Local Life - Wigan - May 2018

LocalLife
Wigan Edition May 2018
Ten Years Old
Pages 38 - 39
Burscough Walk
Pages 78 - 81
The Billinge
split...
Pages 28 - 30
Local News Motoring Jack’s Tracks Garden Diary Event2Go Home Services
locallife247.co.uk

2
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Photo for illustration purposes only

4
No magic
buttons
Ctrl+Alt+Del are the buttons you press to reset
your computer, but sadly I’ve discovered that,
in life, there are no magic buttons to press as I try to
reset my relationship with food.
I’m now a fully-up member of the DT2 gang, a
person with diabetes type 2. Which means for me
that, instead of pies, pizzas and the morning pastry,
it is nuts, leaves and berries at least for 8 weeks as I
attempt to turn back the clock, along with my blood
sugar levels, with a 800 calories a day diet.
Luckily for me, a defect in my eyes was spotted early
doors by the opticians Hepworth & Hall who used
their state of the art retinal scanner and told me to
get to the Doc, post haste. So the lesson here is if you
ever get the chance to get a health check-up of any
sort, do grab it even if you think, like I did, that you’re
in fairly good nick. You might regret it if you don’t.
Anyway, on a more positive note (!), Local Life turns
10 this month. That happened quickly didn’t it? Our
first issue was produced in a bedroom on Sandy
Lane, Orrell, and we are now based a few hundred
yards away producing magazines for Wigan, St
Helens, Chorley, West Lancashire and Leigh each
month.
Sincere thanks from all at Local Life go to our loyal
advertisers, our wonderful distributors and to you,
the readers who value our magazines for what we
bring to your life. Local Life was launched to inform
and inspire our readers, and hopefully we can
manage that for the next ten years too!
See you next time
Chris Pearce, Publisher
chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

5
In this issue
The Billinge
split...
28
Make May
purple
Regulars
35 Planning
44 Puzzle Corner
48 Class from the past
Sections
42 Property
50 Health
54 Travel
58 Legal & Finance
60 Business View
73 Garden Diary
82 Test Drive
68 Events2Go
73 Gardening
81 Pets
85 Home Services
50
10 items
no kitchen should
be without
64
Jack’s Tracks visits
Burscough
78
Test Drive
DS 7
Crossback
82
Next issue - June 2018
Advertising deadline - Thursday, 10 May
Published - Wednesday, 23 May
Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park,
Winstanley Road, Orrell, WN5 7XB
Telephone: 01695 627 999
Publisher: Chris
Sales: Nicola
Editorial: Niamh
Design: Peter
Distribution: Sally
Accounts: Sam
LocalLife
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 13,299 private homes and
businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland,
Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and Pemberton.
The next issue is delivered to 13,025 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
or Tesco Extra in Wigan.
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.
locallifemagazine247 @locallifemedia events2go

6
Uproar in Haigh
Haigh Hall is starting to look a little
different, and it’s safe to say a lot of
locals aren’t happy about it.
There’s a lot of upset felt towards Contessa, the new
owner of Haigh Hall and the way the hotel is said
to be taking away the historic value of the building.
Locals are angry about the white lines in the
carriageway leading up to the hall and some have
said it now ‘looks like an airport runway.’
The lines were painted on Thursday, March 29, and
neighbours voiced their annoyance immediately,
with some stating cars are now speeding near the
hall.
On Sunday, April 22 from 12pm, a peaceful mass
picnic has been scheduled in the grounds.
Denise Honor said: “The new owners have been
asking visitors to the woodland areas surrounding
the hall to ‘move on.’
“When they took the lease for the hall, public access
was guaranteed so they have no right to do this.”
Lucy Derbyshire posted on the ‘Aspull as we know
it’ Facebook page about new gates which block
access to the hall near the golf shop.
With many residents stating how difficult it is for
those with disabilities, pushchairs, and prams to
visit Haigh Hall.
Denise continued: “The hall was a lot better when it
was in the hands of Wigan Council.
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7
Chequer these out
Up Holland will soon be home to
over a hundred new properties as
planning permission is given the
green light.
West Lancashire Council’s planning department
gave plans the go ahead for the proposed
development in on Chequer Lane, Upholland.
The proposed 116 homes will be constructed by
Morris Homes on a 4.96 hectare site on Chequer
Lane, at the junction with Tower Hill Road by the
M58 bridge.
Wainhomes will also be laying bricks on the land
as they plan to construct 66 new homes at the site,
meaning the new proposal will spike the number of
properties on the land to 182.
Proposed plans include the construction of 18 three
bedroom semi-detached houses, 21 three bedroom
detached houses, and 77 four bedroom detached
houses.
It’s safe to say neighbours aren’t happy, as Chris
Gradwell said: “Upholland can not support another
116 dwellings in a small area with such bad roads
and poor publlic transport.”

8
Literary Star
A Winstanley student soars to literary
success with two national prizes.
Lucie Stanfield, 17, had been awarded first prize in
two national creative writing competitions.
Lucie, who is studying English Literature, Creative
Writing and History at Winstanley College, was
picked as the overall winner in the youth category
from hundreds of entries for The Army’s poetry
competition.
Her poem, ‘Truce’, entwines two different
perspectives of Dunkirk, one from real soldiers and
the other from young boys playing soldiers.
On Tuesday, April 24, Lucie will attend the awards
ceremony at London’s National Army Museum
where she will also read the poem.
The writer also won Chester University’s Flash
Fiction competition, with a short story being no
more than 360 words.
Her story ‘The Mermaid’s Purse’
was partly inspired by her
own childhood memories and
love of the beach but has a
deliberately shocking ending.
Gareth Twose, Lucie’s English
teacher, is understandably
extremely proud commenting:
“Lucie has an amazing talent
for writing, combined with a
fantastic imagination which is
a winning formula.”
Lucie added: “When I found out
I had won two competitions I
was surprised but very happy.
“I’m especially looking forward
to going to the awards
ceremony in London next
month.”

9

10
In loving memory
A new community garden on Tracks
Lane, Billinge, has been dedicated to
Ellen Higginbottom.
Local volunteers with the help of Wigan Council
have created a community garden in memory of
Ellen Higginbottom who was murdered in Orrell
Park last year.
After her death, the garden area became a focal
point for floral tributes to the popular Winstanley
College student.
Corin Lomax, a local volunteer involved in the
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LocalLife
garden project from the beginning, said: “It was
the obvious spot to leave floral tributes to Ellen,
so transforming the entire area into a memorial
garden inspired by her was a natural progression.”
A bench complete with memorial plaque and a
box hedge has been installed by volunteers from
Wigan Council’s greenspaces team, and Moss Bank
Nurseries in Leigh donated bedding plants which
will be replenished by Moss Bank as the seasons’
progress.
The locals who have volunteered to maintain the
site hope visitors will use Ellen’s garden as a place of
quiet reflection and contemplation.
Organisers and volunteers also hope the garden
will eventually become eligible to enter the Wigan
in Bloom competition.
And local artist, Vikky Crompton, plans to make big
mosaic stepping stones for Ellen’s Garden alongside
anyone who is interested.
To get involved with the mosaics or help with
garden maintenance, please contact Joe Taylor on
01942 700060 or email joe41@blueyonder.co.uk

11
For Nathan
A family fun run is being held in
memory of Nathan Christy who sadly
lost his life to suicide in 2016.
The event, held at Haigh Woodland Park, will raise
awareness of the stigma surrounding mental health
issues.
Sunday, May 6 would have been Nathan’s 27th
birthday, and so it is fitting the fun run will be held
in his honour.
Arrive at 8.30am for a 9am start, and run or walk
1km or 5km and raise awareness for mental health.
Organisers said: “We are encouraging people to
start talking about their mental health issues with
the aim of stopping the stigma surrounding mental
health issues and preventing loss of life by suicide.
Entry fees are £3 for children (up to 16 years) and £5
for adults (17+). Participants can sign up at https://
bookitzone.com/noreen_christy/RN2FFX
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12
Wigan Borough’s cultural future is
set for a boost thanks to Arts Council
England (ACE) funding.
The council has secured £10,000 from ACE to go
towards creating a new cultural strategy with the
help of three experts with more than 40 years’
experience between them.
Sue Potts, Debbie Chan and Maria Brewster were
awarded the contract and have a long, credible
history working with local authorities.
Ambitious art
Donna Hall, chief executive of the council and lead
officer for arts and culture in Greater Manchester
said: “We have a significant cultural offer in Wigan
Borough thanks to council-led opportunities.
“Having a diverse cultural offer is something we’re
proud of and want to grow.
“We want to put Wigan Borough at the forefront as
a culturally thriving district and are looking forward
to Sue, Debbie and Maria engaging with local
people, businesses and organisations to see how
the borough’s offer should be shaped.
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“This strategy will allow us to focus our efforts and
will benefit the local economy and the wellbeing of
residents.”
The trio said: “We are very excited about working to
raise Wigan Borough’s profile.
“We hope that the strategy will help the borough’s
cultural ambitions to flourish, enabling local talent
to be recognised and developed and make the arts
available to everyone.”
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14
Pamper package winner!
Congratulations to Louise Swadkins
from Winstanley who was the lucky
winner of the pamper package for
two at Venus Beauty Studios.
To celebrate the expansion of the Salon, Venus
Beauty Studio gave readers the chance to win a half
hour treatment and use of the GYM ETC facilities.
Louise, of Costessey Way, received her voucher
and told Local Life that she would be treating her
mum to the spa day. Louise added, “I have wanted
to treat my Mum for a while now and when I saw
the spa competition I thought that was a perfect
idea. “We are so excited and can’t wait to book our
treatments.”
Louise is pictured with Clare Roughley, owner of
Venus Beauty Studios.
Remember to be in with a chance of winning one of
our great prizes, keep reading Local Life!
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15
Pocket full of sunshine
Eveyon’es invited to Bispham Methodist Church for
their Summer Fair.
Local families are welcome to enjoy a fun filled day
together in the community on Saturday, May 12,
from 10.30am-1.30pm.
There’ll be a car wash if your motor needs a little
TLC, plants to buy, nearly new baby clothes, as well
as cakes and crafts. Why not try your luck at the
tombola and raffle? Children can enjoy the activities
including Ladybird habitat houses.
Lunch will be provided at the cafe with a special
barbecue to get you in the summer mood.
For more info, call Brenda on 01942 203772.
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

16
Be our Guest
Ex-pupils of the old Abraham Guest
School in Orrell are invited to a
reunion.
The reunion was originally publicised for the 2002
class, but organiser Chris Parkinson opened the
event to all ex-pupils as he wanted it to feel like
‘more of a celebration than a reunion.’
Originally based on Orrell Road, Abraham Guest
was demolished in 2010 and the school moved to
Greenhey, off City Road, and changed its name last
year to Dean Trust Wigan.
Chris said: “Everyone was on about organising a
reunion, so I thought I’d put something together.
“But a lot of people were thinking ‘Oh I might not
see anyone I know,’ and I didn’t want anyone to miss
out, so I thought we should open it up to everyone.
“Quite a few tickets have been sold at the pub,
and I’ve sold quite a few personally. I keep putting
reminders on FB to make
sure people are aware.
“I was a bit nervous at
first wondering if people
would turn up, but a lot
of people are looking
forward to it.
“The DJ is going to put
pictures on a screen, and
I’m having a dance off with my old head of year Mr
Jeff Balmer.
“I thought it was a good thing to do. It’s where I grew
up and the school holds some special memories. I’m
definitely looking forward to it.”
The reunion will be held at the Masonic Hall,
Pemberton, on Saturday, April 28 at 7pm.
If you’d like to attend, tickets are £7.50 and can be
purchased from the White Swan pub in Pemberton.

17

18
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19
Once you’ve meandered around the newly
developed plant area and gift shop, why not take
some time out to visit The Plantation Restaurant in
its country colonial setting. Discover a delightful
selection of delicious homemade meals, using
the freshest of locally sourced ingredients. This
is a great food venue, from breakfast through to
afternoon tea.
Garden centre owner, Richard Allison says, “We
pride ourselves on offering a great range of
quality gardening, lifestyle and giftware products
supported by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable
team. Our experienced buyers are continuously
sourcing exciting new products to inspire our
customers.”
The future really does look bright for Warbreck.
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20
Caffeine fix
One of Orrell’s longest running coffee
mornings will soon be at a new venue.
The Orrell & Billinge Community Network’s event
is held on the last Friday of each month at the
Methodist Church on Church Drive, and will soon
move to the church hall behind the new Living Faith
church on Church Street.
On Friday, May 26, 10am, the first coffee morning
will be held at the new location, where in addition
to hot drinks, toast and teacakes, there is also a brica-brac
stall and a popular home-made cake stall.
The profits from the coffee mornings pay for the
Over 75’s Christmas party, and donations are
also made to charity and to the Orrell & Billinge
Community Network.
Organiser Joan Winstanley said “We’re delighted to
be moving to the church hall as it’s a lovely building
and we’d like to thank the Living Faith church for
making us so welcome at their new home.
“All of the volunteers are looking forward to
welcoming customers, old and new, to the first
coffee morning at the Living Faith church”.
The last coffee morning at the Methodist Church on
Church Drive will be held on Friday, April 27.
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21

22
Wigan Comic Con
Funky Figures, Wigan presents its
popular Comic Con at Robin Park
Sports Centre once more.
For the little and big kids of Wigan, the event is on
Saturday, May 26, 10am-4pm.
Special guests include John Challis, John Altman
and Harry Smith “Davey Boy Smith Jr,” alongside
artists/authors A.S. Chamber, Dave Windett, and
Sam Johnson “Geek Girl.”
There’ll be trade stalls selling all kinds of geeky
merchandise, as well as a Cosplay competition, and
photo opportunities. Attendees can enjoy retro
gaming and arcade machines, with a chill out area
for younger children too.
Funky Figures said: “We love our Wigan show. This
is our home town and where our journey started.”
If you’d like to attend the exciting event, family
pass tickets are £20; ages 16 & over are £7; ages
15 & under are £5; kids under 5 go free! Tickets are
available at www.funkyfigures.co.uk or pay on the
door from 11am.
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23

24
Wigan’s Den
The Rotary Club in Wigan hopes to
donate cash to local community
groups at its next ‘Dragons Den’
event.
Local groups based in postcode districts of WN1,
WN3, WN5, WN6 are invited to submit requests
for funding, which if selected, will be invited to
put their case to ‘The Dragons’ in a three minute
presentation.
The funds granted to community groups in the
‘Dragon’s Den’ initiative come directly from money
raised by Wigan Rotary’s Santa Float operation in
December.
Wigan Rotary Club President Gwyneth Millard said:
“In these difficult times, I’m sure there are groups in
the Wigan area that could use a donation of a few
hundred pounds to help with their project or event.
“Twelve groups were successful last year, but the
Dragons had to decline a number of applications.”
“Last year’s groups ranging from an Over 60’s group
to a mother and toddler group entered ‘The Den’
and came away with a donation.”
Bids of up to £500 can be considered, but the
closing date for entries is Sunday, April 29.
Full details and an application form are available via
www.wiganrotaryclub.org.uk or by ringing 07813
471000.
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25
Helping the community
Wigan will hold its own Stroke
Awareness Day thanks to members of
Wigan Rotary Club.
On Saturday, April 21, 10am-4pm Wigan Rotary
alongside the Stroke Association UK will hold a
Stroke Awareness Day.
The event is named in honour of the services that
Rtn. Dr Venk Mani, who sadly passed away in 2016,
gave to Stroke Awareness.
His Worship the Mayor of Wigan, Cllr. Bill Clarke and
the Mayoress will be in attendance.
Rotary President Gwyneth Millard said: “The event
will be held at Tesco super-market off Central Park
Way where medically trained members of club are
offering free blood pressure checks.
“The Rotary Club of Wigan wants to encourage
people to take this opportunity to have a free check
and help themselves in the prevention of strokes in
our community.
“We will also be presenting Tesco with a Certificate
in recognition of their community work and the
help given to the Rotary.”

26
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27
Gold Star
Wigan Council received a gold
certificate for its positive involvement
in Transport for Great Manchester.
The council is one of twenty businesses that have
been celebrated for inspiring thousands of people
to opt for more sustainable journeys to work.
Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM’s) Travel
Choices team awarded companies gold, silver or
bronze certificates for encouraging employees to
walk, cycle, carshare or take public transport.
Rebecca Heron, director for economy and skills at
Wigan Council said: “We’re delighted to have been
awarded the gold award from TfGM as we have
worked extremely hard to encourage employees to
think about their travel arrangements over the last
two years as part of the Staff Deal.
“We have introduced a car sharing initiative in a bid
to lower carbon emissions with the added bonus of
reserved parking spaces and reduced fuel costs.
“We also kick-started a bike-pooling programme,
allowing staff to travel to nearby meetings or site
visits on either an electric or hybrid bike, which is
great for both the environment and health and
wellbeing. “We look forward to continuing this work
and encouraging more people to travel green.”

28
The Billinge
split...
With Local Elections imminent, David Sudworth
discovers the story behind Billinge’s split
It’s possibly one of the most bizarre Parliamentary speeches ever
committed to Hansard.
But just before 9pm on July 6, 1972, MP Gordon Oakes stood up in
the House of Commons and gave his reasoning as to why part of
Billinge was soon to join Rainford and Haydock in the new county
of Merseyside.
“They are all Lancashire towns, based on
heavy industry, glass making, formerly
on coal mining. The people there speak
with a clear and distinct Lancashire

29
accent. The people there, for example, watch Rugby
League, not Liverpool or Everton. The people in
those areas eat tripe and onions, not Scouse.”
Oakes’ speech may have seemed, in the context of
local government reorganisation, a bit bizarre. But
in fact, he was arguing that although there was
nothing wrong with those places joining together,
he did have grave reservations about them
becoming part of a greater Merseyside area.
He explained: “They talk differently, work at different
occupations. The problem is of urban renewal. That
type of problem is totally different from the problems
of Huyton, Kirkby, Halewood and Whiston, which are
new, expanding towns, where they have basically
“Totally different to the
problems of Huyton”
light industry and support Liverpool or Everton with
equal vociferousness, while poor little Huyton can
hardly get a team going at all. Sport is important in
the constitution of an area, just as important as the
problems of youth facilities, schools, social services,
and things of that kind.”
Within two years, the deed had been done. Part of
Billinge, along with Rainford, Haydock, Crank, Moss
Bank, Kings Moss and other areas, had become part
of a new St Helens borough within the County of
Merseyside.
Despite it being 44 years
since the changes, they
still rankle, especially
in Billinge where some
feel the village was
unnecessarily divided.
Many of those blame
Edward Heath’s
Government, who
were in power at the
time. However, a
dig into the archives
reveals that in fact Billinge’s administrative divorce
from Wigan predated the local government changes
of 1974 by over 100 years.
Billinge as a whole was part of the Deanery of
Wigan up until February 2, 1837, when the Wigan
Poor Law Union came into force. The law divided
Billinge into two different townships; Chapel End
and Higher End. By the end of that century, Billinge
Urban District Council had been formed. In 1927, it
joined Winstanley township to become Billinge &
Winstanley Urban District Council.
It’s important to stress though that, at this point,
they were not ‘part’ of Wigan - Billinge & Winstanley
UDC was an authority in its own right.
Fast-forward to 1974 and townships up and down
the country were allocated into different ‘new’ areas.
Some of the original suggestions survived; some
fell by the wayside (there was talk at one point of
Ashton being part of St
Helens).
Billinge & Winstanley Council’s final meeting in 1974
However, scanning the
newspaper coverage at
the time, there’s very little
in the way of any concerns
about loss of civic
identity. Indeed, local MP
Michael McGuire said in a
Parliamentary debate that
he’d had no complaints
about the situation from
constituents.

30
Most of the concerns centred around
more basic matters; namely pounds and
pence.
“Rate Shock - 61p in the £ for New Metro”
cried one local newspaper, reporting on
the housing rates being set.
Locals in the Merseyside part of Billinge
were equally unimpressed. One said: “I
have got a free bus pass but can only use
it to go to St Helens or Liverpool, but not
Wigan or Orrell. I can go to Southport, but
only if it is via St Helens. Why could they not have
joined the whole of Billinge to Wigan? To me, this is
just another case of planning with no consideration
for human beings.”
“Local politics? They are
a joke... ”
Life wasn’t plain sailing for those who worked for the
new councils either. Almost 8,000 workers were paid
the wrong amounts in the first few weeks. Although
one cleaner at Wigan Metro wasn’t too fussed - her
normal wage of £2.50 shot up to £25!
And even those areas which, on the face of it,
weren’t massively effected, weren’t happy.
At the final meeting of Orrell Urban District Council,
councillors slammed the Metro as being ‘arrogant’
for wanting to tear down their Council Chamber and
turn it into offices.
Orrell Urban District Council’s final sitting
Councillor John Fitzpatrick stormed: “Local politics?
They are a joke if this is the way they are going to
carry out their business.”
However, Wigan’s first ever Mayor, Cllr Bob Lyons,
sought to soothe divisions: “I appreciate the fears of
many people that there will be a feeling of isolation
and loss of contact. I would like to assure people
that I and all my colleagues will be available for
interview and advice. I know the new members will
serve to the best of their ability.”
44 years on and it’s fair to say that, while the financial
grumbles still rumble on, the sense of civic loss has
grown. But perhaps it is unfair to push the blame
onto those who made the 1974 decision.
Since then, any new local government reorganisation
plans have been mostly about making areas bigger,
rather than going back to the pre-1974 model.
Moreover, regardless of what area of Billinge you
live, both parishes are ultimately controlled by the
same ruling party (Labour) in their
respective town halls.
As for (since deceased) MP Gordon
Oakes’ pronouncements; pigs’
innards are no longer consumed in
the same quantities as it was in the
early 1970s; accents have grown
more fluid along with occupations,
but football is still not as popular as
rugby.
Billinge just before it became part of Merseyside
Just goes to show that MPs
talking tripe isn’t a wholly new
phenomenon...

31

32

ADVERTISEMENT
33

34
Ruff play
Wigan Bulldogs ARLFC
is on the lookout for the
members to join the ranks.
The amateur rugby league club play
games at Bulldog Park, Scot Lane
playing fields, and are looking for new
players.
Darren Lindley, Chairman of the club said: “I’ve been
here for 20 years and I took over nine years ago,
when we only had an open age team.
“I turned it around, and now we’ve had a juniors
team for five year. We’ve also had national lottery
funding that has helped a lot.
“The open age team is in the NW Men’s League
Division 3 and the kids are in the NW Junior League.
“There are a lot of clubs in Wigan, so you’re almost
fighting to recruit. But all our kids are new to the
sport, so they’re learning the game with us.
“One of our players two years ago went to Canada
with the England Lion Hearts. It’s a big thing for
any amateur player. And we’ve got another player
going to Italy with them in July.
“We’re on the up this year. We’re getting more
notice now, and we’re getting recognition for all the
hard work.”
The team trains and plays at Scot Lane playing fields
on Stadium Way. Open age training is Thursday,
6.30pm and kids training is on a Saturday morning
at 10.30am.
For more information about the club please call
Darren on 07761 361816 or Natalie on 07921
506719.
Sailing away
Eager kids can try something new with a water
course at Scotmans Flash.
The six week Junior Beginners Sailing, Windsurfing
& Kayaking courses will begin on Saturday, June 9,
1pm-4pm and finish on Saturday, June 30, 1pm-
4pm.
Participants will follow RYA and BCU training
schemes for beginners, and all students who
complete the beginner course will recieve free
membership to the Tuesday evening activity club.
The course is £60, which also includes logbooks and
certificates where applicable.
To book, email outdooradventure@wlct.org or
telephone 01942 828508 for more information.
For more events, please check out our E2G on pages
68-72.

35
Planning Matters
Billinge
Orrell
Winstanley College, Winstanley Road: Two storey 57 Moor Road: Change of use from A2 (Financial and
extension and alterations to social science block professional services) to A3 (Cafe) together with
to create additional classrooms and associated installation of extractor flue to rear (retrospective
facilities (ref: A/18/85238/FULL).
application)(ref: A/18/85305/CU).
Kitt Green
Up Holland
H J Heinz Co Ltd, Walthew House Lane: To construct 86E Ormskirk Road: Change of Use from residential
a new detached substation and associated works to mixed use of residential and dog grooming
(ref: A/18/85133/FULL).
business (Class A2)(ref: 2018/0299/FUL).
For more information on these plans, visit: www.wigan.gov.uk
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DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

36
Changing lanes
TransPennine Express customers in Wigan are being
asked to prepare for a major timetable change from
May.
Train times and services between Edinburgh,
Glasgow, Motherwell, Lockerbie, Carlisle, Penrith,
Oxenholme, Lancaster, Preston, Wigan and
Manchester will soon look quite different.
From Sunday, May 20, customers are asked to plan
ahead the changes which are part of the Great
North Rail Project (GNRP).
Services to and from Scotland will run direct
between Preston and Manchester Piccadilly
meaning the journey will no longer call at Wigan
North Western and Manchester Oxford Road.
Other operators including Northern Rail will
continue to provide services between Wigan and
Manchester.
Leo Goodwin, Managing Director for TransPennine
Express said: “This is one of the biggest timetable
changes the North has seen and will deliver real
benefits. “Customers are already benefitting from
free on-board Wi-Fi and entertainment system,
Exstream. Our Nova 2 trains will be introduced on
the route from early 2019 as part of a £500million
investment which will deliver an extra 13million
more seats a year.”
Full details of all train times and fares can be found
at www.tpexpress.co.uk
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37

38
Founded in a back bedroom on Sandy Lane,
Turning 10
Local Life now produces five magazines a
month (Wigan, St Helens, Chorley, West Lancs and
Leigh & District) from our
offices at Hewitt Business
Park on Winstanley Road.
We also deliver over 750,000
leaflets a year too.
We’re proud of the fact that
many of our customers stay
with us, year after year, so
here’s what our advertisers
have to say about Local Life.
Previous to advertising in Local Life, just 10% of our
work came from Wigan itself and now, two years after
advertising in Local Life, over 50% of our work is local.
We get lots of enquiries every month from Local Life, it’s
a great magazine which people read and use.
Shane Wilson – Vale of Wigan
Local Life covers areas that we just can’t reach with any
other publication. We know when it has been delivered
as our phone never stops ringing. It’s always our first
choice for advertising.
Sharon Lee – Expressions of Beauty
I have advertised in Local Life for over 8 years now
and it has consistently been my main source of new
business. It is a fantastic, quality magazine which, as
well as supporting local businesses, gives its readers an
interesting and informative read. I would thoroughly
recommend it.
Angie Barker Garden Design
Local Life is 10 years old this month!
I’m pleased to say that every customer we have
introduced to Local Life has had a direct and
noticeable response. Both us, and our clients, love the
publications and they are now one of the first types of
local advertising we suggest when putting together
promotional campaigns.
Elaine Rimmer – Platinum Advertising & Design Ltd
It’s been a pleasure being part of your magazines 10
year growth, long may it continue.
Bob McWilliam - Manor House Carpet & Upholstery
Cleaning
It’s a great pleasure to be associated with your
magazine. I advertise my brickwork company in Local
Life and feel it offers me great value.
Marc Mulligan Brickwork
As a frequent advertiser and reader of Local Life, it
has made a big difference to my business with a vast
number of customers coming from looking at the
magazine, here’s to another 10 years!
Graham Collier- Top Coat Decorating Service
We love that little magazine. It makes a difference to
customers visiting our showroom and our sales.
Andrea Hampson - Cabinet Masters

39
We continue to move forward and have taken on
another person to help with the workload generated
from the advertisement in Local Life.
Chris Linnet – CL Bathrooms
Having worked with other advertising mediums over
the last 15 years the Local Life publication remains our
partner of choice and continues to generate extremely
positive responses from clients, both existing and new.
David Barton – Prosper Wealth Management
Local Life is the best local print advertising media
around, without a doubt, and it’s the only publication
we advertise in. We also use the leaflet distribution
service on a regular basis and it’s very reliable and also
quite cheap compared to other distribution companies.
Ian Johnson – GreenThumb Wigan
I’ve been advertising with Local Life for most of the
last decade. It’s the only advertising I need to do and it
reliably brings me good quality local jobs every single
month.
If you’d like to promote your company in Local Life
magazine or use our leaflet distribution service, call
Nicola or Chris on 01695 627999 or pop into our
offices at Unit 8 - Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley
Road, Orrell WN5 7ZB.
www.locallife247.co.uk
Chris Banks – Cosmeticar
Around 80/90% of our work comes from Local Life
and it’s all local work, we don’t have to waste hours
sitting in traffic each day. As of today (10th April), we’re
already booked up until August; that’s how successful
Local Life is.
Colin Wilson – Wilson Bros. Building and Roofing
In my view, Local Life
offers my company the
most comprehensive
coverage of Wigan’s
strongest housing areas
and I’m delighted to be
able to offer my customers
the chance to display their
homes in this popular
local magazine.
Alan Batt Estate Agents

40
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41

42
Property
Alan Batt
Alan Batt is a member of The Royal Institution of
Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and has worked within
the Wigan property market for over 30 years.
First time joy
by Alan Batt
Positive news from the Wigan Property need to bear in mind that some buy-to-let properties
Market this week for the town’s first time were bought on a hard cash basis, and there is no
buyers as recently released data shows that the hard and fast data on the total numbers of buy-tolet
properties bought, though HM Treasury believes
number of local first time buyers taking out their first
mortgage in 2017 increased more than in any other approximately only 30% to 40% of buy-to-let
year since the global financial crisis in 2008/2009. property is bought with a mortgage.
The data shows there were 723 first time buyers in So, what does all this mean for the Wigan Property
Wigan, the largest number since 2006.
Market? Well, whilst the stats paint a picture, they
It might surprise readers to know that it is actually don’t inform us of the whole story. The upper end of
cheaper to buy than it is to rent at the ‘starter home’ the Wigan property market has been weighed down
end of the housing market, as long as you have the by the indecision around the Brexit negotiations
required funds for a deposit and select a good value and rise in stamp duty in 2014. The middle part of
fixed-rate mortgage. Many of you can remember the Wigan property market has been affected by the
mortgage rates at 12% ... even 15%. Today, at the lack of good properties to buy, as selling prices have
time of writing this article, I found a 3 year fixed reached the limit of what buyers can afford under
mortgage from a reputable High Street bank at existing mortgage regulations. The lower to middle
2.49%, with only a 5% deposit required.
Wigan property market has been hit by tax changes
Conversely, the same study showed that the buy-tolet
investment market in Wigan was subdued over offset by this increase in first time buyers.
for buy-to-let landlords, although this has been
the same period, with only 148 buy-to-let properties If you currently have a house for sale, you’ll need
being purchased with a mortgage. However, you to be 100% realistic with your pricing in order to
achieve a sale, and you might not get as much as you
thought you’d get, but the house you want to buy
will probably be cheaper too.
If you are thinking of selling your Wigan property,
don’t ask the agent out a few days before you want
to put the property on the market; get them out now
and ask them what you need to do to ensure you get
maximum value in the shortest possible time. I, like
most Wigan agents, will freely give that advice to you
at no cost or commitment to you.

43
Caveat Emptor -
buyer beware
With readers seeing a rise in
outgoings this month due
to a rise in council tax, I’m going to
take this opportunity to address
one of the most popular
misconceptions about
council tax bands;
Adding extensions and
improving your home will
NOT change the home’s council
tax band.
However, the government’s Valuation
Office Agency does reserve the right
to re-value the extended property,if
and when the property gets sold.
So if you are a potential buyer, you
should beware of this as the VOA
could change the council tax band,
and therefore the amount of council tax
you pay will increase as a result.
This does not necessarily mean that the banding will
jump one band, this depends on the extent of the
improvements and where the property lies within its
existing valuation band. More often than not – it isn’t
an issue and the banding stays the same.
Anyone can check the banding of any property by
visiting www.gov.uk/council-tax-bands
By the way, if you disagree with your own home’s
council tax band, you can apply for it to be reassessed,
but let me warn you that if you do this then
your band could be moved up as well as down.
If you have any questions relating to property, then
do get in touch. You can email me on alan@alanbatt.
co.uk or call me on 01942 233999.
For more of Alan’s tips, guidance and analysis
on the Wigan property market, check out
www.wiganpropertynews.blogspot.co.uk

44
Puzzle Corner
WORD SEARCH - Local History
Find the hidden words in the word search grid
S C H U R C H E R C
T C A R V I N G E H
U B N S S F B A M N
V E C W T G T R A S
M T I R O L T D I G
O T E R N R E N N N
S B N C E B G V S D
A R T E F A C T P W
I O S M N C E L P A
C N E E U O A O T L
T Z T R U I N S H K
W E A P O N W A N S
G Y D S A B B E Y M
WALK
CASTLE
CHURCH
ARTEFACT
DIG
CARVING
BRONZE
REMAINS
ABBEY
MOSAIC
STONE
COIN
WEAPON
ANCIENT
RUINS
WORD MIX UP - Local History
Unscramble the letters to make a word
LEACHAGOORY
NYDW
SUDOKU
NUMBER
BLOCK
The numbers in each row add up to totals to the right.
The numbers in each column add up to the totals
along the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the
totals to the right.
3 1
2 9 5
4 2 9
9 1 2
8 7
3 6
6 8
9 5
0 5
9
9 2
3 5
24 10 12 19
7 3 4
18
8
28
15
14
14
REACHVI
YETTOPR
LOANG NASOX
TABLEFIDLET
NORMA
ROBOHC
WIGGLE WORDS
CLUE: Brings Good Luck
Trace a path through
all the letters to find
the word or phrase
that fits the clue.
F O A F
R U E E
E R L D
V O L C
All the puzzle solutions are on page 98 of this magazine

45

46
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48
Class from the past
This month’s Class from the Past is from Abraham
Guest. It’s believed the photo was taken in the early
1960s. Maybe you can spot a familiar face?
Do you have an old class photo you’d like to
share? If so, why not email it to us on wigannews@
locallife247.co.uk
Community day
All local community groups, charities
and good causes are invited to
Wigan’s Community Day 2018.
Back for the fifth year, the people of Wigan and their
causes are welcome at the free event on Saturday,
July 7 from 10am-4pm.
Locals can raise their profile, recruit new members
and volunteers, raise funds, promote their
cause, provide information and advice, and sell
merchandise to thousands of local people who will
be at the event.
Participants will be given a 9ft wide frontage along
Standishgate to advertise their group as they see fit.
Organisers Wigan Rotary Club have obtained the
necessary licences; all you have to do is turn up and
join in!
There’ll be a huge stage featuring performances
from the Wigan Jazz Orchestra and talent from
the local community providing entertainment
throughout the day.
All you have to do is pay a £10 deposit, which is
returnable if you turn up, and observe a few simple
rules.
To find out more, visit Wigan Rotary Club’s website
at www.wiganrotaryclub.org.uk

49

50
Health & Fitness
Make May
purple
In England, one in six people will have a stroke in their lifetime. And in the UK,
strokes occurs approximately 152,000 times a year – that’s one every 3 minutes
27 seconds. First-time incidence of a stroke occurs almost 17 million times a year
worldwide; one every two seconds. It is estimated around 30% of people who have a
stroke will go on to experience another.
Strokes are a leading cause of death and disability
in the UK, with around 32,000 stroke-related deaths
in England each year.
Most people who have strokes are over 65, but
one in four strokes happen in younger people.
That’s nearly 40,000 people a year including several
hundred children.
There’s no denying that a stroke can be fatal, but
it’s worth noting there are over 1.2 million stroke
survivors in the UK.
Deaths related to strokes have declined by 49%
in the past 15 years, and this is down to better
prevention, earlier treatment and more advanced
treatment.
It’s important to act quickly as you could save your
own or someone else’s life, or help limit the longterm
effects of strokes, by learning to think and Act
F.A.S.T.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a brain attack. It happens when the blood
supply to part of your brain is cut off. Without blood your brain cells can be damaged
or die. This damage can have different effects, depending on where it happens in
your brain.
By Niamh Ollerton
Photos courtesy of the Stroke Association

51
A stroke can affect the way your body works as well
as how you think, feel and communicate.
What causes a stroke?
As we age, our arteries become harder and narrower
and are more likely to become blocked. But, some
medical conditions and lifestyle factors can speed
up this process and increase your risk.
Different types of stroke
Most strokes are caused by a blockage cutting off
the blood supply to the brain. This is an ischaemic
stroke.
But they can also be caused by a bleeding in or
around the brain. This is a haemorrhagic stroke.
A transient ischaemic attack (TIA) is also known
as a mini-stroke. It’s the same as a stroke, except
symptoms only last for a short amount of time, as
the blockage stopping the blood getting to your
brain is temporary.
Can you recover from a stroke?
For some people the effects may be relatively minor
and not last long, but others may be left with serious
health problems that make them dependent on
other people.
Know the signs of a stroke
F.A.S.T. or Face-Arms-Speech-Time is easy to
remember and will help you to recognise if you or
someone else is having a stroke.
Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they
smile?
Arms – can they raise both arms and keep them
there?
Speech – is their speech slurred?
Time to call 999 if you see any single one of these
signs of a stroke.
Other symptoms that can be due to a stroke also
include:
Sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one or
both eyes;
Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your
body (including your leg);

52
At school
Get the whole school to dress
in purple for the day, or turn
your sports day into a purple
extravaganza. There could even be
purple activities for parents too!
At home
Invite your friends round for a
purple dinner and have purple food
and drink. Get everyone to wear
purple and play purple games. The
possibilities are endless.
Sudden memory loss or confusion;
Sudden dizziness, unsteadiness or a sudden fall,
especially with any of the other symptoms.
Why act F.A.S.T?
If you notice any sign of a stroke, call 999. The faster
you act, the better the chance of recovery.
Purple May
And to raise awareness for this worthwhile cause,
it’s time to Make May Purple – Go Purple for Pounds
during the Stroke Association’s annual awareness
month.
Friends, families and communities are invited to
show their support for people who have been
affected by a stroke.
The Stroke Association helps stroke survivors regain
their independence, but they need our help. All you
need to do is wear purple and every penny raised
will help provide support for stroke survivors.
Wear purple to work, school or outside in your
community – wherever you are, the association
hopes you’ll turn all your activities purple during
May. Every purple event you take part in will really
make a difference to stroke survivors.
Tony Rudd, National Clinical
Director for Stroke with NHS
England and stroke physician at Guy’s and St
Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Thanks to
improved NHS care, stroke survival is now at record
high levels.
“Urgent treatment for strokes is essential, so friends
and family can play a key part in making sure their
loved ones receive care as quickly as possible.”
Juliet Bouverie, CEO of the Stroke Association, said:
“As the UK’s leading stroke charity, we have said
time and again that stroke devastates lives in an
instant.
“Almost two thirds of stroke survivors leave hospital
with a disability, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
“The faster you seek and receive emergency
specialist treatment for stroke, the better your
chances of making a good recovery. Knowing the
signs of stroke and being able to Act FAST could
save a life – your life.”
If you’d like to find out more about the Stroke
Association and get involved, please visit https://
www.stroke.org.uk/
Go purple at work
Get everyone to dress in purple for the day and
even host a purple bake sale.

53

54
Travel
All Quiet on the
Western Front
If I should die, think only this of me:
That there’s some corner of a foreign field
That is forever England.
This excerpt from Rupert Brooke’s poem, increasing number of visitors of all ages, and in this
The Soldier, springs to mind whilst driving month’s travel feature we take a look at a few main
through the pretty Belgian countryside. It’s a
peaceful rural backdrop with neatly uniform fields
full of crops and it’s hard to imagine it as it was a
century ago; a desolate landscape of mud, burntout
trees and barbed wire, with shattered men
crouching in trenches with the roar of heavy artillery
overhead.
As the 100th year anniversary of the end of the
Great War comes to pass, visiting the battlefields
sites and attractions in Belgium and France.
During the Great War, Ypres occupied a strategic
position standing directly in the path of Germany’s
plans to invade France from the north. One in three
of British deaths on the Western Front happened in
the Ypres area and during the course of the war the
town was all but obliterated by artillery fire.
Ypres today is known as the city of peace and
war graves cover the landscape around the area,
of the period remains a fascinating and moving including the Tyne Cot Commonwealth war
experience. These visits brings history alive for an cemetery which houses the graves of 11,954

55
soldiers, but the most popular
site for visitors is the Menin Gate
Memorial to the Missing. The
memorial is dedicated to the 54,395
Commonwealth soldiers who died
in the Ypres Salient but whose
bodies have never been identified
or found. Every night at 8pm since
1927, except when the Germans
occupied the area in World War 2,
buglers sound the ‘Last Post’.
Just two miles east of Ypres is
Sanctuary Wood, home of the
Flanders Field Museum, and one of the most
popular destinations for the battlefield visitor. The
museum manages to blend wartime artefacts with
multimedia presentations to create a first-person
view of life in the bleakest of conditions, whilst the
trenches behind the museum give a very good feel
for what it must have been like to experience the
mud and misery of the trenches.
No visit to the battlefields would be complete
without a visit to The Somme, to see the area where
the infamous Battle of the Somme began on a
summer’s day in July and ended in a snowstorm 4½
months later.
The excellent Historical Museum of the Great War,
which is housed within a medieval castle in Peronne,
provides visitors with not only a vision of what life
Battlefields Tours
from £349 pp
All Quiet on the Western Front Tour
Executive coach travel
4 days from £349
3/4 nights hotel BB
Specialist Battlefield Guide
Dates April 18-May 19
Terms & Conditions apply – Holidays subject to availability.
Call into Marken Travel for further details
Independent Travel Specialist
Protected by
200 Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7PE Telephone: 01744 893291 www.markentravel.co.uk

56
was like for the soldiers at the front but also that
of the civilians of the town, which was occupied
by enemy troops for two separate periods during
the Great War. This absorbing museum follows the
chronology of the war and uses carefully selected
artefacts to illustrate military, cultural and social life.
There aren’t many places in the Somme area where
the ground has been undisturbed since the end of
the Great War, and that’s why the Newfoundland
Memorial Park is a popular choice for battlefield
visitors. Shell-holes and the trenches of both sides
can still be clearly seen and even walked along.
The Newfoundland Regiment suffered appalling
losses here in July 1916 and after the War ended,
Newfoundland purchased the land, and the area is
now a Canadian National Historic Site.
One of the most impressive sites to visit is the
Wellington Quarry in Arras, which tells the story
leading up to the battle of Arras on April 9th, 1917.
After a series of losses in Arras, the decision was
taken to tunnel under Arras in the chalk quarries
that were originally dug out centuries before, in
order to hide 24,000 troops near the German front
lines in readiness for a new attack.
This work, mainly undertaken by Maori miners, took
a whole six months and a chapel, power station,
light railway, communications room, a hospital and
a well were all created in the pale, flickering electric
light and visitors can experience an unforgettable
underground tour illustrating the horrors and
futility of war.
There are number of tour operators who offer
Battlefield coach tours including Leger Holidays,
who are the UK’s leading provider of escorted
tours. You can pick up a Leger Holidays brochure
at Marken Travel, 200 Main Street, Billinge WN5
7PE or just call 01744 893291 and a brochure will
be posted out to you.

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58
ADVERTISEMENT
Expansion at
Prosper
Wealth Management
Amongst the local
gossip recently was
news that Prosper Wealth
Management had bought a
property next door to their
offices on the High Street in
Standish, so I popped up to
see the company’s owner
David Barton to find out what
his future plans were for his business.
CP Why did you need to buy the house next door?
DB We didn’t (laugh…) As this wasn’t available we
got permission from the council to extend to the
side and rear of the existing premises. We’re growing
really quickly as more and more prospective clients
are engaging with us for financial planning services,
both for investment and for retirement planning,
and we needed the space for extra staff that
will strengthen our research and administrative
functions.
CP Was it easy recruiting the extra staff?
DB In a word, no! We really needed to invest in
additional high quality staff with a particular skill
set and a high level of technical competence to
ensure that our new and existing clients benefit
from both our initial planning advice service as
well as our ongoing guidance. We started looking
for staff in May 2017 but it wasn’t until February
this year that we secured three new experienced
professionals, two Para-Planners/Researchers and a
Senior Administrator.
David Barton
CP Why didn’t you just move to a bigger place?
DB All of us at Prosper Wealth Management live
locally and the majority of our clients live within a
5 mile radius, so we didn’t want to inconvenience
them by moving out of the area. More importantly,
I live 5 minutes away from the office and I like the
sandwiches at Kaz’s kitchen…
CP How will the changes affect you in the short
term?
DB The build is scheduled to start in May with a
view to finishing by the end of summer. Don’t be
put off by the scaffolding; we will still be open and
working hard. The interior designer’s brief is to
create a contemporary space with a relaxed, yet
confidential feel, so we’re all looking forward to
working in the new offices.
CP So what are the plans for the future?
DB Well, we’re currently attracting £2m to £2.5m of
pension and investment money per month from
local clients and our business plan is to grow the
funds under management from £140m to £250m
within the next three years.
CP And how confident are you that will happen?
DB We were the first Independent Financial Adviser
in Wigan to achieve Chartered Financial Status,
and people know that they can depend on us for
quality advice in the areas of investments and, more
specifically, pension planning, so yes, I’m quietly
confident we can achieve that target.
CP Good luck David, all the very best!

59

60
Counting Sheep
Pemberton-based retailers Land of
Beds hopes to give customers an
even better night’s sleep with its new
collection.
The Sleep Council’s latest research found one fifth of
Britons sleep poorly most nights, and an additional
five percent sleep ‘very poorly.’
Pemberton-based retailers Land of Beds wanted to
tackle this problem, and partnered up with British
bed makers Dunlopillo to offer the sleep-improving
Signature Bed Collection.
In an industry first, the collection includes three
mattresses that have all recently won a Which?
magazine ‘Best Buy’ award.
Mike Murray, Managing Director at Land of Beds
said: “It’s a feat that no other mattress manufacturer
has ever achieved.
‘For Dunlopillo to win three 2018 ‘Best Buy’ awards,
is a real testament to the premium quality of the
products.
“We are proud to be official stockists of all three
award-winning mattresses at our Pemberton store.”
The Millennium and Orchid mattresses are first-time
Which? award winners, while the Royal Sovereign
retains its status for the third consecutive year.
Mike added: “We’re an award-winning family-run
business working with award-winning bed brands
– making us the ideal local retailer to speak to for
advice if your sleep quality needs improving.”
To view the Signature Bed Collection online, visit
www.landofbeds.co.uk/Dunlopillo
And they’re off!
Haydock Park Racecourse’s next event features a lot
more than furlongs and jockeys as the Business Fair
comes to town.
The racecourse is used to hosting events of a
competitive nature, but the participants at the next
event will be in suits and not silks.
On Thursday, April 26, the St Helens Chamber
Business Fair will be open for business from
10.30am-3pm for local businesses and individuals
to shine.
According to St Helens Chamber, it’s the largest
business to business networking event in the North
West, with last year’s event attracting over 500
companies.
It’s free to attend, and participants will be able to
connect with local businesses, make new contacts
and hear from inspirational guest speakers.
Keynote speakers include Alana Spencer, 2016’s
winner of BBC’s The Apprentice and owner of
Ridiculously Rich, and also Lawrence Kenwright,
owner of the Signature Living hotel group.
Business people can also visit the company
showcase featuring a wide variety of business
sectors, a programme of free business seminars and
enjoy lots of networking opportunities.
For more details visit www.sthelenschamber.
com or email Rachel Wellens on rachel.wellens@
sthelenschamber.com

61
Success in trade
The Good Trader awards winners for
2018 have been announced.
Wigan Council’s Good Trader Scheme was set up in
2008, and each year local traders are recognised for
their excellent service to residents.
There are now over 200 companies and individuals
in the scheme who are trusted in their field of work.
Members of the scheme come from different
sectors and are judged on customer feedback
generated over the last 12 months.
By using the scheme, residents are able to avoid
uninvited traders and reduce doorstep crime risk.
Overall winners for 2018 are: Winner (Wigan)
KDM Electrical; Winner (Leigh) Ferris Electrical &
Ferris Property Maintenance; Highly Commended
(Wigan) Royal Home Improvements; Highly
Commended (Leigh) Gary Sanderson Carpets
& Vinyls; Best Newcomer (Wigan) Case & Young
Limited; Best Newcomer (Leigh) Grimshaw Autos.
Councillor Kevin Anderson, Wigan Council cabinet
member for environment, said: “It’s extremely
important to recognise the traders who work hard
to provide a high quality service to residents.
“Congratulations to all the winners and runner
ups but also not forgetting every single one of our
registered traders of the Good Trader Scheme.”
To find out more about the Good Trader Scheme
visit www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader
Successful partnership
Wigan Pier’s regeneration will be overseen by a
Manchester developer.
Step Places has been chosen by Wigan Council, in
partnership with the Canal & River Trust to lead the
project.
The company plans to transform the derelict 18th
century industrial site into a fresh multi-leisure
destination for the people of Wigan and beyond.
Three buildings have been chosen for the
regeneration including The Warehouse, The Orwell
public house, and the Education Centre.
Harinder Dhaliwal, managing director of Step
Places, said: "We are excited to be part of a
partnership delivering such a world-class venue
and bringing life back to Wigan Pier, respecting its
past and heritage."
Councillor David Molyneux, deputy leader of Wigan
Council, added: "Wigan Pier is one the most iconic
locations in the North West. We have had long-held
ambitions to create a new purpose for Wigan Pier as
a destination and leisure attraction.
"We will support Step Places throughout the
process and look forward to its plans being realised
and Wigan Pier become a popular destination for
people in the borough and beyond once again."
Ian Sprott of the Canal & River Trust said: "The Canal
and River Trust is proud to have been a partner in
securing a new future for the Wigan Pier Quarter
and we are excited by the developer's vision for the
area."

62
ADVERTISEMENT
Keeping it in the family
by Chris Alcock - CMA Accountancy
We often get asked about paying your child
from the business. You can pay your son
or daughter from your business, but they must do
some real work for that money, work which is worth
what you pay them.
The work need not be performed at your business
premises. Skills which could be used to promote
your business online or to design marketing
materials could be applied remotely, perhaps while
away at university.
However, you need to be able to prove that
adequate work was performed for the rewards.
Where work is done in between studying and is not
supervised, there needs to be an accurate record
such as a timesheet.
Also, there are rules on how many hours a child
under sixteen is legally allowed to work, during
school term time and during the holidays. Where
the pay is more than £113 per week, you must put
it through the payroll as you would for any other
employee.
On the subject of payroll, the national minimum
wages, NMW, rates rise on 01 April 2018. The NMW
depends on each employee’s age and the top rate
for those aged 25 and over will rise from £7.50 to
£7.83 per hour. There are different rules for company
directors and we are happy to advise on these.
If you are employed then you should be receiving
your tax code notices for the 2018/19 tax year.
You should carefully check these to ensure they
accurately reflect your income position. If you
believe the figures are incorrect you can ask for an
amendment using your personal tax account; ask
us how.
Here at CMA we always offer a free consultation
for any sole trader business, landlord or companies
that would like to speak to us about their finances.
We provide 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.
Alternatively drop by the office on Skull House Lane
in Appley Bridge and we can discuss these further
over a coffee. There will be no charge for the initial
meeting.
Contact Details
Chris Alcock ACMA
CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley
Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR
Tel: 01257 255521
Email info@handsonaccounting.co.uk
web www.handsonaccounting.co.uk

63
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info@cma-accountancy.com
Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge. 01257 255521

64
Food & Drink
10 items no kitchen should
be without
So you’ve spent good money on creating
the perfect space in which to create the
perfect meal. The problems is, no matter how much
you’ve forked out on that oven, those cabinets and
cupboards, a good workman or woman is only as
good as the tools at their disposal. Not that we
would ever advocate blaming your kit when things
go wrong, of course.
Having a variety of quality equipment at your
disposal in the kitchen will open up countless
possibilities in terms of what you can cook.
Imagine inviting friends over for penne and porcini
mushrooms, and then revealing you made the pasta
yourself. Or frying up some sirloins, complete with
griddle marks. Few things are more satisfying than
serving properly made dishes, so here’s a checklist
of essentials you should always have to hand before
you start showing off any culinary expertise.
Ladle
In layman’s terms, this is really just a large spoon
with a bent handle and deep serving cup. Ideal
for soups, obviously, it’s difficult to perfect a
Vietnamese noodle pho without one of these.
Chef’s knife and sharpening block
Ideally you should be looking for an 8-10” blade
with a thick bolster to act as a finger guard, and
the knife itself should sit comfortably in your hand.
A sharpening block is essential too, otherwise
preparing meat will be rather troublesome after a
few months.

65
Grater and microplane
Most of us have a grater somewhere in the home,
but we recommend looking for one that also allows
you to microplane- you’ll need that for zesting
lemons, grating Parmesan, herbs and spices, which
is important in more complex dishes.
This is the best possible way to fry meat and fish
with aesthetically pleasing griddle marks. Look for
the heaviest you can, which is usually a good sign
of quality, and one where the metal runs into the
wooden handle.
Paring knife
You won’t be able to make fine cuts - for example
coring tomatoes, other fruits and vegetables -
without one of these. One word of advice; if the
blade doesn’t extend into the handle put it back on
the shelf and look for another.
Cerated bread knife
Let’s face it, your weekday morning toast is fine
from a loaf of pre-cut bread, but if you’re sitting
down to a hearty winter stew and want a crusty
baguette you’ll need a suitable knife to carve it up.
Can opener
Look for a bulky plastic can opener that has a twist
knob on top, rather than the more old school allmetal
version.
Wire mesh colander
If you’re cooking pasta then this is a key purchase,
even if that pasta is shop bought. Try to find one
with a foot at the bottom, thus meaning your
spaghetti won’t be left sitting in a puddle of water.
Pasta maker
There are almost as many pasta makers on the
market as there are types of pasta, and so it can get a
little confusing. Our preference would be to choose
on that offers between three and five settings for
various pasta shapes - any more and chances are it
will be a jack of all trades, master of none.
Wok
Although no longer the exotic pan it once was,
woks are probably the best investment you can
make for the kitchen. Ideal for stir fry dishes and
other oriental meals, there’s also nothing to stop
you using this for a plethora of other offerings.
Griddle pan
Last, but definitely not least, is the griddle plan.

66
Austrian Pancakes
Totally different to our traditional pancakes, but these Austrian versions are
tasty enough to be served at a dinner party. Serves 4
Ingredients
2 tbsps raisins
2 tbsps rum
4 egg yolks
50g sugar
1 pinch of salt
500ml milk
a drop of vanilla extract
150g plain flour, sieved
5 egg whites
60g melted butter, divided
Method
Add the rum and raisins to a bowl and soak for 30 minutes before draining.
Whisk egg yolks, sugar and salt until pale yellow and fluffy. Stir in milk and
vanilla extract before gradually stirring in the flour. Stir in the raisins. Whisk
the egg whites until very stiff and fold into the pancake batter. Heat a
tablespoon of the butter over a low heat in a deep pan (about 20cm across)
and pour in half of the batter. Heat for 4 minutes until the batter has risen
and the underside is lightly browned. Remove from the pan, add another
tablespoon of butter to the pan, flip the pancake and cook the other side for
4 minutes. Repeat with the rest of the batter. Break they cooked pancakes
into 6-8 pieces then fry again in the remaining butter for about 2 minutes.
Serve dusted with icing sugar and some stewed fruit, if desired.
Icing sugar

67
Baked Camembert
Enjoy one of the best-known French cheeses in a delicious way, bursting with
flavour and coated in breadcrumbs. Make sure the cheese is not too ripe and
freeze before cooking to ensure the centre melts when baking. Serves 4
Ingredients
4 individual Camemberts
or one large Camembert
cut into approx 80g/3oz
wedges, frozen for 1 hour
25g plain flour
1 egg beaten with 1tbsp
water
25g breadcrumbs
50ml sunflower oil
Raspberry coulis or
cranberry sauce to
garnish
Method
1. Preheat oven to 200C/400F/Gas Mark 6
2. Remove the Camembert from the freezer and carefully cut the white skin
from the top, while leaving the bottom and sides in tact. Coat well on all sides
with the flour.
3. Dip the coated Camembert in the egg mix and coat with breadcrumbs,
then repeat both steps. Pat well to help the crumbs stick, then place in the
fridge for 30 minutes.
4. Heat the oil over a medium heat. Remove the cheeses from the fridge and
fry lightly on each side until light golden brown - approximately 1-2 minutes.
Make sure the cheese does not begin to melt. Remove and drain excess oil on
paper towels.
5. Place the lightly-browned cheeses on a lined baking tray and bake in the
oven for 5-10 minutes or until the top is slightly puffed.

68
Upload your event for FREE at
www.locallife247.co.uk/events
Follow us on Facebook
events2go
Music Society
Saturday, April 21, 7.45pm
Parbold Douglas Music presents the annual Young
Musician’s Showcase concert featuring young
talented musicians from the local area. Young
singers and musicians from across the Northwest
region aged between 13 and 21 years old will be
playing a variety of instruments on the evening.
Auditorium, Parbold Village Hall, 2 The Green,
WN8 7DN. Tel: 01257 463878
Artisan Market
Sun, April 22, 10am-4pm; Sun, May 20, 10am-4pm
Haigh’s monthly artisan market rocks back to the
park and there are monthly dates available until
December 2018! There’ll be more than 80 art, food,
craft, and drink artisans, as well as street food, live
music and great community atmosphere.
Haigh Woodland Park, Haigh, WN2 1PE. Tel: 07789
181677 (organiser)
Townswomen’s Guild
Monday, April 23 & Monday, May 14, 7.30pm
Come along to the Winstanley & Highfield
Townswomen’s Guild and learn something new. On
Monday, April 23, ‘Can you use a defibrillator?’ Now
you can find out how as this could save a life. And
on Monday, May 14, the Guild’s favourite Ian Morris
is back and this time he’s a real Saxon.
St Pauls Church Hall, Clapgate Lane, Goose Green,
Wigan, WN3 5LH. Tel: 01942 242984
The Pajama Game
Tuesday, April 24, 7.30pm-9pm, to Saturday, April
28, 7.30pm-9pm (daily)
Wigan Musical Theatre group present “The Pajama
Game,” a musical based on Richard Bissell’s novel
7½ cents. Call 07598 508004 or email Ticketswmtg@
gmail.com for tickets which are £9 each.
St Michael’s Parish Hall, Shaw Street, Wigan, WN1
2BQ. Tel: 07806 787250
Ladies Lunch / Fashion Show
Thursday, April 26, 11am
Ladies Lunch with Fashion Show by Barbara’s of
Standish, with all proceeds to be donated to Cancer
Research. There will be various stalls available to
browse from around 11am. Tickets are £26, for more
information or to purchase tickets, please contact
Barbara’s of Standish on 01257 425480.
Woodland Suite, Ribby Hall Village, Ribby Road,
Wrea Green, PR4 2PR. Tel: 0800 085 1717
Beyond Wigan Pier Musical
Friday, April 27, 7pm-10pm
Beyond Wigan Pier is Wigan’s West End reply to
Orwell – written, produced and performed by
Wiganers. The performance will show Wigan is a
cultural force, that arts should be available to all
and that we’ve come a long way from the Wigan
depicted in the Road to Wigan Pier.
The Edge, Riveredge, Wigan, WN3 5AB. Tel: 01942
244460

69
Farmers Market & Crafts Fair
Sunday, April 29, 9am-3pm
A special fair in aid of Wigan and Leigh Hospice.
There’ll be food, drink and crafts to enjoy at the free
event. Organisers are looking for food, drinks, crafts
and plant stalls – own gazebo needed and £20 fee.
For more info email fundraising@wlh.org.uk
Wigan and Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Hindley,
Wigan, WN2 3HZ. Tel: 01942 525566
Steaming Sundays
Sunday, April 29, 1pm-4pm
Visit Trencherfield Mill and experience it working as
it did all those years ago. There will be an informative
multimedia presentation by engineers about the
Mill engine’s history. Tickets are £4 for adults and
£2 for children under 12 and concessions. For more
info and to book call 01942 828128.
Trencherfield Mill, Wigan Pier Quarter, Wigan,
WN3 4EF. Tel: 01942 777566
Family Nature Walk
Sunday, April 29, 10am-12pm
Walkers will be looking out for spring wildlife.
Suitable footwear, waterproof clothing and
binoculars recommended. For more information,
contact Jeff on 07922 453908. Free event.
Meet at the Kitchen Courtyard, Haigh Woodland
Park, School Lane, Wigan, WN2 1PE
Haye V Bellew II
Saturday, May 5, 6pm-11.55pm
The Rematch! There are 70 inch LCD’s as well as
the big 4K screen, it’s the best place to see this
Monumentous Showdown! The bar is open until
midnight with food until 10pm.Download the GK
sports app for even better deals, it’d be crazy not to!
Hungry Horse (Mount, Wigan), Orrell Road, WN5
8HQ. Tel: 01942 219740
Family Fun Day
Saturday, May 5, 11am-4pm
Over 20 stalls, arts & crafts, bouncy castle, outside
catering plus the venue’s first Beer & Cider Festival.
Join the fun, all to raise awareness and funds for
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity - North West.
The Sir Tom Finney, Central Drive , Penwortham,
Preston, PR1 0NL. Tel: 01772 471477
Family Fun Run
Sunday, May 6, 8.30am
Raise awareness about mental health in memory
of Nathan Christy who died by suicide in 2016.
Run or walk 1km or 5km on what would have been
Nathan’s 27th birthday. Entry fees: £3 for children
(up to 16 years), £5 for adults (17+). Sign up via
https://bookitzone.com/noreen_christy/RN2FFX
Haigh Woodland Park, Copperas Lane, Wigan
WN2 1PE. Tel: 01942 828280
Local Family Festival Day
Monday, May 7, 10am-5pm (gates open 9am)
Enjoy a day of bikes, cars, drifting and karting.
Various activities will be available for both children
and adults with local stalls and refreshments. £5
entrance fee for 16+ and under 16s go free.
Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Rd, Ashton-in-
Makerfield, Wigan, WN4 8DD. Tel: 01942 719030
Artisan Market
Sat, May 12; Sat, June 9; Sat, July 14, 10am-4pm
Wigan Auction House invites Artisan fans to its
monthly market day on the second Saturday of
each month. There’ll be stalls selling organic meat &
dairy, homemade artisan pies & cakes, arts & crafts,
bespoke handmade children’s’ clothes, vintage
traders, vinyl records and more. Free entry.
Wigan Auction House, Miry Lane, Wigan, WN6
7TG. Tel: 01942 230460

70
Fairport Convention
Tuesday, May 15, 7.30pm-11.30pm
Fairport Convention has been making music for over
50 years and are credited with originating British
folk-rock music. Tickets are £21.40 in advance or
£23 on the door www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fairportconvention-tickets-39688154338#tickets
The Old Courts, entrance 4: The Theatre, Crawford
Street, Wigan, WN1 1NA. Tel: 01942 375859
‘Goal for Ghana’ Concert
Friday, May 18, 7.30pm
After last year’s success the ‘T’Others are back to
present ‘A Lancashire & Sixties Night.’ All proceeds
go towards building a school/church in the village
of Obinyimnda in Ghana. Tickets £5 (including tea/
coffee biscuits) from: Bill Parkinson on 0782 441245
or Beryl Gleaves on 01695 624303.
Trinity Methodist Church, Pemberton, WN5 0DS
Royal Wedding Tea Party
Saturday, May 19, 10am-12pm
Celebrate the royal wedding at the Red Robin
Wacky Warehouse. There’ll be a buffet; create your
own crown activity; kids are encouraged to dress
up as a prince/princess; there’ll be a special guest
appearance. It’s £8.50 per child and is a ticket only
event.
The Red Robin, Robin Park, 1 Anjou Blvd, Wigan,
WN5 0UJ. Tel: 01942 218965
The Wigan Rendezvous
Sunday, May 20, 12.30pm-1.30pm
Leigh District Access Group invites you to the Wigan
Rendezvous. Rides from Amberswood Hindley,
Pennington Flash and Smith lane Bickershaw with
a circular ride from the venue. Rosettes for all. Entry
fee £10. Refreshments available. For more info email
Terrin on barefrills@hotmail.co.uk
Bickershaw Country Park, Edna Road, WN7 5ES
Fashion Show
Monday, May 21, 7pm-9.30pm
Fashion Show and supper in Standish Methodist
Church Hall. 7pm for 7.30 pm finishing around
9.30pm. For further details please contact Barbara’s
of Standish on 01257 425480
Standish Methodist Church Hall, High Street,
Standish, WN6 0HA. Tel: 01257 422598
Bazaar and Rummage
Wed, May 23 - Sat, June 2 (7.30pm showings)
Gwenda, an ex-agoraphobic, leads a self-help
group of three who have been unable to leave
their homes. She forces them to help at a local
bazaar, and while sorting through the rummage
their individual fears erupt. Tickets vary from £10-
£12 www.wiganlittletheatre.co.uk/performances/
bazaar-and-rummage/
Wigan Little Theatre, 44 Crompton Street, Wigan,
WN1 3SL. Box Office: 01942 242561
Race for Life 5k
Wednesday, May 23, 7pm-8.30pm
Walk, jog or run, and raise valuable funds for
research to beat cancer. Entry fees: children £10;
women £14.99; young women £14.99; under 6 entry
(girls and boys) free and no registration needed. To
register visit https://events.cancerresearchuk.org/
events/signup/start/5aa6925b8707e
Haigh Hall, Haigh, Wigan, WN2 1P
Appley Bridge Canal life
Thursday, May 24, 7.30pm-9pm
Bill Froggatt and Sam Marine from Canal & River
Trust are giving an interesting and informative talk
about the history of the Leeds-Liverpool canal and
its influence on Appley Bridge. No ticket required.
Appley Bridge Community Centre, Appley Lane
North, Wigan, WN6 9AQ

71
Wigan Comic Con 2018
Saturday, May 26, 10am-4pm
Funky Figures presents Wigan’s Comic Con.
Collectibles, cars and cosplay will be featured
alongside celebrity guests from TV film and comics.
There’ll be a retro gaming area and arcade machines
with a little chill out area for younger kids. Tickets
available from http://funkyfigures.co.uk/
Wigan Comic-Con, Loire Drive, Robin Park, WN5
0UH. Tel: 07772 201119 (event planner)
Car Boot Sale
Sunday, May 27, 9am-2pm
A car boot sale at the hospice. It’s £10 per car. To
book your pitch please call the fundraising team on
01942 525566 or email fundraising@wlh.org.uk
Wigan & Leigh Hospice, Kildare Street, Wigan,
WN2 3HZ. Tel: 01942 525566
May Market
Monday, May 28, 12pm-5pm
Join in the fun with stalls, live music, DJ, BBQ, kids’
attractions and more! Supporting Macmillan. Free
Entry. If you’d like to book a stall just give them a
call.
Hungry Horse (Mount, Wigan), Orrell Road, WN5
8HQ. Tel: 01942 219740
Half Term Holiday Karting
Monday, May 28 until Friday, June 1
Family Arrive ‘n’ Drive karting sessions for ages
8+, Junior Arrive ‘n’ Drive karting sessions for ages
8-15 years and Sisley Kart School sessions for
ages 8-15 years. Prices start from £25. Visit www.
threesisterscircuit.co.uk or contact the sales team to
find out more.
Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Rd, Ashton-in-
Makerfield, Wigan, WN4 8DD. Tel: 01942 719030
Creepy Crawly Critter
Monday, May 28, 11am-1pm
Come and meet our critter friends. There’ll be
snakes, spiders, snails, lizards and more. £10 per
child including a picnic box.
The Red Robin, Robin Park, 1 Anjou Blvd, Wigan,
WN5 0UJ. Tel: 01942 218965
Vintage Tea Dance
Monday, May 28, 1pm-5pm
Elderly Dementia/Alzheimers sufferers across
Wigan and their loved ones are invited to a free
vintage tea dance. Spend the day in the 1940’s,
indulge in vintage treats, sing wartime tracks and
have a good old’ jive. For reservations, please email
us at chantelle@personal-careservices.co.uk
St Anne’s Church Shevington, Standish Lower
Ground and Crooke, Church Lane, WN6 8BD. Tel:
07968 021641
Midweek MTB Madness
Wednesday, May 30, 6.30pm-8.15pm
Popular midweek grassroots MTB series, expect
rooty climbs, fast sections and maybe a bit of mud.
Racers, Enthusiasts, Youth, Juvenile all race in one
event. Entry fees range from £5-£15. Details on
British Cycling www.britishcycling.org.uk/
Haigh Woodland Park, Haigh, Wigan, WN2 1PE
Storybook Yoga
Friday, June 1, 1pm-2pm and 3pm-4pm
Join the team for classic stories, yoga and creative
play. Stories are brought to life while learning a little
yoga too. The Gruffalo is at 1pm and Green Eggs
& Ham is at 3pm. Cost: £10 Suitable for one adult
and one child, £5 for additional children via www.
studiooneyoga.net/standishschedule
Studio One Yoga, 1B, High Street, Standish, WN6
0HA. Tel: 01257 424855

72
Junior Beginners Sailing
Saturday, June 9 to Saturday, June 30, 1pm-4pm
The 6 week courses follow RYA & BCU training
schemes for beginners in Sailing, Windsurfing
and Kayaking. New participants will get free
membership to the Tuesday evening activity club.
To book, email outdooradventure@wlct.org or call
01942 828508 for more information. Cost: £60.
Scotmans Flash, Rushdene, Wigan, WN3 5HJ. Tel:
01942 324870
Summer Fair
Saturday, June 23, 11am-2pm
There’s lots planned including: guest appearances
(including Lightning McQueen), barbecue, bouncy
castle and slide, donkey rides, face painting, Morris
dancers, penalty shoot-out, plus many more stalls
and games to play.
Marus Bridge Primary School, Kelvin Grove, Marus
Bridge, WN3 6SP. Tel: 01942 248129
Community Fete
Saturday, June 30, 11am-4pm
With stalls, rides, games, live music, food, craft fair,
community info and more. Games, tug ‘o’ war, races
and entertainment will be held on the Recreation
Ground. For more info on how to get involved,
email elaineellams@aol.com or for stall bookings
shevingtonfete@outlook.com
Gathurst Lane, Shevington, Wigan, WN6 8HW
Midsummer Ball
Saturday 30th June 2018, 7.00pm for 7.30pm
Wigan MS Therapy Centre Ltd., a registered charity
based in Marsh Green, will be hosting a Midsummer
Ball to raise funds for their projects. Bar until 1am,
Carriages 1.15am. Live entertainment + DJ. Three
Course Meal. Tickets are £30 each. Call 07702025280
or 07759735301 for details and tickets
The Marquee, DW Stadium Wigan
Wigan Summer Baby Rave
Sunday, July 8, 10am-11am
There’ll be free glow sticks, UV face painting, dance
routines, bubbles, multi-sensory play and huge
dance anthems. Get your neon gear on and glow
crazy!! Tickets £4 per person. Minimum of 1 child
ticket per booking. Tickets are available at www.
littleravers.co.uk/book-tickets
Pemberton Masonic Hall, Chapel Street,
Pemberton, WN5 8JP. Tel: 07858 604590
Barking Mad Dog Festival
Saturday, July 14, 10am-6pm
Displays, an agility race for you and your pooch,
Flyball, dog show, Microchipping and health checks
with one of the on-site vets. Grab a drink at the bar
and your favourite food. Kids can spend their time
on the fair and bouncy castle and slide.
Thompson House Equestrian Centre, Pepper
Lane, Standish, WN6 0PP. Tel: 01257 422618
Wigan Bike Ride 2018
Sunday, July 22, 9.30am
The organisers of the inaugural Wigan Bike Ride
are delighted to confirm the event has returned
with a 50 mile main ride and a 5 mile family ride.
For more info and to register, please visit http://
wiganbikeride.co.uk/
Mesnes Park, Wigan, WN1 1TU.
Wigan Pride 2018
Saturday, August 11, 11am-5pm
Wigan Pride is back. It promises to be a free, fun,
family friendly event jam packed with artists and
local talent on the main stage and a range of
different market stalls. This year it’s celebrating
equality and diversity whilst encouraging everyone
to get involved in their communities. It’s inclusive,
diverse and tolerant for all. Autism Friendly.
Market Place, Wigan, WN1 1PJ

73
Small really can be
beautiful
by Angie Barker
So many of us have small gardens these
days but any outside space is a wonderful
addition to a home which is why we should make
the most of every inch of space and make our
gardens attractive, as well as practical, outdoor
rooms.
Small gardens need extra consideration however
and here are a few pointers when thinking about
the design of a small space:
Decide what style you are going for and stick to that
theme. So a contemporary garden, choose plants
which will complete the look – Phormiums and
Bamboos for example and go with straight lines. A
courtyard garden should use Buxus sempervirens
(Box) hedges and topiary. A more traditional style
can use sweeping curves and circles.
Don’t try to cram too much into a small space – less
is more!
Plants need to earn their keep so choose specimens
which have long seasons of interest and a good
balance of evergreens. Also limit your colour palette
because too many colours in a small garden will
make the borders appear cluttered
If your garden is shady make the bold decision to
remove the lawn as it will always struggle. There is
a fantastic range of paving products available now
and small cobble setts really suit a small space
You should incorporate a focal point - a large pot
(unplanted) can do the trick perfectly. Similarly a
bird bath, sun dial or sculpture
Use the walls and fences to grow climbers which
will green up the space and make it feel larger
There are lots of clever storage solutions available
these days like benches with hinged seats and
screening ideas to hide away those dreaded
wheelie bins.
And one of the best things about a small garden is
that you can get close up and personal with your
plants and really look at their beautiful detail. One
of the best for May must be Dicentra spectabilis
(Lamprocapnos spectabilis is the new name) or
Bleeding Heart. There is a white form called ‘Alba’
which is simply stunning.
Award Winner
I’m always telling Hubby that the best things come in
small packages – he is not very tall at 5 feet 8 inches
– but what there is of him is perfectly designed !
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

74
Creative Garden
Construction
scope2scape
scope2scape.co.uk
T 01257 464221 M 07761 808413 / 07900 224849
NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN?
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Regular maintenance service
Weeding, planting and pruning
Contact Hannah on
01257 402 149 / 07454 393 217
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Garden Landscaping
(lawn laying, planting, fencing)
Garden Maintenance
(weeding, mowing, trimming, hedges)
Regular or one off visits
Plants & Planting
Award-winning,
local family run
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planting service)
Call now for a friendly, no obligation quote
01257 401193 / 0771 077 2732
www.newleafgardenservices.co.uk
Complete Solution to all Garden & Tree Services
Garden maintenance
One-off clearances
Treework
Landscaping
Approved contractor West Lancs BC
Call Iain today for friendly advice and a free quote
Tel: 01695 632773 Mob: 07724 298193
www.hands-onlandscapes.co.uk
Garden Make-Overs
Before
After
Billinge-based
•Landscaping
•Driveways
•Decking
•Design
Call for free estimate
Colin 07958 302 166
Brian 07760 160 988
Wilson Brothers
01695 633173
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www.wilson-bros.co.uk
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07903 290 878
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Semmens
Landscapes
Garden Design • Landscaping • Maintenance
Landscapes
Creating the ideal outdoor
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Garden Design & Construction
All aspects of Paving, Driveways & Patios
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Professional & reliable service
For a free quote, call Andy on
07814 133 690
26, Tracks Lane
Billinge, WN5 7BL
Call Stewart Ashcroft on;
01695 622460 or 07894 217191
email:westdene41@btinternet.com
Winstanley Road, Billinge
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 / ONE OFF TIDY UPS
• JETWASHING DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS
• HEDGES & SHRUBS MAINTAINED
• WEED SPRAYING OF PATHS & DRIVEWAYS
• BILLINGE BASED
Professional Lawn Treatment
& Garden Maintenance
~ Est. 2001 ~
01942 200 039 or 07950 651 956
GreenhillsLC@gmail.com
garden maintenance
weed control to lawn &
driveways
hedge cutting
garden tidy ups
Garden Services & Lawncare
Give your garden a makeover!
We offer high quality landscaping, garden
design and ground maintenance services
Quality work and reliability
at competitive prices
01942 510 986
07710 405 214
www.ashlandscapingandmaintenance.co.uk
Established 1994
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
75
fertilising & moss control
turfing & landscaping
tree surgery
one off jobs or regular
maintenance
HND qualified. PA1 PA2 & PA6 spraying qualifications.
20 years experience. Billinge based.
jmagardenservices.co.uk
day: 07929 366769 eve: 01744 302793

76
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
Garden maintenance ~ General tidy ups
Hedge cutting ~ Pressure washing ~ Fencing
Call - 01942 225711 or 07773 296880
Qualified Tree Surgeon NCA RFS NPTC
All types of Tree and Hedge Work
Fully Insured
Felling, Reducing, Pruning, Shaping
GARDEN GATES
£145 fitted
Call Graham
07816 386 548
01257 425 958
www.ashfieldhomeimprovements.co.uk
• •
• Gates and railings
• Repairs and restorations
• Ironwork and welding
• Traditional forge work
25 years of expertise
Landscape & Artificial Grass Specialist
We’ll design & create your new modern
low-maintenance garden
Our wide range of artificial grass are all
guaranteed for 10 years
Call Andy today for more details
01942 387 044 ~ 07941 602 539
Check out our projects on www.turfcouk.co.uk
Paving Driveways Turfing
Planting
Decking
10 YEAR
GUARANTEE
Creative solutions for all garden sizes & budgets
07850 940 429 or 01942 512 635
www.orrellpaving.co.uk
Tel: 01695 721877 Mobile: 07951 764202
The Barn, 286 Ormskirk Road, Upholland
ORRELL MACHINERY
SALES • SERVICE • SPARES • REPAIRS
Service your mower
now for Spring 2018
We also service
all power tools
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pick up & drop off!
for mower services
Unit 6, Hewitt Business Park, Orrell WN5 7XB
Call - 01695 682 043

77
Garden need a little
LTC?
• Tree Surgery
• Flagging & Fencing
• Landscaping & Design
• Garden Clearances
• Logs For Sale
Wood chipping & stump grinder services
Call Lloyd today for a free estimate
01942 367170 / 07900 738637
Cricket St, Wigan, WN6 7TP
www.ltcgroup.co.uk
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• All tree work
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LANDSCAPE & DRIVEWAY SPECIALISTS
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• Block Paving
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• Turfing & Artificial Grass
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AL: 07796 494 463
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Email: fourseasons.treespecialists@gmail.com OAP
Discounts

78
According to www.lancashire.gov.uk, 71%
of the North West’s fruit and vegetables are
grown in the West Lancashire area and it is those flat
fertile fields that we visit today on our latest Jack’s
Tracks, which clocked in at just over 6 miles long.
Most unusually for a village, Burscough has not one,
but two railway stations, and it is from the Burscough
Bridge station that the walk starts.
Go north of the station on the A59 and turn left into
Red Cat Lane. Within 75 yards turn left into the road
leading to the old station house. There, on the right,
lies the pathway that eventually leads to Martin
Mere; this is the path you need.
The path soon opens up and runs alongside the
railway line for a further 600 yards until you arrive at
Crabtree Lane. Turn right and within a minute or so
you’ll see a yellow girder set in the ground next to
a track. Turn left down the track which soon opens
up into a field; stay on the right hand boundary of
the field.
Burscough
Bridge
by Chris Pearce
For those with the OS Maps
app on your desktop, mobile or
tablet, this walk is named:
JT Burscough Bridge

79
Once you reach the fence which encloses Monk’s
Farm, bear left and then follow the fence round a
right hand bend until you reach a fingerpost. Take
a 90 degree left turn towards Martin Mere and walk
the 750 yards across the big open fields to Marsh
Moss Lane. Cross the single track lane and go
through the fence directly opposite.
Follow the path to another fingerpost, in front of
the metal fence enclosing the Martin Mere estate
and turn left though the gate with a ‘Caution Deep
Water’ sign on it. It’s very noticeable that the noise
Martin Mere
Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust
Brandreth
Farm
Tarlscough Lane
Marsh Moss Lane
Red Cat Lane
Martin Lane
New Lane
The Farm
Burscough
Moss Nook
Merscar Lane
Gorst Lane
Martin Lane
Crabtree Lane
Burscough
Bridge
Orrell Lane
Leeds & Liverpool Canal
Start / Finish
Schoo
Burscough
Wharf
Burscough
B5241
Higgins Lane
A59
Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear whilst walking. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that
the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any
party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.

80
of chirps, tweets and the honking of the seemingly
kamikaze Canada Geese increases, as you make
your way round the tall reed beds surrounding the
wetlands.
Those with the foresight to have brought
binoculars may want to linger in the bird hides, but
with a thirsty dog in tow I push on round the reed
beds until I come to a track. Cross the track to the
secondary pathway opposite and go through the
gate; bear right and cross the stream and then take
an immediate right down a slight gradient.
Follow that path past the ponds and then once
you’ve rounded a right hand bend you’ll arrive

81
at another fingerpost. Take a 90 degree left turn
towards a derelict barn, and take another left turn
towards the railway. Cross the rails with great care
and as soon as you’re across, turn left on a path that
runs parallel to the railway line.
Take a 90 degree right hand turn at the fingerpost
towards ‘The Farm Tea Shop’, and then when you’ve
swerved round a fir copse and walked round a field
you’ll come to Martin Lane. Turn left and within 75
yards you’ll come to the aforementioned tea shop.
Carry on Martin Lane in the same direction, through
the junction with Merscar Lane. Just before the
crossing over the canal, follow the path on the right
which leads to the towpath, then turn left under the
canal bridge towards Burscough. Follow the canal
for almost two miles past two swing bridges (31-
New Lane and 32-Crabtree Lane) until you exit the
canal at bridge 32a – Burscough Bridge.
You are right by Burscough Wharf and the village
centre. Turn left and go through the centre for 325
yards until you get to the finish point of Burscough
Bridge rail station.
For those with the OS Maps app on your phone, this
walk is named ‘JT Burscough Bridge’.
LocalLife
Over 40
Lancashire
walks
FREE to download at
locallife247.co.uk
When can
we go back to
Dukes Barn
Farm?
Boarding kennels and cattery.
Heated accommodation.
Recommended by vets & clients for over
38 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

82
Test Drive
DS
7 Crossback
by Tim Barnes-Clay
Tim Barnes-Clay, is back from his latest car
launch. This time he was invited to Windsor to
sample the all-new DS 7 Crossback.
At first sight, the DS 7 Crossback shows off
conservative, rather than cool, characteristics. Yes,
yes, I know beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But
this is my opinion, and someone needs to have one.
On the move, body lean is kept to a minimum, even
though the steering is spongy and dead - and it isn’t
perked up by changing the DS into its Sport mode.
Don’t let me rain on the DS7 Crossback’s parade too

83
much, though. The French motor
is best kept in its Comfort setting,
so that you can make the most
of its respectable ride quality.
This car isn’t all about the zero to
62mph sprint, it’s far happier as
a laid-back cruiser. But it can still
pull okay, with the 2.0-litre diesel
model doing the 0-62mph in just
under 10 seconds.
The DS marque is launching the
Crossback with four different trim
levels, and the Performance Line
DS 7, as driven here, is likely to be
the model to please the masses.
This car gets 19-inch alloys,
a gloss black grille, and LED
lights. In the cabin, leather and
Alcantara abound, while a 12-
inch touchscreen infotainment
screen hogs the limelight. Playing
second fiddle to the big display is
a large analogue clock, perched
above the ignition button.
The infotainment system itself is
intuitive and responsive and is
supported by a bunch of touch
sensitive switches for the cabin
controls. But more remarkable in this car segment
is the adding of an infrared night vision camera that
projects a vivid picture onto the driver’s display. It
picks out pedestrians and animals ahead of you,
and, as I found out driving around Berkshire’s unlit
backroads, it works! The only drawback is that the
clever driver aid is an option costing £1600.
Room in the cabin is good for five-up and it’s a
very comfortable car fore and aft. Indeed, the
DS 7 Crossback’s flat floor means that a rear seat
occupant sitting in the middle will still have
space. What’s more, the car’s boot is generously
proportioned with 555 litres of cargo capacity.
The all-new DS’ weak point is its price-tag. At over
£30,000, other more established premium brands
may seem more attractive. The BMW X3 and Volvo
XC40 are examples of the stiff competition the upto-the-minute
French machine is up against.
Still, being different is quite appealing, so it’ll be
interesting to see what 2018 holds for the DS 7
Crossback. Watch this space!
Fast Facts
• 0-62 mph: 9.9 secs
• Combined mpg: 57.6
• Engine layout: 1997cc four-cylinder turbo diesel
• Max. power (PS): 180
• CO2: 128 g/km
• Price: £36,335

84
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www.cosmeticar.co.uk
NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS
We are now open for services and repairs at our
brand new premises in Up Holland.
Dingle Garage, Dingle Road, Up Holland, WN8 0EN
01257 251 116 / 01695 624 261
www.jwgaskellgarageservices.co.uk

85
Home Services
- sponsored by
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
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
Want to promote your
company in Local Life?
Call Garage Sally: 01695 and 627 entrance 999 doors
locallife247.co.uk in matching styles
LocalLife
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

86
Picture Perfect!
Digital Aerial & HD CCTV Installer
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
HD CCTV Installed
from only £295
View your property on any smartphone
or tablet from anywhere in the world
Wireless Alarm System
Wired systems also installed & serviced
Digital Aerials installed
from only £59 *
*dependent of property size & signal strength.
Call now for a FREE, no obligation quote!
07817 807 960 / 01257 453 133
www.qualitv.co.uk
Looking to target
new customers
in 2018?
www.expertcomputers.co.uk
‘Excellence in Customer Service’ – Winner
Leaflets delivered from only £24.50 per 1,000
Delivered to areas throughout
Wigan, Chorley, St Helens & Leigh
Design, print & distribution packages
also available
Call Sally on 01695 627 999 for details
or email sallyb@locallife247.co.uk
Want to promote your
company in Local Life?
Call Sally: 01695 627 999
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife

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
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
A5209
B5250
Dennis Goulding
J27
Shevington
A49
Standish
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road,
Wrightington, WN6 9RS
(Drive onto ‘Ainscough Building Supplies’)
Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon
www.dglwindows.co.uk
Unit 4a,
o f Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
87
Complete Electrical Installation
& Maintenance Service
From new sockets to entire re-wires
Burglar Alarms & CCTV
PAT testing and inspections
NO JOB TOO SMALL
DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL
WORK WELCOMED
24-Hour
Call Out
Service
Wireless Alarm System
From £395
Call us today for friendly advice and a free quote
Suite 1A Kirkless Ind. Est
Cale Lane Wigan
J.Dillon
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
01942 836 937 or 07557 914 788 www.ghewigan.co.uk
Electrical
Services Ltd
Design & Print
Over 30 years electrical experience
All aspects of electrical work undertaken inc;
Installation, Maintenance and Repair
Building regulations work
CCTV and Security Alarms
Inspections and PAT testing
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
Natalies @ Studio 84
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories,
Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
Gel
Nails
normally £20
now £15
84 Rainford Road, Bi linge WN5 7PG
Telephone: 07814 619 400
Open:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Closed Thursday & Sunday
Mo sy Lea Road
Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Wind Turbines
Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
...and general
Energy Savings
Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...
T
Y
R
E
S
Book
your FREE
home survey
Telephone: 01257 427 000
and we’ l provide you with a
detailed report showing the
returns available from your
own solar panels
CAR & VAN SERVICING
...and motorcycles too
FREE
Car Health Check
(10% typical return)
Visit our showroom at
Cricket Street Business Park
for all residents of Croston and Bretherton
Keep me until you need me!
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Call now on
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
01772 603923
REPAIR & WELDING
Saving money is
the clear benefit!
Slash your electricity and
water heating bill
Protect your household from
future energy price rises
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
Call us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
For more information call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
Call Andrew to discuss your requirements
Office 01695 625669
Mobile 07850 956229
All electrical work
undertaken
• Friendly reliable service
• Mains board upgrades
• Extra sockets to full
rewires
Free quotations
A.J.S.
BAILEYS
ELECTRICAL
01942 215 769
07739 709 005

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
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’)
A5209
B5250
J27
Shevington
A49
Standish
Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00 noon
www.dglwindows.co.uk
Unit 4a,
off Miry Lane,
Wigan.
WN6 7TP
or
88
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• traditional service, state of the art results •
Wigan Good
Trader Of
The Year
2015
5 star rating with
Wigan Trading
Standards Good
Trader Scheme
• Carpets • Rugs
• Fabric & Leather Upholstery
Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote
Call - 01257 251221
Mobile - 07908 770808
www.manorhousecleaning.co.uk
Orrell Laundry
11 Sefton Road, Orrell, WN5 8UP
01695 623 796
• Bedding & duvets • Domestic washes
• Commercial washing • Ironing services
• Dry cleaning • Team sports kits welcomed
Open 7 days
see website for
opening times
Free pick-up
& drop off!
Serving the
community for
over 50 years
Free pICk-up & DrOp OFF
service to/from Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Highfield, Marus Bridge,
Kitt Green & Up Holland
www.orrell-laundry.co.uk
Want to promote your
company in Local Life?
Call Sally: 01695 627 999
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife
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
mr-soot.com
Mr Soot
CHIMNEY SWEEP
Woodburners Open fires Stoves
07724 311 992
Design & Print
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
Natalies @ Studio 84
Upvc Windows & Doors I Conservatories,
Soffits & Fascias I Composite Doors I Bi-Fold Doors
Gel
Nails
normally £20
now £15
84 Rainford Road, Bi linge WN5 7PG
Telephone: 07814 619 400
Open:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10AM - 7PM, Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Closed Thursday & Sunday
Mo sy Lea Road
Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Wind Turbines
Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
...and general
Energy Savings
Don’t forget, we also offer all of these services daily...
T
Y
R
E
S
Book
your FREE
home survey
Telephone: 01257 427 000
and we’ l provide you with a
detailed report showing the
returns available from your
own solar panels
CAR & VAN SERVICING
...and motorcycles too
FREE
Car Health Check
(10% typical return)
Visit our showroom at
Cricket Street Business Park
for all residents of Croston and Bretherton
Keep me until you need me!
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Call now on
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
01772 603923
REPAIR & WELDING
Saving money is
the clear benefit!
Slash your electricity and
water heating bill
Protect your household from
future energy price rises
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
E
X
H
A
U
S
T
S
Call us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
Email: info@docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Website: www.docsolarelectrical.co.uk
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
For more information call 01695 627 999
LocalLife

89
Wigan’s premier
domestic
cleaning service
Ovenclean will transform your oven and
put the sparkle back into your kitchen!
• Ovens
• Grills
• Extractors
• BBQ’s
Cleaning in the
Wigan area for
10+ years
We only use reliable, vetted staff
• £10.75 per hour - minimum 2 hrs
• Same cleaner each visit
• All domestic duties provided
Call or email Joanne 01942 203442
joanne@acleanbreak.co.uk / www.acleanbreak.co.uk/wigan
as seen
ON TV
• Hobs
• Ranges
• Microwaves
• AGA’s
Call today to book your oven clean
0800 840 7127 or
07724 694337
www.ovenclean.com
UPVC CLEANING
• Windows, Fascias, Gutters etc.
CONSERVATORIES
• Exterior & Interior (Cleaning)
• Glass roofs / Orangeries
JETWASHING
• Driveways & Patios etc.
ROOF CLEANING
• Moss Removal
(No Jet washing/No mess)
• NEW Soft Wash Cleaning
SPECIAL OFFER - 20% OFF
ALL CLEANING PACKAGES
Call Clint for a free no obligation quote.
01942 470 089 / 07834 241 642
www.conservatorycleaningwigan.com
PB
Driveways
Conservatories
Patios & Decking
Gutters & Fascias
Bricks & Walls
Power
Washing
HOUSE CLEANING AT ITS BEST
BEFORE
AFTER
Call Paul today to arrange a free quote
01257 402 113 ~ 07736 396 374
www.pbpowerwashing.co.uk

90
IAIN LOWE
01695 623236
• Central Heating
• Plumbing
• Gas Appliances
• Gas Safety Checks
• Landlord’s Certificates
• Maintenance/Breakdowns
Great Value Bathrooms!
Full Bathrooms & En-Suites
Showers, Trays & Cubicles
Relocation of Bathroom Suites
25 years bathroom experience
Call Chris now for a free quotation
C L Bathrooms
01942 749085
or 07801 295483
www.clbathrooms.co.uk
C&
D
Plumbing and Heating
Heating & Bathroom Specialist
Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P
07973714222
01695625171
Elite Bathrooms
Installation & Tiling
• Bathrooms
• Wall Tiling
• Floor Tiling 07703 448890
FREE Estimates 01942 208926
• Bathroom Installation, Full Bathrooms & En-Suites
• Plumbing Services • Wall & Floor Tiling • Ceiling Panelling
01942 397173 / 07803 057940
Douglas Drive, Orrell, Wigan
www.ljplumbingandbathrooms.co.uk
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 Drive, Orrell, WN5 8SB
Email: info@orrellheating.co.uk
www.orrellheating.co.uk
506515

91
All plumbing services
including services & repairs
• Bathrooms/Wet Rooms designed and fitted
• Specialists in Disability Installations &
Conversions
• Emergency Call outs welcome
No Obligation Quotes – Call Mark on
07515 894 281
14 Lyefield Avenue, Whelley, Wigan, WN1 3UL
www.gphwigan.co.uk
COMBI
BOILERS
FROM
£999
527090
No
call out
fee
A Genuine Family Run Business
With Friendly & Courteous Staff
SPECIALISTS IN CENTRAL
HEATING INSTALLATION, BOILER
REPLACEMENTS AND UPGRADES
Accredited Installer & Service Partner
• Annual Boiler Servicing
• Landlord & Home Owner
Gas Safety Checks
• Gas Fire & Cooker Installations
• Under Floor Heating Specialists
• Home Efficiency Control Upgrades
10 YEARS
EXTENDED
WARRANTY
ON SELECTED BOILER
INSTALLATIONS
Registration No.
88604
Telephone:
WE REPAIR
ALL MAKES
OF BOILERS!
01257 421 660
TEL: 01942 504 429
MOB: 07515 505 501
www.fgwelch.co.uk
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
• 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
T: 01942 387 006
M: 07539 449 006
• Repairs • Installations • Services
Smart control specialist – save £££’s
Check out our Google reviews
569287
www.wiganboilerrepair.co.uk
Plumbing & Heating Specialist
Complete Bathroom
& Tiling service
John Bailey - 01942 495785
or 07721 040620 & 07710 153238
Based in Kenyon Road, Wigan

92
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
AJH DECORATORS
Painting and Decorating
Quality work assured
Over 30 years experience
Free quotes
Mob: 07784 876 338
Email: ajhdecorators@sky.com
Quality work at a competitive price
Need a new look
for your home?
Skilled interior and exterior work
undertaken at reasonable prices!
Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator
01942 518126
or 07545 065119
Orrell based business
01942 392398 or 07707 321383
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
Want to promote your
company in Local Life?
Call Sally: 01695 627 999
locallife247.co.uk
LocalLife
SG
Award Winner
Exterior & Interior Decorating
Domestic & Commercial work undertaken
Competitive rate
Contact Graham now - free estimate provided
01257 426 234
graham@topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk
www.topcoatdecoratingservices.co.uk
Over 40 Lancashire
walks
LocalLife
FREE to download at
locallife247.co.uk

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
A5209
B5250
Open:
Dennis Goulding
J27
Shevington
A49
Standish
Wind Turbines
Heat Pumps
LED Lighting
.and general
Energy Savings
Unit 16, Ainscough Business Park, Mossy Lea Road,
Wrightington, WN6 9RS
(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
TwinLakesMotorEngin ers
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
Driveway Medic
Natural Stone
Driveway Cleaning
Driveway Sealing
Block Paving
Pattern Imprinted Concrete & Tarmac
High Reach Cleaning
Call us now to discuss how Driveway Medic can help you;
our quotes are always friendly and Free.
T: 01942 239 874 M: 07984 034 574
driveway-medicnorthwest.co.uk
GDR Driveways
Flagging • Block paving
Concreting • Fencing
Call Gareth for a FREE quotation
01942 217 113 | 07715 177 754
Complete Driveways
& Landscapes
Landscapes
Gardens designed. Paving laid, artificial turf
fitted, garden walls built, all aspects of fencing.
Driveways
Block paving, flagging, printed concrete
driveway specialist.
‘the complete answer
for driveways & landscapes’
Call Gary for a free, no obligation quote;
01942 355 993 07712 352 411
PROFESSIONAL
CLEANING & SEALING
S E R V I C E S
93
Design & Print
Flyers, postcards, brochures
and distribution service.
For more information call
01695 627 999
LocalLife
Gel
Nails
norma ly £20
now £15
Lashes
Spray Tan
Sunbeds
Acrylic & Gel Nails
SPECIAL OFFER
Up to 10 sq m Cleaned & Sealed
Just £49
JJ Driveways
Imprinted Concrete Specialists
Huge range of colours & patterns
• Resin Driveways • Block Paving
• Indian Stone • Flagging
We can also revive your old drive!
Ask about our sealing service
Call Joe for a free quotation on
01942 621 959 / 07867 697 972
www.jjdriveways.co.uk
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
Mo sy Lea Road
T
Y
R
E
S
Solar Thermal
& Solar PV
Book
your FREE
home survey
CAR & VAN SERVICING
FREE
Car Health Check
.and motorcycles too
for a l residents of Croston and Bretherton
Keep me until you need me!
Book your FREE Car Health Check
Ca l now on
01772 603923
REPAIR & WELDING
Saving money is
the clear benefit!
Slash your electricity and
water heating bi l
Protect your household from
future energy price rises
E
X
H
A
U
Reduce your household’s
impact on the environment
Ca l us now
0843 224 9555
07595 420237
S
T
S

94
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
Number One for House Maintenance!
• UPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & ROOFLINE
SUPPLIED AND FITTED MISTED UNITS
REPLACED
• GUTTERS AND UPVC CLEANING AND
REPAIR SERVICE
• FLAGGING, FENCING AND POINTING
• GARDENS CLEARED
No job too small!
01942 561 848 | 07725 909 257
www.freshbuildconstruction.co.uk
Don’t Move – Improve!
• House Renovation
• Loft & Garage Conversion
Call me for advice and a free quotation
01257 251 534
07973 143 289
www.sjcollier.co.uk
01257 422317 or 07852 202867
www.mtjoinery.co.uk
Call Mike Darbyshire on
01942 513 584 / 07917 352 181
Orrell based
PLASTERER
Re-skims Dot & dab Rendering
2 coat work Unwanted artex
For a free quote, call Ian Ridley on
01942 218 160
or 07958 695 116
Home Improvements
• Fitted Kitchens & Bedrooms
• Garage & Loft Conversions
• Floors, Doors & Windows
• Garden Gates
For all your home improvement needs call David on...
01942 203 804
07851 225 876
DS Joinery

• 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
PLANS TO IMPROVE
• Plans drawn and submitted.
• Extensions, conversions, structural alterations.
• Structural calculations.
E mail info@stuartsplans.co.uk
Call Stuart on 07973143289
95
B.A. Berry
Building & Roofing Specialists
•All building work undertaken.
• From a broken tile to a full re roof.
• Flat roofs renewed and repaired.
• Extensions, Alterations, Structural repairs
including Lintels.
Your local fully qualified tradesman with
30 years experience
Call us now for a free,
no obligation quote
01695 622 704 / 07968 652 320
www.baberry.co.uk
K Stone
Building Services
All types of building
work undertaken
25 years experience
• Brickwork
• Pointing
• Garden Walls
• Patios
• Roof Repairs
• Flagging
• Alterations
• Driveways
01942 495412 / 07974 496676
28 Years Experience
T: 01942 248 537
M: 07749 806 566
Easy Mix
Easy Mix
Ready Mixed Concrete
• Delivered or Collected • Perfect for builders & DIY
01942 224571 for advice
Lamberhead Ind. Est., Pemberton
• Brickwork,
Extensions,
Re-pointing
• Garden Walls,
Decorative
Walls
• Platform
Steps, Paths
& patios
• All aspects of home improvements
• One stop for all the trades you require
• Joinery, Building, Kitchens & Bathrooms
WE DESIGN AND MANAGE
YOUR PROJECT FROM
START TO FINISH
Call Jonathan for a free quotation
TEL: 01257 401 243 / MOB: 0777 602 4045

96
All aspects of roofing & roofline
NEW ROOFS REPAIRS
FASCIAS, SOFFITS & GUTTERS
Dormers
and Garages
Rubber Cover
Roofing Specialist
Guaranteed 50 years
T: 01942 864 624
M: 07894 687 384
M: 07868 713 520
Call for free
quote
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
Facias, soffits, cladding,
dry verge and gutters - call us now
for all your roofline requirements!
We specialise in seamless aluminium gutters.
Clean, stylish and guaranteed for 25 years!
01942 735 515 / 07917 352 182 / 07917 352 183
www.orrellroofline.co.uk
M H Roofing
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

Transform your home
with a brand new driveway
97
Resin Driveways
Made in Lancashire
Established over 25 years
Tarmac Driveways
J.P.Surfacing
42, Seymour Road,
Astley Bridge,
Bolton, BL1 8PT
01204 590 499
jp-surfacing.co.uk

98
• 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
Boost your Business in 2018
Advertising packages start from £39 + VAT a month.
For more information call 01695 627 999
LocalLife
Puzzle Solutions
S C H U R C H E R C
T C A R V I N G E H
U B N S S F B A M N
V E C W T G T R A S
M T I R O L T D I G
O T E R N R E N N N
S B N C E B G V S D
A R T E F A C T P W
I O S M N C E L P A
C N E E U O A O T L
T Z T R U I N S H K
W E A P O N W A N S
G Y D S A B B E Y M
WIGGLE WORDS: FOUR LEAFED CLOVER
2 1 0 5
9 4 7 8
9 2 3 1
4 3 2 5
24 10 12 19
18
8
28
15
14
14
WORD MIX UP: ARCHAEOLOGY, WYND, ARCHIVE, POTTERY, ANGLO SAXON, BATTLEFIELD, ROMAN, BROOCH

99
Come and visit the largest
showroom in the North West
®
Quality installations of windows,
doors, fascias, soffits and gutters
First for quality • First for service • First for reliability
No contractors • No salesmen
Just a smile and a honest price from a family run business
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
Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria Street, Leigh, WN7 5SE
warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk • info@warmlightwindowsltd.co.uk