Local Life - Wigan - January 2017

Wigan Edition January 2017
Green Belt
grab
Jack’s Tracks visits Hale
Talking shop with MP
Yvonne Fovargue
Local News Food & Drink Jack’s Tracks Health & Fitness What’s On Business View...
Photo by Peter Bretherton

2

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4
Once
more
T
he New Year is a time when many of us see
the opportunity to ‘ring the changes’, but
some are left dreading the future should the
changes in Green Belt development planned in
Wigan and St Helens go ahead.
Our main feature this month illustrates the scale of
these planned developments on both sides of the
Wigan/St Helens border. If successful, we can look
forward to more pressure on our roads and our
schools, and more of the pleasant area where we
live being buried under acres of concrete.
What is surely more disturbing though is the way
that plans for developments in Winstanley and at
The Bell have come back into play five years after
being dropped after high profile campaigns against
these developments.
Why?
Because council leaders and officials are motoring
along on the devolution highway, determined
to boost council tax and business rates revenues
by allowing Green Belt development. Devolution
might be a noble aim, but it has little value if it allows
those who are either unaccountable (or those who
believe that they are untouchable) to circumvent
democracy in this manner.
To their credit, those same residents, councillors and
MPs who protested against the development last
time have dusted off their campaign banners and
are once more generating residents’ support against
the planned developments.
Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once
more…
Chris Pearce - Publisher
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

5
In this issue
Style that’s SEW
cool
20
Northern
powerhouse
Regulars
44 Puzzle Corner
50 Planning
78 Eating Out Guide
Sections
6 Property
14 Local News
20 Fashion
26 Education
52 Health
56 Travel
84 Garden Diary
86 Test drive
98 The Lump
66 Finance
68 Business
72 Food & Drink
84 Gardening
86 Motoring
88 Home Services
61
You should have
fun
72
Jack’s Tracks visits
Hale
80
Test Drive
Kia Niro
86
Next issue - February 2017
Advertising deadline - Thursday, 19 January
Published - Thursday, 2 February
Local Life 247 Ltd
Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park,
Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01695 627 999
Publisher: Chris
Sales: Clare, Lisa
Editorial: David
Design: Peter, Dylan
Distribution: Sally
Accounts: Sam
Local Life Media
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk
sales@locallife247.co.uk
wigannews@locallife247.co.uk
design@locallife247.co.uk
sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
accounts@locallife247.co.uk
Local Life is published every month and distributed into
the following areas on an alternate monthly basis.
This issue is delivered to over 13,000 private homes and
businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland,
Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton.
The next issue is delivered to over 13,000 private homes
and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley
Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Aspull and Haigh.
You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys
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@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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Distributors required
Local Life magazine seeks distributors for delivery
of this magazine and leaflets in the following areas;
Billinge Upholland Road, Crank Road,
Coppice Drive, Cheltenham Drive,
Wordsworth Avenue & Winchester
Road.
Hawkley
Navenby Road & Whitecroft Road.
Winstanley Melrose Drive, Costessey Way &
Falstone Close.
Good rates paid, delivery bags and maps provided.
You will be at least 13, healthy, energetic and be
prepared to work for 2/3 hours once every eight
weeks.
If you’re interested, email sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
with your name, address, a contact number and
your date of birth.
The perfect time to think
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Action
station
People power is set to transform
Orrell Station - and locals are needed
to help get the project on track.
A new group, Friends of Orrell Station, is being set
up in a bid to get the facility blooming. The plan is to
tidy up the grounds, install planters and eventually
get local schools involved.
Former Orrell Rugby Union captain Bernard Lundy,
who has lived in the area for 47 years, is one of those
behind the push.
“I’m one of those people who has a tidy garden and
tidy house, so I want to see Orrell looking good as
well.
“When you walk past, it doesn’t look its best so I got
talking to a few people who have agreed to help.
“We’re meeting a representative from Northern
Rail soon but we’d like as many volunteers to come
forward as possible. Once we get an idea of who is
interested, we’ll probably have a meeting.
“For spring, we’d like to get the platforms looking
better with some planters but longer term, we want
local schools involved.”
If you are interested, email bernard.lundy@
blueyonder.co.uk or annemarsh24@hotmail.com

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11A HIGHMEADOW, UP HOLLAND
£240,000
50 NABURN DRIVE, ORRELL
£239,950
4 ASHFIELD CRESCENT, BILLINGE
£229,995
1 TRACKS LANE, BILLINGE
£215,000
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
PINEWOOD VILLAS, ORRELL ROAD, ORRELL
£199,950
27 TONTINE, ORRELL
£99,950
www.reganandhallworth.com Wigan town centre showroom 01942 205555

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14
Everyone’s a winner
It’s smiles all round for these lucky
Local Life readers.
Margaret Siddell of Dorchester Road, Up Holland;
Vanessa Derbyshire of Merton Road, Highfield, and
Joan Lawson of Moor Road in Orrell each received
tickets to watch Simply Red after entering our
recent competition.
And John Owen, of Marus Bridge, had a bumper
festive season after winning a Christmas hamper.
Mr Owen, who is pictured with his guest Kathleen
Kelly, won the hamper in a raffle at Makerfield MP
Yvonne Fovargue’s seventh Christmas Veterans’
Lunch, which was held at St Matthew’s Church hall
in Highfield in early December.
Remember, for more great competitions, don’t
forget to keep reading Local Life!

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Bin changes on the way?
The consultation deadline is fast
approaching over plans to cut black
and green bin collections.
Cash-strapped council bosses want to scrap
fortnightly collections for garden waste between
November and March in favour of collections every
three weeks.
The plan also includes a three week cycle all year
round for normal household waste.
Other bins would continue being collected every
two weeks as normal.
Wigan Council says it needs to save £45m by 2020.
The bin collection proposal would save £2m per
year.
If passed, the changes would start this September.
This comes after residents in Up Holland and Roby
Mill were told that, in future, they’d have to pay
West Lancs Council for green waste collections.
Wigan Council leader Lord Peter Smith says the only
other option is to raise Council Tax: “We understand
the financial hardship that families in the borough
are facing so don’t want to increase Council Tax.
“We also want to keep libraries open and keep our
frontline staff, such as school crossing patrols, who
we know are so valued in their communities.
“Our proposed changes focus on delivering our
financial savings as well as increasing our recycling
rate. We face fines in the future if we don’t recycle.”
The public consultation into these proposals ends
on Friday, January 27. Have your say via www.
wigan.gov.uk
Mori Lee
Prom Event!
Sat, 21st Jan, 10am - 5pm
No appointment required
– just pop in!
Additional Exclusive Gowns
available at the Event.
Refreshments available
Largest Mori Lee prom supplier in
the area
You want your prom gown to
be as unique as you are, so at
Romancia our team will ensure
the same dress is not sold twice
by our store for any prom event.
Beautiful gowns, elegant surroundings, personal friendly service,
with over 17 years experience
209-211 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PB 01744 894 443
www.romanciabridal.co.uk romanciaprom

17
Crutch amnesty
An amnesty on crutches and other walking aids
finishes soon. Wigan Infirmary says unreturned
walking aids cost the hospital almost £60,000 last
year. Drop-off points have now been set up at the
following locations:
• Leigh Hospital - Area 5 Reception
• Royal Albert Edward Infirmary, Wigan -
Volunteer desk near to Entrance 2 of the
hospital (next to Christopher Home Building)
• Wrightington Hospital – Therapy Department
Drop offs can be made at these locations any time
between 9.30am and 4pm, Monday to Friday until
January 6.
Farmers’ Market
Greenslate Farm, on Tracks Lane, Billinge, kicks off
2017 with a Vintage Farmers’ Market on Sunday,
January 15, from 10am-2pm. The market is held on
the third Sunday of every month, and organisers
say it is packed with great local produce. Hot food
and refreshments are also available. Free entry.
Spring ball
A charity spring ball is being held at St James Social
Club, Orrell, on Saturday, February 25, in aid of
Billinge-based The Storehouse Project. Doors open
at 7pm for an evening of food, music, DJ, auction
and a raffle. For more information and ticket prices,
please contact 07816 623612.
FREE
DEMOS
Thursday,
26th January
Limited space available
- call ASAP to confirm
attendance
NEW CACI SYNERGY
- exclusively used in the
Wigan & St Helens areas
by Expressions of Beauty
Expressions Of Beauty
161-171, Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PA
01744 894 214
www.expressionsofbeauty.co.uk

18
Funding up for grabs
The Saturday Breakfast Community
Fundraisers raised £2,200 in the
autumn, and the group have now
invited groups and organisations in
the Billinge and Orrell area to bid for
the funding.
The initiative runs every week for eight months
a year (closed December, January, July & August)
at St Luke’s Church hall in Orrell, and consists of
a pop up breakfast café, commercial stalls and a
host charity group. The initiative was co-funded by
Wigan Council’s The Deal and magazine publisher
Local Life. Pictured are some volunteers from the
Saturday Breakfast team enjoying a recent night
out at the Robin Hood.
Committee member Michael Winstanley said:
“Thanks to the support of our Saturday Breakfast
customers, we raised £2,200 in the autumn session
of Saturday Breakfast, and we are delighted to
open up this funding to those Orrell and Billinge
based groups who are looking to plan projects
LONGSWAY DANCE CENTRE
Group Ballroom & Latin Dance Classes
Ladies Dance - Fusion
(Dance Fitness to Ballroom & Latin Rhythms)
Private Dance Lessons | Wedding Dance Programme
CLASSES START W/C 9TH JANUARY 2017
6.30pm
7.30pm
8.30pm
6.30pm
7.30pm
8.30pm
6.30pm
7.30pm
8.30pm
Monday
Improvers Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness)
NEW STARTERS Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness)
NEW STARTERS Absolute Beginners Ballroom / Latin / Salsa
Tuesday
Advanced Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness)
Improvers Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness)
Improvers level 2 Ballroom / Latin / Salsa
Thursday
Improvers Ladies Dance – Fusion (Dance for Fitness)
Improvers level 1 Ballroom / Latin / Salsa
Improvers level 3 Ballroom / Latin / Salsa
(All Classes 60 minutes)
The Longsway Dance Centre offer: classes, private tuition, practice sessions,
party nights, weekend breaks & dance holidays ...for dance lovers of all levels.
Trinity Church Hall, Fleet Street, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 0DS
Call: 07763 465569
E-mail: LongsWayDance@me.com
www.LongsWayDance.co.uk
Classes hosted by Tony
and Margaret Long, British
and International Dance
Champions.
Private lessons for all levels
available on request.
Dancers of all ages and
abilities welcomed

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for 2017. We are especially
interested in helping those
groups who want to plan
community events, help the
area’s young people, improve
the environment or improve
access to educational
courses”.
Please email Michael to
ask for a bidding form at
mwinstanleym@aol.com or
pop into the Local Life office
at Unit 8, Hewitt Business
Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell. The closing date for
bid applications is February 28.
If you would like to help out at Saturday Breakfast
or you want to help with organisation of this
community fundraising team then please email
Mary Forrester at forresterm@sky.com.

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Latest fashions
Style that’s SEW
cool
by Katie Wright
Glamorous, gorgeous and
opulent - the heavily
embellished frocks that
floated down the Alexander
McQueen and Dolce and Gabbana
AW16 catwalks were truly out of this
world, and those shows have gone
on to fuel one of autumn’s biggest
trends.
Embroidered detailing is now
EVERYWHERE, and, luckily for us, the
high street has taken that after-dark
decadence and given it round-theclock
potential.
Here’s how to work the edgy
embroidery trend into your winter
wardrobe...
Butterfly by Matthew Williamson
Black Winter Bird Embroidered
Shift Dress, currently £187.50,
down from £250
www.debenhams.com

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Sportmax Code Fiacre
Sleeveless Ribbed Floral Top,
£160, House of Fraser
www.houseoffraser.co.uk
Glamorous Black Embroidered PU
Bomber Jacket, £25
www.glamorous.com
Monsoon Abel Dress, £169
www.monsoon.co.uk
New Look Black Floral
Embroidered A-line Skirt, £24.99
www.newlook.com
Miss Selfridge Black PU
Embroidered Mini Skirt, £45
www.missselfridge.com
Joy Fortune Embroidered Pocket
Pinafore Dress, £39
www.joythestore.com
Fenn Wright Manson Miranda
Black Dress, £169, John Lewis
www.johnlewis.com

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GET THE LOOK
Millie Mackintosh embraced this season’s velvet
vibes at the Red Women of the Year Awards, pairing
her pyjama-style belted black suit with dark red lips
and nails. Simple but very chic indeed.
Next Black Embroidered
Maxi Dress, £85;
Gold Ankle Wrap
Sandals, £35
www.next.co.uk
Jules Bridal Boutique
your perfect day starts with us
Standish
Join us for our Prom Extravaganza Events:
Monsoon Vivienne Velvet Jacket, £79, and Wideleg
Trousers, £69 (www.monsoon.co.uk)
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
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
Stockists of wedding gowns,
bridesmaid dresses &
designer prom gowns
School exclusivity on
gowns is offered

23
Next Embroidered Sweat Top, £34
(www.next.co.uk)
Monsoon Simone Embroidered Bomber, £69;
Vivienne Velvet Wideleg Trousers, £69
www.monsoon.co.uk
SportsSpa
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Extensions
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from £140
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Wigan WN1 2AD
01942 820 333
www.bijouhairsalon.co.uk

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Party time
The holidays came early for 20 local
children, when Orrell Cricket Club
hosted a Christmas party at their
Winstanley Road clubhouse.
The festivities began with fun and games including
pass the parcel and a game of Musical Mannequins.
Local musician Richard Hart was on hand to
accompany the games and dancing.
A party tea followed, donated by local bakery The
Muffin Man. The children, all aged between two
and 11, were then treated to a show by Ricardo the
Magician. After carol singing from Orrell Cricket
Club members, Santa and Mrs Claus called in for a
visit.
Party organiser Spencer Angelsea said: “This is
the second year we have organised a party for
disadvantaged children from our community.
activities like the party. It’s our way of showing our
gratitude for the way local people have supported
the club.’
“We’re grateful to club members who have given up
their time to decorate the clubhouse and help out
at the party but a huge thank you also goes to the
community itself for the way they have supported
money-raising events at the club.
“The Orrell Proms, held in September, in particular
enables us to direct some of the proceeds into

25
Orrell roadworks
Motorists are being warned of potential disruption
in Orrell. United Utilities will be undertaking works
outside 42 St James’ Road on Tuesday, January 3,
between 9:30am and 2.30pm. Highways bosses say
that to undertake these works safely, temporary
traffic signals will be in operation during these
works. The following weekend, on Sunday,
January 8, Transport for Greater Manchester will be
undertaking works at lights on Moor Road/Orrell
Road. Again, temporary traffic signals will be in
operation.
Bespoke Timeless Treasures
For more information, and to view all forthcoming
roadworks across the Wigan area, visit www.wigan.
gov.uk
SHRINK EVERYTHING
BUT YOUR SMILE
Julie Moss
07789 387 502
juliemouse@hotmail.co.uk
Let the music free your body.
The ultimate dance-fitness party
will groove you into shape.
MONDAY 19.00 - 20.00 & 20.00 - 21.00
Upholland Methodist Church, Alma Hill, Upholland.
WEDNESDAY 19.00 - 20.00
Billinge Chapel End Labour Club, Main Street.
THURSDAY 19.00 - 20.00
Lamberhead Green Working Men’s Club, Pemberton
All levels of fitness welcome
£5.00 per class.
zumba.com
Come along and shake what ya mamma gave ya!
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

26
Brownies help homeless
3rd Upholland Brownies and Guides lent
a helping hand following a visit to The
Brick homeless project in Wigan. They
collected packets and tins to help feed the
homeless, and are planning more events
to support them this year. Ellen Shores,
Brown Owl, at 3rd Upholland (Alma Hill
Methodist) Brownies and Guides said: “We
learned that the project provides many
services for homeless people ranging from
non-judgemental advice to hot showers.
They also run a food bank, providing food
parcels to families in need. The girls were
amazed to learn that around 100,000 cans
of food are handed out in Wigan each
year. At the end of the session one of the
Brownies commented that she ‘didn’t feel
as scared of homeless people anymore.’.”
For more information, visit thebrick.org.uk

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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.
Daniel’s delight
A student who started
college with no
qualifications is now on his
way to university.
Daniel Kaplan has
completed an Access to
Health programme run
by Wigan & Leigh College.
The course enables adults to progress onto degree
programmes such as health, nursing and midwifery.
Daniel, who now has four conditional offers on
the table, is thrilled: “I joined college with no
qualifications so it’s been a real achievement. The
course has been intense and highly regarded by
universities due to its intense nature.”
To find out more information on Access to Higher
Education courses and funding options visit www.
wigan-leigh.ac.uk

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Idea’s the business
Students at a Winstanley school have
launched their own not-for-profit
enterprise.
The bespoke, handcrafted wooden hut at Hope
School, on Kelvin Grove, will be run by the students
as part of their personal development.
Acting on years of experience struggling to find
Class from the past
suitable local work experience placements, Hope
decided to take matters into their own hands. This
led to local craftsman Stephen Hughes creating a
retail outlet, Hope Hut, which will be touring local
events. The items on sale there will change during
the year.
To find out more about the Hope Hut project, email
enquiries@admin.hope.wigan.sch.uk
This month’s Class
from the Past is from
St John’s School in
Pemberton and is
believed to have been
taken in 1951/2.
Maybe you can
spot a familiar face?
Remember, if you
have a photo you’d
be willing to share,
email
wigannews@
locallife247.co.uk

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our brand new
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33
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It’s all happening at locallife247.co.uk

34
Mum said I liked an
argument!
Amos Wynn talks national and local politics with MP Yvonne Fovargue
“I’m not a Blairite, I’m not a Corbynite, I’m Labour”.
So says Makerfield MP Yvonne Fovargue, was one
of many Labour front benchers who resigned from
their role in what was a turblent year for Jeremy
Corbyn.
considered resigning due to feeling ‘unsupported’
in her role as she was unable to even arrange
meetings with the leader.
The bullying of MPs was another problem she said
she found. She says these are the reasons behind
the mass resignations
and not that the “MPs
were in some strange way
out to get Jeremy.”
She also believes Corbyn
has created his own
problems by bringing up
sensitive subjects: “There
was no need to say the
Falklands could go back
to Argentina, it’s not
something that comes
up on the doorsteps;
saying there would be
discussions made it an
issue.”
I interviewed Yvonne recently, where all manner of
subjects - national and local - cropped up.
First, we start with last year’s leadership election,
where Fovargue supported Corbyn’s rival Owen
Smith.
“He’s a better communicator on the television and
that’s important in the unfortunate rise of more
presidential style of politics.”
Even before her resignation, the former Shadow
Minister for Consumer Affairs and Science said she
One of the many issues
she believes she’ll have to deal with is making sure
the people who voted to leave the EU in Wigan “get
what they want and that they deserve the best deal
for this area.”
“I don’t think there was any crystallised idea of what
it would look like to be outside”. When the terms are
clear we need to ask the people ‘is this what you
meant when you said Brexit?’
When asked if the referendum result would have
been different if 16 and 17 year olds were allowed

35

36
to vote, she replied: “It was fairly overwhelming but
I really don’t know. 17 year olds should be allowed
to vote at all elections.”
When asked if she would ever accept another
ministerial role, she says: “I feel I would do better
from the backbenches carrying on campaigns like
consumer and debt rather than from the front
bench.”
One thing she does enjoy focusing on is the work in
her constituency, She’s keen on tackling issues such
as homelessness and mental health.
“I think we need to see the reasons why people are
homeless - one group of people who are affected
are veterans. They come out the army and can’t
cope with the transition into day to day life.
“The government has to look to see if there’s a
part of the system that is disadvantaging people
or whether it’s the issue that they can’t get help
with their mental health. Being homeless can be
a choice for a very, very few number of people, so
there needs to be access to things such as drug and
alcohol reduction and mental health services so
that it was not an enforced choice.
“I think certainly in city areas like Manchester and
London you see a lot more than you do in Wigan.
But it’s the ones you don’t see - they are the
problem, the ones who are sleeping on people’s
“I can’t do three answers
- I’m a politician!”
sofas. There’s a lot more the government can do.”
Fovargue has been MP Makerfield since 2010, but
she admits her career in politics was by accident
than design.
She worked at the Citizens’ Advice Bureau and
pursued social policy issues and would comment
when the laws where disadvantaging other people.
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She then took on a role in the local council in 2004,
while continuing in her job at the Citizen’s Advice
Bureau, before winning the Makerfield seat that
had been left vacant by Ian McCartney.
“Although becoming an MP was accidental, the
role does suit me - my mum would always say I was
argumentative anyway!” she laughs.
“Working for CAB for 23 years, brings a different
perspective on things as I’m the only person in
Parliament who has been a chief executive at a local
Bureau.
“It’s a challenge having to understand Parliamentary
procedure, which is very bizarre at times but it’s
been very rewarding as well.”
Like everyone, even MPs enjoy time to unwind.
She listens to Barenaked Ladies, David Bowie and
The Smiths. She even jokes that she’s already had a
song chosen for her funeral and her grandson has
enquired as to whether people live past 60 (she
passed that milestone in November).
To end, I asked if she could describe the Labour
Party in three words.
“I can’t do three... I’m a politician,” she smiles, before
adding: “All I’ll say is we are as much needed now
than ever.”

38
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39
Business profile
Say goodbye to Stress & Anxiety
W
igan hypnotherapist, Ian Guest, went to
his first hypnotherapy training session
with a healthy level of scepticism.
“Although I was keen to learn how hypnosis can help
people, a part of me was doubtful if hypnosis really
worked,” he explained. 5 years later, and with hundreds
of hypnotherapy sessions under his belt, Ian is a firm
believer. “I’ve seen first-hand how effective hypnosis
can be. I’ve had clients whose lives have been totally
transformed.” At First Step Hypnosis, Ian has helped
clients to overcome a range of issues, including
addictions, IBS, weight loss and smoking, but he
specialises in treating clients for stress and anxiety.
“Stress and anxiety affects so many people, very
often through work or the anxiety of social situations.
When clients first arrive they are overwhelmed by
negative thoughts and emotions but hypnosis is great
at helping people to relax, feel calmer and become
more confident. It is really rewarding to watch clients
as their resilience grows and they get their life back
on track.” However, Ian understands that hypnosis
sometimes has a poor image. “I’ve watched the TV
hypnotists make fools of participants and I understand
people’s concerns. The treatment I offer is far removed
from what you see on TV. I use cognitive behavioural
hypnotherapy, which is an evidence based approach,
built on published research and studies.”
If you suffer from stress or anxiety, and are uncertain if
hypnotherapy is right for you, here are Ian’s top 5 mythbusting
hypnosis facts:
1. Hypnosis is safe and natural - Ian will help you to
use your imagination to change the way you think and
behave.
2. Hypnosis isn’t sleep - If you fall asleep the hypnotic
suggestions just won’t work.
3. You are always in control - You are aware of
everything that Ian says and he can’t make you do
anything you don’t want to do.
4. You can’t get stuck in hypnosis - You can open your
eyes and stop the session whenever you want.
5. Hypnosis is collaborative - Hypnosis isn’t a passive
process. You work in partnership with Ian to develop
hypnotic suggestions that are best for you.
Arrange a FREE telephone consultation call Ian on:
0161 298 7070 or ianguest@firststephypnosis.co.uk
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40
Songwriting weekend
A family of Pemberton musicians are
helping to cultivate the songwriters
and performers of the future.
Bob, Virginia and John Kettle (pictured), from the
band Merry Hell, have joined forces with Healthy
Arts and The Music Projects on Ormskirk Road to
offer a weekend songwriting course.
On the Friday night, attendees will hear Bob,
Virginia and John each explain the writing process
behind their own Merry Hell song, then have the
opportunity to ask them questions about any of
their back catalogue.
On Saturday, musicians will have a 10 minute
consultation with either Bob or Virginia about their
own song ideas and receive individual personal
and written feedback.
They will then spend
the rest of the day
writing a group song
before spending the
evening with John
Kettle in his studio,
where Merry Hell’s
latest CD, Bloodlines,
was created.
It takes place on
February 17-19
inclusive and the cost
is £150 per person. For more information contact
Martin Green, Healthy Arts project manager on
07542 114383 or email contactus@healthyarts.org
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41

42
Women’s pension plight
Women affected by the changes to
the state pension are being invited to
join a support group.
WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality)
group is raising awareness of plans to increase the
state pension age for women to 65. Although the
group agrees with the move, they say the two years’
notice of the change is unfair.
They claim the changes affect women born after
April 5, 1951.
Wigan Council is supporting their campaign for
fair transitional arrangements aimed to support
the two million women across the United Kingdom
currently waiting up to an extra six years for their
state pension, including 12,000 in Wigan.
For more information on your local WASPI group
and how to show your support visit waspi.co.uk or
contact waspigroups@gmail.com .

43

44
Puzzle corner
Sudoku
Answers are on page 68 of this magazine

45
Cheers! Festival hits 30
Real ale aficionados are invited to
raise a glass to 30 years of Wigan Beer
Festival.
The annual event, organised by the Wigan
Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is celebrating three
decades of keeping Wiganers up to date with the
best beers and sumptuous
ciders in the vicinity.
This year’s festival is held
from Thursday, March 2, to
Saturday, Match 4, at Robin
Park Sports Centre on Loire
Drive.
Opening times are as follows:
Thursday: 5.30pm to 11.pm. Free Admission.
Friday afternoon: Noon to 6pm - admission £1.
Friday evening: 6pm to 11pm - admission £3.
Saturday 11.30am to 10pm - admission £2.
Admission for card-carrying CAMRA members is
free. As usual, there will be
a free shuttle bus running
at regular intervals from
Wigan town centre to the
festival venue.
For further details, visit
http://beerfestival.
wigancamra.org.uk
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46
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
Buzzing over award
Volunteers and rangers at Beacon Country Park
are buzzing after scooping an honour. They won
a Bees’ Needs Award for 2016 from Keep Britain
Tidy for their work with Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s
Plan Bee Project to improve habitats for wild bees
and other pollinators. As a result of this work, over
600 new records of bees and other important
pollinators have been made in the last three years
in West Lancashire.
Conservationists say creating good habitats for
bees is vital to aid movement of populations.
According to the British Bee Keepers Association
one third of the food we eat would not be available
without pollination from bees. In the UK about 70
crops are dependent on or benefit from bees.
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47
In stitches
Calling all needle workers - a local group is looking
for your talents. Serendipity patchwork and quilters
meet each Tuesday from 9.30am-12.30pm at
Bispham Church Hall, Upholland Road. The group
members make cushions, bags, toys and quilts.
Refreshments and help and advice are all available
for beginners and experienced sewers. New
members are now being welcomed. Please contact
Chris Parker on 01695 632117.
New member call
Norley Art Group meets every Tuesday from 10am
to noon and from 1pm until 3pm. In the Masonic
Hall, Chapel Street, Pemberton. New members
welcome - call Dorothy Moulson on 01942 247653.
Parish meeting
The next meeting of Up Holland Parish Council will
be held on Tuesday, 10 January, starting at 7.30pm
in the Community Meeting Room, Up Holland
Library, Hall Green. An agenda for the meetings
will be published at least three days prior to the
meeting and can be found at www.uphollandpc.
gov.uk. A public participation session will be held
from 7.15pm to 7.30pm. All welcome.
Dementia award
Wigan has been crowned the most dementia
friendly town in the UK. The prestigious Dementia
Friendly Awards, hosted by The Alzheimer’s Society,
named the town as the winner of Dementia Friendly
Community of the Year in the town category.
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48
Snap-py
memories
Mention motorways these days and
you just get groans about traffic and
congestion.
But back in 1963, the opening of the M6 at Orrell
was such a great occasion, that one local resident
recorded the works for posterity.
David Cannell, 73, dug out these snaps, taken on
his old Kodak camera, for us to share with Local Life
readers.
David, who went to Lamberhead Green School,
said: “I just thought people would be interested in
seeing them - after all you’d never see the M6 this
quiet nowadays!
“It was quite a thing at the time; we used to ride to
Charnock Richard Services... it was a big adventure.”
Built as an extension to the Preston Bypass, the
route through Orrell was completed 55 years ago
this year. By 1968, the M58 was open to service the
New Town at Skelmersdale.
Do you have any old photos of the area you’d like
to share with us? Email wigannews@locallife247.
co.uk

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Planning Matters
Orrell
166E Orrell Road: Plan to replace existing wooden
windows with UPVC on front and side elevations
(ref: A/16/83248/HH) Decision due soon.
Land to be severed from 24 Moss Avenue: Plan to
erect detached dwelling with associated detached
double garage (ref: A/16/83287/FULL) Decision due
soon.
18 Moss Road: Outline application for the erection
of a pair of semi-detached bungalows on land to
be severed from 18 Moss Road, Billinge (ref:
A/16/83391/OUT). Decision due soon.
18 Coniston Avenue: Retrospective application
to retain detached garage in rear garden (ref:
A/16/83342/HH). Decision due soon.
Pemberton
Vacant land west of 73 Smethurst Lane: Plan to
erect 2 semi-detached dwellings and a detached
bungalow with associated access and parking (ref:
A/16/83345/FULL). Decision due soon.
Winstanley
30 Woodbrook Drive: Plan to extend dwellinghouse
- two storey to side (ref: A/16/83368/HH). Decision
due soon.
10 Cleveland Avenue: Plan to extend dwellinghouse
- porch to front (ref: A/16/83394/HHRET). Decision
due soon.
For more information on these plans ,
visit www.wigan.gov.uk

51
Hours cut
Opening hours at West Lancashire Health Centre,
in Ormskirk Hospital, and at Skelmersdale Walk-
In Centre have been cut because of staff sickness
and vacant posts. The last booking to see a nurse
at Ormskirk is now 7.30pm, not 9pm. Skelmersdale
Walk-in Centre is now opening an hour later at 8am
with the last booking to see a nurse changing to
7.30pm, instead of 9pm, from Monday to Friday.
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. 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.
Burns Night supper
The Thistle Society is hosting a Burns Night supper on
Friday, January 27, at St Teresa’s Catholic Church Hall,
College Road, Up Holland at 7.00pm for 7.30pm. The
meal will consist of Cock-a-Leekie soup, haggis (there
are alternatives of chicken or vegetarian bake) tatties
and neeps, and Scottish trifle, apple pie or cheese
and biscuits. A gluten-free meal is also available on
request. There will speeches, singer, dancing and
bagpipes. Tickets are £22 for adults, £15 for under
12s. Call 01942 247403 or 01942 680008.
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52
Health & Fitness
How to beat
norovirus
By Abi Jackson
Norovirus has been in the headlines a fair
bit lately - there have been hospital ward
closures due to outbreaks, 300 people
reportedly fell ill following a suspected eruption of
the virus at the Wahaca restaurant chain, and cases
are said to be 45% higher than this time last year,
according to Public Health England.
And that’s only official lab reports; many more will
have been struck with the dreaded ‘winter vomiting
bug’ but not gone ‘on record’.
But what exactly does it mean, and what should
you do if you or your family gets norovirus? GP and
media medic Dr Roger Henderson coughs up some
expert advice...
IT CAN BE NASTY
Norovirus can knock you for six, often starting with
an achy fever and nausea, usually one to two days
after exposure to the virus. Virus particles enter
the body through the nose or mouth, travel to
the stomach, but it’s only when they hit the small
intestine that they start multiplying and irritating
the gut lining - then the vomiting and watery
diarrhoea strikes. “This is the body saying, ‘Get it
out, clear it, clear it, clear it!” says Henderson.
You might have stomach cramps and a headache
too. The good news is it passes quickly and you
should be fine in a few days, though some people
do suffer worse than others. “That’s probably
linked to the viral load you’re exposed to,” notes
Henderson. “If you’re exposed to a very heavy viral
load, you might feel worse.”
THERE’S PROBABLY NO NEED TO SEE YOUR GP
“There’s no cure for norovirus, it’s just a case of
treating the symptoms,” Henderson stresses, which
means a trip to your GP’s probably going to be
futile - and put other people at risk. “It’s a miserable
thing to get, but the
vast majority of people
will bounce back quite
quickly. What they should
not do, if they can, is walk
into a doctor’s surgery -
because we’re going to
say, nicely, ‘Go away’ and
give them general advice.
But in the meantime,
they’ll have sat there
spreading their germs
left, right and centre.”

53
BUT DO SEEK ADVICE IF YOU’RE CONCERNED
Like flu, norovirus can be “more risky in the very
young and very old”. While it’s highly unlikely
to be a threat to the majority of people, with a
vomiting and diarrhoea bug, the biggest risk is
often linked to dehydration, which can quickly
become serious - particularly for, as well as babies,
young children and older people, those with preexisting
conditions like diabetes or a heart or
kidney condition. “The dangers [of dehydration
include] reduced levels of consciousness, impact on
your kidney function, altered confused states, and
more prone to falls in the elderly,” says Henderson.
“In children, you will get lethargy and weakness.” If
anyone’s showing worrying signs, or if symptoms
don’t clear after a few days and you’re concerned,
phone your GP surgery or local out-of-hours or NHS
helpline (of course, if somebody’s very unwell and
losing consciousness, call 999).

54
DON’T RUSH BACK TO WORK, EITHER
There’s lots of pressure to ‘battle through’ and not
take time off sick, but while you may feel fine once
the sickness stops, Henderson notes you may still
be contagious for up to two days after symptoms
have passed. “It’s variable, but I always say assume
you remain infected for about 48 hours after your
symptoms have cleared,” he says.
STOP THE SPREAD
SELF-CARE AND TLC
“In terms of treatment, fluid replacement is the main
thing,” says Henderson. “You can take paracetamol
and ibuprofen for aches and pains if you want to,
and avoid certain foods - spicy foods, oily foods -
most people won’t want them anyway,” he adds.
“Little and often” is often the best approach with
eating. “Some toast, dry biscuits - everything is
fine, to keep your sugar levels up, but the most
important thing is fluids.” If you’re vomiting lots,
Henderson notes that “if fluid stays down for at least
five minutes, at least half of it will have gone into
your system.
The other key factor - to avoid spreading and
catching the bug - is “scrupulous hygiene”. The
virus spreads via droplet transmission and infected
droplets can remain ‘live’ for “at least an hour” on
hard surfaces, which is how it spreads so widely
through touch. To minimise risk, Henderson
suggests practical steps like “using hand gels,
always washing your hands after the loo, obviously,
keeping hard surface areas clean and using
antibacterial wipes in those areas. And [don’t
forget] things like handles, and making sure your
toilet is kept clean with disinfectant”.
“A lot of people worry if they take a drink and
vomit 10, 20 minutes later, they’re not getting any
benefit from the drink, but they are. It’s when you
vomit it straight back out that it can be a problem”
- or if somebody’s reluctant, too poorly, or just
not aware how important it is to take on fluids. If
this is the case, “fluid replacement products and
sachets like Dioralyte [£3.79 for pack of six, Boots;
suitable infants, children and adults] can be really
helpful, because they stop you from getting low in
certain salts”, notes Henderson. Aside from that, it’s
a question of resting and waiting it out.
Dr Roger Henderson

55

56
Travel
The hills are alive...
Julie Andrews found the landscape of Austria so exhilarating, it became the
lead song from The Sound of Music.
50 years on and the hills are still alive with much more than just a few tunes.
For unspoilt valleys, the Niederau and Oberau areas in western Austria are perfect.
Billinge-based Marken Travel has teamed up with Inghams to offer an experience of
a lifetime in this beautiful part of Europe.

57
Niederau and Oberau are
superb areas for walking, with
miles of marked trails through
lovely, rolling hills - and there’s
also free use of all lifts!
Wildschonau, meaning ‘wild
and beautiful’, is one of the
most glorious valleys in the
Tyrol, with a special, rural
character, rustic mountain
alms and the spectacular
Kundl Gorge to explore at the end of the valley.
Picturesque Niedera houses a pretty church,
friendly cafes and the central Markbachjoch
gondola. Further into the valley, fairytale Oberau
comprises of a magnificent church, a handful of
shops and some fine, old buildings. Wherever you
stay, a regular bus serves the whole valley, enabling
you to make the most of this scenic region.
Speaking of lodgings, the fine Hotel Tirolerhof, in
Oberau, enjoys lovely meadow and hillside views.
It’s a family-run hotel, with Martin Erharter and so
assuring you of a warm, Austrian welcome. Facilities
include lounge and bar, restaurant, cafe and terrace,
small indoor pool, sauna and steam room, horsedrawn
buggy rides (pay locally), lift and free wi-fi.
Single rooms have a shower and there’s no single
supplement payable. All rooms have a balcony, TV,
radio, telephone and hairdryer.
Marken Travel & Inghams
present
Hotel Tirolerhoff – Oberau
3* hotel - 7 nights half board
Indoor pool
No single room supplements
Free resort card (worth $60)
Free excursion to Salzburg
Free guided walks
Free packed lunches
Great flight times
Call Marken Travel today for more details
Just £693 on 26/8/17 (other dates available)
Independent Travel Specialist
200 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PE Telephone: 01744 893291 www.markentravel.co.uk

58
Explore Austria
Presentation night by
Wednesday 11th January at 6.30pm
Call
01744 893 291
to confirm your place
By going with Marken Travel and Inghams, you will
benefit from a package of savings which includes
a free excursion to Salzburg, free use of all lifts in
the Wildschonau and Alpbach Valley (with resort
card), free guided walks (with resort card), free
packed lunches at selected hotel and an Inghams
representative based in the resort.
The resort card is free to all guests from May 13,
2017, is provided by your hotel upon arrival and
gives you free use of the tennis courts, entrance
to the outdoor swimming pool, entrance to the
silver mine and museums, free children’s activity
programme (Monday-Friday) and discounted rates
on many other attractions.
If, however, you want a bit of hustle and bustle, the
delights of Austria’s capital city, Vienna, await.
The capital of Austria is known for its history, from
the Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral to the art nouveau
splendour of the Secession. By day, you can enjoy a
Austria Checklist
Language: Austrian German
Currency: Euro
Time difference: +1hour
Cost of a beer: €3.50
Cappuccino : €3
3 Course meal: €25
walk around the Ringstrasse, the circular road that
will take you past many of Vienna’s attractions.
St Stephen’s 343 steps seem daunting at first, but
reach the summit and you will be rewarded with
spectacular views. You could also follow in the
footsteps of Orson Welles, who starred in the film
The Third Man, and take a ride in one of the ornate
gondola carriages of the giant Ferris wheel at the
Prater, another of the city’s most famous landmarks.
But don’t be fooled into thinking there aren’t other
attractions to enjoy. It’s truly an historic old town
filled with a vibrant modern atmosphere. To enjoy
this, head to head into the ‘Inner Stadt’, the historic
old town. And treat yourself to an einspanner,
Viennese coffee topped with cream, and a slice of
sachertorte, chocolate cake with apricot jam, at the
iconic Cafe Central.
Vienna boasts one of the world’s most famous
culinary traditions. A diverse yet delectably
harmonious range of dishes reflects the city’s mix
of nationalities and food cultures through the
centuries, and inspires visitors from all over the
globe. Why not try the iconic Wiener Schnitzel,
which is deep fried breaded veal and said to have
been a staple of Austrian cuisine for almost 200
years.
Whether you’re a seasoned visitor, or are looking
to explore the country for the first time, Marken
and Inghams can help you unlock the delights of
Austria.

59
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BEFORE

61
Welcome to Wigan
2050...
The Northern Powerhouse has arrived, but at what price for
local communities? David Sudworth investigates...
George Osborne may have left front line politics, but his legacy lives on.
Across Orrell, Winstanley, Billinge and Haydock, vast swathes of open space
could be sacrificed for 1,500 new homes and factories. Residents have
formed protest groups, and even some councillors are crying foul at what they
perceive is a lack of democratic accountability.
This is the former Chancellor’s ‘Northern Powerhouse’ come to life at a local level.
The idea isn’t new though. For almost 50 years now, there has been regular calls - and
promises - about devolving more power from Whitehall down to a local level.
And so after years of false starts, city region elected
Mayors were brought in, with powers over health
spending and planning. And thus the Northern
Powerhouse was born.
Local council leaders, eyeing up an opportunity
to get some serious money for their local
areas, lapped it up.
The first Greater Manchester Mayoral election
takes place this May. Leigh MP Andy Burnham

62
is the Labour candidate, and widely seen as a shooin
for the job.
However, even before a vote has been cast, Greater
Manchester’s eager council leaders, Wigan’s own
Lord Peter Smith included, have set about having
a plan ready for when the successful candidate is
elected. The Draft Spatial Strategy Framework is
hardly the most sexy title, but there’s plenty in it to
get people hot under the collar.
One of the drivers for devolution is boosting local
economies. And for politicians, that means jobs and
houses - and lots of them. 226,000 new homes to
be precise.
Wigan’s own contribution is two chunks of land
adjacent to the M6 at Orrell and Winstanley/Bryn.
In Orrell, the proposal is to build factories on land
known as The Bell. Access could possibly be off the
current junction at Ormskirk Road. It is claimed the
development could provide 3,447 jobs, as well as an
extra 170 homes on land east of Latham Lane, Kitt
Green.
In Winstanley, the idea is to provide 7,652 jobs on
farmland either side of the Junction 25 slip road
(pictured below). This would connect to Wheatlea
Industrial Estate. There would also be around 80
new homes off Castlemere Close.
Ironically, both sites have both been looked at in
the past for inclusion in Wigan’s own Local Plan,
but neither of them made the final cut. This is why
residents have been left wondering why the future
of these two pieces of land is back under question.
Residents in both of these areas have started
campaigning against the proposals, and public
meetings have been held. However, the sense of
anger isn’t limited to just members of the public -
councillors are also seemingly aghast at how there
is seemingly little input at a grass roots level.
One Wigan Town Hall insider told Local Life:
“Councillors aren’t happy. They see this as a plan
which has been cobbled together by the 10
Greater Manchester council leaders, with the
“11,000 jobs for Orrell
and Winstanley”
help of civil servants. Usually, when Wigan Council
puts together its Local Plan, local councillors have
a say on what sites are put forward for potential
development. With this, there has been none of
that.
“The problem is that a lot of these council leaders
have been around for a long time and, even though
most of them are Labour, they felt let down that
the last Labour government didn’t devolve power
to local communities. So when George Osborne
did it, the leaders grabbed it with both hands and
aren’t for listening. The thing is, this will eventually

63
THE BELL, ORRELL
Industrial estate - 3,447 jobs &
170 homes
WIGAN
PEMBERTON
ORRELL
26
WINSTANLEY
JUNCTION 25
WINSTANLEY / BRYN
Industrial estate - 7,652 jobs &
80 homes
BILLINGE
BEACON RD,
BILLINGE
163 homes
SIMMS RD,
25
GARSWOOD
419 homes
BRYN
GARSWOOD
STRANGE RD,
GARSWOOD
83 homes
24
ASHTON-IN-MAKERFIELD
PEWFALL
Industrial estate & 502
homes
HAYDOCK
ISLAND
Industrial estates &
520 homes
HAYDOCK
23

64
become the plan for the new Mayor of Greater
Manchester, but that person - whoever it is - will not
have had any input into it. I have no idea why they
couldn’t have waited until he or she is in post.”
For his part, Andy Burnham says he has “concerns”
about the amount of Green Belt at risk: “More work
should be done to see if the amount of loss can
be reduced.”
His Labour colleague, Makerfield MP Yvonne
Fovargue is less forgiving: “I am not prepared to
see the communities I represent subjected to this
proposal and am calling on residents to join me in
the fight to protect our Green Belt.”
However, Wigan’s planning officers believe they
have everything more or less in place to convince
a planning inspector to give Orrell and Winstanley
plans the green light. Even the dreaded words CPO
(Compulsory Purchase Order) has been mentioned.
“These sites came up some time ago when the
country was still in recession. There is now a
“Fight to protect our
Green Belt”
pressing and demonstrable need for development
land, and we believe we now have the evidence
base to convince an inspector,” said one.
The plans for homes and factories across Billinge,
Garswood and Haydock fall under a different
project, the St Helens Local Plan, although it is
inextricably linked to the creation of a directly
elected Mayor for the Liverpool City Region. As
with Greater Manchester, elections for this take
place in May.
Both St Helens and Wigan are salivating at the
possibilities touted by the Liverpool Superport,
which is undergoing a £1billion-plus investment.
And with the M6, M58 and East Lancs Road all in
close proximity, both areas want a slice of this
potentially lucrative cake. This is why St Helens
Council has earmarked land off the East Lancs Road
at Haydock for new warehouses and factories. Ditto
Wigan with the Orrell and Winstanley sites.
In terms of new homes, St Helens Council says it
needs to release Green Belt around Garswood and
Billinge to ensure it has the mandatory five year
supply of housing. Privately, politicians admit to one
uncomfortable truth about house building - that
developers prefer green field sites. The reason is
because not only are the clean up costs, compared
to contaminated brownfield sites, practically zero,
they also tend to be located in better off areas,
where they can command a high price tag.
Set against that, it’s unsurprising the sites up for
grabs include land north and to the rear of Simms
Road pub, Garswood and land at the back of Beacon
Road/Main Street, Billinge.
Some sites could be developed by 2018. Others,
including at Strange Road and the site north of
Simms Road pub, would be taken out of Green
Belt but ‘safeguarded’ for development sometime
between 2033 and 2048.
The St Helens plan is currently out for public
consultation until the end of January. The Wigan
proposals could become a reality as early as next
year. But locals like Kitt Green resident Brian Mercer
(pictured above) would be happy to see the plan
ditched.
Brian, 74, lives off Bell Lane and regularly walks
across the fields towards Orrell Post: “I like to walk
around the area - it keeps me fit. I don’t agree with
this development at all. I know they have to build
somewhere, but why here?”
To read the consultation documents, visit www.
wigan.gov.uk and www.sthelens.gov.uk

65

66
Financial planning
New Year
Resolutions
Happy New Year to all Local Life readers,
let’s hope you will all “Prosper”
throughout 2017. Apologies for the plug
but it’s the only time of year that I can get away with
it. With 2017 underway, the New Year’s resolutions
are now normally firmly in place, but the usual
‘more exercise’, ‘more dieting’, ‘less drink’ all involve
an element of pain and deprivation and most of us
tend to fall by the wayside within a week or two.
One resolution that you may want to retrospectively
add to your list, one which involves very little pain
but can have significant benefits, is to have an
investment health check. Every January I notice a
significant increase in the number of enquiries from
Local Life readers.
What prompts this increase?
Perhaps time off over Christmas, completion of
tax returns, whatever the trigger, reviewing and
revamping your portfolio now could make a
significant difference to your portfolio value. Apart
from weeding out the poor performing funds, you
might find your finances could be arranged more
tax-efficiently.
by David K Barton
APFS Cert CII(MP),
Chartered Financial Planner
and Managing Director
I was recently talking to a prospective client who
was having a moan about the amount of paperwork
he was receiving from all his different investments.
At the heart of the problem was that “everything
was all over the place” - for every investment he was
dealing with a different company and no action was
being taken by his adviser, potentially costing him
money.
I asked him what his “ideal” would feel and look like.
He wanted to…..
• Retake full control of his investments rather
than getting swamped with paperwork and
information
• Have “peace of mind” knowing that a single expert
was also keeping an eye on his investments
• Invest in a wide choice of leading companies
without being tied in to a single company/fund
• Obtain portfolio valuations immediately
It probably does not come as a great surprise to
learn that our Wealth Management Service delivers
on all the points above. Indeed one of our recently
engaged clients described the difference between
the old way of managing investments and using
the Prosper Wealth Management Service as “an
absolute revelation”
If you would like more information please feel free
to get in touch on 01257 423800. Alternatively
visit our website www.prosper-ifa.co.uk or email
us to request a brochure. The cost of the initial
consultation is met by us and you are under no
obligation to take things further.
If you invest in the stock market the value of your
investments can go down as well as up and you
may not get back the full amount invested.

67
Looking forward
to retirement?
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Prosper - the local firm with a
national reputation for excellent
financial management and
outstanding service.
Why should you choose Prosper?
We already look after over £110 million on
behalf of 500 local clients
We were the first independent financial adviser
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www.prosper-ifa.co.uk

68
Mary’s memorable day
She’s leaving Billinge after
20 years, but this local
got a send-off she’ll never
forget!
Mary May left Beacon Road just
before Christmas to settle in
Southport with husband of 43 years,
Bob.
She sold her house with Orrell estate
agents Borron Shaw, and entered
a prize raffle to win a £500 holiday
voucher courtesy of Marken Travel.
Luck was on Mary’s side so she and
Bob are now planning to put the voucher towards
a cruise.
She received her prize from St Helens players Kyle
Amor and Matty Smith. Also pictured are Ste Tickle
and Ste Ball, from Borron Shaw, and Carla Hesketh,
from Marken Travel.
Mary, who is originally from Parr, St Helens, told
Local Life: “I was really pleased to win - I didn’t
expect it at all.
“We were sad to leave Billinge as we’ve been here
for 20 years but we just love Southport. There’s so
much to do there and also we have a boat so it’s
handy for that.”
Puzzle solutions

69
Foxy fundraiser
For the third consecutive year, the
Foxy Ladies, a group of big hearted
patrons of Fifteen’s at The Fox in Roby
Mill, held a fundraising day for Cancer
Research UK.
A total of £5,290 was raised on the day and was
presented to Katie Hesketh from the charity by Lisa
Langton, Fiona Scriven, Pauline Wheeler & Sammy
Sheridan. The day consisted of a 3 course meal at
Fifteen’s at the Fox, a raffle with over 130 prizes, an
auction and many other activities deemed too rude
to mention in a family magazine!
During the day, the Foxy Ladies released pink
memory balloons, marking someone they have lost
or who is battling cancer. Over the last three years
the Foxy Ladies have raised an incredible £15,190
for Cancer Research UK. Tickets for next year’s event
are already on sale and are selling quickly – contact
Fifteen’s at the Fox on 01695 628178 for details.
Free, no obligation discussion
for all your bookkeeping needs
Contact Petra on
Telephone
Mobile

70
Business view
Your Hands On, Pro-Active &
Friendly Accountant
by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy
CMA Accountancy provides dynamic, value
for money accountancy services and work
alongside business owners to implement
cloud based solutions that enable them to work
efficiently and achieve their personal and business
goals.
Self Assessment Deadline - 31 January!!
Remember, those who miss filing their tax return
by deadline face an automatic penalty of £100
and after 3 months this increases to £10 per day!
As a reminder, the following are the some of the
main reasons you may be required to completing
a return:
• Anyone who is self-employed.
• If you receive rental income from a property.
• Company directors must complete a return.
• You have Capital Gains Tax to pay as you have
sold an asset.
Company directors should watch out for new tax
charges on dividends from April 2016! Contact CMA
for advice on this.
Changes for VAT flat rate scheme
The flat rate VAT scheme (FRS) is used by many
small businesses to simplify their VAT reporting. If
you gain a cash advantage from the scheme, you
need to know that significant changes are being
made from 1st April 2017. If your expenditure on
goods is less than 2% of your gross turnover then
your FRS VAT % will increase to 16.5%. This will
impact contractors and other service style limited
companies. Call us now for help with changes in
time for April.
Trivial Benefits
And finally, some good news! If you run a business
and employ staff, the cost of giving trivial gifts to
staff is allowable for tax as long as; the amount
spent per employee is £50 or less. (However
multiple amounts are allowed in a given year), the
item is question is not either cash or a cash voucher
(High street vouchers are allowable though), and
the benefit cannot be given in reward for good
performance or exceeding targets.
If you are a director of a limited company then you
are restricted to £300 in trivial benefits in a given
year but this amount is TAX FREE! There are further
rules that must be applied to qualify for this benefit
and you must keep separate records of these
expenses.
Please call us if you would like to discuss anything in
this article. Alternatively you can drop by our office
where we can discuss any accountancy issues 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

71
SA deadline
Benefits
AE
VAT
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

72
Food & Drink
You should have fun!
By Gemma Dunn
He’s been branded one of the trailblazers
of new British cooking, but at the heart of
Glynn Purnell’s success is his refusal to take
himself too seriously. If he’s not cracking jokes and
reeling off witty anecdotes, the ‘Yummy Brummie’
is referring to himself as the Roger Federer of
Birmingham’s imploding culinary scene.
“I’m always going to be remembered as something
that broke the mould; the one who was awarded
the first ever Michelin star in Birmingham [which
happened in 2005, while he was head chef at
Jessica’s in Edgbaston],” says the forward-thinker. “It’s important as a chef to have your own
“I’m still in the mix, so I like to see myself as a Roger personality, but then to be able to put that
Federer: I won’t be No 1 all of the time, but it’s great,” personality onto the page makes you different,”
the 41-year-old adds, chuckling. “Competition is reasons Purnell, who credits his publishers with
great!”
giving him the creative freedom to put out a book
that “sounds as if I’m talking to you”.
And having achieved his childhood goal - “I never
had any interest in passing GCSEs because I knew I “When I stop running restaurants, and when I stop
was going to be a chef” - it seems Purnell has plenty doing what I’m doing, I want people to look back
to smile about.
and go, ‘Oh look, that’s a Glynn Purnell dish’, or
when they come to the restaurant and eat a dish,
His latest venture is the brilliantly-titled cookbook
they know they’re not going to get that anywhere
Rib Ticklers & Choux-Ins, a follow-up to 2014’s
else in the world.
Cracking Yolks & Pig Tales, and a tome he says was
inspired by the more down-to-earth dishes served “It’s important to keep hold of your personality,”
at his bistro, or “takeaway food at home”.
he continues. “I’ve been cooking in Michelinstar
restaurants nearly all of my career, and chefs
Written with trademark wit, chapters range from
always want to perceive themselves as being a bit
‘This little piggy went to market’ to ‘A moment on
aggressive. I’ve moved on from that.
the lips’. It’s infused with brunch, fish, meat and
knockout dessert recipes, and peppered with “I don’t need to push my chest out and act like
yarns about perfecting his skills some sort of big grumpy chef that throws plates at
through years of reading women’s people, because times have changed. For me, food
magazines at the dentist, and why is fun; you should have fun.
he has such a vendetta against “Some chefs should smile a bit more - it wouldn’t
sprouts.
kill them!”
Rib Ticklers & Choux-Ins by Glynn Purnell, photography by Peter Cassidy, is published by Kyle Books, priced £19.99.

73
Sweet spicy sticky ribs
Serves 7
Ingredients
2tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
4 cloves
1/2 cinnamon stick
1tsp black onion seeds
1tsp ground ginger
1 rack of pork belly ribs, cut into individual ribs
150g caster sugar
50ml white wine vinegar
50ml dark soy sauce
1tbsp (large) tomato ketchup
2 medium-hot chillies, roughly chopped
1tbsp chopped coriander
Squeeze of lime juice
Method
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened
but only lightly coloured.
Add the cloves, cinnamon, onion seeds and ginger
to the pan and then add the ribs. Cover all the
ingredients with two litres of cold water (or enough
to cover the ribs), then simmer for 30-40 minutes
until the meat is tender. Drain the ribs (you can
reserve the cooking liquid to make a sauce for
another dish).
Heat a large frying pan, add the sugar, vinegar and
soy sauce and boil the mixture until reduced to a
thick consistency.
Add the ketchup to the pan, then stir in the ribs,
coating well with the glaze. Add the chillies,
coriander and a squeeze of lime juice, then serve.
The ribs can be served with egg noodles or jasmine
rice.
A little tip - instead of ribs, buy pork belly on the
bone. That way you get free ribs and probably the
best part of the pig.

74
Taste test
Shining star
The season of overindulgence is drawing to a close and our digestive systems can
collectively breathe a sigh of relief. You can guarantee that 50% of the western
world is about to enter a strict diet/fitness regime, whilst the rest of us sensible
folks are just dialling it back a bit, choosing quality over the gluttonous quantity that
epitomises Christmas. Thankfully, with the Star in Roby Mill on our doorstep, we don’t
have far to go.
To start I opt for the Sizzling King Prawns.
King prawns and chorizo go together hand
in hand; the plump succulent flesh of the
prawns, mixed with the spicy and chunky
chorizo, served with peppers and onions,
and pulled together by an absolutely
scrumptious creamy and garlic sauce
meant that this dish is a very late contender
for my dish of the year award 2016. My
dining partner Nicola, heavily pregnant
and very risk-averse, can only look on in
frustration I hold forth about the quality of
this dish.
Instead she opts for shallow fried Goats
cheese parcels, served with mango
chutney. These dainty packages of crispy
filo arrived at the table and only a few seconds passed before she eagerly cut into
them, and the warm melted goats cheese oozed out on to the plate. I managed to
pinch half a parcel before she made an effort to stab me with her fork and I can confirm
that beautiful taste of salty goats cheese was the perfect partner to the sweet mango
chutney. Pesto punched through the garnish cutting through the sweetness of the other
accompaniments. Overall, it made for a very moreish starter indeed.
Barring a variation of goose or duck (or a godforsaken modern hybrid like tuducken),
we all basically eat the same over Christmas; that’s a turkey on the 25th and turkey
sandwiches for the next week or so. It’s been a while since I have enjoyed a pie, so I opt
for the home made steak and ale - and what a whopper it is! Built like a Russian Olympic
weight lifter, (but without the ‘medication’ that goes with), this is a chunky humdinger of
a dish. Served with roast potatoes and a selection of winter vegetables, the quality of the
steak and the gravy was just mouth-wateringly amazing.

75
Whilst I was doing culinary cartwheels over the pie, my
dining partner was as similarly enthusiastic about the
Barbary duck à l’orange, served with orange segments,
glace cherries and winter vegetables. As she explained
later, the duck breast was perfectly cooked but she
raved at the lightness of the sauce, saying that it lifted
the dish into memorability. I agree, too often the sauce
on the dish is often jam-like, but this orange sauce was
delightful. Unlike me, she is not a gravy fan, but she
genuine mistake ordering the Assisette of Desserts;
this is actually a dessert to share.
This trio of desserts all shared similar characteristics
– lightness and delicacy. The profiteroles were as
tasty as I’ve ever enjoyed, the lovely texture of the
chocolate brownie was superb and the exquisitely
fluffy strawberry cheesecake was a joy to behold.
It’s said that the real challenge in the world of food
isn’t hitting culinary heights; it’s being able to maintain
that quality service after service, week after week; and
that’s what The Star has managed for the last ten years
with aplomb.
2017 sees the 10th anniversary of The Star under the
current ownership, but as long as this popular pub/
restaurant maintains those high expectations, it will
continue to shine!
actually said that she could drink a pint of this!
After a bit of a break between courses, Nicola was
faced with a vital choice; to leave immediately in order
to make her appointment with the midwife, or to stay
and have dessert. At that point, her Eton Mess arrived
and her staying then became a foregone conclusion.
The Eton Mess is made with whipped cream, meringue
and strawberries and, to her surprise, raspberries too.
‘Indulgent dessert heaven at its very best’ was the
phrase she uttered!
My eyes aren’t what they used to be, so I made a
The Star Inn, 60 Bank Top, Roby Mill,
Up Holland WN8 0QQ
01257 25 33 55

76
Cheese and potato pie
Gratin
Method
Preheat the oven to 180C/gas mark 4.
Sprinkle the salt onto a baking tray and place the
potatoes on top.
Bake the potatoes for one-and-a-half hours, or until
they are soft.
Serves 4 - 8
Ingredients
200g white rock salt
6 medium-large baking potatoes, skin on, washed
Splash of vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
Knob of butter, plus 60g
310g hard mature Cheddar cheese, grated
100ml double cream
100ml milk
1tbsp chopped parsley
1tbsp chopped spring onions
Remove the potatoes from the oven and leave to
cool slightly, then cut in half, scoop out the potato
into a bowl and beat until smooth. Reserve the skins.
Heat the oil in a flameproof casserole dish, add
the onion and cook over a medium heat for two to
three minutes. Add the knob of butter and cook for
a further two minutes, then remove from the heat.
Add the potato, 250g of the cheese, the remaining
60g butter, the cream, milk, parsley and spring
onions, then mix together and spread out in the
casserole dish, smoothing the surface.
Cut the potato skins into strips and scatter over the
potato mixture, then cover with the remaining 60g
of cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve
with a salad or as a side dish for meat or fish.

77
10% off
on production
of this advert
Management reserve the right to
make changes without prior notice
533 Scot Lane, Wigan, WN5 0PS

78
Eating out
guide
The Star Inn
The award-winning Star Inn is
renowned for scrumptious food
and quaffable ales. Its success has
been built on a great reputation
for fresh cooked, fresh produce, at
reasonable prices.
01257 253355
60, Bank Top, Roby Mill, WN8 0QQ
thestarinnrobymill.co.uk
Rigby’s Coffee Shop
Enjoy a trip out to Pimbo Garden
Centre and tuck into a wide
selection of delicious home cooked,
locally sourced, food served seven
days a week at Rigby’s Coffee Shop.
01695 622601
Pimbo Garden Centre, 32 Pimbo
Lane, Up Holland, WN8 9QQ
pimbogardencentre.co.uk
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
Advertise
here
£30 + VAT
Call 01695 627999
Fifteens @ The Fox
This quirky and popular pub dates
back to the 17th century and offers
fabulous home cooked food using
recipes developed by our chefs. The
real ale selection is superb too.
01695 628178
Fifteens @ The Fox, Roby Mill,
Up Holland WN8 0QF
fifteensatthefox.com
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
Plantation Restaurant
From wholesome breakfasts and
a delicious lunchtime menu to
traditional Lancastrian afternoon
teas, the Plantation Restaurant at
Warbreck Garden Centre is the
place to go.
01695 722960
Lyelake Lane, Lathom, L40 6JW
warbreckgardencentre.co.uk

Open:
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories,
Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
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’)
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
TwinLakesMotorEngineers
A49
Wind Turbines
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 Busine s Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
79
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
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
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 627999
Gel
Nails
normally £20
now £15
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
T
Y
R
E
S
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
Mossy Lea Road
...and motorcycles too
FREE
Car Health Check
Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Book
your FREE
home survey
for all residents of Croston and Bretherton
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Ca l now on
Keep me until you need me!
01772 603923
REPAIR & WELDING
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
we make it our business to help yours
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
No time to visit tHe groomers?
We wash and groom your dog at
your home in our converted van.
Covering areas WN3,4,5 & WA9,10,11,12
Call Phil 07840 741 713 or visit;
www.dialadogwashwigansthelens.co.uk
email:pmdadw@gmail.com
Over 40 Lancashire walks
FREE to download at
www.locallife247.co.uk
When can
I go back to
Dukes Barn
Farm?
Boarding kennels for all breeds of dogs.
Heated accommodation.
Recommended by vets & clients for over
35 years.
Local authority licensed & approved.
Open 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday
Closed to customer visits on Sunday
DUKES BARN FARM
Animal care at its best
Brook Lane, Pemberton, WN5 8JQ
Call - 01942 217752

80
sponsored by
Hale
by David Sudworth
If you want to raise someone’s blood pressure in
Hale, tell them they live in Merseyside.
The temptation is obvious, given that it is perched
on the side of the Mersey, and also at the end of
Liverpool John Lennon Airport runway.
But not only is this geographical pigeonholing
patently untrue (pub bore alert number one:
Merseyside hasn’t existed since 1986 when the old
Merseyside County Council was abolished) but Hale
is in fact part of the Halton Council area, which
has come under Cheshire since 1974. Only for local
government purposes you understand, because (bore
alert number 2) technically Hale remains part of the
County Palatine of Lancashire. Also, don’t confuse it
with the other Hale, which is near Altrincham and has
always been part of Cheshire.
Flummoxed? Don’t be, because none of it really
matters when you are enjoying this splendid five mile
stroll.
We start our walk from the car park at Hale Park
(postcode L24 4EA). Having parked up, we head
back out of the car park onto High Street and take
a right heading in to Church End. Here, we get a
first glimpse of some truly beautiful old houses
with thatched roofs. On the day we visited, the air
was wintery and crisp. Against the clear, blue sky
backdrop, we saw the odd chimney pot bellowing
out plumes of smoke. A sight sure to warm the
cockles of even the coldest walker.
A little further on, we happen upon an imposing
statue of John Middleton, formerly of this parish,
who by some accounts grew to a staggering 9ft 3ins

81
tall. Little wonder he was
hired as a bodyguard to
the Sheriff of Lancashire.
Once past the statue, we
take a left into Within
Way from where you’re
soon enjoying open
views towards Widnes
and Runcorn - the railway
bridge stands proudly
to the left alongside
an endless parade of
factories. By contrast, on
our side of the Mersey,
there is nothing apart
from green fields and
some winter broccoli
crops for company.
History enthusiasts will enjoy knowing that this
was the point where the first Mersey crossing was
situated by way of a ford, which is a mile long.
During the Civil War in 1644, troops crossed with
their horses and there were skirmishes to take
control of what was a major crossing point. As
late as the 19th century, a local vicar used to take
his horse-drawn buggy across. However, pollution
was becoming a big problem, and this led to the
construction of the Transporter Bridge in 1905. This
was replaced in 1961 by the Silver Jubilee Bridge,
which remains in use to this day.
As an interesting aside, ‘Mersey’ is derived from the
Old English words ‘Mæres’ meaning boundary or
border, and ‘Ea’ meaning river.
With the history lesson now over, we follow the
route all the way down to the bottom, where it
continues to the river as a footpath. When you reach
the river go right and continue along the path. After
a short while Hale Head Lighthouse will come into
view. Built in 1906, it was decommissioned in 1958
and is now a private residence.
You’ll go straight through the gates passing the
lighthouse as you cross Lighthouse Road and on
along the river bank. Shortly after this you go over a
wooden footbridge that crosses Lady Pool, a brook
that runs out from Hale Park. The path continues for
a good while, passing Icehouse Plantation, before
you eventually reach a house, where the path goes
down some steps to the left. This then crosses

Decoy
Marsh
82
another brook, before steps
take you back to the top of
the river bank. Keep going
along the river until the path
emerges onto a new tarmac
path.
At this point we go right
and the path soon emerges
onto Dungeon Road, right
again the boundary fence
to Liverpool John Lennon
Airport. Here you get some
good views of planes taking
off or landing. We managed
to hang around long enough
to see a private plane jet off
to a destination unknown,
followed shortly afterwards
by an easyJet 12.15pm service
to Barcelona. Plan your route
carefully if you want to see
this, as sometimes there can
be an hour’s gap in between
take-offs.
Carr Lane
Ramsbrook Lane
Town Lane
Hale
High Street
P
John Middleton ‘Childe of Hale’ Statue
Church End
Postcode:
L24 4AF
Within Way
Icehouse
Plantation
Church Road
Lady Pool
FB
Lighthouse Road
Hale Head
Lighthouse
Just before you reach the
yellow post that support the
airports landing lights, you
take a right into Bailey’s Lane.
Follow this until it emerges
on Hale Road, a smart route
with some very grand homes
with thatched roofs. Continue
to go right and follow it back
into the village and then take
a right back in to the car park.
Having done these walks for a
few years now, I can honestly
say this was possibly the most
interesting and enjoyable.
There’s just something about
the river, its vastness, which
creates a sense of calmness,
even with the slow chug of
industry in the background.
Hale Road
Bailey’s Lane
Dungeon Lane
FB
Hale Cliff
Liverpool
John Lennon
Airport
Oglet Lane
Oglet

83
A tall story
John Middleton was born in 1578 in
Hale and, according to folklore, is one
of the tallest men in history.
A towering man, he is believed to have been
between 7ft 9ins and 9ft 3ins tall – official records
don’t exist to confirm one way or the other. It is said
that when King James I learnt about the ‘Childe of
Hale’s’ great height, he invited him to his court to
fight the King’s wrestler. Middleton won and was
given £20, a massive amount at that time. He is
also said to have been recruited as a bodyguard
for Gilbert Ireland, the landlord and Sheriff of
Lancashire who was also a member of Brasenose
College Boat Club.
Middleton died in 1623, aged 45, and is buried in
St Mary’s churchyard. A portrait of Middleton hangs
in Brasenose College and the rowing team’s first VIII
sometimes wear Middleton’s colours; red, purple
and gold. A blue plaque denoting Middleton’s
home in Hale adorns a whitewashed cottage on
Church End, just a stone’s throw from his statue.
The Mersey is synonymous with Liverpool but
it is more than just a reference point for the Liver
Buildings, the Albert Dock and so on.
Also, from this vantage point, there’s no chance of
overhearing the cringingly obvious warblings of
Gerry & The Pacemakers as the Birkenhead Ferry
comes in to dock. And for that, we should all be
grateful...
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.
Thinking of
taking a break?
With Barking Mad, your dog will
be individually cared for by one
of our local, carefully selected
families in their home.
For more information call Andrea Gupta
01942 316472
andrea.gupta@barkingmad.uk.com
www.barkingmad.uk.com

84
It wasn’t raining
when Noah built
the ark!
by Angie Barker
Award Winner
Isaw this caption outside a Methodist church
recently and I thought what a brilliant way to
illustrate the concept of planning ahead. And
when it comes to our gardens, planning ahead
is a necessity if you want a truly seasonal garden
with year round interest and colour and this is
particularly true of the winter months. Winter can
be a drawn out, dreary affair so injecting some
colour and structure into our gardens can really lift
the spirits at this time of year. Some excellent plants
for the winter garden include:
Buxus sempervirens or Box. Fantastic evergreen
structure. If you are worried about Box Blight (a
fungal disease which is becoming more prevalent)
then Euonymus japonicus ‘Jean Hugues’ is an
excellent substitute.
Daphnes are brilliant for providing winter flowers
which are scented. Two of the best are Daphne
odora ‘Aureomarginata’ and Daphne bholua
‘Jacqueline Postill’.
Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald ‘n’ Gold’. Bright lime
green and yellow leaves cover this small shrub
throughout the year and when the temperatures
fall, they turn pink.
Miscanthus sinensis ‘Kleine Fontane’ is a tall grass
which keeps its structure all winter and looks
stunning with a sprinkling of frost.
Sarcococca confusa -a small evergreen shrub with
amazing scent in winter which will knock your socks
off and is also really useful for a dark, shady corner.
Christmas or Lenten Roses (Hellebores) are lovely
small perennials which although don’t offer much
in the way of colour and structure throughout the
year, really come into their own in January and
February. Helleborous x hybridus provide some of
the best colours.
So if you think your garden lacks interest at this time
of year, start planning now for next winter and take
a trip to the garden centre. Bypass the sale of left
over Christmas decorations and head outside for
the plants. As for Hubby, well he is busy planning
too. He wants to know when is the best time to
open that vintage bottle of wine I bought him for
Christmas!
Happy New Year everyone.
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

85
Want a beautiful
garden without all
the hard work?
At GreenHills we don’t just treat your lawns, we
offer a complete service all year round.
• APPLICATION OF LAWN TREATMENTS
• GARDEN MAINTENANCE
• WEEDING & BORDERS
• HEDGES & SHRUBS MAINTAINED
• WEED SPRAYING OF PATHS & DRIVEWAYS
Professional Lawn Treatment
& Garden Maintenance
~ Est. 2001 ~
01942 200 039 or 07950 651 956
Our aim is to deliver a creative, personal
service adhering to our customers
requirements and within budget.
Large projects or small makeovers are all
carried out with the same commitment and
dedication. We take great pride in completing
all projects to the highest possible standards.
www.pdhomeandgarden.co.uk
07946 751308 01942 206503
Garden maintenance ~ General tidy ups
Hedge cutting ~ Pressure washing ~ Fencing
Call - 01942 225711 or 07773 296880
Eton Way, Orrell
Garden Design & Quality Landscaping
Quality work & reliability
at competitive prices
Call today for a
FREE quote
01942 510 986
07710 405 214
SMN
Tree and Landscape Management
West Lancashire District Council approved contractor
Day: 07970 521 692 Eve: 01942 214 121
www.smntrees.co.uk steve@smntrees.co.uk
Qualified Tree Surgeon NCA RFS NPTC
All types of Tree and Hedge Work
Fully Insured
Felling, Reducing, Pruning, Shaping
Visit our website to see previous projects
www.ashlandscapingandmaintenance.co.uk
Established 1994
• •
• Gates and railings
• Repairs and restorations
• Ironwork and welding
• Traditional forge work
over 20 years experience
ALL ASPECTS OF TREE WORK UNDERTAKEN
Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202
The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland
TELEPHONE:
01695 623 909
07903 290 878
QUALIFIED & INSURED
FREE ESTIMATES

86
Test drive
Kia Niro
The all-new Kia Niro hybrid is propelled by an
orthodox 1.6-litre GDi petrol engine, paired
up with a 32kW electric motor. There’s also
a lithium-ion polymer battery where energy is
saved. This layout is like the one in Toyota’s Prius,
and manages an official combined mpg of up to
74.3mpg, alongside CO2 emissions starting from
88g/km.
The new Kia Niro’s body is rectangular, but it’s not
at all disagreeable. The Niro has a simple, fetching
form, that has hints of Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)
about it. At the front, the Sportage’s genetic
material comes through – most markedly around
the headlights. What’s more, the rump of the allnew
Niro is easy-on-the-eye, with a conventional
tailgate decorated with touches of silver trim.
The Niro will seat four-adults comfortably, or five at
a squeeze. The load area is a decent size – certainly
large enough for a regular sized family’s needs.
The steering wheel is pleasingly thick to grasp and
the switchgear and dials are intuitive and clear to
use. The only difference between the Niro and a
conventionally powered car is an energy flow meter
replacing the rev counter. There’s also a drivetrain
pictorial showing the energy stream between the
Kia Niro’s engine, battery and wheels.
On start-up, the all-new Kia Niro sounds like it’s not
turned on. That’s because, as with all hybrids, the
engine under the bonnet doesn’t cut in instantly.
Instead of any tick-over sounds, you hear a chime,
signifying that the Niro is running. It’s not long
before the 105PS petrol powered unit makes its
presence known, though.
On the road, the Niro delivers even-tempered
performance, thanks to a six-cog automatic
gearbox. And, while the Kia Niro is no out and out
performer, the additional power the petrol engine
receives from the electric motor is appreciable. The
all-new Kia Niro also feels planted and deals with the
straights contentedly. It’s only on more blemished
B-road surfaces that the Niro’s firm suspension
results in a bit of jitteriness. The Kia Niro has to have
a stiff set-up, though, to cope with the extra heft of
the hybrid assembly. This firmness means that body
lean is hardly noticeable in corners.
The all-new Kia Niro hybrid comes in four levels of
trim, categorised ‘1’, ‘2’, ‘3’ and ‘First Edition’. All are
well-appointed with driver assistance, comfort, and
connectivity features. Every Kia Niro has a lane-keep
assist system, hill-start assist control, cruise control
and a speed limiter. The new car also comes factoryfitted
with support smartphone connectivity, music
streaming and a DAB radio.
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

87
Car Paintwork Repairs
We’ll fix your;
Paintwork Scratches
Bumper Scuffs
Alloy Wheel Damage
Minor Dents
No VAT
charged!
Quality repairs with a lifetime guarantee.
Mobile Service – we come to you!
For your free estimate, call Dave on
07970 915 504
c/o JW Gaskell Garages,
Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge WN6 9DR
I’ll repair your:
Bumper scuffs
Vandal scratches
Alloy wheel repairs
Minor dents
No VAT
charged!
We’ll beat any
quote!
Call Chris on
01942 215 111 or 07969 357 751
www.cosmeticar.co.uk

88
Home Services
- sponsored by
as seen
ON TV
Stone, Tile & Grout
Cleaning experts
Tile and grout cleaning in your
bathrooms & kitchen
• Limestone/Travertine floors
• Swimming pools
• Terracotta & Slate floors
• Victorian tile floors
• Laminate/vinyl floors
Ovenclean will transform your oven and
put the sparkle back into your kitchen!
• Ovens
• Grills
• Extractors
• BBQ’s
• Hobs
• Ranges
• Microwaves
• AGA’s
Call today to book your oven clean
0800 840 7127 or
07724 694337
www.ovenclean.com
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote;
01942 470 089 or
07834 241 642
www.jcstoneandtilecare.co.uk

89
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• traditional service, state of the art results •
Providing professional carpet &
upholstery cleaning since 1993
Carpets Upholstery Curtains
Leather Oriental Rugs Hard Floors
For more information call:
01942 470 081
Visit our website and check out the testimonials.
www.alliancechemdry.co.uk
FREE *
GUTTER
CLEARING
*with any cleaning
or painting package
purchased
UPVC CLEANING
• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.
CONSERVATORIES
• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)
JETWASHING
• Driveways & Patios etc.
EXTERIOR PAINTING
• Fascias, Rendered Walls etc.
SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF
ALL CLEANING PACKAGES
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01942 470 089 / 07834 241 642
www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com
Wigan Good
Trader Of
The Year
2015
5 star rating with
Wigan Trading
Standards Good
Trader Scheme
• Carpets • Rugs
• Fabric & Leather Upholstery
Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote
Call - 01257 251221
Mobile - 07908 770808
www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk
Telephone:
07881 816839
Carroll’s Carpet & Upholstery offer a professional
and reliable cleaning service. We clean all types of
Carpet, Rugs and Upholstery including leather all at an
affordable price.
www.carrolls-carpetandupholstery.co.uk
Domestic Cleaning Oven Cleaning
Carpet Cleaning Ironing Service Dry Cleaning
07739 754432
3 Station Road, Parbold, WN8 7DA
www.dreamcleanswigan.co.uk
Advertise here
Advertise your business in this
section from £39 + VAT a month
For more information please phone
01695 627 999

90
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
Want your business to grow in 2017?
Advertising packages start from
£39 + VAT per month
Call 01695 627999 for details.
Little mags, BIG reach
• 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

91
J.Dillon Electrical
Call: 01257 424918 or 07821 139826
www.jdillonelectrical.co.uk
• All types of electrical work
• 20+ years experience
• Friendly, fast and reliable
• 24 hour call out service
• 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
All electrical work
undertaken
• Rewire specialists
• Extra sockets & lights fitted
• Mains board upgrades
Free quotations
www.ghewigan.co.uk
24 hour
Call Out
Service
A.J.S.
BAILEYS
ELECTRICAL
01942 215 769
07739 709 005
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
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
GARAGE DOOR
REPAIRS
All GARAGE DOORS REPAIRED :
Springs, Cables, Locks, Rollers etc.
Doors of all ages repaired
01744 894939 07891 330214 NO FIX, NO CHARGE!
www.garagedoorandlock.co.uk
Strawberry Cottage, Pimbo Road, Upholland WN8 9QL

92
Create your Dream
Home today…
Our Master Craftsman Derek and his friendly
team will help you create your dream home.
All aspects of decorating - from simple
painting or wallpapering to complex murals.
50 years wallpapering expertise.
100% satisfaction guaranteed.
Call Derek today for a free consultation & quote
Call 07831 505 672
email franklindecorators@gmail.com
www.wigandecorators.co.uk
Ian Martland
Painter & Decorator
Established 1990
• All aspects of Decorating
• Interior & Exterior
• Free Estimates
01695 632 477 | 07748 195 809
Award Winner
Exterior & Interior Decorating
Domestic & Commercial work undertaken
Competitive rate
Call Graham now - free estimate provided
01257 426 234
www.topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk
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
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

93
Arley Cabinet Company Ltd
• Kitchens & Bedrooms since 1952 •
We measure
we make
we fit
and have done for 60 years.
Visit our showroom or call us
today for a FREE estimate
www.arleycabinets.com
Arley Cabinet Co. Ltd
214a Gidlow Lane
Wigan
WN6 7BN
Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm
Sat: 9am - 12pm
tel: 01942 246190
www.expertcomputers.co.uk
‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner
• Re-upholstery
• Repair
• Large range of materials
to choose from
• Domestic & Commercial
work undertaken
Master Upholsterer with over 30 years experience
Call - 01942 238 427
email: ken@oldfieldupholstery.co.uk
Want your business to grow in 2017?
Advertising packages start from
£39 + VAT per month
Call 01695 627999 for details.
Little mags, BIG reach

Open:
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories,
Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
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’)
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
Wind Turbines
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 Busine s Park
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
94
Elite Bathrooms
Installation & Tiling
• Bathrooms
• Wall Tiling
• Floor Tiling 07703 448890
FREE Estimates 01942 208926
Plumbing & Heating Specialist
Complete Bathroom
& Tiling service
John Bailey - 01942 495785
or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238
Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan
Great Value Bathrooms!
• 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
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service
For more information call
01695 627999
Gel
Nails
normally £20
now £15
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
T
Y
R
E
S
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
Mo sy Lea Road
..and motorcycles too
FREE
Car Health Check
Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Book
your FREE
home survey
for a l residents of Croston and Bretherton
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Ca l now on
Keep me until you need me!
01772 603923
REPAIR & WELDING
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
we make it our business to help yours
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
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

95
IAIN LOWE
01695 623236
• Central Heating
• Plumbing
• Gas Appliances
• Gas Safety Checks
• Landlord’s Certificates
• Maintenance/Breakdowns
No
call out
fee
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
506515
A Genuine Family Run Business
With Friendly & Courteous Staff
SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL
HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER
REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES
• 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
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
C&
D
Plumbing and Heating
Heating & Bathroom Specialist
Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P
07973714222
01695625171
Specialists in boiler installations, repair & maintenance
All work fully warranted
Email ops@hotmail.co.uk
Book a boiler health check for £65
& get a carbon monoxide
alarm (RRP £29) FREE!
Call the team on
01744 892437

96
All our work is fully insured & guaranteed
References available on request
Call now for a free quotation
House Extensions
New Kitchens
& Bathrooms
Garage Conversions
Full Refurbishments
01942 561 848 | 07725 909 257
www.freshbuildconstruction.co.uk
Ashurst Building &
Roofing Services
All types of building and roofing
work undertaken including;
Extensions & Conservatories
New roofs & Roof repairs
: 01942 832747
7747 725999
Family run business with
25 years of experience
Call David today for a free quotation
TELEPHONE: 01942 832747
Mobile: 07747 725999
K Stone
Building Services
All types of building
work undertaken
25 years experience
• Brickwork
• Pointing
• Garden Walls
• Patios
• Joinery
• Flagging
• Alterations
• Plastering
01942 495412 / 07974 496676
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

97
M H Roofing Ltd
Established over 15 years
Friendly advice and competitive rates
No job too small
• High Performance Felt Flat Roof Systems
• Storm Damage and Insurance Work
• Slating and Tiling full roofs
• Poiniting and Guttering • Fascia Boards
Call 01744 884117
or 07702 693225
www.mhroofingltd.co.uk
Fully Insured & Insurance
Backed Guarantees
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
• WILSON BROS •
Est. 1985
Roofing & Roofline Specialists
• All aspects of maintenance & repair
• Fascia & soffit installation
• Guttering and felting services
Call us now for a free estimate
01695 633173
Colin: 07958 302 166
Brian: 07760 160 988
www.wilson-bros.co.uk

98
A View From
The Lump
Local gossip, gripes and goings-on
Axe ‘Green Belt’
John Prescott, former Prime
Minister and chief mangle
machine of the English language,
once proclaimed: “The Green Belt
is a Labour achievement, and we
intend to build on it.”
Guffaws all round but ol’ Two Jags
wasn’t far wrong, especially where
Wigan is concerned. Orrell and
Winstanley/Bryn are the latest
areas to be targeted by the money
men.
So what’s my solution? Easy - get
rid of ‘Green Belt’. Before you
reach for the red ink, allow me to
explain. The term has become so
misunderstood over the years that
it is now being taken to mean that
nothing would ever be built on
it; that it is sacrosanct. Politicians
and civil servants would have you
believe this, but it is misleading.
Green Belt is a post-war construct
merely to protect land for a certain
period in time, usually throughout
the duration of a council’s Local
Plan. It is not a guarantee of
greenness in perpetuity. It’s a
fact that every single home, shop
and factory was built on land that
was once green fields. And guess
what? It will happen time and
again in the future. It’s a belt, see...
and just like the one around your
waist, it needs slackening when
under pressure.
So by all means call it something
else - Safeguarded Land may be a
more accurate description. But we
need to get rid of the term Green
Belt. Because, much like Prezza’s
vocabulary, the true meaning is
lost on most normal people.
Special K
Talking about misunderstandings,
I do hope the new Friends of
Orrell Station do something about
the ‘Trains to Kirby’ sign at the
entrance. Whichever idiot wrote
that forgot the second ‘k’. What’s
more irritating that, further down,
Kirkby is spelt correctly. For those
who are interested, the nearest
place called ‘Kirby’ happens to be
in America. And I somehow think
Northern Rail’s track maintenance
budget doesn’t stretch that far...
Fat chance
Unless you’ve been living on Mars
for the last few months, you will be
aware we have a new £5 note in
circulation which has apparently
upset vegans because it contains
animal fat. One snooty cafe, which
caters for this niche market, has
even refused to accept them.
Shame really, as apparently if you
let these fivers glide against a
vinyl LP on a turntable, they start
playing the music. Which got
me thinking... animals.... music...
which artists could I find in my
collection with a connection to
both? Meat Loaf, Def Leppard,
Steppenwolf, The Monkees.
Maybe playing my Meat Is Murder
LP by The Smiths would be the
ultimate irony though...
The West Whinge
So, as I (sort of) predicted may
happen in my last column, Donald
J. Trump is now leader-elect of
the Free World. I’m pleased to
see however that the impending
responsibilities which will be
placed upon his shoulders
hasn’t stopped him acting like
an embarrassing drunk uncle on
Twitter. Not only has he been
holding forth about the big
issues of the day, such as whether
he’ll present the US version of
The Apprentice again, he’s been
moaning about the media
coverage of his victory like a tinfoil
hat-wearing conspiracy theorist
who has just lost a very dull and
unimportant parish council byelection.
That should make the
next four years interesting then...

99
WHY MOVE WHEN
YOU CAN IMPROVE
First for quality • First for service
First for reliability
No contractors • No salesmen
Just a smile and a honest price
From a family run business
Want to feel safe in
your own home?
Want a door that provides ultimate style & security?
Quality installations of windows,
doors, fascia’s, soffits and gutters
®
Rockdoor
Approved
Installer Reg No
02767596
SISTER COMPANY OF FOXWELLS BUILDERS
Established 16 years
Call us for a Free Quote
Office Number: 01942 871 777
Free Phone: 0800 7566 616
Office & Showroom: Unit 1, Bag Lane, Enterprise Centre, Bag Lane, Atherton, M46 0JN
warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk