too small!<br />
For a free quote,<br />
call MT Joinery now.<br />
01257 422317<br />
or 07852 202867<br />
www.mtjoinery.co.uk<br />
• Conservatory repairs<br />
• Locks, handles and hinges<br />
• Replacement glass<br />
• Windows and doors installed<br />
• Replacement conservatory<br />
roofs<br />
Call MARK now on<br />
01942 737 381<br />
0776 315 1720<br />
conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com<br />
www.fixmyconservatory.com<br />
30 Years Experience<br />
Extensions & Refurbishments<br />
Kitchens & Bathrooms<br />
Conservatories & Orangeries<br />
Windows & Doors<br />
Roofs & Fascia Boards<br />
Decking & Balustrading<br />
All aspects of building works<br />
No job too small<br />
Call Peter for a free quotation<br />
Day: 07961 516 677<br />
Eve: 01942 745 428<br />
Cambridge Road, Orrell<br />
Specialists in<br />
Replacement<br />
Double<br />
Glazed Units<br />
Ring with sizes for<br />
a FREE estimate<br />
Open 7 days 8am - 8pm<br />
Established <strong>Local</strong> Family Company<br />
01942 470 085<br />
0800 328 8573<br />
www.steamywindows.net<br />
Quality Fencer<br />
required for<br />
these pages<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
www.locallife247.co.uk<br />
Number One for House<br />
Maintenance!<br />
• UPVC WINDOWS AND<br />
DOORS.<br />
• FASCIAS, SOFFITS AND<br />
GUTTERS.<br />
• GUTTER AND UPVC<br />
CLEANING AND REPAIR<br />
SERVICE.<br />
• MISTED WINDOW AND<br />
DOOR UNITS REPLACED.<br />
• FENCING AND POINTING.<br />
• GENERAL HOUSEHOLD<br />
MAINTENANCE.<br />
No job<br />
too small!<br />
Call Mike Darbyshire on<br />
01942 513 584<br />
07917 352 181<br />
Orrell based<br />
Design & Print<br />
Flyers, postcards, brochures<br />
Quality carpets & flooring, expertly fitted at competitive prices<br />
and distribution service.<br />
Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)<br />
Carpets and Rugs<br />
Laminate Flooring<br />
Hard Wood Flooring<br />
www.bespoke-floors.co.uk | bespoke@wjdflooring.co.uk<br />
No.2 The Old Smithy, Church Road,<br />
Rainford WA11 8HD<br />
01744 88 55 14<br />
Bespoke Fl oring is the trading name of WJD Retail<br />
& Online Solutions Ltd – Company Number 1248484<br />
<strong>Local</strong><strong>Life</strong><br />
rural Vi lage<br />
NUrSErY<br />
A l staff<br />
paediatric<br />
& first aid<br />
QUALIFIED<br />
oPEN<br />
Mon-Fri<br />
8AM-6PM<br />
FUNDED<br />
PLACES<br />
Available for<br />
2/3/4<br />
year olds<br />
£37.50<br />
per day<br />
LANgUAgE<br />
& SPortS<br />
LESSoNS<br />
pre-schoolers<br />
Large<br />
outdoor<br />
PLAY ArEA<br />
rated by<br />
oFStED<br />
oUtStANDINg<br />
We cater for<br />
CHILDrEN<br />
3 months<br />
- 4 years<br />
NEWLY<br />
rEFUrBISHED<br />
in 2019<br />
Ca l Sarah on 01744 886166 for more information or admin@cranknursery.net<br />
www.cranknursery.co.uk<br />
For more information<br />
Call 01695 627 999<br />
Little Acorns Nursery<br />
QUALITY CHILDCARE YOU CAN TRUST!<br />
Open Mon-Fri: 8am ti l 5.30pm term time<br />
We operate a booking system for the<br />
holidays which saves you money<br />
We deliver 30 hours free entitlement<br />
£29 for a fu l day<br />
Flexible sessions available<br />
We take children from 2 years old<br />
Li tle Acorns Nursery is situated in a beautiful woodland<br />
se ting. It is a safe and vibrant place for your child to gain<br />
lots of wonderful educational experiences.<br />
We are big on the great outdoors & being down in the forest<br />
which is good for your child’s health and we l-being<br />
Little Acorns Nursery<br />
A l Saints’ Primary School | Finch Lane | Appley Bridge | WN6 9DT<br />
01257 252647<br />
www.li tleacorns-daynursery.com<br />
95<br />
www.locallife247.co.uk
96<br />
PH Profiles<br />
Re-modelling your<br />
home in <strong>2022</strong>?<br />
Quality orangeries, conservatories and sunrooms<br />
designed and constructed.<br />
Finest installations of all windows, doors<br />
bi-folds, porches and UPVC Roofline.<br />
Call Paul today<br />
for a free estimate and friendly advice.<br />
01942 204421 | 07841 923230 | www.phprofiles.co.uk<br />
6 consecutive<br />
Certificate of<br />
Excellence awards<br />
Call us now for ALL your roofline requirements!<br />
Facias, soffits, cladding, dry verge and gutters<br />
We specialise in seamless<br />
aluminium gutters.<br />
Clean, stylish and guaranteed<br />
for 25 years!<br />
Call: 07917 352 182 / 07917 352 183<br />
www.orrellroofline.co.uk<br />
Des Pilling<br />
Plastering<br />
• Plastering<br />
• Skimming<br />
• Artexing<br />
Coving & Cornice work<br />
also welcomed<br />
Orrell based – Established 1986<br />
Call Des on<br />
07787 513 235<br />
www.lakelandplastering.co.uk<br />
www.despilling.org.uk
K Stone<br />
Building Services<br />
All types of building<br />
work undertaken<br />
• Brickwork<br />
• Pointing<br />
• Garden Walls<br />
• Patios<br />
25 years<br />
experience<br />
• Roof Repairs<br />
• Flagging<br />
• Alterations<br />
• Driveways<br />
01942 495412<br />
07974 496676<br />
Oak Doors<br />
from<br />
£155<br />
Price includes<br />
supply & fit<br />
Orrell<br />
based<br />
All aspects<br />
of joinery<br />
Call Mike for a free quote<br />
01942 590514 • 07988 260621<br />
www.orrelljoinery.co.uk<br />
• Timber cladding<br />
• Bespoke furniture<br />
• All aspects of joinery<br />
• Fabrication / steel work<br />
Contact:<br />
07800 580532<br />
01744 747787<br />
www.funkytimber.co.uk<br />
Unit 17b, Wharton Street,<br />
St Helens, WA9 5AA<br />
First Class<br />
Workmanship<br />
4 All types of re-roofs<br />
4 Strip & re-slate or re-tile<br />
4 Built up felt/flat roofs,<br />
dormers etc.<br />
4 Insurance work undertaken<br />
4 Roofline uPVC<br />
fascias, soffits<br />
& guttering<br />
W.Newman<br />
ROOFING & REPAIRS<br />
01695 627 212<br />
MOBILE: 07774 943 706<br />
52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS,<br />
UP HOLLAND<br />
Established Over 30 Years<br />
All aspects of<br />
roofing & roofline<br />
NEW ROOFS<br />
REPAIRS<br />
FASCIAS, SOFFITS<br />
& GUTTERS<br />
Dormers and<br />
Garages<br />
Rubber Cover Roofing Specialist<br />
Guaranteed 50 years<br />
Call for free quote<br />
M: 07894 687 384<br />
Est. 1985<br />
Roofing & Roofline<br />
Specialist<br />
• All aspects of<br />
maintenance & repair<br />
• Fascia & soffit<br />
installation<br />
• Guttering and felting<br />
services<br />
Call us now for<br />
a free estimate<br />
01695 633173<br />
Colin: 07958 302 166<br />
Brian: 07760 160 988<br />
www.wilson-bros.co.uk<br />
B.A.<br />
Berry<br />
Building & Roofing<br />
Specialists<br />
• All building work undertaken.<br />
• From a broken tile to a full<br />
re roof.<br />
• Flat roofs renewed and<br />
repaired.<br />
• Extensions, Alterations,<br />
Structural repairs including<br />
Lintels.<br />
Your local fully<br />
qualified tradesman<br />
with 30 years experience<br />
Call us now for a free,<br />
no obligation quote<br />
01695 622 704<br />
07968 652 320<br />
www.baberry.co.uk<br />
97
Cover photo © Ian Bonne l Photograpthy<br />
98<br />
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99<br />
Come and visit the largest<br />
showroom in the North West<br />
Quality installations of windows,<br />
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First for quality<br />
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No contractors<br />
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Transform<br />
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Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria Street, Leigh, WN7 5SE<br />
warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk<br />
Representative example: Total cash price £1164, deposit £0, amount borrowed £1164 over 12 months. 12 monthly repayments of £97. Interest<br />
rate 0%. Total repayable £1164. Credit is subject to the lenders T&C. Warmlight Windows, Doors and Conservatories Ltd is authorised and<br />
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!<br />
Quality ~ Choice ~ Value<br />
Windows<br />
Bi-Fold Doors<br />
Thermally-efficient conservatory roofs<br />
expertly fitted by accredited installers<br />
©<br />
Orangeries<br />
Don’t just lock it,<br />
Rock it!<br />
Conservatories<br />
Manufacturers and installers since 2004<br />
Contact us on 01744 891717 for a no obligation quote<br />
Visit our showroom/factory at; Crows Nest, Ashton Road, Billinge, WN5 7XX (near Windy Arbour crossroads)<br />
www.orrellwindows.co.uk<br />
28544