Local Life - Wigan - December 2016

Wigan Edition December 2016
vs
Wigan’s feuding
comedians
Win a Christmas hamper
Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Business View...

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Let Santa arrive in style!
Buy now for guaranteed pre-Christmas fitting
Telephone:
01942 583 558
721 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8AQ (FREE parking to the rear)
wiganfiresandfireplaces.co.uk

4
Looking
forward
I
can’t believe that this is the last issue of the
year – 2016 has gone by so quickly!
Our company Christmas social calendar is filling
up quickly; we’re all off to Wigan Little Theatre next
week to watch our Editor in a production there, one
of our sales staff is getting wed soon after so we’re
off to rock the dance floor at West Tower, on the 19th
we’re all helping out on the Rotary Carol Floats and
we’ll be tucking into our Christmas meal at our local,
the Robin Hood, on the 22nd.
It’s not all play at Local Life though, we’ve been
working hard to bring you some new goodies! By
Christmas, we’ll have a brand new website up and
running (www.locallife247.co.uk). You can also look
forward to a new look Local Life magazine in 2017,
one which adds significantly more emphasis on
publicising local events of all kinds and helps event
organisers to promote these events free of change.
You need never again be stuck for something to do
on a wet Wednesday afternoon!
As always, a big thank you - firstly to our advertisers,
without whom this magazine wouldn’t exist, also to
our distributors for all their hard work in all weathers
and, most of all, to readers for your support and
feedback you have so generously given this year.
On behalf of all the Local Life team, I wish you and
yours an enjoyable Christmas break, and may you all
enjoy health and happiness in the coming year.
Chris Pearce - Publisher
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

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In this issue
Win a Christmas
hamper
22
No laughing
matter
Regulars
34 Puzzle Corner
38 Planning
40 Class From The Past
62 Eating Out Guide
Sections
6 Property
8 Local News
26 Fashion
50 Food & Drink
64 Health
76 What’s On
86 Test drive
90 Garden Diary
103 Useful Numbers
70 Finance
72 Business
84 Pets
90 Gardening
92 Home Services
45
Christmas
feast
Next issue - January 2017
Advertising deadline - Thursday, 8 December
Published - Thursday, 29 December
Local Life 247 Ltd
Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park,
Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01695 627 999
50
Jack’s Tracks visits
Haigh
Publisher: Chris
Sales: Clare, Nicola
Editorial: David
Design: Peter, Dylan
Distribution: Sally
Accounts: Sam
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
sales@locallife247.co.uk
wigannews@locallife247.co.uk
design@locallife247.co.uk
sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
accounts@locallife247.co.uk
80
Test Drive - Abarth
124 Spider
86
Local Life is published every month and distributed into
the following areas on an alternate monthly basis.
This issue is delivered to 13,039 private homes and
businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley
Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh.
The next issue is delivered to 13,034 private homes and
businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland,
Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton.
You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys
or Tesco Extra in Wigan.
Local Life Media
@locallifemedia
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or
damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

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School D-Day looms
The deadline for public comments over
plans to shut Shevington Community
Primary School is looming.
People have until Thursday, December 8, to express
their feelings about the plan for the Miles Lane
facility. The current proposal is to send pupils to
Shevington Vale Community Primary, on Runshaw
Avenue, Appley Bridge. A final decision will be made
in January.
Victoria Galligan, from Save Shevington Federation,
told Local Life: “One of our main concerns is the
journey from Shevington to Appley Bridge, which
is a main road route and unsafe for lots of small
children. It is nearly two miles long with a total climb
of 31m up a steep hill. We are campaigning for better
infrastructure to make the route safer and we want
free bus passes for transitioned children and parents.
But if Cabinet decides to close the school, we want
to work alongside the council to make sure our
children get what they need.”
Write to School Organisation Team, People
Directorate, Wigan Council, PO Box100, WN1 3DS,
or via email at wsf@wigan.gov.uk
Over 25 years of local advice
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10
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
PILGRIMS WAY, STANDISH £475,000
An impressive, individual detached 5 bedroomed family
home.
BRIARLY, STANDISH £304,995
A superior four bedroom detached house boasting a
stunning landscaped corner plot & double garage.
DUKE STREET, SWINLEY £269,950
A substantial detached family home in centre of Swinley
with a superb south facing garden.
PARK CRESCENT, WIGAN £259,995
Stunningly presented Victorian semi which has been
completely modernised throughout.
NEW
NEW
WIGAN ROAD, STANDISH £249,995
Exceptionally well presented 1930s home with a secluded
setting just off Wigan Road.
QUEENSWAY, SHEVINGTON £215,000
Impressive detached true bungalow in quiet cul-de-sac
setting and available chain free.
www.reganandhallworth.com Wigan town centre showroom 01942 205555

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NEW
RUSHWOOD PARK, STANDISH £213,000
Deceptively spacious 3 storey detached home offering the
perfect blend of size and location.
SOUTHLANDS AVENUE, STANDISH £185,000
Significantly extended family home located in one of
Standish’s most sought after locations.
NEW NEW
THIRLMERE AVENUE, STANDISH £164,850
A traditional 3 bed house in lovely avenue and featuring a
garage & south-west facing garden.
NEW
PRIMROSE LANE, STANDISH £150,000
A traditionally built semi -detached home well positioned
to enjoy all the amenities of Standish village.
NEW
GIDLOW LANE, SPRINGFIELD £122,000
A stunningly presented home fusing contemporary fittings
with lovely period features.
HODGES STREET, WIGAN £105,000
Superb starter home property in popular setting with south
facing rear garden.

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Have a dram
An Introduction To Whisky evening fundraiser is
being held at The Globe pub, High Street, Standish,
on Friday, November 25, at 8pm. There will be six
different whiskies to taste and discuss after an
introductory talk. And attendees get to take home
their own authentic Glencairn whisky glass, which
is included in the ticket price. Tickets are £15 each,
with £2 going to Standish Voice’s fund for events,
which includes Standish Christmas Market. The
price includes a minimum of six different whiskies,
the glass and tasting notes. Whisky samples and
gift sets will be available to buy and the upstairs bar
will be open all evening. You can buy tickets at The
Globe pub, or by ringing 074697 28259.
Festive event
Appley Bridge’s Christmas market is on Sunday,
November 20th from 11am-3pm at the village hall,
on Appley Lane North. All welcome.
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Distributors Required
Local Life requires distributors aged 13 and above
in the areas below;
Aspull
Moorside, Scot Lane, Ashfield
Drive, Stanmoor Drive, Bolton
Road, Lincoln Drive, Hope Street,
Mill Lane, Windsor Crescent, Exeter
Drive, Corfe Close, Ratcliffe Road,
Stanley Road
Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every
eight weeks. If you’re interested, please email your
name, address, landline number and date of birth
to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
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Tributes to brave Kevin
Tributes have been paid to the
campaigning Appley Bridge man
Kevin Vardy.
Kevin died at home from prostate cancer after
being diagnosed with the disease in early 2015. He
was just 54 years old.
Despite his prognosis, he was determined to fight
- lobbying the Government hard to introduce
mandatory prostate specific antigens (PSA) tests
which would lead to early detection. Currently,
PSA tests are not proactively offered by all GPs -
something which Kevin believed was a scandal.
His widow, Susan, (pictured opposite with Kevin)
told Local Life: “We both felt his death was avoidable
if screening had been in place. He campaigned until
he became too poorly to do so, achieving great
things. He appeared on BBC news and radio in April.
He worked with Prostate Cancer UK and Cambridge
Oncometrix on developing a more accurate test.
“I am proud of Kevin - he was a courageous man. He
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www.thepaddockrestaurant.co.uk

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Bespoke Timeless Treasures
used what precious life he had remaining to help
save others.”
NHS bosses say that there is currently no screening
programme because “it has not been proved that
the benefits would outweigh the risks”.
They added: “More research is needed to determine
whether a screening programme would provide
men with more benefit than harm.”
To sign Kevin’s petition, visit www.change.org
Jules Bridal Boutique
your perfect day starts with us
Join us for our Prom Extravaganza Events:
35, Preston Road, Standish
01257 424624
www.julesbridalboutique.co.uk
enquiries@julesbridalboutique.co.uk
Fri 20th Jan – 10am - 7pm
Sat 21st Jan – 10am - 5pm
Sun 22nd Jan - 10am-4pm
Late night appointments
available
Standish
Stockists of wedding gowns,
bridesmaid dresses &
designer prom gowns
School exclusivity on
gowns is offered
Jewels May is a gorgeous independent
jewellers shop nestled amongst 50 small
rural retail business in Heskin Farmers Market
and Craft Centre. This little treasure trove
of sparkle boasts an amazing collection of
antique, vintage and modern precious luxury
jewellery items. The owner has a passion
for old cut diamonds and precious stones in
amazing unique settings, and the shop also
specialises in pre-owned luxury watches.
Treat yourself to an
affordable extravagance!
Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre,
Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, PR7 5PA
T: 01257 450 448 E: info@jewelsmay.com
www.jewelsmay.com

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New homes?
12 new homes could be built in Aspull. Wigan &
Leigh Homes wants to build on land next to the old
St John’s School, on Wigan Road. It’s proposed that
the homes - a mixture of houses and bungalows -
will be in a cul-de-sac. The plan is for them all to be
available to rent as affordable housing. A decision is
due in January.
However, the ownership of the homes - if built - may
change soon as there is currently a consultation
underway over whether to transfer the ownership
of all Wigan & Leigh Homes, an Arms Length
Management Organisation (ALMO), back into
the control of Wigan Council. To take part in the
consultation, visit www.walh.co.uk
Christmas Dash
Wigan Christmas 5k Dash takes place on Sunday,
December 11. The 3rd successful Christmas Dash
will start at 11am in Mesnes Park in the town centre.
Registration is from 9.30am. The route is five laps of
the park , the starting point being the statue of Sir
Francis Sharp Powell. Organisers are hoping to get
people to don their Santa suits and get ready to fill
the park while listening to Christmas music being
played.
As part of the entry you will receive a Santa suit to
run in and will be given a turkey sandwich, mince
pie and mulled wine or water at the finish. The
fee for those registering before the day is £20 for
over 17s and £12 for under 16s. The cost on the
day is £25 per person or £5 for under 10s. For more
information, visit www.christmasdash.co.uk
Cool for cats
Free neutering and microchipping is available to
Wigan ‘s cat owners until the end of December. For
more information, call Sue or Karen at Wigan Cats
Protection on 07504 100371/07784 645850.
It’s Christmas!
where extravagance becomes reality.
Our in-house design and manufacturing team can make
a unique, one-off creation in any precious metal, with
any stone.
We also stock an exclusive and affordable range of
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Stylish gifts for your loved ones
whatever your taste or budget.
01257 401300
www.pmhjewellery.co.uk
27 Preston Road, Standish, WN6 0JH
10%
OFF
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when you present this voucher
This offer cannot be used in
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Light lunches, delicious
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Christmas at Tunley
Tunley United Reformed Church in Wrightington
is to hold its annual Christmas fair in the hall on
Saturday, November 26, 11am-1pm. There will be
various stalls and games such as ‘Win a Christmas
Cake’ and ‘Guess The Name of Tunley’s Christmas
Teddy’. There will also be a chance to visit Santa in
his grotto!
And on Friday, December 9, the church presents a
Christmas Concert with Coppull and Standish Brass
Band from 7.30pm in the hall. Tickets are £7.50,
which includes a glass of mulled wine and a mince
pie. Call 01257 463407/425330 or 426252.
Tell Us Your Story!
Local Life is always on
the look out for news
stories from the local
communities we serve.
Are you raising money
for charity? Are you a
member of a community
group with something
to shout about? Maybe
you’ve got an unusual talent, or have a claim to
fame? If so, let us know and you could be appearing
in the next edition!
Simply email us at wigannews@locallife247.co.uk

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A Standish first
Standish is to hold its first ever Christmas market this
year. The event, on Saturday, December 3, will run
on Market Street from 11am to 8pm and will feature
a range of market stalls, an indoor craft fair from
11am to 5pm, a special Santa’s Grotto, live music
and entertainment, a Snowglobe, a Christmas trail
around Standish and a beer tent. The event is being
held by community group Standish Voice. For more
details, email standishvoiceevents@gmail.com
Market on your calendar....
Roby Mill School is holding a festive market from
10am-1pm on Saturday, December 3. There will be
craft and gift stalls, Christmas trees for sale, seasonal
refreshments and plenty of other Christmas cheer. If
you would like to book a stall, please contact the
school on 01695 622536.
Applications now open
Wigan parents are being reminded that the
application process for primary school places is
now open. The deadline is January 15 with places
to be confirmed in mid-April. Education bosses say
parents who apply after the closing date will only
find out which school their child has been offered a
place at much later in the year and will be less likely
to get a place at one of their preferred schools.
Parents can apply online by registering at www.
wigan.gov.uk/schooladmissions to give their three
preferred schools in priority order. Alternatively
parents can collect an application form from a
primary school or contact the School Organisation
Team on 01942 489013 who can post a form out.
For parents wishing to apply to a Lancashire school,
visit www.lancashire.gov.uk
Celebrating 10 years
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We can offer full start to finish service,
which includes plumbing, heating, joinery,
tiling, plastering, electrical, gas and
construction work.
Our highly skilled in-house installation
team are fully insured.
So if you are thinking of having a new
kitchen or bathroom, pop in for a chat
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One thing we will always do is listen and
understand your wants and needs.
aqua: bathroom
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Competition
Win a
Christmas
Hamper
Our popular Christmas hamper competition
is back! Will you be the reader who takes
home a luxury Christmas Hamper? Filled
to the brim with luxury produce, this Christmas
Hamper is perfect for an indulgent Christmas.
Most of the food in the hamper is sourced from our
local village farm shop, Windy Arbour in Billinge,
and we thank them for supplying it at cost price.
Windy Arbour carries a great range of tasty local
and regional produce, particularly in the run up to
Christmas.
The finished contents of the hamper was still being
finalised as we went to press, but we can tell you
that each hamper will include Christmas cake,
chocolates, mince pies, cheese, shortbread, wine,
real ale, Christmas pudding, sweets and lots more
besides. Even if you’re not a foodie,
these expertly wrapped hampers
would make a wonderful present
for someone special in your life.
To win one of these hampers
simply visit our website (www.
locallife247.co.uk), click on the
‘Free stuff’ header, then click on
‘Enter Competitions’, complete your
contact details and answer the question:
Your entry MUST be with us by Sunday 11th
December, and the lucky winner will receive their
hamper by the weekend of 17/18 December 2016.
Crossword Competition Rules
Only one entry per household. Entrants must be over
16 years of age. The winners will be notified within
14 days of the closing date. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot
accept responsibility for entries that do not reach us.
Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate
relatives are not eligible to enter this competition.
Good luck to all who enter - and a
Happy Christmas to all!
What is the name of the village where
Windy Arbour Farm Shop is located?

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24
Talk fits the Bill!
He may be 94, but Swinley’s Bill Halliwell has a
memory which is stil razor sharp. The World War
II Arctic Convoy veteran gave a talk to Sixth Form
Deanery students and invited
guests recently.
Aboard HMS Bazeley, Bill had a
crucial job as a telegraphist. He
was 19 years old and had to be
proficient in Morse Code.
Joyce Holden, literacy trainer,
said: “Bill’s character is cheerful
and unassuming but all present realised how
dangerous his job was; if a man fell overboard he
would live for no more than 1 to 2 minutes in the
icy waters.
“Students from the Deanery said that seeing the
memorabilia and hearing Bill’s talk was an amazing
experience; one they shall never forget.”
Extra Green Belt?
Land in Standish could be designated Green Belt.
Wigan Council chiefs have confirmed to Local Life
that they are considering some land in the Rectory
Lane area - but stress it is “very early stages”. The
news came amid an announcement that 25,000
new homes are set to be built in Wigan by 2035. The
Greater Manchester Spatial Framework (GMSF) has
pinpointed land at Junction 26 of the M6 at Orrell,
as well as 95 hectares close to the next junction
southwards at Bryn. To deliver the targets, the
council estimates it would have to released 5% of
its Green Belt for development - but this may be
balanced against the proposal to protect land in
Standish.
Drop in sessions are being held at The Grange
Centre, Winstanley, on Thursday, November 24,
from 4pm - 8pm, and The Turnpike Centre, Leigh,
on Thursday, December 8, from 3pm - 7pm.
To read more, visit www.wigan.gov.uk/gmsf

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Latest fashions
Get in step
by Katie Wright
Colder weather calls for more practical
footwear choices, but that doesn’t mean
you can’t have fun with your winter
warmers.
The AW16 catwalks provided ample
inspiration, with animal prints and luxe
loafers coming to the fore - plus some of
the best boots we’ve seen in years.
These are the shoes to walk tall in this season...
Lipsy Love Michelle Keegan Stripe Sleeveless Dress, £38;
Over the Knee Boots, £89 (www.lipsy.co.uk)
Van Dal Antique Gold Cashmere Loafer, £75
(available early December; www.vandalshoes.com)
Ecco Shape 35 Sand Boots, £135
(www.eccoshoesuk.com)

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JD Williams Heavenly Soles Snake Side Zip Knee
High Boots, £60 (www.jdwilliams.co.uk)
Sosandar Floral Print 70’s Chiffon Dress, £79; Leather
Snake Print Knee Boots, £179 (www.sosandar.com)
New Look Wide Fit Silver Patent Triple Strap
Pointed Block Heels, £22.99 (www.newlook.com)
Next Blue Metallic Loafers, £32 (www.next.co.uk)
La Redoute Atelier R Python Leather Boots, currently
reduced to £59.40 from £99 (www.laredoute.co.uk)

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Park safety fears
A Standish community leader has
thanked leisure chiefs for acting on
health and safety fears at Ashfield
Park - but says more needs to be
done.
Ray Whittingham sent a catalogue of complaints
to Wigan Council about the popular facility. It
included: no handrails at the top of the children’s
1.6m high slide, dog muck and cigarette ends in
play areas, and a 2.3 metre drop on a climbing frame
which “wouldn’t be allowed on a construction site.”
Workmen have now been on site to fix some of the
issues raised, while others remain oustanding.
Ray, who became a Standish councillor in May, said:
“All credit to the council who have since stepped
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the rejuvenation. However, in the older children’s
play area, the climbing structure is very dangerous.
In addition to the play equipment conditions, the
waste bins should be emptied on a regular basis. I
am keeping the pressure on the council and will be
asking the police to undertake patrols.”
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29
Are you interested
in volunteering?
If you are over 18 years old, can spare
one day a week and would like to make a
positive difference to people’s lives…
You might just be the person we are looking for!
• Visit and Support families that are in crisis and at risk of incidents of
Domestic Abuse
• Train to enhance your knowledge and understanding of Domestic Abuse
and the different services available to help
• Make referrals and appointments so that families are given timely support,
to develop healthier relationships
In order to volunteer for this position you will need:
• Access to a car & hold a full clean driving licence
• Good communication & listening skills
• A desire to help other people
If you would like to know more about the role then please contact Citizens
Advice on 01942 267963 or email Ben Banks on b.banks@wigancab.org
If you have experienced or are experiencing Domestic Abuse,
then please seek help by contacting Women’s Housing Action
Group on 01942 832360 or the Domestic Abuse Helpline on
0161 636 7525 or visit www.endthefear.co.uk

30
Talk of the town!
Aspull schools have plenty to talk
about after coming top in the 2016
Junior Speaks competition.
Our Lady’s scooped the first prize in the event,
organised by the Rotary Club of Wigan, while third
spot went to Aspull Church School. Second prize
was won by pupils from Worsley Mesnes Primary.
The Junior Speaks competition started in 2008
when local primaries were invited to enter a team
to speak on a subject of their choice. Each team
consists of three Year 6 pupils who take on the
respective roles of chairman, speaker and the
person who proposes the vote of thanks, with a
fourth member acting as reserve. The winning
team is presented with the Hoddinott Shield in
memory of former rotarian Peter Hoddinott and is
held by the school for one year.
Our Lady’s pupils with Doreen Hoddinott, who
presented the Hoddinott Shield
Our Lady’s winning entry was about the EU
referendum while Aspull Church excelled on talking
about issues related to childhood obesity.
Each school was presented with a certificate, and
each child with an Usborne dictionary, to mark their
achievement.
The team from Aspull Church School with Wigan
Rotary Club president Maureen Bilsborough
Public forum
A public forum is being held in Wigan to discuss
health matters. The event, at Wigan Investment
Centre, Waterside Drive, will be the first of its
kind from Healthwatch. It says there will be an
opportunity to find out about the organisation, to
meet the team and to ask questions.
It takes place on Thursday, December 1, from
5.30pm-7.30pm. Refreshments will be provided, all
welcome. To book a place, call Healthwatch on 01942
834666 or email anne@healthwatchwiganandleigh.
co.uk
Magical Christmas event
The stars of this year’s Britain’s Got Talent - Deep
Space Deviants with Davros - are making an
appearance in Standish. They will be at My Life’s
Magical Christmas event on Saturday, December
10, from 10am-4pm at Thompson House Equestrian
Centre, off Pepper Lane.
There will also be music from the X Factor’s Olivia
Garcia, a funfair, artisan market stalls, an ice rink, ice
bar, and the chance to meet Santa. Free admission.

31

32
Light for a Life
The lives of loved ones will be marked as part of
the annual Light for a Life appeal made by Wigan
and Leigh Hospice. Light for a Life dedications can
now be made at the hospice as a meaningful way to
remember someone special or to give thanks. Every
year, thousands of local people dedicate a light for
a loved one on the hospice’s Christmas Tree. Names
are also entered into the Book of Dedications as a
permanent tribute.
Christine Edwardson, community fundraiser, said:
“This is a chance to give thanks, to celebrate a
special event - such as a birth or an anniversary - or
remember a loved one. It is not only for those who
have a connection to the hospice, but is for anyone
who would like to make a dedication,
The Light for a Life ceremony will be held at the
hospice on Kildare Street in Hindley at 6.30pm on
Tuesday, December 6.
Bit of brass
Wigan Music Society presents an evening with
Trinity Girls Brass Band from Garswood on Saturday,
November 26. It starts at 7.30pm at Trinity United
Reformed Church, Milton Grove, Wigan. Admission
is £7 for members and £8 for visitors.
Christmas market
Standish Methodist Church holds its Christmas
market on Saturday, November 26, from 10am.
Organisers are encouraging people to go along
to enjoy a variety of stalls selling cakes, chocolate,
jewellery, books, gifts, homemade shopping bags
and much more. There will also be a raffle and
tombola. Prospect Band will be playing carols,
and Father Christmas will also be there. Light
refreshments will be available. Entry costs 20p.
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33
Growing success
Wigan’s community groups did
themselves proud once again at the
regional In Bloom awards.
Almost 20 groups from across the area walked away
with a prize following months of hard work.
Wigan Borough in Bloom won a Gold medal and
scooped Best in Category for Large City in the
North West in Bloom awards last week. It’s a double
celebration for the town after it scooped the Gold
award in Britain in Bloom recently.
Among those honoured were: Appley Bridge in
Bloom - Thriving ; Crooke Village – Outstanding;
Friends of Mesnes Park - Thriving; Shevington in
Bloom – Outstanding; Wigan Flashes - Outstanding
If you are interested in joining an In Bloom group
sign up at www.wigan.gov.uk/volunteering or
contact Nick Burdekin on 01942 489325.
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Puzzle corner
Sudoku
Answers are on page 103 of this magazine

35

36
Sleigh to go!
You’d better watch out - Santa Claus
is coming to town!
And Wigan Rotary Club is increasing the number of
house to house collections this year to give more
children the opportunity of seeing the big man
come down their street on his sleigh.
Local businesses are now being urged to get
involved, possibly by ‘donating’ staff time to help
ferry the sleigh around, and collect donations.
The sleigh begins its journey around Wigan on
Wednesday, November 30, and continues right up
until Christmas Eve. Each year, the venture goes on
to raise thousands of pounds for good causes.
Maureen Bilsbrough , Wigan Rotary Club’s president
said: “The 2015 collections raised £15,000 which
was outstanding. This amount is going to take
some beating, but we are up for the challenge”.
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Fri, Dec 2; Shevington South – Harrington Park,
Inward Drive Churchfeld areas
Sat, Dec 3: Appley Bridge - Woodnook Road,
Runshaw Ave, Newgate Ave areas
Sun, Dec 4: Standish West Woodhurst Dr, Langham
Road, Green Lane areas
Tues, Dec 6: Almond Brook - Shevington Moor,
Hesketh Drive, Cressell Park areas
Sat, Dec 10: Rotary Choir in Grand Arcade from
10.30am–12.30pm. Shevington North
– Elnup Ave, High Park, Longbrook,
Parkbrook Lane areas
Mon, Dec 12: Tesco, Central Park Way (10am-8pm)
and Standish Central – Cranleigh, Ash
Grove areas
Thurs, Dec 15: Standish East- Copeland Ave,
Churchlands Ln & Rectory Lane areas
Sat, Dec 17: Standish South - Boars Head Ave,
Hartington Dr, Pilgrims Way
Sun, Dec 18: Whitley - Whitley Cres, Hazelwood,
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38
Planning Matters
Aspull
Dodds Farm, Dodds Farm Lane: Residential
development comprising of five dwellings with
associated garages, boundary fencing, landscaping
and access following demolition of existing
buildings (ref: A/16/83233/FULL) Decision due by
late December.
Standish
Macdonald Kilhey Court Hotel, Chorley Road:
Proposal to erect two storey building comprising
of a swimming pool on the ground floor, keep fit
studio on the first floor, a new club entrance and
a new raised terrace (ref: A/16/83236/FULL) A
decision is due by December 23.
Castelli DIY And Pet Supplies, 56 High Street:
Proposal to install a new shop front (ref: A/16/83031/
FULL). Decision due by December 21.
22 Bentham Place: Proposal to infill existing raised
decking to create summer room (ref: A/16/83141/
HH ). A decision is due by December 5.
Standish Lower Ground
10 Giants Hall Road: Proposal to extend bungalow
- front and rear dormer windows, together with
side extension, incorporating front and rear dormer
windows (ref: A/16/83223/HH ). A decision is due by
December 16.
Shevington
3 Stockley Mews: Conservatory to rear projecting
4 metres, height to eaves 2.25 metres and height to
ridge 2.85 metres (ref: A/16/83280/PDE ). A decision
is due by December 14.
For more information, visit www.wigan.gov.uk
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39

40
Class from the past
This month’s Class from the Past is from All Saints
School in Appley Bridge. It’s believed this photo
was taken in the late 1960s. Maybe you can spot a
familiar face? Remember, if you have a photo you’d
be willing to share, email wigannews@locallife247.
co.uk

41
St John’s panto
St John’s Dramatic Society’s pantomime - Mother
Goose - will be held at St John’s Day School, Church
Street, Pemberton, from Friday, January 27-Sunday,
January 29, inclusive, and then from Thursday,
February 2, to Saturday, February 4, inclusive.
Performances are at 7.30pm on weekdays, 3.30pm
and 7pm on Saturdays and 4pm on the Sunday.
Tickets are £7 for adults and £5 for school children.
They are available by calling 01942 621701.
Search for young citizen
The search is on to find Lancashire’s Young Citizen of
the Year 2017 as part of a countywide competition.
Application forms can be completed online at
http://socsi.in/biWMM before January 31.
Winter crafts
The Junior Rangers club, for ages 5-12, is holding
a winter crafts session at Beacon Country Park, Up
Holland, at 1pm on Saturday, December 3. Get into
the swing of the festive season and make your very
own wreaths and ornaments using some materials
harvested from the area’s various parks. Free event
but booking is necessary via anne.faulkner@
westlancs.gov.uk or 01695 570258
Readers needed
Volunteers are needed to help people with dementia
in Wigan. The Reader, a social enterprise, wants
people who will help bring books and poems to life
in shared reading sessions. Email christopherlynn@
thereader.org.uk or call 07807 106838.
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44

45
No laughing
matter
David Sudworth on the feud between
two of Wigan’s greatest showbiz names...
On the face of it, George Formby and Frank
Randle could have been good pals.
They were born within three years of each
other into Wigan families who lived less than two
miles apart in Scholes and Aspull respectively. As
adults, they climbed their way up to becoming the
biggest showbiz names in Britain; feted by some of
the biggest household names of all time.
But the pair’s loathing for each other burned deeper
than any form of mutual respect you might find
from two people whose backgrounds and career
trajectory were strikingly similar.
These days, Formby is instantly associated with
Wigan. There’s a statue of him at the Grand Arcade
and no national newspaper can mention the town
without giving a nod to the gap-toothed ukulele
maestro.
Meanwhile, Randle - arguably the bigger star who
could command a £4,000-a-month fee even in the
1940s - barely gets a mention. Show a picture of
him to a passer-by in Wigan town centre and most
would shrug.
It’s hard to believe that at one time, he was the
undisputed king of comedy who was seen as a
natural successor to Charlie Chaplin and influenced
the likes of Ken Dood.
Fame, as they say, is a very fickle mistress.
Born at 50 Wigan Road, Aspull, on January 30, 1901,
Randle (who was christened Arthur Hughes) never

46
known to take out his false teeth and throw them
into the audience, and after being banned for one
such misdemeanour he bombarded Blackpool with
toilet-rolls from an aeroplane.”
Acting alongside hearthrob Diana Dors
knew his father. His mother, Rhoda, a domestic
servant, was unmarried; a serious taboo in Victorian
Britain. He was raised by Annie Heath and her family
and went to St George’s School but left at 13 to
work in the cotton mills.
However, he quickly moved on and by the age of
15, he’d travelled to Blackpool to rejoin his natural
mother, who by then had married a soldier, Dick
McEvoy. After spells as a waiter, bottle washer and
even a tram conductor, he joined a local acrobatic
act, called The Bouncing Randles, from which he
took his stage name. By 1928, Randle was touring
music halls as a character comedian in his own
Randle’s Scandals Show.
It was at this time that Randle started to become
known for his somewhat edgy and even subversive
performances. His characters included The Vulgar
Boatman, The Hiker and perhaps his most popular,
Grandpa; a senile and lecherous old man who
enjoyed employing outrageous one-liners, which
came as a shock to audiences who were used to
more gentle, safe humour.
Jeffrey Richards, author of a book on Randle,
described how his style led to regular fights with
the censors: “The essence of Randle’s act was to
defy all the established canons of propriety and
decorum and this brought him into regular conflict
with the authorities. He fought a running battle
with Harry Barnes, the Blackpool police chief, in
the 1940s and 1950s and was regularly censured,
censored, and banned from the stage for the use
of bad language and suggestive material. He was
Randle dismissed theatre managers and script
censors as ‘the mental pygmies of showbiz’ and
would regularly find himself in court because
he refused to have his jokes approved by Lord
Chamberlain, who had powers under the 1843
Theatres Act to ban performances which were
not “fitting for the preservation of good manners,
decorum or of the public peace.”
It’s said that touts would sell seats in the public
gallery and, instead of being banned, Randle would
end up getting off with a £30 fine simply because
he’d been so entertaining in the dock.
“The star of stage, screen
and magistrates’ court”
He later boasted: “Some of my finest performances
were on the stage of the Blackpool Magistrates
Court.”
Away from the limelight, Randle was equally
bombastic. A prodigious smoker of Woodbines
and a lover of Guinness, he famously took Laurel &
Hardy out for a spin in his boat, which was moored
to the pier. However, the trip descended into chaos
when a drunken Randle couldn’t skipper the boat
properly and the trio had to be pulled back to shore
by air sea rescue.
Frank Randle had a subversive streak to his comedy

47
set you back at that time was being
illegitimate. Beryl Formby, George’s
wife, loathed and despised illegitimate
people because they weren’t ‘proper’.
So when both men were due to share
the same bill in Blackpool at a big
show promoted by Jack Taylor, Beryl
stormed into Taylor’s office and said:
‘There’s no way my George is going on
the same bill as that mongrel.’
Beryl Formby ruled her husband with a rod of iron
Compared to his hometown contemporary, George
Formby was positively cherubic, although he too
had his faults..
Born on May 26, 1904, and brought up at the
now-demolished 3 Westminster Street in Scholes,
Formby had showbiz in his genes. His father,
George Snr, was a comedian and singer in his own
right, although he was against his son following in
his footsteps - even sending him away to Yorkshire
aged just seven to work as a stable boy.
When George Snr died in 1921, his widow Eliza took
her grief-stricken son to London to watch a show.
While there, they saw a Tyneside comedian using
George Snr’s jokes, mannerisms and even billed
himself as ‘The New George Formby’. This infuriated
the young George who, there and then, decided to
go into showbiz.
So it was inevitable that Randle and Formby’s paths
would cross at some point. But the experiences
would be far from pleasant.
Comedy expert and Randle aficionado Dr Chris Lee
said: “Randle ‘owned’ Blackpool and, in fact, the
hearts of a massive amount of people who went
there. He was billed as the star of stage, screen and
the magistrates’ court.
“Randle and Formby were kind of the Yin and Yang
of British comedy. The one thing which would
“On another occasion, Taylor managed
to get them on the same bill again, for
a charity do, and it was decided, again
by Beryl, that George would be top
of the bill. The story goes that Randle
got a load of 2x4 wood, and nailed the
dressing room door shut so George was trapped
inside. Randle then went on stage and goes: ‘Ladies
and gentlemen, the management have decided
that George Formby is a better man to entertain
you, so let’s see him get on with it’ and then walked
off to go to the pub. The audience were totally
bewildered.”
“He’s not going on stage
with that mongrel”
Despite the personal enmity, the northern public
adored both men. However, whereas Formby’s
humour translated well in other parts of the
country, particularly London, Randle’s frequently
bombed. In later years, this would grate massively
on Randle who, unlike Formby, refused to tone
down the ‘northerness’ of his act.
He’d apparently last a couple of weeks in London,
then get in his car and drive ‘back to sanity’.
Randle told friends: “Formby gives the Southies
what they expect. The gormless, grinning,
Lancashire tosspot with a gobful of teeth, a ukelele
and bugger all else. That’s how they like to think
of folk up North, and that’s what George, bless his
pigskin wallet, delivers. But not me. Never.”

48
a marriage of convenience. They didn’t have
anything physical but they portrayed the image of a
happily married middle-aged couple. It would have
caused a massive scandal if the truth got out.”
Beryl died of cancer on Christmas Eve 1960.
Afterwards, Formby admitted that life with Beryl
had been “hell”, although it’s widely accepted that,
without her drive, he’d never have hit the big time.
Chris Lee at Randle’s grave
Despite their differences, both Randle and Formby
had very similar problems in their private lives.
Randle’s years of heavy booze and a 60-a day
cigarette habit left him with liver cirrhosis and lung
disease. His stage performances suffered and the
public noticed. One fan, Keith Clifford, recounts a
performance in 1956 in Halifax: “My dad told me ‘I’m
taking you to see the greatest comic on God’s earth.’
It was a disaster. He was in the pub somewhere
and they dragged him back, drunk and inaudible,
while 2,000 people sat in silence. He leaned into
the orchestra pit and spat. They all put down their
instruments and left him to be steered off stage.
People were practically in tears.”
The following year, Randle died, aged just 56. And
his contemporary, George Formby, was faring no
better. His marriage to Beryl, an alcoholic battle axe
who ruled him with a rod of iron, was never a bed of
roses. It’s said that she wouldn’t let him have a drink
in a pub or go out for dinner with male friends. She
governed all the finances and gave him just five
shillings (25p) a week pocket money, even when
he signed a £500,000 film contract. All the houses
they lived in were called ‘Beryldene’, she refused to
have children and was prone to the most volcanic
outbursts towards not only her husband, but his
directors and co-stars. One of them, Betty Driver,
who went on to play Betty Turpin in Coronation
Street, described her as: “A monstrous woman,
although very clever.”
Just seven weeks later, Formby announced he was
getting married to schoolteacher Pat Howson,
but they never got to the altar. He died of a heart
attack a month later, also aged 56. By the end,
he’d developed depression due to his fading fame,
along with an addiction to morphine.
“His performance was a
disaster”
These days, Formby is easily the more well-known
of the two. However both men have blue plaques in
their memory in Wigan. Formby’s can be found on
a the high wall on Central Park Way, opposite Tesco,
as it is close to the spot where his home once stood.
Randle’s plaque can be found on the old St John’s
School on Wigan Road, Aspull - again close to where
his original home once stood. Randle is buried in
Poulton-le-Fylde, Blackpool, where he lived, while
Formby is interred in a family plot at Warrington
Cemetery.
In life, they were in close proximity and even
expired at the same age. In death they are, buried
a fair distance apart. Which is probably how both
men would have liked it...
Formby’s biographer David Bret says: “It was always

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Food & Drink
Prepare
the perfect
Christmas
feast
By Ed Bolla
Serving up the ultimate roast on December
25 can be a bit of a slog.
Getting the turkey, potatoes, gravy,
stuffing, Brussels sprouts and all the other
essentials to the table on time often feels like
a logistical nightmare. But don’t despair, it is
possible to enjoy cooking on Christmas Day
without turning to the sherry early - it just takes
organisation.
Many of the recipes we’ve picked out for you can
be prepared before the big day rolls around. So
if the prospect of catering for the extended
family is already setting your pulse
racing, take a deep breath and
have a read. You’ll soon see
that a little preparation
can guarantee a
successful, stressfree
Christmas
dinner.
Salted Maple-Roasted Parsnips
Serves 6 - 8
Ingredients
600g parsnips, peeled and quartered
2tbsp vegetable oil
3tbsp maple syrup
3 thyme sprigs, leaves picked
Sea salt
Method
Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/Gas mark 7.
Put the parsnips in a large roasting tin with the oil,
maple syrup, thyme leaves and some sea salt flakes.
Roast for 35-40 minutes until soft and sticky.
Scatter over a few more sea salt flakes before
serving.

51
Ingredients
900g Brussels sprouts, trimmed
2 onions, finely chopped
2tsp vegetable oil
50g butter
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1/2 vegetable stock cube, crumbled
250ml double cream
1tsp freshly grated nutmeg, plus extra to serve
200g vacuum-packed chestnuts, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper
Method
Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil, add
the sprouts and cook for three to four minutes until
slightly tender.
Drain and rinse under cold water.
Meanwhile, very gently fry the onions in the oil and
half the butter for about 10 minutes until soft. Add
the garlic and stock cube and cook for two minutes,
stirring, until everything is combined.
Remove from the heat.
Roughly chop the sprouts by hand or in a food
processor, then stir them in with the onions and the
rest of the butter, along with the double cream and
nutmeg.
Creamed Sprouts with
Chestnuts
Serves 6 - 8
Put back on the heat and cook until the cream is
bubbling. Season to taste.
Toss in the chestnuts and sprinkle over a little extra
nutmeg to serve.

52
Ginger & Orange-Glazed
Baby Carrots
Serves 6 - 8
Ingredients
900g baby carrots, washed and scrubbed
50g butter
25g piece ginger, peeled and finely grated
2tbsp clear honey
Zest 1 orange
Salt and pepper
Method
Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil and add
the carrots. Simmer for five minutes until slightly
tender, then drain.
In a wide pan, heat the butter until melting, then
add the carrots, ginger, honey and orange zest.
Cook over a medium heat for 25-30 minutes,
turning them gently every now and then, until the
carrots start to go golden and sticky.
Keep turning every now and again until all sides are
browning.
Season well before serving.
Triple Nut & Apple Stuffing Balls
Makes 16
Ingredients
2tbsp linseeds
1 red onion, halved
1tbsp olive oil, plus extra for greasing
200g mixed nuts of your choice (we used a
combination of pecans, hazelnuts and pistachios)
400g can cooked green lentils in water, drained
50g breadcrumbs
Small bunch sage, chopped
1 small apple, grated
Salt and pepper
Method
Put the linseeds in a small bowl and mix with
two tablespoons water, then set aside for five to
10 minutes, until the water thickens to a gluey
consistency.
Meanwhile, place the onion in a food processor and
whizz until finely chopped.
Heat the oil in a frying pan, tip in the onion and cook
for five minutes, until softened.

53
Festive Red Cabbage
Serves 6 - 8
Tip the nuts into the food processor and whizz until
coarsely chopped.
Sprinkle three tablespoons of the nuts over a plate
and set aside.
Add the lentils, breadcrumbs, sage, apple, linseeds
(and any liquid in the bowl), onion and plenty of
seasoning to the processor.
Pulse to blend the mixture until just combined -
don’t chop too finely or the stuffing will lose its nice
nutty texture.
Line a baking tray with foil and grease with a little oil.
Remove the blade from the processor and oil your
hands.
Scoop out walnut-sized chunks of stuffing, roll into
balls, then roll on the plate of chopped nuts to coat.
Place on the prepared baking tray. Can be covered
with cling film and chilled for up to two days, or
frozen for two months.
Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/Gas mark 6.
Unwrap (if chilled) and bake for 25-30 minutes until
the nuts are a little darker and the balls have firmed
up slightly - they will be softer than traditional
stuffing balls, but will firm up after a few minutes
cooling.
If you’re cooking from frozen, bake for 35-40 minutes.
Ingredients
1tbsp vegetable oil
2 large onions, finely chopped
1 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
150ml red wine
1 red cabbage (about 900g) shredded
2tbsp dark brown soft sugar
2 Bramley apples, peeled and chopped
Salt and pepper
Method
Heat the oil in a large, flameproof casserole dish,
add the onions and cook on a medium heat for
eight to 10 minutes, then add the star anise and
cinnamon stick.
Pour in the wine and let it simmer until slightly
reduced.
Add the cabbage, sugar and apples, and stir well.
Season well, cover and simmer on a low heat for
three hours, stirring every now and again.
Once the cabbage is tender, check the seasoning.
Serve in a bowl with the star anise and cinnamon
stick on top.
Can be made one to two days in advance, or frozen
for up to four months - simply reheat on the hob
before serving.

54
Taste test
By Royal
appointment...
It’s a sad truism that if a pub
stays closed for longer than
a couple of years, it’ll rarely
open its doors again.
There’s plenty of examples en
route to one pub which has in
fact risen from the ashes. The
Royal Oak, on Standishgate,
has been revived thanks to Wigan venues supremo
Tony Callaghan, who has also been behind the
rejuvenation of The Raven, on Wallgate, as well
as Fifteens At The Fox at Roby Mill. The formula is
simple, bring back traditional boozers but add a
new twist. And boy has that happened at The Royal
Oak.
These days, you can find a fine selection of cask ales
from local and national brewers, no fewer than 24
gins and some amazing food. Breakfast is served
from 9am-noon every day, and lunch served until
8pm Monday-Thursdays, and until 6pm on other
days.
The offerings on the Christmas lunch menu are so
incredibly mouth-watering that, on a recent visit, my
colleague Chris and I couldn’t resist.
For starters, we decided to go a bit continental and
order a few dishes, tapas-style. So along came black
pudding fritters, meatballs, prawn skewers and, in
case our GPs are reading this, a nice salad.
Tackling them in order, the fritters came with a
cranberry, red onion and apple jam. A fine dish at
any time of year, but heading towards Christmas
made it that extra special. The
meatballs were pork, apple
and sage and accompanied by
a rick, velvety capsicum sauce,
which really helped bring out
the flavourings in the meat. It
was one of those sauces which,
had there been a slice of bread
to hand, I’d have been mopping up with gusto and
to hell with the table manners.
The prawn skewers were encased in a wonderfully
light tempura batter and came with sweet chilli
sauce. Regular readers may have heard me moan
once or twice about the rubbery seafood on offer at
some places. Not so here, there was plenty of meat
on these wonderful fruits of the sea.
To round off the starters, the had a pleasingly
refreshing goats’ cheese, walnut and pomegranate
salad. Any chef who has the patience to extract

55
those tiny segments from a pomegranate deserves,
in my opinion, three Michelin stars without further
discussion. That said, the time taken to prise those
little blighters out was well worth the effort, and it
brought an excellent counterbalance to the natural
dryness of the cheese and nuts.
For mains, we decided, being the time of the year,
turkey was in order. Chris’s came in the form of a
casserole with ham and leek encased in a filo pastry,
and served with mash and broccoli. My choice was
the turkey Camembert and cranberry quesadilla
with sweet potato chips. The mere fact that this is
freely available on a Wigan pub menu shows just
how far the town has come from a culinary point of
view in the past 20 years.
Turkey is a devil of a meat to cook correctly,
but those guys in the Royal Oak kitchen clearly
know what they’re doing. Suffice to say, in lesser
establishments, the toughness of the meat would
require a new set of gnashers.
A trip here cannot go without mentioning the decor.
It’s cheeky and cheery; photos of ‘What The Butler
Saw’ style photos adorn the wall along with retro
1980s water jugs, sponsored by various cigarette
companies. The interior has benefitted from a full
refurb in a style which truly has got the place back
on its feet.
The Royal Oak’s revival shows it’s not impossible to
bring pubs back from the brink; it just needs vision,
talent and a will to give the public something a bit
different. And if that continues at other places, I’m
sure we’d all drink to that...
The Royal Oak
Standishgate, Wigan, WN1 1XL
www.theroyaloakwigan.co.uk
N.B – Christmas service is from December 1 to
December 23

56
Celebrate this
Christmas in style!
Christmas Fayre menu served
1st-23rd December
Book early to secure your table
TheBoathouseAB
appleybridgeboathouse
The Boathouse
Mill Lane, Appley Bridge WN6 9DA
01257 252456
www.appleybridgeboathouse.com
CHRISTMAS
at
NEW LOOK NEW CHEF NEW MENU
CHRISTMAS DAY MENU served 12PM – 3PM
£55 PER HEAD, UNDER 12 £25.00 & UNDER 6 £12.50
Works party or a Family gathering we cater for all!
CHRISTMAS LUNCH MENU from £10.95
CHRISTMAS EVENING MENU from £13.95
So don’t delay book today
TELEPHONE: 01257 462874 / 462781
16 ALDER LANE, PARBOLD, LANCASHIRE, WN8 7NN
E: info@thestockstavern.co.uk
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK - FOOD SERVED DAILY
SUNDAY 12 ‘TIL 8PM - MONDAY TO FRIDAY 12 ‘TIL 2PM & 5PM ‘TIL 9PM - SATURDAY 12 ‘TIL 9PM

57
HOLLAND HALL
HOTEL
Join us this
Festive Season 2016
Party Nights £25
Friday 2nd & 16th December - limited places left
all other dates SOLD OUT
Christmas Day Lunch £75
(Under 10 - half price)
- 4 course meal (Inc. of draught beers, soft drinks and house wines)
- Christmas present for each child under the tree
New Year’s Eve £60
- Glass of prosecco on arrival
- Four course meal
- DJ and Disco
- Midnight snack of bacon/vegetarian sausage brioche rolls and glass of prosecco
LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE
Please book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment
To book and find out more, please call
01695 624426
Lafford Lane, Upholland, Skelmersdale, Lancashire WN8 0QZ
Email:info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk Web: www.hollandhallhotel.co.uk

58
Business profile
From field to fork
Most chefs would claim to know where their food comes from
approximately. But David Jones can name it down to the actual field.
Because not only is the head chef and owner of the Rigbye Arms there at
the time, he actually does the shooting. Together with his trusty four year old dog,
Fin, they go hunting for some of the finest meats to bring back to customers at the
Whittle Lane venue in Wrightington.
“To me, it’s about respecting the animal and
knowing where it comes from - from field to fork,”
says David.
“Most people eat from fast food chains and have
absolutely no idea where the meat comes from. I
do, because I bring them back here in full feather
and prepare them for cooking.”
David, a former Standish High pupil, has been at
The Rigbye Arms for 25 years, and in that time it has
become famous for its vast array of game dishes.
“When I came here, it was a locals’ pub; 90% drinking
and 10% food. Over the years, that has changed and
now it’s completely reversed to 90% food and the
remainder drinking.”
In many ways, David was well ahead of the curve
when it came to wanting to know the provenance
of your plate: “It’s really changed in the last 10
years. People now want to know where their food
has come from, and that’s why we do so well. And
because I’m cooking it, I don’t waste anything; even
down to making broth from the bones and using
the feathers.”
At this point, David reveals that one grateful
recipient includes the legendary singer and comedian Mike Harding: “Mike does a
lot of fly fishing so we supply him with some feathers. Others get used on our table
decorations and a customer is making a lovely Christmas wreath out of some as well.”
David, a member of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation,
acknowledges that getting some people to try game can be difficult. But he says

59
is it about respecting the animal, it also brings out
the flavour in the meat.
“We also do special events, which includes a ‘Ducky
Dinner’ where everything on the menu is made
from duck, including the desert... we use a duck egg
in it!”
that once they’ve sampled one of his tasty dishes,
they’ll be hooked.
“The thing about game is that it’s both healthy and
sustainable. It’s low fat and free range. We serve
food which you just won’t find in the supermarkets.
And everything, from the shooting to the eating,
puts money back in to the local community and
provides jobs.
“We have a really good selection of dishes, from our
pheasant goujons, game terrine, our huge venison
burger, breast of wild duck, breast of partridge and
roast traditional grouse served with bilberry sauce.
Grouse actually eat bilberries in the wild so not only
The term ‘country pub’ can cover many different
aspects these days, but for David, it’s about a return
to traditional values: “We are proud of what we
do, and we are proud to get customers who come
back time and time again. But I would urge anyone
who hasn’t either had game for a long time, or
not at all, to come and give it a try. They won’t be
disappointed.”
The Rigbye Arms
2 Whittle Lane, Wrightington, Lancashire, WN6 9QB
www.rigbyearms.com
therigbye@btconnect.com
01257 462354

60
Business profile
A place for all
seasons
Whether it’s for food, location or history, the High Moor Restaurant really
does leave you spoilt for choice at any time of the year.
Nestling in the quiet Wrightington countryside, the views are truly 360 o -
with Winter Hill, the Beacon, Liverpool and Wigan all surrounding this friendly venue.
Step inside and it oozes all the charm you’d expect from a building which started
out life as a coaching house in 1642. The walls are a good few feet thick and there’s a
gorgeous Lancashire Range cooker which is regularly fired up, adding to the homely
atmosphere.
The restaurant has been family-run since 2001. The owner, Simon Jones, said: “We
really do pride ourselves on choice, value and quality of service.”

61
are part of something special. From the original flag
stone flooring and open fire to the classy dining
areas with beautiful lighting, we really do cater for
all tastes.
“Because we are family-run, we go all out to make
it a welcoming place that people enjoy returning to
time and time again.”
The High Moor Restaurant
5-7 High Moor Lane
Wrightington, Lancashire, WN6 9QA
Telephone: 01257 252364
thehighmoor@btconnect.com
“We’re not just a venue for celebrating a special
event, we offer something unique all year round.”
Indeed they do. They’ve got a fabulous chargrill
system which is the envy of many establishments
and sumptuous dishes which can please every
palate. They also have a comprehensive wine list
and a good selection of cocktails
“We are proud to be traditional, but that doesn’t
mean we are old-fashioned. Our Christmas menu,
which starts on December 1, includes for example
dishes such as Pheasant and Black Pudding Sausage
Roll, Spinach, Feta and Pine Nut Tartlet and a Three
Bird Roast Wrapped in Bacon.
“We also have Grilled Fillet of Seabass, our head
chef Norman, who has been here 15 years, has a
great Fish Pie and there’s also Mulled Wine Poached
Pear and Blacksticks Blue Cheese Salad - our full
selection of menus can be found on our website.”
Simon believes also that the building itself, and its
location, is a massive plus.
“When you come in, you can’t fail to feel that you

62
Eating out
guide
The Simms Road Inn
Homemade pub food classics
made with locally sourced produce
- featuring our award winning Steak
& Ale pie, supplemented with cask
ales and quality wines from around
the world. Food served every lunch
and dinner. Gluten Free options.
01744 894246
Garswood, WN4 0XH
simmsroadinn.co.uk
Rigbye Arms Country Inn
Friendly service, delicious food and
real cask ales. We offer top quality
pub food, and our Feather & Fin
restaurant serves the finest quality
fresh fish and local game.
01257 462354
2, Whittle Lane, Wrightington,
WN6 9QB
rigbyearms.com
Lovels Bistro
Tasty food, happy times and great
value - you’ll not be disappointed
with the quality, taste and service.
We’re more than just a great
wedding venue.
01695 624 426
Holland Hall, Lafford Lane,
Up Holland, WN8 0QZ
hollandhallhotel.co.uk
Advertise
here
£30 + VAT
Call 01695 627999
Divino Restaurant
Traditional Italian homemade
cuisine. Enjoy the friendly warm
atmosphere, where you can relax
or celebrate any occasion with our
outstanding wine and food. See our
website for more information.
01942-386140
4, Orrell Road, Wigan, WN5 8HD
divino-italian.co.uk
High Moor Restaurant
Based in rural Wrightington, we
boast an enviable reputation for
superb food, outstanding wines and
genuine hospitality. We offer quality
ingredients, freshly-prepared food
and excellent value for money.
01257 252364
High Moor Lane, WN6 9QA
highmoorrestaurantwigan.co.uk
The Stocks Tavern
Warmest and friendliest of
welcomes with award winning chef
Mike Heap, who uses only the finest,
freshest, local ingredients to ensure
you leave completely satisfied.
01257 462874
16, Alder Lane, Parbold,
WN8 7NN
thestockstavern.co.uk

533 Scot Lane, Wigan, WN5 0PS
63

64
Health & Fitness
Gut reaction
By Kate Whiting
Whether it’s warming up with stodgy comfort food, or carb-loading for
some extra winter fuel and padding, it’s not unusual for appetites to
increase at this time of year.
But this can be troublesome for sensitive digestive systems. Even healthy-seeming
foods, like broccoli and lentils, can cause havoc if you’re prone to bloating.
Gut issues are extremely common and often - whether due to a serious, underlying
condition like crohn’s or coeliac disease, or a minor intolerance or irritable bowel
syndrome (IBS) - the symptoms can be very similar, and sometimes very distressing.
If you are experiencing persistent problems, or any alarming changes in your bowel
habits, make an appointment with your GP and get them checked - they’ll be able to
advise you on how to manage the problem too.
Meanwhile, Dr Ayesha Akbar, consultant gastroenterologist at St Mark’s
Hospital, explains the common problems our digestive systems
experience, and which foods to avoid if you’re suffering.

65

66
Why am I constipated?
“Constipation usually occurs when
waste remains in the intestines for
too long. This causes it to ferment,
producing wind, as well as making
your tummy feel hard and painful,”
says Dr Akbar. “Numerous factors
are linked to constipation, including
stress, anxiety and depression, side
effects of medication, lack of exercise,
not drinking enough fluids and a
change in routine. In addition, if you
aren’t getting enough sleep, your
body releases the stress hormone
cortisol, which can also lead to constipation and
bloating.”
Why do I have the runs?
“Diarrhoea is extremely common if you suffer with
IBS, often occurring soon after eating. Due to our
stomachs being formed of a complex system of
nerves, IBS occurs because of a loss of co-ordination,
which causes diarrhoea and/or constipation and
stomach discomfort,” says Dr Akbar.
“In addition, IBD [inflammatory bowel disease]
conditions - crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis -
normally trigger an urgency to go to the loo, and
uncomfortable and painful cramps. Alongside
this, you may experience weight loss, bloating and
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67

68
blood in your faeces.
“Gastroenteritis causes short-lived diarrhoea,” she
adds. “Food allergies and intolerances, including
[the long-term autoimmune condition] coeliac
disease and lactose intolerance, and bile salt
malabsorption can result in diarrhoea.”
What about cramps and bloating?
Dr Akbar says: “Cramps, bloating and wind can be
a sign of IBS, IBD, a food intolerance or food allergy,
or a general infection. By keeping hydrated and
drinking large amounts of water, you can potentially
reduce these problems, because dehydration and
electrolyte imbalances can stop digestion and
cause your body to hold on to excess water. If you
eat too fast, you inhale air,” she adds, “which can
cause bloating and result in excess gas. In addition,
PMS makes you susceptible to constipation, and
water retention bloating increases as ovulation
takes place, as more fluids and blood builds up”.
When should I worry?
Dr Akbar says: “You should never ignore any
continuing or persistent stomach problems -
especially if they get worse, you have an alteration
in your bowel movements, or it is waking you up
in the night. If you find blood in your faeces, you
should get checked by your GP straight away, as
this could be a sign of bowel cancer. Weight loss,
loss of appetite, or a family history of bowel cancer
should all be reasons to seek medical advice.”
bloating because they contain fructose. You may
suffer from ‘fructose malabsorption’ and find you
bloat after eating them. Apples aren’t as bad if
they’ve been cooked.
• Although garlic is a great antibacterial, it contains
bloating-producing fructans.
• Beans contain alpha-galactosidase sugars which
can cause gas, and broccoli can cause bloating
for some people, as it belongs to cruciferous
vegetable family.
• Fizzy drinks are the most common cause of
bloating, due to the high amounts of carbon
dioxide they contain.
• Lentils are very high in fibre that can make you
gassy if you consume too many. To avoid this, you
should soak lentils well and opt for light coloured
ones, as they’re a little lower in fibre than the
darker ones.
• Some sweeteners, such as sorbitol, mannitol and
xylitol, can cause digestive problems.
Most of the time, your symptoms won’t be due to
anything serious, but it’s always best to get things
checked sooner rather than later - so if there is
something going on, it can be addressed and
treated as necessary. Also, peace of mind can make
a huge difference - especially as stress is known to
exacerbate gut symptoms.
What foods typically cause bloating?
“There are numerous foods that can cause bloating,
and this very much depends on the person,” says
Dr Akbar. “However, there are certain key items
that often cause bloating in many people.” These
include:
• Fruits, including apples and watermelons, cause

69
01257 696 050
E: mark.booker@independentlivinglancashire.co.uk
The leading provider of bespoke private care
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AMANDA!
Do you provide private home care?
Amanda Singleton is the
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YES. We are a private care company and virtually all
our care is provided on a private basis, or for people
who control their own budget from Lancashire County
Council. We work directly with a customer and their
families to provide what they want, when they want it,
and to a certain extent by who they want. We believe
this approach is the best way to provide quality care.
We do not carry out 1,000s of care calls to hundreds of
people because we want to give you a truly personalised
service. When you phone our friendly office – myself,
Maria or Mark because we offer a bespoke service we
will know who you are, your family and your care history
and will already have an idea of what you will require.
As we work with a smaller number of customers we can
spend more time arranging your care and support so it
more fully meets your requirements.
If you are looking for care and support at home, pay
privately, and want a company that works hard for its
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For more information on care please call Amanda 01257
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Registered with
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70
Financial planning
Choosing your
Financial Adviser
Agood financial adviser is like gold dust. Like
your most influential teacher at school,
they should inspire as well as reassure you
in order that you can enjoy a better financial future.
A poor adviser will put their interests before yours
and will sell you a product you don’t really need and
have no interest in your future. It’s about them, their
ego and their sale.
Worryingly both advisers will be FCA registered, both
have at least a Level 4 qualification (it is now the
minimum standard to trade as a financial adviser ),
and both will sound plausible.
So how do you select the
right adviser for you?
The right qualifications
You want an adviser who takes professional
knowledge and development very seriously and is
completely independent. Look for an adviser who is
a Chartered Financial Planner or a Certified Financial
Planner - or is actively working towards these
qualifications.
by David K Barton
APFS Cert CII(MP),
Chartered Financial Planner
and Managing Director
These qualifications are equivalent to a university
degree and are the “Gold Standard” amongst
financial advisers and are an indication that advisers
have demonstrated that they are capable of dealing
with clients that perhaps have more complicated
financial planning requirements.
A clear plan
A good adviser will spend considerable time
helping you define your short, medium, and longterm
objectives, and will then create a financial plan
to meet those objectives, ensuring that account is
taken of tax-efficient planning such as pensions,
and considering estate planning too, if that is a
priority. You can be pretty certain that events won’t
turn out exactly as the plan indicates and your
adviser should review and update the plan on a
regular basis.
Relationships count
Your relationship with your adviser is absolutely key.
Ask yourself whether the adviser really cares about
you, genuinely wants you to reach your goals, and
is willing and able to challenge you along the way.
And finally, fees
Fees should be open, transparent and fair. Given that
a good adviser could potentially make a difference
of many thousands of pounds to your financial
position over time, we suggest that you base your
decision primarily on qualifications, approach and
relationship as opposed to price alone.
Should you wish to have a chat with one of our
financial planners please feel free to give us a call on
01257 423800. The initial meeting is at our expense
and of course is without any obligation.
Remember all investments can fall as well as rise in value so investors could get back less than they invest.

71
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outstanding service.
Why should you choose Prosper?
We already look after over £110 million on
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We were the first independent financial adviser
in Wigan to be awarded Chartered Financial
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www.prosper-ifa.co.uk

72
Continuing to Prosper
One of Wigan’s most well-established
financial advisers, Prosper IFA Ltd,
has appointed Ruth Smyth as the
company’s new office and operations
manager.
David Barton, the managing director of Prosper
IFA Ltd said: “I have spent 12 months trying to find
the right individual and interviewing numerous
potential candidates and I am absolutely delighted
to secure the services of Ruth, who has previously
held a variety of senior management and HR roles
within the IFA sector. As we continue to expand by
acquiring further IFA businesses as well as direct
engagement with new clients it is imperative that
Tuesday, December 6th, 2016
6:00pm
Venue – TBC
See website for details
Networking and support in a friendly
and informal atmosphere for all
Wigan Borough-based businesses.
Admission £5
Please pre-register your attendance at
www.wiganbbc.org.uk
@WiganBBC
we continue to have the right level of resource to
deliver a fantastic client experience”.
Ruth said: “I wanted to work for a company that
values not only its clients but also the staff working
to provide that client service and Prosper delivers
on both counts. In addition, I was impressed
that they hold not only the minimum level of
qualification that the regulator states, but have
already gone that extra mile to achieve Chartered
status and encourage staff to become more highly
qualified. I am delighted to be offered the role and
can’t wait to get started on my career with David
and the rest of the Prosper team .”
Business grows
A Swinley-born entrepreneur’s online healthy
food snack shop is growing. Charleh Dickinson,
22, founded Designed2East in 2013.The company,
which sells diet-friendly food such as grain-free
cereal and nut butter, is now opening its first office
in central Manchester and Salford.
Licence application
Holden’s, of Unit C, Kitchen Courtyard, Haigh
Country Park, has applied for a new premises
licence. The proposed hours of operation and
opening hours are Monday-Sunday from 9am to
11pm. A final decision is due after November 28.

73
HS2 will ‘transform’ town
High speed rail will not hit the buffers
in Wigan, despite a campaign against
the controversial plan.
Chairman of the national project, David Higgins,
has pledged that Wigan will be “transformed” by the
new line, which will get people to Birmingham in 35
minutes London in 83 minutes.
Mr Higgins (pictured) said: “Two years ago, local
leaders asked me to make sure that HS2 was fully
integrated into the existing transport and local
economies. It’s an aspiration we’ve sought to realise,
but even I underestimated how far that principle
would take us. Much of the early focus on HS2 has
been on journey times to London. However, as
the Changing Britain: HS2 taking root report and
Wigan’s work proves, it is the inter-regional benefits
and early planning to
harness these which will
transform areas such as
Wigan in the longer term.”
Despite opposition from
residents in Lowton and
Golborne, where the line
will be built, it has received
backing from the town’s business leaders.
Richard Waterfield, chairman of the Wigan Forward
Board, welcomed Mr Higgins’ intervention said:
“The arrival of HS2 will be a watershed moment
for the borough and help unlock further the
huge potential we have here. I am confident the
businesses and people of Wigan will deliver on the
many opportunities it brings.”
Free, no obligation discussion
for all your bookkeeping needs
Contact Petra on
Telephone
Mobile

74
Business view
Here to Help You & Your
business
by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy
CMA Accountancy provides dynamic, value
for money accountancy services and works
alongside business owners to help them
achieve their personal and business goals.
Cloud Software
There are so many benefits to using a cloud
based accounting product such as Xero. You can
conveniently manage your finances at push of a
button and use your smartphone’s camera to snap
and send receipts directly to Xero, which will match
these with data fed from your online bank.
The HMRC’s Making Tax Digital project will be rolled
out shortly, and it’s vital that businesses embrace
this technology as soon as possible. CMA offer a
number of packages for cloud based software to all
types of businesses – call us for more details.
Auto Enrolment
There are 1000’s of businesses that must provide a
work placed pension for their employees in 2017.
There is a fixed penalty of £400 for non-compliance
and then a daily penalty starting from £50 per day
for a business with up to 4 employees.
We can develop your Auto Enrolment Action Plan
by assessing your workforce for eligibility, ensuring
you send the right communications to your staff,
set up your pension scheme and even liaise with
your existing IFA. What’s more, we’ll maintain your
scheme for you.
Our Auto Enrolment packages include:
• Essential Set Up – for those on a tight budget and
want the essential things doing
• Full Set Up – Our most popular option ensuring
complete peace of mind
• Premium Set Up – The best option for larger
businesses with more complex requirements
Self Assessment
The filing deadline for the 2016/17 tax return is 31
Jan 2017. Remember, those who miss filing their tax
return face an automatic penalty of £100 and after
3 months this increases to £10 per day!
You don’t know whether you need to complete a
return? Reasons you may need to complete a return
include those who are self-employed (those who
are not employed and pay income tax via PAYE),
landlords, company directors, and those who have
recently sold an asset and need to pay Capital Gains
Tax.
Call us on the number below to check if you need to
complete a return.
Please contact us if you would like to discuss
anything in this article. Alternatively drop by the
office on Skull House Lane in Appley Bridge and we
can discuss these further over a coffee. There will be
no charge for the initial meeting.
CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DR 01257 255521
info@cma-accountancy.com
www.cma-accountancy.com

75
Payroll
Accounts
AE
Software
Do you need
help and
guidance with;
SA
Company Accounts?
Auto Enrolment?
Self Assessment?
Cloud-based Software?
Payroll Services?
Call CMA Accountancy today
www.cma-accountancy.com
info@cma-accountancy.com
Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521

76
Events & Leisure
What’s on
Manchester Christmas
Markets
Up until Monday 19th December 2016
More than 300 beautifully festooned stalls and
chalets in nine separate markets spread across
the city centre. All Christmas Market Sites will be
open 7 days a week from 10am, and close between
7.30pm-9pm.
Manchester City Centre – various venues
Liverpool Christmas Markets
Up until Thursday 22nd December
Over 45 decorated wooden chalets selling festive
crafts and gifts. Sample the ever popular delights
of a Continental Christmas with the licensed bar
selling Glühwein, German beers and other seasonal
specialities.
St George’s Plateau
The Three Towns in Concert
Friday 18th & Saturday 19th November
Striking the right note for everyone with a variety
of Songs from the Shows, Broadway, Popular and
Classical Music in relaxed cabaret setting. 7.30pm
St. Joseph’s Concert Hall, Chapel Street, Leigh
WN7 2PR
01942 665615
www.thethreetowns.net
Chester Arts Fair
Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th November
Cheshire’s premier arts event. Visitors can view and
buy art from over 50 UK & International galleries.
The Fair attracts visitors with genuine passion, from
serious collectors to those investing in their first
piece of original art. 10.30am-5pm.
Chester Racecourse, CH1 2LY
Roald Dahl Tremendous
Adventures
Monday 21st November to Sunday 4th December
Step in to the Christmas mansion and into
Roald Dahl’s magical world as his extraordinary
storytelling weaves itself through the grand
staterooms and into the bustling servants’ quarters.
Christmas decorating and kitchen demonstrations
too.
Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6QN
www.tattonpark.org.uk
01625 374400
Season’s Greetings
Wednesday 23rd November – Saturday 3rd December
Enjoy the Christmas celebrations with the
archetypical dysfunctional family. This black
comedy, written by Olivier and Tony Award winning
playwright Alan Aykbourn, and performed at Wigan
Little Theatre is about an average English suburban
family having the Christmas from hell.
Wigan Little Theatre, Crompton Street, Wigan
WN1 3SL
www.wiganlittletheatre.co.uk

77
Sensational 60’s Experience
Thursday 24th November
Returning by huge popular demand, for one night
only. Seven legendary names take to the stage and
deliver to you a night never to be forgotten. With
the definite feel good factor this is a must see 60’s
show.
Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool L1 1JE
www.liverpooltheatres.com
Makers Market & Vintage
Sunday
Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th November
Visit Ormskirk Town Centre and the town’s Chapel
Gallery to discover a variety of handmade, retro
and vintage wares! There are also special creative
activities planned for families. A great family fun
day out!
Chapel Gallery, St Helens Rd, Ormskirk L39 4QR
www.chapelgallery.org.uk
01695 571328
The Lanterns at Chester Zoo
Weekends of 25/27 Nov, 2/3 & 9/11 Dec, plus 16-23 Dec
Your favourite animal lanterns are back at Chester
Zoo for the 5th year. Stroll through the enchanted
forest and catch a glimpse of Santa on his sleigh.
Please book early to secure your tickets for this
popular show for all ages.
Chester Zoo, Chester CH2 1LH
www.chesterzoo.org.
Victorian Christmas Weekends
Weekends of 26/27 November, 3/4 & 10/11 December
Visit Speke Hall, decorated for a traditional Victorian
Christmas, enjoy lots of family activities including
donkey rides and Christmas trails, listen to carols in
the Great Hall and see Father Christmas. 11am-4pm.
The Walk, Speke, Liverpool, L24 1XD
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Handel’s Messiah
Sunday 27th November
A performance of Handel’s Messiah at Spendmore
Lane Methodist Church in Coppull. Professional
soloists sing main parts and a small orchestra of
professional musicians accompany. Part 1 starts at
2.30pm with Parts 2&3 at 6pm following a buffet tea
provided by the church. Free of charge.
Spendmore Lane, Coppull PR7 5BX
01254 830854
Winter Celebration
Sunday 27 November 2016
Visit the National Wildflower Centre for a Winter
Celebration. The centre will have festive workshops
for all the family to enjoy and much more. The
Cornflower Café will be open as usual serving some
fantastic festive fare. 11-4pm. Free event.
National Wildflower Centre,
Roby Road, Liverpool L16 3NA
www.nwc.org.uk
0151 738 1913
Leigh Christmas Festival
Wednesday 30th November & Thursday 1st December
Situated at Leigh Sports Village stadium, this year’s
event will be a showcase of over 70 local businesses
with stalls offering everything from handmade
stocking fillers to gorgeous original gift ideas for
the whole family. 3pm-9pm
Leigh Sports Village, Sale Way, WN7 4JY
FB/Leigh Christmas Festival
Christmas Celebration
Friday 2nd December
Join ChorusUK (Manchester) and Sheffield Pops
Orchestra as they produce their festive spectaculars
‘Christmas Celebration’ featuring the songs Happy
Holidays, Stop the Cavalry and Do You Hear What I
Hear? 8-10pm. Tickets £11-£22.50.
Royal Northern College Of Music, 124 Oxford
Road, Manchester M13 9RD
www.rncm.ac.uk
0161 907 5555

78
Winter Arts Market
Saturday 3rd December
Merseyside’s largest arts and crafts market with
over 200 incredible artists, designers and makers.
Includes other activities such as a vintage fair, kidfriendly
craft workshops and live music. £2 entry,
kids go free. 10am-7pm
St George’s Hall,
Liverpool Cathedral, St james Mount, L1 7AZ
www.winterartsmarket.com
Rainford Christmas Fayre
Saturday 3rd December
Rainford’s 3rd Christmas Fayre takes over much of
Church Street. Market stalls and local shops will be
selling Christmas gifts and crafts, and there will also
be food, a fun fair, donkey rides, Santa’s Grotto and
festive live music. 11am-3pm.
Church Road, Rainford WA11 8HE
Standish Christmas Market
Saturday 3rd December
This market runs from 11am-8pm and will feature a
range of market stalls, an indoor craft fair (running
from 11am-5pm), a special Santa’s Grotto, live music
and entertainment, a Snowglobe, a Christmas Trail
around the village and a beer tent!.
Market Place,Standish WN6 0HN
07877 869700
Chorley’s Santa Express
Saturday & Sunday 3/4 10/11 & 17/18 December
Chorley’s Santa Express is back to whisk families the
town centre through Astley Park to meet Santa at
Astley Hall. Every child who meets Santa will receive
a special Christmas gift and there will be some
festive face painting and arts and crafts in Astley
Farmhouse too. £7 children (u-12’s), £3 adults.
Tickets must be booked in advance.
www.chorley.gov.uk
DeanDane RiDing School
gathuRSt RoaD, Shevington, Wn6 8JB
WWW.DeanDane.com
hoRSe RiDing leSSonS fRom ageD 5yRS upWaRDS.
From novices to experienced riders.
call 01257 253086 foR DetailS
FREE modern easy read Bible
Discover for yourself the real God,
- without the religion or hassle.
Available now. You’re under no
obligation and won’t get pestered!
Contact wiganchristadelphians.wordpress.com/bible-study/
or post to 66 Dicconson Street, Wigan, WN1 2AT
Faulty Towers: The Christmas
Dining Experience
Sunday 4th to Wednesday 7th December
When the audience become diners in the ‘Faulty
Towers’ restaurant, pretty much anything can
happen – especially with two-thirds of the show
improvised. Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve a
‘70s-style 3-course Christmas dinner with crackers,
pudding and a good dollop of mayhem.
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ
0843 208 6000
www.thelowry.com
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang - The
Musical
Tuesday 6th December - Sunday 15th January 2017
Chitty Chitty, Bang Bang will have audiences of
all ages flying high with its mixture of madness,
intrigue and exuberance. Starring Jason Manford,
Michelle Collins and Phill Jupitus, this fun-filled
production promises laughs and magic galore.
The Lowry, Salford Quays M50 3AZ
0843 208 6000
www.thelowry.com

79

80
sponsored by
Haigh
Circular
by Chris Pearce
For Wigan kids in the 1970’s Haigh Hall was
by far the best attraction in the town. After
decades of decay since, a private/public sector
partnership, helped along by a volunteer group called
Friends of Haigh Country Park is breathing new life
into the place. The hall itself, a Grade 2 listed building,
is being transformed into Haigh Hall Hotel and the
250 acres of surrounding grounds now boasts a new
play area, a high ropes attraction, a new crazy golf
course and the Kitchen Courtyard, a base for artisan
food and drink producers. This 5 mile walk will give
you an opportunity to check out the progress so far in
restoring this historic country house and grounds.
Park on or near to Higher Lane (WN2 1EA) and
stroll in the direction of Haigh Hall. Once you have
crossed a bridge, turn right down a bridleway.
Follow the path past a house and round a left
hand bend. Walk for 0.7 miles, skirting the edge of
Crawford’s Woods, until you eventually arrive at the
handsome St David’s church, built in the 1830’s and,
along with its lych-gate and stone wall, listed as
Grade 2 structures by Historic England.
Cross over the busy Haigh Road and continue in
the same direction. When Haigh Road reaches a
sharp bend left, carry on in the same direction
down Toddington Road. This road transforms into a

81
Blackrod
Tucker’s Hill Brow
Red Rock
Freezeland
Farm
Toddington Lane
Riley Lane
Meadow Pit Lane
Toddington Farm
School Lane
P
Copperas Lane
Haigh
Windmill
St David’s
Church
Haigh Road
New Road
Haigh
Hall
Leeds & Liverpool Canal
Aspull
Haigh
Country
Park
New Road
Higher Lane
Wigan Road
Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear while walking. While every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is
accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage
caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.

82
direction and then look
out for a gate on the left.
pathway just as the magnificent views open up over
Winter Hill. Keep left and follow the track downhill
and turn right 200 yards later.
Follow this winding track gently downhill until you
reach Freezeland Farm; after the old farmhouse
and just before the new barn conversion, take a 90
degree left turn through a newish gate, which is
part of some new fencing. Bear left, then cross the
double stile and keep in the same direction along
the left hand perimeter for 650 yards until you
come to a steel gate with a stile alongside. Hop over
the stile and then head right towards the corner of
the field. Carry on round the right hand perimeter
of the field and after 150 yards you’ll come to an
opening on the right; cut through to the next field
and then walk straight across that field until you
climb up onto a tarmacked path. Turn left and
follow this path to the main road at Little Scotland.
Go through the gate
and walk towards the
wooded area; go through
the woods and exit via a
bridge over Arley Brook.
Bear left up the hill and
head for the left hand
corner of the field. Cross
into the next field, carry
on in the same direction
and you’ll eventually
arrive at Meadow Pit
Lane. Turn right for 100
yards and then cross over
the road and hop over the stile. Walk uphill on the
left hand perimeter of the field right to the top, over
the stile, bear left and you’ll walk round a house to
a single track road.
Turn left and walk up the road and you’ll eventually
arrive at a car park; turn right directly after the car
park and follow the road downhill until you reach
Haigh Hall. Walk round the Hall and down the
majestic driveway away from the hall. Once you
reach a ‘Whistle’ sign bear right off the main path.
Eventually you’ll reach an enclosure with a seat
outside; take a sharp left into the woods and you’ll
eventually surface opposite a Georgian house. Turn
right and you’ll end up by the bridge where you
started the walk.
Cross the road carefully and head down the
footpath opposite, bearing right past the garage
onto a track. Follow this track until a stile on the left
hand side appears. Cross the stile and head across
the field diagonally to the right, looking carefully
for the stile. Hop over that stile and head round
the field, heading again for a stile on the far side of
the field. Cross this double stile and head directly
towards the steel gate near the farmhouse. Go
through the gate, past the farmhouse in the same

83

84
Top tips to
avoid a festive
fiasco
As preparations begin for the big day, it’s
time to remember that the festive season
can be full of potential hazards and
stresses for your furry friends:
• Too much “festive cheer”? – Remember that all
those guests can stress out pets. It is a good idea
to make sure your pet has a safe place to slink
off and hide when it all gets a bit much. If your
dog or cat can become aggressive or upset when
approached by someone new, it might be worth
making sure all your guests are aware it’s best to
let them approach on their on their own terms.
• Similarly, loud noises such as music, crackers and
fireworks can really frighten some pets. Again,
make sure they have a safe refuge to retreat to,
perhaps somewhere they have hidden before.
Some familiar smelling bedding or clothing may
help them feel more at home. Make sure that the
house is secure, and don’t walk your dog if you
expect fireworks. If your pet’s phobia is severe,
you might want to speak to your vet about the
many options available to help.
• “Decking the Halls” – Christmas trees can be
www.pinewoodvets.co.uk
particularly enticing for cats, who love nothing
more than to take a flying leap! Make sure your
tree is well secured, and remember that tinsel and
beaded string etc, if eaten, can be very serious
indeed. Glass ornaments and lights can also be
dangerous. If you have a dog (or a greedy cat)
you may also wish to avoid edible decorations.
• Christmas is a time for over-indulgence – but
be careful when it comes to your pet. Cases of
stomach upset, and more seriously, pancreatitis
are unfortunately common over Christmas. Avoid
changing your pets usual diet, and especially
avoid high fat foods such as sausages. Also avoid
feeding your animal bones which can cause lifethreatening
gastro-intestinal obstruction.
• Poisons – Chocolate, raisins (in Christmas cakes
and puds), alcohol, grapes and onions are all
potentially toxic. Keep these foods out of reach
of your pets, and remember…
If all else fails: all vets have a duty to provide their
clients with access to out-of-hours emergency care
24/7, 365 days a year. So if your pet needs urgent
care over the festive period, there will always be
someone you can call.
01257 367550
10, Mill Street, Coppull, Chorley, PR7 5AZ
01257 276517
23, Crown Street, Chorley, PR7 1DX

Open:
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Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved
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cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working
with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect
every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding
Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...
Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety
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Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road,
Wrightington, WN6 9RS
Dennis Goulding
(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
Telephone: 01257 427 000
Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon
www.dglwindows.co.uk
A5209
Standish
Shevington
B5250
J27
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
A49
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Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
.and general
Energy Savings
and we’ l provide you with a
detailed report showing the
returns available from your
own solar panels
(10% typical return)
Visit our showr om at
Unit 4a,
Cricket Str et Business Park
o f Miry Lane,
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WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
85
Over 40 Lancashire
walks
FREE to download at
www.locallife247.co.uk
Our services include:
• Dog walking • Home visits
• Pet checks • Holiday care
• Pet photography
Call Silke Klingenhagen
FurEverFriends for more details
17 Ormskirk Road, Upholland, WN8 OAH
07530 119263 / 01695 228306
www.fureverfriendsdogwalking.co.uk
Leader of the Pack Dog Services
“Let me lead your pack”
Dog Walking
Dog Sitting/Boarding
Small Pet Holiday Visits/Boarding
Pet Taxi/Bathing Service
Telephone: 07801 455266
or 01942 620417
www.facebook.com/leadmypack
Gary Mulvaney
Dog Trainer
Train for Fun – Skills for Life
• Puppy/Dog Training
• 1-2-1 Instruction
• Behavioural problems
07754 003 021 or 01257 252232
www.garymulvaney.co.uk
Advertise here
Advertise your business in this
section from £39 + VAT a month
For more information please phone
01695 627 999
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service
For more information call
01695 627 999
Gel
Nails
norma ly £20
now £15
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
T
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Natalies @ Studio 84
84 Rainford Road, Bi linge WN5 7PG
Telephone: 07814 619 400
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Closed Thursday & Sunday
CAR & VAN SERVICING
FREE
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we make it our business to help yours

86
Test drive
Abarth 124 Spider
by Tim Barnes-Clay
The Abarth 124 Spider is cast from the same die as the Fiat 124, and to
improve it Abarth has used the same tactic as it did to change the Fiat 500
into the Abarth 595. In other words, it has added lithe looks, noise and, most
importantly, muscle. The Abarth 124 Spider uses the same platform as Mazda’s MX-5
and Fiat’s 124. However, while the Fiat has been constructed to be more of a cruising
vehicle, the Abarth is more hardcore – and the most performance driven of the three
brands.
The Abarth uses the same 1.4-litre, four-cylinder turbo-charged petrol engine as
Fiat’s 124 - except in the Abarth it produces 170PS, compared with the Fiat 124’s
140PS. The Abarth’s power unit spins with the proper Italian sports car vigour you’d
hope for. It feels wayward and entertaining at high revs - and you’re aware of the
turbocharger when you push on. The sports car is quick to respond and the gear
change is rapid and exact.

87
The best thing about the 124 Spider, though, is
the noise it makes. Popping burbles emit from the
quad tailpipes when doing the 0-62mph gallop, as
I found out testing the car at Silverstone Circuit,
in Northamptonshire. The two-seater Abarth will
reach the magical figure in 6.8 seconds, on its way
to 143mph. Fold the roof, via a simple fastener, and
the Abarth 124’s sound is even more delectable.
For an added dose of pleasure, the Abarth 124 has
a Sport setting. Hit the button and things become
louder, tighter and faster. The throttle feels more
insistent, and weight is also added to the steering,

88
making you feel even more united with the road
– or race track. The 124 Spider feels most pleased
driven hard, with the tail-end hunkered down over
the rear wheels. Even when you go too brutally
into a bend and lose traction for a jiffy, the Abarth
124 continues to play nicely. Working out what
the rump of the car is going to do soon becomes
second nature.
On the whole, the Abarth 124 Spider is a grin maker,
although your beam might falter for a moment
when you see the price-tag - £29,565. Yes, it’s a large
lump of cash, but once you’ve heard the melodious
tailpipes, felt the performance and experienced the
handling for yourself, you’ll appreciate that this car
is worth every single bank note.
Save £££’s
on repairs, servicing and diagnostics
at Wigan’s leading independent
BMW & Mini Specialist.
Our staff have over 40 years experience at the
Northwest’s largest BMW dealership.
Other makes and models welcome too.
Pick Up &
Drop Off
service
available
184 Wallgate, Wigan, WN3 4AL (Next to Better Bathrooms)
Free secure parking at rear
01942 820 378
www.bndynamix.com
Drive your sales in 2017?
Advertising packages start from
£39 + VAT per month
Call 01695 627 999 for details.
Little mags, BIG reach

89
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www.cosmeticar.co.uk

90
A hidden gem...
by Angie Barker
Award Winner
Ihad a phone call the other day quite out of the
blue, from Jim, a previous client of mine. He told
me he was now working as head gardener at
Wigan and Leigh Hospice in Hindley. He was hoping
to be accepted into the National Gardens Scheme*
and wondered if I had any tips as he knew I open my
garden every year at the end of June. Having shown
him around my garden, we arranged to meet at the
Hospice so he could give me a tour.
To be honest I didn’t even know Wigan and Leigh
Hospice had any grounds, so imagine my delight
when I discovered a wonderfully tranquil space
with neatly manicured lawns, a stream, large pond
area, colourful borders – and even Teletubbies
hills! I expected to see Tinky Winky emerge from
the horizon at any moment. (I wish you could see
the look on Hubby’s face as he tries to fathom out
what a Tinky Winky is. I explain to Hubby that the
Teletubbies are a mythological species of toddlers
with Tinky Winky being the largest and oldest of
the group, colour of purple and with a triangular
antenna on his head. I dare not even mention the
Noo-noo! )
The Hospice garden is lovely – thanks to Jim and his
small band of volunteer gardeners and I don’t think
Jim will have any problem being accepted by the
NGS.
The grounds are large and so volunteer gardeners are
always welcome and if you would like to give some
of your free time, working in a lovely environment
and helping to lift the spirits of patients and visitors
then please contact Jim Nicholson at Wigan and
Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Hindley WN2 3HZ. Tel.
01942 525566.
Have a very lovely Christmas everyone and a
peaceful new year.
*The NGS is a charitable organisation which
encourages garden owners to open their doors to the
general public to raise funds for nursing and cancer
charities.
Angie is a qualified
award-winning garden
designer who will
plan your garden to
your needs from start
to finish, supplying
reputable contractors
and the ideal plants.
Call Angie now for your free consultation!
Angie Barker Dip GD
(Inst GD) BA (Hons)
Garden Design For All Seasons
Tel: 01942 522 405
Mob: 07857 008 383
Award Winner
www.angiebarker.co.uk

91
• •
• Gates and railings
• Repairs and restorations
• Ironwork and welding
• Traditional forge work
over 20 years experience
Garden maintenance ~ General tidy ups
Hedge cutting ~ Pressure washing ~ Fencing
Call - 01942 225711 or 07773 296880
Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202
The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland
Give your garden a makeover!
We offer high quality landscaping, garden
design and ground maintenance services
Quality work and reliability
at competitive prices
01942 510 986
07710 405 214
www.ashlandscapingandmaintenance.co.uk
Established 1994
Qualified Tree Surgeon NCA RFS NPTC
All types of Tree and Hedge Work
Fully Insured
Felling, Reducing, Pruning, Shaping
Local Life is now
welcomed into
130,000 quality
homes in;
Wigan, Chorley, Warrington,
St Helens, Leigh & West Lancs
Little mags, BIG reach
Garden need a little
LTC?
• Tree Surgery
• Flagging & Fencing
• Landscaping & Design
• Garden Clearances
Wood chipping & stump grinder services
Call Lloyd today for a free estimate
01942 367170 / 07900 738637
Cricket St, Wigan, WN6 7TP
www.ltcgroup.co.uk
SMN
Tree and Landscape Management
West Lancashire District Council approved contractor
Day: 07970 521 692 Eve: 01942 214 121
www.smntrees.co.uk steve@smntrees.co.uk
Advertise here
Advertise your business in this
section from £39 + VAT a month
For more information please phone
01695 627 999

92
Home Services
- sponsored by
Want logs for your fire?
Arley Cabinet Company Ltd
• Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •
Mix of soft & hardwoods (No conifers)
Builders stack – only £60
Free Local Delivery
01942 367170
07900 738637
We measure
we make
we fit
and have done for 60 years.
Visit our showroom or call us
today for a FREE estimate
www.arleycabinets.com
Arley Cabinet Co. Ltd
214a Gidlow Lane
Wigan
WN6 7BN
Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm
Sat: 9am - 12pm
tel: 01942 246190
Advertise here
Advertise your business in this
section from £39 + VAT a month
For more information please phone
01695 627 999

84 Rainford Road, Billinge WN5 7PG
Telephone: 07814 619 400
Open:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Closed Thursday & Sunday
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved
forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and
embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that
cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working
with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect
every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding
Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...
Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety
Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road,
Wrightington, WN6 9RS
Dennis Goulding
(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon
www.dglwindows.co.uk
A5209
Standish
B5250
J27
Shevington
& Solar PV
A49
and we’ll provide you with a
detailed report showing the
returns available from your
own solar panels
(10% typical return)
Visit our showr om at
Unit 4a,
Cricket Str et Busine s Park
off Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
T Y R E R S
of ST. HELENS
Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
Sunday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
93
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• traditional service, state of the art results •
Wigan Good
Trader Of
The Year
2015
5 star rating with
Wigan Trading
Standards Good
Trader Scheme
• Carpets • Rugs
• Fabric & Leather Upholstery
Providing professional carpet &
upholstery cleaning since 1993
Carpets Upholstery Curtains
Leather Oriental Rugs Hard Floors
For more information call:
01942 470 081
Visit our website and check out the testimonials.
www.alliancechemdry.co.uk
Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote
Call - 01257 251221
Mobile - 07908 770808
www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk
put the sparkle back into
your life!
Providing a full range of competitively
priced cleaning options for your home
and business throughout Wigan, Chorley
and surrounding areas.
Domestic Cleaning Oven Cleaning
Carpet Cleaning Ironing Service Dry Cleaning
01257 806 134
3 Station Road, Parbold, WN8 7NU
www.dreamcleanswigan.co.uk
Design & Print
Did you know that Local Life isn’t just about publishing
great little magazines?
We also provide a design and print service; from 5000
single colour flyers to the design and production of a
full colour glossy magazine; we can meet your needs.
Gel
Nails
norma ly £20
now £15
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
Natalies @ Studio 84
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories,
Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
Telephone: 01257 427 000
we make it our business to help yours
T
Y
R
E
S
Mossy Lea Road
Solar Thermal
Wind Turbines
Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
.and general
Energy Savings
CAR & VAN SERVICING
FREE
Car Health Check
Get in touch today to arrange a
no obligation consultation.
.and motorcycles too
Book
your FREE
home survey
for a l residents of Croston and Bretherton
Keep me until you need me!
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Ca l now on
01772 603923
REPAIR & WELDING
suresparkle
@suresparkle
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
Saving money is
the clear benefit!
Slash your electricity and
water heating bi l
Protect your household from
future energy price rises
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
Ca l us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
The
party
never
stops!
HUGE SELECTION OF
CHRISTMAS PARTY WEAR
FOR MEN AND WOMEN
Open 7 days a week til Christmas
14-16 Br idge St re et, St Helens, WA10 1NR
01744 26551 w w w.tyrers.com
telephone: 07753 392951
web: www.suresparkle.com
email: info@suresparkle.com
Flyers, Postcards,
Posters and more!
We also provide a cost effective
leaflet distribution service.
For more information call
01695 627 999

94
TV Aerials installed & repaired
Sky, Freesat, Talk Talk & BT
Setup Service
Telephone/Broadband repair
Tv Wall mounting & CCTV
Ring Paul on www.wiganaerials.com
01942 514532 - 07709 490095
Advertise here
Advertise your business in this
section from £39 + VAT a month
For more information please phone
01695 627 999
Quality Security systems
for your home or business
• Burglar Alarms
• Digital CCTV
• Wireless Alarms
Systems serviced
from £45
Highest Standards
of workmanship
& aftercare
Call us today
0800 069 9350
www.northernalarms.co.uk
info@northernalarms.co.uk
Hewitt House,
Winstanley Road,
WN5 7XB
Wireless Alarm System
ONLY £345
1x Live LED GHE Bell box
1x dummy GHE bell box
1x Mains panel with battery back up
1x wireless door contact
2x Wireless PIR Motion detectors
2x Wireless setting fobs
Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane Wigan
01942 836 937 or 07557 914 788
www.ghewigan.co.uk

84 Rainford Road, Billinge WN5 7PG
Telephone: 07814 619 400
Open:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Closed Thursday & Sunday
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
Established in 1984 as an emergency glazing service, today Dennis Goulding has grown and moved
forward to offer all you need to maintain, enhance and expand your home. We continually invest in and
embraced the latest changes in energy efficiency regulations, and still remain a local family business that
cares and takes pride in what we do. We don’t employ pushy salesmen, but pride ourselves on working
with and listening to our customers to give them exactly what they want. We will treat you with respect
every step of the way and on that you have my word! Stuart Goulding
Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...
Glass Cut to size, Sealed Double Glazed Units Manufactured on site, Same Day Service, Safety
Glass, Toughened Glass, Mirrors, Greenhouse Glass, Glazing Service, Misted Units Replaced
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road,
Wrightington, WN6 9RS
Dennis Goulding
(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon
www.dglwindows.co.uk
A5209
Standish
B5250
J27
Shevington
& Solar PV
A49
and we’ l provide you with a
detailed report showing the
returns available from your
own solar panels
(10% typical return)
Visit our showr om at
Unit 4a,
Cricket Str et Busine s Park
off Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
All electrical work
undertaken
• Rewire specialists
• Extra sockets & lights fitted
• Mains board upgrades
Free quotations
A.J.S.
BAILEYS
ELECTRICAL
01942 215 769
07739 709 005
• All aspects of electrical work welcomed
• From new sockets to full re-wire - no job too small
• CCTV/Alarms/Security Lighting a speciality
Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est. Cale Lane Wigan
Contact Us: 01942 836 937 / 07557 914788
95
J.Dillon Electrical
• All types of electrical work
• 20+ years experience
• Friendly, fast and reliable
• 24 hour call out service
www.ghewigan.co.uk
24 hour
Call Out
Service
Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826
www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk
Smart Electrical Contractors
www.expertcomputers.co.uk
‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner
Shevington
Electrical Services Ltd
NAPIT part ‘P’ registered
JIB Approved Technician
31 Years Experience
Local. Honest & Reliable
Domestic
Industrial & Commercial
Covering all North West Areas.
Call: 0800 6446100 or 07904 127663
www.shevington-electrical-services.co.uk
Design & Print
Did you know that Local Life isn’t just about publishing
great little magazines?
We also provide a design and print service; flyers,
posters, postcards and more; we can meet your needs.
Gel
Nails
norma ly £20
now £15
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
Natalies @ Studio 84
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories,
Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
Telephone: 01257 427 000
we make it our business to help yours
Tel: 01257 367386 Mob: 07594 240054
Domestic - Commercial - Industrial
T
Y
R
E
S
Mossy Lea Road
Solar Thermal
Wind Turbines
Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
.and general
Energy Savings
CAR & VAN SERVICING
FREE
Car Health Check
.and motorcycles too
Book
your FREE
home survey
for a l residents of Croston and Bretherton
Keep me until you need me!
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Ca l now on
01772 603923
REPAIR & WELDING
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
Saving money is
the clear benefit!
Slash your electricity and
water heating bi l
Protect your household from
future energy price rises
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
Ca l us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
- Domestic
- Commercial - Industrial
• Rewire • PAT Testing
• CCTV • Alarms
Flyers, Postcards,
Posters and more!
We also provide a cost effective
leaflet distribution service.
For more information call
01695 627999

96
01257 422317 or 07852 202867
www.mtjoinery.co.uk
Home Improvements
• Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms
• Garage & Loft Conversions
• Floors, Doors & Windows
For all your home improvement needs call David on...
01942 203 804 DS Joiner
07851 225 876
Advertise here
Advertise your business in this
section from £39 + VAT a month
For more information please phone
01695 627 999
PP
Building services
Joinery Specialists
TELEPHONE: 01942 832747
Mobile: 07747 725999
Ashurst Building &
Roofing Services
All types of building and roofing
work undertaken including;
Extensions & Conservatories
New roofs & Roof repairs
Family run business with
25 years of experience
Call David today for a free quotation
TELEPHONE: 01942 832747
Mobile: 07747 725999
• Conservatory repairs
• Locks, handles and hinges
• Replacement glass
• Windows and doors installed
• Replacement conservatory roofs
Call MARK now on
01942 737 381 / 0776 315 1720
conservatoryrepairs@gmail.com
www.fixmyconservatory.com
LOCAL, RELIABLE, FRIENDLY
PROFESSIONAL AND HONEST
• Conservatories & Orangeries
• Extensions
• Refurbishments & Alterations
• Fencing & Decking
• Garage & Loft Conversions
• Kitchens & Fitted Bedrooms
• Doors & Windows
• All aspects of joinery work
Call Phil - 01257 425997 or 07703 007675

97
K Stone
Building Services
All types of building
work undertaken
25 years experience
All our work is fully insured & guaranteed
References available on request
Call now for a free quotation
• Brickwork
• Pointing
• Garden Walls
• Patios
• Joinery
• Flagging
• Alterations
• Plastering
01942 495412 / 07974 496676
www.majesticbuildingservices.co.uk
House Extensions
New Kitchens
& Bathrooms
Garage Conversions
Full Refurbishments
…for a more majestic way of living
Extensions - from design to completion
Orangeries & Conservatories
Garage & Loft Conversions
Driveways & Paving
Garden Buildings
Conservatory roof replacements
Highly experienced ~ no job too small ~ Orrell based
Call us today for expert advice and a free quotation
FREEPHONE 0800 085 3987
MOBILE 07917 735 686
01942 561 848 | 07725 909 257
www.freshbuildconstruction.co.uk

98
Elite Bathrooms
Installation & Tiling
• Bathrooms
• Wall Tiling
• Floor Tiling 07703 448890
FREE Estimates 01942 208926
• Bathroom Installation, Full Bathrooms & En-Suites
• Plumbing Services • Wall & Floor Tiling • Ceiling Panelling
01942 225771 / 07803 057940
Eton Way, Orrell, Wigan WN5 8PN
www.ljplumbingandbathrooms.co.uk
APPLEY BRIDGE HEATING
& PLUMBING
• BOILER replacement
• SERVICE and repair
• FULL system installations
• BATHROOM replacements
• SHOWERS
• TILING and ELECTRICS
Landlord Gas Safety Certificates
201323
Call Dave now for a free quote...
Telephone
07814 639 430
Great Value Bathrooms!
Full Bathrooms & En-Suites
Showers, Trays & Cubicles
Relocation of Bathroom Suites
25 years bathroom experience
Call Chris now for a free quotation
C L Bathrooms
01942 749085
or 07801 295483
www.clbathrooms.co.uk

99
brand New bathrooms
boiler + Central Heating
Installs, servicing + Repairs
Extended warranties available
24 Hour Call-out
Domestic + Commercial
Freephone 0300 3030121
Dave 07769 942218 / Matt 07969 183809
21 Naburn Dr Orrell wN5 8sb
Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk
www.orrellheating.co.uk
IAIN LOWE
01695 623236
• Central Heating
• Plumbing
• Gas Appliances
• Gas Safety Checks
• Landlord’s Certificates
• Maintenance/Breakdowns
506515
Plumbing & Heating Specialist
Complete Bathroom
& Tiling service
John Bailey - 01942 495785
or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238
Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan
C&
D
Plumbing and Heating
Heating & Bathroom Specialist
Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P
07973714222
01695625171
A Genuine Family Run Business
With Friendly & Courteous Staff
SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL
HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER
REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES
Accredited Installer & Service Partner
• Annual Boiler Servicing
• Landlord & Home Owner
Gas Safety Checks
• Gas Fire & Cooker Installations
• Under Floor Heating Specialists
• Home Efficiency Control Upgrades
10 YEARS
EXTENDED
WARRANTY
ON SELECTED BOILER
INSTALLATIONS
Registration No.
88604
Telephone:
Finance
available
WE REPAIR
ALL MAKES
OF BOILERS!
01942 504 429
TEL: 01257 421 660
MOB: 07931 766 684
www.fgwelch.co.uk
• Central Heating Installations
• Boiler Installations
• Maintenance & Servicing
• Power Flushing
186237
Your one stop shop for central heating
434 Ormskirk Rd, Wigan, WN5 9DF
01942 221221
info@premiergas.com / www.premiergas.com
Award Winner

100
Ian Martland
Painter & Decorator
Established 1990
• All aspects of Decorating
• Interior & Exterior
• Free Estimates
01695 632 477 | 07748 195 809
Advertise here
Advertise your business in this
section from £39 + VAT a month
For more information please phone
01695 627 999
Sg
PaiNtiNg & decORatiNg
Interior painting & decorating
Specialise in standard wall coverings, extra wide vinyl, lincrusta & coving
Free estimates. References available upon request
07714 363 377 / 01942 749 971
Sefton Road Orrell WN5 8UP
Need a new look
for your home?
Skilled interior and exterior work
undertaken at reasonable prices!
Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator
01942 518126
or 07545 065119
Orrell based business
J&P
MOORCROFT
Award Winner
Exterior & Interior Decorating
Domestic & Commercial work undertaken
Competitive rate
Call Graham now - free estimate provided
01257 426 234
www.topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk
HATE
DECORATING?
We don’t - we enjoy it so
much that we make a living out of it!
We are a husband and wife team,
CRB cleared with references available.
Awarded a Certificate of Excellence
by Wigan Council Trading Standards
LTD
Professional Painting and Decorating
• Domestic & Commercial Work
• Interior & Exterior work welcomed
• Old/listed buildings a speciality
Call us today for a free quotation
Home Service available
Choose from 1000s of paint & paper samples
in the comfort of our own home
01942 212096 07831 102 511
www.jpmoorcroft.com
• City & Guilds Qualified
• Plastering services available
• Competitive Rates
• Fully Insured
• Standish based
Call Alice or Neil on
01257 435412 or 07810 753062

101
• WILSON BROS •
Est. 1985
First Class Workmanship
• All types of re-roofs
• Strip & re-slate or re-tile
• Built up felt/flat roofs, dormers etc.
• Insurance work undertaken
• Roofline uPVC fascias, soffits & guttering
W.Newman
ROOFING & REPAIRS
01695 627 212
MOBILE: 07774 943 706
52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS, UP HOLLAND
Established Over 30 Years
Advertise here
Advertise your business in this
section from £39 + VAT a month
For more information please phone
01695 627 999
Roofing & Roofline Specialists
• All aspects of maintenance & repair
• Fascia & soffit installation
• Guttering and felting services
Call us now for a free estimate
01695 633173
Colin: 07958 302 166
Brian: 07760 160 988
www.wilson-bros.co.uk
Garage and entrance doors
in matching styles
Is your
garage door
broken ?
Call us today for a free estimate
to Repair or Replace it
CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park
Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB
t: 01942 738347 w: www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk

102
A View From
The Lump
Local gossip, gripes and goings-on
Cracking story
Members of Her Majesty’s
Loyal Local Press Corps (Wigan
branch) were a proud bunch.
Fearless, independent and
serious-minded folk, they’d
spend honours pounding the
streets, sniffing out scandal and
exposing wrongdoing at every
turn. After filing their wordperfect
stories, from their pristine
Pitman shorthand notebooks,
they’d retire to a local hostelry
where prodigious amounts of
fortified lubrication would be
taken until well after last orders.
Quite what these guardians of
taste, decency and local liquor
laws of yesteryear would think
of the dreadful ‘clickbait’ culture
which now pervades many news
websites is anyone’s guess. For the
uninitiated, this is the term given
to stories which have a completely
sensationalist title which bear little
resemblance to the content (bit
like national newspapers, come
to think of it). However, Wigan’s
own attempt at this recently had
a distinct ‘local’ feel to it. Wigan
man finds TEN double yolkers in a
dozen eggs screamed the headline
on one online story recently. I
groaned inwardly before clicking,
thus taking the aforementioned
bait. I can’t say reading it added
to my sum of knowledge, other
than confirming “they didn’t taste
any different” and that the man
in question hadn’t been ill from
eating them. Now, I realise local
news can be thin on the ground
some days and you have to take
what’s on offer. But if this isn’t a
case of over-egging a story, I don’t
know what is...
You’ve bin framed
It’s well-known that George
Orwell, as well as making Wigan
famous for all the wrong reasons,
also coined the term ‘Big Brother’.
CCTV is synonymous with the
saying, and the installation said
cameras on our streets has, over
the years, become the norm. But
who knew that the Metro, not
content with having them on
almost every corner, has kitted
out bin lorries with them as well?
Apparently, this is, among other
things, to “improve the efficiency
of service” and to “develop a more
positive attitude and behaviour
of the operational
workforce.”
Yes, Big Brother is everywhere...
Petition drive
There’s been a fair amount of
bellyaching done about the
introduction of 20mph speed
limits. So it was unsurprising to
learn that an e-petition has been
set up on Lancashire County
Council’s website calling for them
to be abolished. Despite the
protests, at the time of writing just
one solitary person had signed it
so far. I say so far, because it has
been going since June but, to be
fair, more could join in before the
December 9 deadline. By which
time, it may have risen to two, or
maybe a heady three. A rare case
of more speed, less haste I guess.
High-flier
Finally, I’d like to wish my loyal
readers a Merry Christmas. Many
thanks to all of those who have
taken the trouble to put pen to
parchment over the past year,
usually to comment on my
grumbles or to pass on snippets
of information and gossip. Keep
them coming - all contributions
are gratefully received! You can
reach me via the nice people
on the Local Life newsdesk at
wigannews@locallife247.co.uk
who then print out your musings
and send them to me via pigeon
carrier to Lump Towers. Modern
technology knows no barriers
when it comes to interacting with
my burgeoning fanbase!

103
Useful Numbers
Councils and Councillors (Wigan)
Wigan Council 01942 244 991
Wigan Council (out of hours) 01942 404 040
Cllr Conway (Aspull & Haigh) 01942 486 853
Cllr Hilton (Aspull & Haigh) 01942 736 215
Cllr Ready (Aspull & Haigh) 01942 736 218
Cllr Collins (Shevington) 01942 487 684
Cllr Crosby (Shevington) 01942 486 860
Cllr Edwardson (Shevington) 01942 487 674
Cllr Debbie Fairhurst (Standish) 01257 423 212
Cllr Whittingham (Standish) 07917 277 964
Cllr George Fairhurst (Standish) 01257 407 078
Cllr Davies (Wigan Central) 01942 486 864
Cllr Hunt (Wigan Central) 07766 478 296
Cllr McLoughlin (Wigan Central) 01942 487 686
Councils and Councillors (West Lancs)
West Lancs Council 01695 577 177
Lancashire County Council 0300 123 6701
Cllr Baybutt (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) 01257 255 501
Cllr Evans (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) 01695 624 683
Cty Cllr Fillis (Wrigh’ton & App. Bridge) 07876 844275
Libraries
Aspull Library 01942 831 303
Standish Library 01257 400 496
Shevington Library 01257 252 618
Medical
Beech Hill Medical Practice 01942 821 899
Boston House 01942 482 000
Concourse Walk-in Centre 01695 554 260
Linacre Centre 01942 244 000
Ormskirk Hospital 01695 577 111
Aspull Surgery 01942 831 263
Shevington Clinic 01942 483 100
Shevington Surgery 01942 483 777
Standish Clinic 01942 481 380
Standish Medical Practice 01257 421 909
Wigan Infirmary 01942 244 000
NHS Direct 08 45 46 47
Emergency Dental Repairs 01695 623 334
Police
Greater Manchester Police 01618 725 050
Wigan Policing Team 01618 567 124
Lancashire Police 01695 566 134
West Lancs Local Team 01257 462 239
Local Life Magazine Advertising & Editorial 01257 498329 Accounts & Distribution 01695 627 999
Puzzle solutions