Local Life - St Helens & Ashton - Sept/Oct 2012

www.locallife247.co.uk

St Helens & Ashton Edition September 2012

Family tickets to Win!

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Publisher:Local Life 247 LtdUnit 8, Hewitt Business ParkWinstanley RoadOrrellWiganWN5 7XB

Advertising/Editorial01744 [email protected]

Accounts/Distribution01695 [email protected]

The October issue of Local Life will be published on Friday 5th October. The copy deadline for this issue is Monday 24th September.

Local Life is published every month. Distribution areas will alternate each month between two separate edition areas;

The St Helens and Prescot edition is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Rainhill, Eccleston, Prescot, Eccleston Park, Windle, Knowsley Village, Prescot Road and part of Nutgrove.

Copies of this edition are also available to pick up free from Tesco Extra Stores in Peasley Cross and Prescot.

The St Helens and Ashton edition is delivered to over 12,500 private home and businesses in Rainford, Billinge, Newton-le-Willows, Garswood, Crank, Kings Moss and parts of Ashton and Moss Bank.

Copies of this edition are also available to pick up free from Tesco Stores in Haydock and Earlestown.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the information 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, including pictures, may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

Fun in the SunNow don’t be misled by the heading I’m not claiming that the weather is going to take a turn for the better – but I was lucky enough to join some friends on holiday over the Bank Holiday weekend. We all crave a bit of sun and moan about the lack of it at home but on my return fl ight I was struck by just how beautiful our country really is.Making our way back into Liverpool airport I couldn’t help but notice what a beautiful part of the country we happen to live in. Alright, we may have an annual rainfall that could inspire Noah to start building again but we are surrounded by lush, green countryside as far as the eye can see – and what is a bit of rain compared to the great British Spirit?If you fancy donning your all weather mac, getting out there and having a look at what our area has to off er then try out our latest Jack’s Tracks on p34-37. Jack will lead you on a fi ve-mile walk taking in Ruff ord’s picturesque scenery. Don’t forget to check out the Heritage Open Days this weekend; you can explore buildings in the area that are usually off limits to the public – and it’s free! We’ve got all the information you’ll need on p39. I’m glad that I managed to get my fi x of Vitamin D but I wouldn’t want home to be anywhere else. Don’t forget; send all your community news and events so we can give you some free publicity – drop me a line at nicolaglocallife247.co.ukSee you next time,

In this issue£5 off any treatment at Fabulous Feet! 4Free sunglasses from Crompton & Gilmore! 1020% off curtains & blinds at The Curtain Company! 14Dish of the Month – Spinach & Feta Pie 15St Helens Town FC Fixtures 19Jack’s Tracks 34Heritage Open Days 39Puzzle Page 40New concerts from St Helens Sinfonietta 41What’s On 46Martin Mere Competition 50Gardening Services 52Motoring Feature 54Motoring Services 56Home Services 58Tell Us Once Useful Numbers 63

When you receive the new edition of LocalLife - remember to recycle the old one.

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Tinnitus SupportThe St Helens Deafness Resource Centre is currently running a Tinnitus support group which is already proving to be very benefi cial to a lot of local people. The group offers an opportunity to socialise with other sufferers whilst getting support in dealing with Tinnitus. The group meets on the fi rst Wednesday of every month between 10am-12pm at the centre on Denton’s Green Lane. For more information please call the centre on 01744 23887 or send a text to 07722 095710.

Ashton FestivalThe annual Ashton festival is back with a bang this Saturday (8th September) and you can enjoy everything the town has to offer from food fairs and fl oral demonstrations to fashion shows and baking competitions. The two week event ends on Saturday 22nd September with live music from Greenall’s Brass Band. Tickets for the various events can be purchased at Ashton Library on Wigan Road. For full event listings please contact the Library on 01942 276121 or go to www.wlct.org.

The Newton-le-Willows Flower and Vegetable show takes place this Saturday (8th September) from 2pm at Penkford School on Wharf Road; this event usually attracts 50-60 exhibitors so you can expect to see some weird and wonderful entries in the competition. There will be competitive classes for fl owers, pot plants, vegetables, fruit, art, photography, baking and fl ower arranging. There will also be stalls selling plants, spring bulbs, second-hand books, a tombola and a raffl e. The show will end at 4.15pm with a presentation to the winners and an auction of the produce. For more details about the show or any other events organised by the Newton-le-Willows Gardeners’ Association please contact Chantelle Seaborn on 07708 589912 or [email protected].

Flower Show

5www.locallife247.co.uk

Wet your whistle!The Smithy Heritage Centre in Eccleston has a great line up of events, looking back at the social history of the pub. There will be an open event this weekend (Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th September) where you will be able to soak up the experience of pubs from the past with good old fashioned bar games and snacks. You can try your hand at darts, skittles, dominoes and even Aunt Sally – there’s lots of fun for all the family including free craft activities for children, then they won’t have to sit outside on the step with a bottle of pop! For more information and opening times please contact The Smithy Heritage Centre on 01744 730744 or e-mail [email protected]

Get a mention!If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number [email protected]

Real Ale FestivalReal Ale enthusiasts are in for a treat with the return of the St Helens CAMRA Beer and Cider festival. The festival, held at the Volunteer Hall on Mill Street, will bring together a wide range of real ales, ciders and perries – so if you don’t know your Bishops Finger from your Village Idiot you are in for a real education!The three-day event from Thursday 20th September to Saturday 22nd September will be offering more than 50 different taste sensations plus some live entertainment for you to enjoy. Entrance to the sessions will be £2 apart from Friday which will be £3 – you can pay on the door but customers who want to attend the Friday evening are advised to arrive early. For more information about the Beer Festival please have a look at the website at www.sthelenscamra.org.uk

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Walk for DiabetesIf you would like to do your bit for charity but haven’t got the physical fi tness for a bike ride or a mountain climb, why not try a sponsored walk? You can join Diabetes UK for an easy but energetic sponsored walk around Sherdley Park. The 1.5 mile walk will take place on Sunday 16th September, so gather your friends and family for a stroll and raise some money for charity. For more information please contact Maria on 01925 644572.

Congratulations to the winners of our Southport Flower Show competition in the July issue of Local Life. There were

fi ve pairs of tickets up for grabs for Local Life readers in St Helens and the winners were; Michael & Maureen Iredale, Newlyn

Drive, Ashton in Makerfi eld (pictured), Pauline & Ian Taylor, Camelot Close,

Newton Le Willows (pictured), Liz Carter, Standish Drive, Rainford, Eileen Fisher,

Cross Pit Lane, Rainford and Carol Jackson, Mercer Street, Newton Le

Willows. Many thanks to all who entered for this

popular competition; to enter this month’s competition turn to pages 50-51 where

you can win a family pass to Martin Mere Wetlands Centre in Burscough.

the July issue of Local Life. There were fi ve pairs of tickets up for grabs for Local Life readers in St Helens and the winners were; Michael & Maureen Iredale, Newlyn

Newton Le Willows (pictured), Liz Carter, Standish Drive, Rainford, Eileen Fisher,

Many thanks to all who entered for this popular competition; to enter this month’s

competition turn to pages 50-51 where you can win a family pass to Martin Mere

Flower Show Winners


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Keep Fit! Have you been meaning to do something about improving your general fitness but have never quite got around to it? Well now is as good a time as any to get started! Newton Community Centre has numerous courses and activities that will get your heart rate going. From Adult dance classes and cheerleading to family martial arts and Tai-Chi there will be something to suit all ages and fitness levels. If you fancy something a little more serene then why not learn how to paint with watercolours – by the end of the course you will be able to complete at least one piece of work and be able to display it in a mount. The class is very relaxed and informal so get your paint brushes at the ready and away you go. The course runs for 5 weeks at a cost of £35 – the next start date is Tuesday 11th September. For more information or to find classes that fit in with your schedule please contact the community centre on 01925 224731 or log on to www.newtoncommunitycentre.co.uk

Hola!If you would like to brush up on your Spanish lingo you can give it a go with a new 10-week beginner’s course. The adult and community learning team will be holding the course at Chain Lane Community Centre in St Helens. The course will start on Friday 21st September between 10am-12pm and costs £65 – for more information or to book your place please contact the team on 01744 677314.


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Car Boot SaleThatto Heath Children’s Centre on Brisbane Street will be holding a car boot sale on Saturday September 15th – if you want a pitch you’ll have to be up bright and early as there will be an 8am start for all pre-booked cars. To book your place this will cost £7 and pre-payment is required. If you want to show up on the day you can arrive at 9am at a cost of £10 per car. The gates will open to the public at 10am and refreshments will be available all day - for more information or to book your place please contact the centre on 01744 678372.

Break Dancing WorkshopsCrownway Community Centre in Earlestown will be offering free Street and Break Dancing workshops for 11-15 year olds. The fun workshops, funded by Children in Need, will start on Wednesday 12th September between 4.45pm - 6.15pm. The classes run for six weeks and will be delivered by a local youth activities provider. The sessions are fun, invigorating and are a great way for your kids to burn off all that excess energy. For more information or to book your child’s place please contact the Centre on 01925 222907.

Marken Xmas ShopperIf you hate the thought of Christmas shopping – trudging around the streets looking for the ever-elusive inspirational gift then we might have the answer for you. Marken Travel in Billinge is hosting a Christmas Shopping Weekend leaving on Friday 30th November; the trip is designed to add a bit of fun to the annual dash for presents. You can enjoy a 2-night stay in Edinburgh, taking in the sights of the city and stocking up on gifts for your loved ones. The cost of the trip is £160 per person and there are only a few seats left so for more information or to book your place please call 01744 893291.

Pilates Class

If you play competitive sport such as tennis, golf, horse riding or you just need to improve your core strength then you might benefi t from the new Pilates class in Billinge. The class takes place every Monday evening from 7pm at the John Eddleston Centre on Main Street - the sessions are suitable for all levels of fi tness from beginners to fi tness fanatics. The cost is £5 per session so if you would like any further information or to book a place please contact Steven on 07792 281108 or e-mail [email protected]


Christmas Celebrations at Haydock Park

For further information or to bookcall 01942 402 623 or visit haydock-park.co.uk

Serious Christmas Parties, Serious Fun

Go Red Hot in Rio with our sizzling ‘Rio Carnival’ themed parties or slip behind your mask and join in with the mystery of our ‘Masquerade’ parties. Or why not host your own themed private

party… something for everyone at the Park this festive season!

...something for everyone at Haydock Park this festive season!

Dance for Matthew They say charity begins at home and for a local Billinge family this is defi nitely the case. Family and friends of local toddler Matthew Valentine are rallying around to raise much needed funds after it was discovered that he suffers from Neimann-Pick disease – this is a rare metabolic condition that leads to loss of motor skills, diffi culty with walking and epileptic seizures. Matthew visits the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital every six months to monitor his progress and, to the delight of his family, is doing exceptionally well.Matthew is just like any other three-year-old boy; he goes to nursery and loves to play with his brother and friends. He is doing really well at the moment, but there is no cure for his condition. The Neimann- Pick Disease Group UK is there to support families and helps to fund research to fi nd a cure – so fund raising events like this are a lifeline for the charity and for sufferers across the country.Much needed funds will be raised for the charity on

Saturday 6th October as family and friends will be helping to host an event at St Mary’s Club on Trent Road, Billinge. On the night you will be able to enjoy live music from local band Change of Key – the barn dance band will have you up on your feet having a ball with traditional British, Irish and American tunes. The bands caller will be on hand to show you the moves so everyone can join in and have a go.

The entertainment kicks off at 8pm, tickets are £5 and every penny raised will be given to the Neimann-Pick Disease Group UK. To purchase your tickets please call 07779 935190 or 01744 892236 or alternatively you can e-mail [email protected]. For more information about the charity please have a look at the website at www.niemannpick.org.uk

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100% Pass Rate at Rainford

Students at Rainford High have been celebrating en masse this year as the school has racked up an impressive 100% pass rate in the latest A Level exams. The results at Rainford High are a strong set of results and are testament

to the teachers but more importantly the young people’s hard work, talent and commitment. Danny Hubball, Director of Sixth Form told Local Life, “I am absolutely delighted with

the exam results this year. The fact that all our students who have applied to University have obtained places is a

wonderful achievement.”


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Adult LearningYou are never too old to learn something new and to prove this St Helens Adult and Community Learning will be launching a range of new courses for adults in September. Adult learning offers a chance to make new friends as well as learn new skills in community settings.If you are looking to learn new skills for pleasure, why not try Spanish? Classes are for absolute beginners to those looking to develop further. Or perhaps you have a computer but you don’t know where to get started? A computer basics class will give you the skills to search the Internet, send emails and create documents. Alternatively, you might want to gain skills and qualifications to improve your work chances.Adult Learning offers friendly classes where you can develop the English, Maths and IT skills you need to progress. Enrolments will take place at Central Library on Monday 10th September and the Park Road Centre on Thursday 13th September. For more information please contact 01744 677675 or e-mail [email protected] to find out more.

Music at Ashton LibraryAshton Library presents an evening of music, tales and wine with artist Bram Taylor on Wednesday 19th September from 7.30pm. Bram Taylor is billed as an entertaining artist with a distinctive voice – calling on a large range of traditional songs together with contemporary and humorous material. Free tickets are available from the Library so pop in and reserve your seat or give them a call on 01942 727119.


Method

Pre-heat the oven to 180C/Gas 4.

Chop the spinach quite roughly.

Heat the olive oil in a large pan then add the spinach and spring onions and cook until the spinach has wilted. Drain well and cool then lightly squeeze out any excess juices.

In a big bowl, mash the feta cheese with the ricotta, then beat in the eggs, nutmeg, chopped dill or parsley, sea salt and lots of pepper. Add the spinach and spring onions and mix well.

Brush one sheet of fi lo pastry with melted butter and place it in a lightly oiled 20cm x 28cm (8in x 10in) ovenproof baking dish, allowing for some overlap.

Continue layering the brushed sheets one on top of the other until you have six layers, and then fi ll the dish with the spinach mixture. Top with six more layers of buttered pastry and trim or tuck in the edges.

Bake for 60 minutes or until set. Rest for ten minutes, then cut into squares and serve.

Method

�i�� m�n��

Spinach & Feta Pie

Serves 6

Preperation: 20 minCooking: 60 min

Ingredients

• 1kg washed spinach• 2tbsp olive oil• 4 spring onions, fi nely chopped• 200g feta cheese• 250g ricotta cheese• 4 eggs, lightly beaten• Grated nutmeg• 2tbsp fi nely chopped dill or fl at-

leaved parsley• Sea salt and pepper• 1 packet fi lo pastry, thawed• 125g melted butter

T�i� �e�et��i�� e�� , u��n� �� pas�� i� �� r�ec� no�� f�� p�� n�� e�� . F�� t� ��p�� n� ��i�� n� ea�� t� �� .

16

Now it’s not very often a match like that appears on the fi xture list – but your eyes haven’t deceived you, Barcelona really did take on Billinge in the beautiful game! A school football team from Oak House School in Barcelona recently triumphed 1-0 over the mighty Billinge Chapel End to take the school tournament trophy.

Brian Montrose, Year 3 teacher at Billinge Chapel End, has links with the Spanish city through a university friend

who teaches there. The tournament was the second to be held in the school and saw other local primaries; Birchley St. Mary’s and St. Aidan’s primaries compete.

Brian told Local Life, “All the children who participated were a credit to their school, playing the games in a sporting manner combined with a will to win.Everyone had fun and a great day was had by all.”

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St Helens Town Football Club started the 2012-13 campaign with renewed optimism following a battle against relegation last season. 2012 sees Town compete in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division having made their debut in the competition exactly thirty years ago. Last season’s reprieve means Town command a unique record as the only ever-present top-fl ight club and became the fi rst to reach 1200 league games which was celebrated with a 2-1 win over AFC Liverpool in early August. The battle against the drop last season saw the appointment of a new management team and a whole host of new recruits to the playing squad. Ian Granite was installed as the club’s new manager in June having been highly successful with Wigan Robin Park FC. Ian has been joined by assistants John Wilkie and Stephen Edwards. Scout Paul Jones has also joined Ian’s staff and his connections to the club go back to the late 1960s when his granddad Peter was Town boss in the Lancashire Combination. The backroom coaching staff is completed with the addition of former Skelmersdale United players Ian Price and Carl Osman - Carl, brother of Everton’s Leon, joins as player-coach.The club are currently playing home games at Edge Green Street home of near-neighbours Ashton Town, while discussions continue for a return to St Helens.

Like most clubs fundraising is vital and the club holds regular events and holds a monthly draw. Next up for the club is a Sporting Evening on Saturday 3rd November at St Helens Cricket Club when former Everton star Ian Snodin will be the guest speaker - he will be joined by top comedian Frankie Allen. The evening includes hotpot supper, raffl e and auction with tickets costing £20.Entry to home games costs £5 for adults, £3 Concessions and match programmes are £1.50. For more information about the club please contact Club Chairman, John McKiernan on 07713 339682 or check out the website at www.sthelenstownafc.com

Reaching for Glory

First Team Fixtures - September04/09/12 Ashton Athletic (H) 19:4508/09/12 Stockport Sports (A) 15:0022/09/12 Padiham (A) 15:0025/09/12 Runcorn Linnets (A) 19:4529/09/12 Runcorn Town (H) 15:0002/09/12 AFC Blackpool (H) 18:4506/09/12 Silsden (A) 15:0020/09/12 Alsager Town (H) 15:0027/09/12 AFC Blackpool (H) 15:00

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Post-Olympic fever is set to hit St Helens on Monday September 10th when the Tour of Britain takes in parts of the borough. Britain’s cycling heroes Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish will be spearheading Team Sky as the ninth tour hits the streets. The Tour of Britain is a multi-stage cycling race across Great Britain where competitors race to complete the stages in the fastest time. With Olympic cycling success still at the forefront of sport, St Helens Council has informed schools along the route of the timing of the race so pupils can cheer on the riders. The race will enter St Helens at about 1:30pm in Garswood travelling from Billinge Road to Newton Road into Billinge; from there riders will pass down Main Street then onto Rainford Road towards Rainford, through Crank and onto Higher Lane through Rainford onto Ormskirk Road, then taking the Rainford By-Pass leaving the borough for Knowsley Safari Park. For more details about the race please log on to www.tourofbritain.com.

Street DancingDoes your son or daughter like to throw a few shapes on the dance fl oor? If they do and you would like to fi nd somewhere for them to practice, then the Chapel End Labour Club in Billinge might just be the place you’re looking for. The popular street dancing classes are held every Thursday and are split in to age groups. 6-8 year olds dance from 5pm, 8-10 year olds from 6pm, 10-12 year olds from 7pm and 13-18 year olds from 8pm. Classes are just £2 and places are fi lling up fast, so for more details or to secure your child’s place please ring Jane on 01744 603031 or Anne on 01744 893260.

Wave on Wiggo

22

Contact us:

01744 677675Visit: www.sthelens.gov.uk/adultlearningEmail: [email protected]

Monday 10th SeptemberCentral Library10.00am - 12.00pm2.00pm - 4.00pm

Thursday 13th SeptemberPark Road Centre6.00pm - 8.00pm

Come along to one of our information days to find out more, meet our tutors and you can even sign up on the day!

Adult & Community LearningLocal courses starting in September


Laugh a minuteIf you could do with getting your laughing gear in good working order then why not have a look at the latest offering from the Unnamed Players Drama Group? The group of local performers will be presenting Wife begins at Forty, an hilarious comedy by Ray Cooney, Arne Sultan and Earl Barret by kind permission of Samuel French. The story sees Linda Harper, a woman who is married to George for seventeen years, is dissatisfied with her marriage both spiritually and physically. She decides to leave the family home, when in fact George moves out, giving her a chance to find herself through a variety of courses. George returns home to sort out maintenance arrangements with the help of neighbours Roger and Betty - he and Linda then discover that the flames of passion are not quite dead.The show will be taking place at 7.30pm on Friday 5th and Saturday 6th October at the Citadel Arts Centre on Waterloo Street. Tickets are £7 per person and £5 concessions and can be purchased from the Citadel Box Office by calling 01744 735436 or the ticket secretary on 01744 612260.

CinderellaPanto season is nearly upon us and Rainford Amateur Dramatics Society is getting into the spirit with their version of the classic story Cinderella. The performances will take place at the Rainford Parish Hall on Church Road at 7.30pm on Friday 16th, Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th November followed by Thursday 22nd, Friday 23rd and two performances at 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Saturday 24th November. Tickets are £8 for adults and £4 for children 16 and under - for more information or to book your tickets please call the Box-Office on 01744 883350.

24

Crow

n Copyright

Southport Air Show

The largest Air Show in the North West is back and it’s right on your doorstep! Southport Air Show returns on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th September so if you’re looking for some family fun this is just the ticket. As well as the fantastic fl ying programme there is plenty to do for the entire family including fl ight simulators, children’s activities and plenty of stalls selling goodies. Daily tickets are £7 in advance and £9 on the gate and group rates are available – for more information or to book your tickets please call 01704 533333 or check out the website at www.southportairshow.com


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Also available in 1000mm and 1100mm

1500 or 1700mmP-shape

SUITE

£299 from only

inc 40mm stone tray & fast flow waste

1200 Sliding

Shower Door

£220 from

Available sizes: 1200 x 8001200 x 9001000 x 800900 x 900800 x 800

Gloss white

inc toilet, seat & basin

Sizes 950 & 1050mm

Bathroom

Furniture Set

£189 from

Bella 4 Piece inc basin

& toilet set only £79

Petite 4 piece Set now only

£179

inc 40mm Stone Tray & Fast Flow Waste

Quadrant Enclosures

£189 from

pictures for illustration purposes only

www.sherdleybathrooms.co.uk

26

Window Sills can be the bane of your life; all too often they can spoil the appearance of a beautifully kept home – grubby marks, discolouring and mould are all too common a problem. But given the time and attention not only can your window sills increase the kerb appeal of your home, they can also prevent water damage around the windows.If you’ve struggled with unsightly window sills you’ll know even the toughest amount of elbow grease won’t bring them back to their original state – harsh chemicals can damage the sill and conventional cleaners just won’t do the job. Don’t despair because we would like to introduce you to a local company that can restore your grubby sills to their former glory.Homesill UK now has a local franchise in your area and they have combined the very latest design manufacturing and technology to bring you a long lasting protection for your exterior window sills. Not only will your new window sills be stylish they will also make regular maintenance a thing of the past – once in place all that is required to keep your sills in pristine condition is a simple clean with a damp cloth.Homesill franchisee Jeff Harrison said, “The reason for staining and engrained dirt in your windowsills is because they are made of a softer material than the window. With our Homesill system we can remove lumps of unsightly weathered silicone and top your old sill with a new durable over sill, keeping your existing sill in place.”

10% OFFExclusive Offer for Local Life Readers

Offer Valid until 5th October 2012Call now Jeff on

0843 2894537or

07526 312070www.homesill.com

Spruce upyour Sills!

The Homesill products offer an ideal hard-wearing surface for today’s modern home and you can have your choice of styles and colours, which enables you to choose contemporary or traditional sills to complement your exterior décor. Jeff can also help you with ideas and products for your interior sills as well.Jeff added, “Traditionally homes had sills of different colours that matched doors and garage doors. If you look around you will see that house builders are changing the image of their new builds to more traditional appearances – black and white is such a classic look. Although if you would like to keep your sills matched with your window frames we can achieve this for you too.”There is a wide range of products to choose from you can have virtually any colour sill with wood grained effects, wood fi nishes such as oak and for the more adventurous customers you can even plump for carbon fi bre and metal checker plate sills with a fi nish of your choice.Prices start from as little as £39 per sill - this typically includes one metre sill with two end caps fully installed by experienced fi tters. Transform the appearance of your home with the Homesill makeover and make those discoloured sills a thing of the past!

Before

After


Valid until 31st October 2012

Art ExhibitionRainford Parish Council are inviting you to submit your work to be displayed in an art exhibition. You can submit paintings, pottery, sculpture or craftwork to be used in the display – exhibits will be accepted from all age groups and should be submitted to the Village Hall between Monday 24th and Friday 28th September. The title of work and the medium must be shown on the front of each exhibit and adult work must be stringed ready for display. The exhibition will be open to the public between Monday 1st and Thursday 4th October. From more information please contact the Parish Clerk Offi ce on 01744 884709.

The closest you’ll get to the perfect garage door

CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB t: 01942 738347 w: www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk

W 68 mm x D 115 mm Advert - SeceuroGlide (additional logos).indd 119/07/2012 11:18

28

Call the hotline now or text “Punch MF11” plus your name to 60066Matt Fiddes Martial Arts School. Grange Community Complex, Highfi eld Grange Avenue, Wigan, WN4 9DZ

The Leaf Centre, Chester Lane, St Helens WA9 4DE

Telephone - 0800 612 7303www.mattfi ddes.com www.mattfi ddeswigan.com

Always AshtonEvery once in a while we all want to change something about where we live – but instead of focusing on the negatives have you ever thought about changing things for the better? Well that’s just what a group of traders in Ashton have done – the new group ‘Always Ashton’ are looking for people who want to support the town so that businesses can flourish. The group is made up of local traders who work in the town and want to encourage more shoppers to choose Ashton.Initially traders will be holding fortnightly meetings to think of various ways and events to promote the town and pull people back to Ashton. So if you are a trader in Ashton and are interested in having your say, please contact Richard Aylett on 01942 272978 or 07779 281478.

Family DayVolunteers from the North West Museum of Road Transport have put their thinking caps on and come up with a new event especially for families. On Sunday 23rd September between 10am to 4pm you can take the whole family down to the Old Bus Depot on Hall Street and join in with some face painting and line dancing, there will

even be free vintage bus rides. The kids will also get the chance to meet Bertie the Bus from Thomas the Tank Engine! Refreshments will be available throughout the day - served from a 1943 Fire Service canteen van. For more information please contact Linda on 01744 451681 or e-mail [email protected].

Antenatal InfoAshton Children’s Centre on Hilton Street will be host to an antenatal relaxation session every Thursday from 12pm-1pm – you can pop along meet new friends, enjoy the benefits of relaxation and learn all there is to know about babies. This session is classed as part of your antenatal education and time can be taken away from work to attend. For more information please contact the centre on 01942 723965 or e-mail Angela Connolly at [email protected]

If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number [email protected]


Voucher Join for free!*

*When you pre pay £29.75 for 5 weeks, includes unlimited exercise. Valid until 31/10/12. Class fee: £5.95. Please bring voucher to claim.

Follow us on

Call Chris on 01942 824557 or 07968 608861

NOW RUNNING Kardy-O-Fun®

classes!

Email: [email protected]

ASHTON IN MAKERFIELDByrchall High School, Warrington Road, Ashton In Makerfield, WN4 9RQMonday 6:00 - 7:30 pm(Kardy-O-Fun)

GARSWOODNEW CLASS Starts 12/09/12St Andrew’s Mission Hall Garswood Road, WN4 0TUWednesday 09:30 - 10:45 am (Kardy-O-Fun Aerobics)

Rectory CE Primary School, Rectory Road, WN4 0QFThursday 5:45 - 7:15 pm (Kardy-O-Fun Aerobics)Thursday 7:15 - 8:30 pm (Zumba® Fitness)

HIGHFIELDHighfield St Matthew’s Primary School, Billinge Road, Highfield, WN3 6BLTuesday 5:45 - 7:15 pm (Kardy-O-Fun)Tuesday 7:15 - 8:30 pm (Zumba® Fitness)

WINSTANLEYSt Aiden’s Social Club, Highfield Grange Avenue, Winstanley, WN3 6TBMonday 09:30 - 11:00 am (Kardy-O-Fun)

“I lost over 3 stone at class!” Nina

Classes also available in Wigan, Whelley, Hindley & Hindley Green. Please call for details.

30

Photo: BC Arts PhotographyWinstanley Rd, Orrell, WN5 7XA

£2,000 worth of prizes could be up for grabs for talented artists in St Helens after the Council announced the submission deadlines for this year’s Open Art competition. The competition is open to all levels of ability, from amateur artists to art students and professionals, the only criteria are that you are over 16. All art disciplines are welcome including ceramics, digital, drawing, glass,

mixed media, painting, photography, needlework and sculpture. As part of the event artists will have their work showcased in the St Helens Open Art exhibition.Artists who want to enter the competition should take their artwork – along with completed entry forms and the £6 entry fee to the World of Glass on Chalon Way East, on Wednesday 26th or Thursday 27th September between 4pm and 8pm. Entry forms are available from The World of Glass, local Libraries and Rennies art shop in Bridge Street.

Girls FootballSeneley and Garswood Juniors are on the look-out for some local girls who might fancy a kick about. The club is in partnership with the Liverpool County Football Association and along with the development department are looking to recruit players for a girl’s only section. To qualify for membership your daughter has to be between seven and nine years of age – you never know if they practice their skills you might be cheering them on at a future Olympic Games! For further information please contact Gary or Olivia Walsh on 07706 971485 or have a look online at www.garswoodjfc.com

£2,000 worth of prizes could be up for grabs for talented mixed media, painting, photography, needlework and

Art Competition

Get a mention!If you’re a member of a community group and you want to publicise your next event free in Local Life, then just email details along with a contact name and number [email protected]


At Wigan Family Chiropractic Clinic, our team of Chiropractors and therapists can help to relieve

most types of muscle, joint and nerve pain. What sorts of problem can you help me with? We can relieve pain that is caused by a variety of muscle, joint and nerve problems. This includes both new and old pain resulting from your job, sports, poor posture, accidents and some types of arthritis or wear & tear. We specialise in treating neck and back pain as well as pulled muscles, stiff joints and trapped nerves.

How can you help me? We always start off with a 45 minute consultation and exami-nation to find the underlying causes of your problem. We then use gentle, safe hands-on treatments to relieve your pain.

Why do you have a digital x-ray department? We have our own digital x-ray department at the clinic so that we can take and show you your pictures within 24 hours.This helps us to show you the underlying causes of your problem, allowing us to start treatment quickly and get you out of pain.

How soon can you help me?We are open six days a week and offer appointments the same or the next day. We are open Monday-Friday 8am-7pm, Saturdays 8am-4pm.

Why do we offer gentle treatments? Because we treat young children and senior citizens, we know that people prefer gentle, painless treatments.

Don’t suffer with muscle, joint or nerve pain!

Find out how we can help you:

01942 498480www.wiganbackpain.com

WIGAN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC CLINICTReATMeNT FOR YOuR sPINe, MusCLes, jOINTs & NeRves27 BRIDGeMAN TeRRACe. sWINLeY. WIGAN. LANCAsHIRe. WN1 1TD

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Dr Matt BirchDoctor of Chiropractic

Chris GreenSports Injury Specialist

Jenny Richmond Sports Injury Therapist

Mike PaullDoctor of Chiropractic

suFFeRING WITH MusCLe, jOINT OR NeRve PAIN?

Low back or neck pain? visit our clinic

• Consultation & Examination £59• Digital X-ray pictures (per area) £59• Treatment sessions (each) £35

A5_single page_WFC1.indd 1 28/11/11 22:22:43

32

� ere – I’ve said it! All those glossy colour Sunday supplements extolling the virtues of having a conservatory; extra family space to relax in the sunshine without actually braving the outside elements are just an overblown sales campaign to sell conservatories.

Whilst they are high on our wish list when it comes to improving our homes; conservatories rarely live up to expectations. A conservatory is supposed to be a calm and tranquil space, one that lets us linger over the Sunday papers without having to put on an extra layer or jumping up to retrieve the lifestyle section from the rose bushes.

In reality you probably have a love hate relationship with what can only be described as your glass box. They overheat in the summer and winter temperatures rival the North Pole during the winter months; all in all you start to feel like you haven’t benefi ted from the extra room you paid for. In fact, research shows that, in the British climate, a conservatory is unlikely to provide more than two hours of comfortable temperatures per day.

Well, before you seal those French doors shut for good we’d like to tell you about a local company who might just have the answer to all your conservatory woes. Freedom Conservatory Roof Conversions promise to give you back the extra room you have always dreamt about. With their innovative ceiling modifi cations they can make your conservatory up to 90% warmer in the winter and up to 75% cooler in the summer!

After suffering with the same problems in his own conservatory, the Billinge-based owner of Freedom Conservatory Roof Conversions Paul Stubbs came up with a revolutionary idea to combat

the problems associated with plastic ceilings. Freedom has already helped people save on their energy bills and given them a room that they can use 365 days of the year. The process does not alter the external appearance of your roof or remove any part of your conservatory - causing a minimal amount of disruption to your home and because the work is internal there is no need for any planning permission.

Paul says “Following our three-day installation you will no longer need to look at an ugly plastic roof, you will have a plastered and painted ceiling with a bespoke lighting and audio package of your choice. Before we plasterboard we lag the plastic roof with insulation that helps to defl ect heat away and keeps heat in and the material we use meets all the current building regulations and fi re certifi cates.”

Paul is dedicated to designing new Conservatory concepts and is constantly looking at other ways of improving your Conservatory living. In a short space of time his team have now created a Plasma TV wall, which will carry your TV and give you extra fl oor space; cables can be hidden were possible

Freedom did our porch and conservatory and we now have balanced heat throughout the down stairs and I am saving £15.00 per week alone on Gas. The fi tting team were brilliant and had it all done in 3 days. Our best room in the house is now our conservatory, which before Freedom came along, was unused - Mrs Gillbanks from Poolstock

and they can fi t full surround sound cinema systems using ceiling speakers and mood lighting. Paul added, “We have also designed a Wood Burner that can be safely vented through either our roof conversion or existing polycarbonate; this will not only heat your conservatory but save you money on energy especially in the winter months. All the burners are DEFRA approved and fi tted by approved tradesman.”

So if you would like to claim back the use of your conservatory and possibly save on your energy bills, call the team now on 08456 860542 for more details.

two hours of comfortable temperatures per day. can be hidden were possible or existing polycarbonate; this will not only heat your conservatory but save you money on energy especially in the winter months. All the burners are DEFRA approved and fi tted by approved tradesman.”


Conservatory roof after

“...save on their energy bills and given them a room that they can

use 365 days of the year”

Well done Freedom for the best idea I have seen since double glazing! I now have a 7 metre lounge with Freedom doing a full makeover and that new ceiling looks amazing in the conservatory, especially with the new lighting system that was fi tted. Thanks - Mr Dale from Winstanley

Conservatory roof before

“Conservatory overheats in summer and winter temperatures rival the North Pole!”

Call 08456 860542 or 07761 966 024We offer deferred payment plans and accept all major credit & debit cards


� ere – I’ve said it! All those glossy colour Sunday supplements extolling the virtues of having a conservatory; extra family space to relax in the sunshine without actually braving the outside elements are just an overblown sales campaign to sell conservatories.

Whilst they are high on our wish list when it comes to improving our homes; conservatories rarely live up to expectations. A conservatory is supposed to be a calm and tranquil space, one that lets us linger over the Sunday papers without having to put on an extra layer or jumping up to retrieve the lifestyle section from the rose bushes.

In reality you probably have a love hate relationship with what can only be described as your glass box. They overheat in the summer and winter temperatures rival the North Pole during the winter months; all in all you start to feel like you haven’t benefi ted from the extra room you paid for. In fact, research shows that, in the British climate, a conservatory is unlikely to provide more than two hours of comfortable temperatures per day.

Well, before you seal those French doors shut for good we’d like to tell you about a local company who might just have the answer to all your conservatory woes. Freedom Conservatory Roof Conversions promise to give you back the extra room you have always dreamt about. With their innovative ceiling modifi cations they can make your conservatory up to 90% warmer in the winter and up to 75% cooler in the summer!

After suffering with the same problems in his own conservatory, the Billinge-based owner of Freedom Conservatory Roof Conversions Paul Stubbs came up with a revolutionary idea to combat

the problems associated with plastic ceilings. Freedom has already helped people save on their energy bills and given them a room that they can use 365 days of the year. The process does not alter the external appearance of your roof or remove any part of your conservatory - causing a minimal amount of disruption to your home and because the work is internal there is no need for any planning permission.

Paul says “Following our three-day installation you will no longer need to look at an ugly plastic roof, you will have a plastered and painted ceiling with a bespoke lighting and audio package of your choice. Before we plasterboard we lag the plastic roof with insulation that helps to defl ect heat away and keeps heat in and the material we use meets all the current building regulations and fi re certifi cates.”

Paul is dedicated to designing new Conservatory concepts and is constantly looking at other ways of improving your Conservatory living. In a short space of time his team have now created a Plasma TV wall, which will carry your TV and give you extra fl oor space; cables can be hidden were possible

Freedom did our porch and conservatory and we now have balanced heat throughout the down stairs and I am saving £15.00 per week alone on Gas. The fi tting team were brilliant and had it all done in 3 days. Our best room in the house is now our conservatory, which before Freedom came along, was unused - Mrs Gillbanks from Poolstock

and they can fi t full surround sound cinema systems using ceiling speakers and mood lighting. Paul added, “We have also designed a Wood Burner that can be safely vented through either our roof conversion or existing polycarbonate; this will not only heat your conservatory but save you money on energy especially in the winter months. All the burners are DEFRA approved and fi tted by approved tradesman.”


two hours of comfortable temperatures per day. can be hidden were possible or existing polycarbonate; this will not only heat your conservatory but save you money on energy especially in the winter months. All the burners are DEFRA approved and fi tted by approved tradesman.”


Conservatory roof after

“...save on their energy bills and given them a room that they can

use 365 days of the year”

Well done Freedom for the best idea I have seen since double glazing! I now have a 7 metre lounge with Freedom doing a full makeover and that new ceiling looks amazing in the conservatory, especially with the new lighting system that was fi tted. Thanks - Mr Dale from Winstanley

Conservatory roof before

“Conservatory overheats in summer and winter temperatures rival the North Pole!”

Call 08456 860542 or 07761 966 024We offer deferred payment plans and accept all major credit & debit cards

34

Ru�ordRu�ord Old HallMere Sands Wood

Nature Reserve

A59A59

Holmeswood Road

B5246

A581

Church Road

BrickKiln Lane

B5246

Smithy Wood

Ru�ord New Hall

Park Farm

Hunters Lane

Birch Lane

Sluice

Lane

Cousins L

ane

Rufford to Mere Sands WoodWe started out from the Rufford station car park. Heading up the steps we turned left onto Church Road, walking towards the canal bridge. Here’s where the walk really starts, as we turn left down the path and onto the towpath. In the marina there are dozens of narrow boats all with their own beautiful paint-work that adds a vibrance to the still waters of the canal. Continuing on beyond the marina we pass one of the very few locks on this section of canal, whilst to our right a train clatters by on its way to Ormskirk. The canal takes a gentle turn to the right before sweeping back to the left, and as it straightens out we can see the small swing bridge that we soon cross to lead us down to the A59. Keeping Jack on a short lead we cross over the main road

Ruff ord& Mere Sands WoodRuff ord

Th is is a 5 mile walk on mostly traffi c free tracks and paths, taking in Ruff ord’s own quiet branch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Mere Sands Wood Nature Reserve and lots of dog friendly farm tracks, which Jack always enjoys. Do take a camera and some binoculars with you, especially if you intend making more of your time at Mere

Sands Wood Nature Reserve, and don’t forget a change of footwear if you plan on looking in on Ruff ord Old Hall.


and turn right, walking up to, but not crossing over, the stone bridge that spans the Rufford Boundary Sluice.

Instead we take the public footpath by the side of the bridge and follow the sluice ditch. As we do, we come to Sluice Lane where we turn right, then left to continue following the ditch along a very narrow path until it emerges on to Brick Kiln Lane, by the side of the Wesleyan Methodist Chapel. Again we cross the road, turning left and then right, as a much better boarded walkway continues the path beside the ditch. On reaching Cousins Lane we cross the road, turn right and then left, taking the track down past the cricket club. This follows on along the edge of a farm fi eld until reaching a gate on the south-east corner of Mere Sands Wood Nature Reserve.

Mere Sands Wood to Park FarmAt this point Jack is back on his lead as we enter the reserve. We are aiming for the Northwest corner of the reserve and decide to turn right; well Jack did, so we followed his lead, so to speak. The path stays close to the edge of the reserve as it works its way round towards the car park and visitor centre. On reaching the entrance road we cross straight over and pick up the path again as it continues to wind its way through the woods to an exit on the right marked for Holmeswood Road. This crosses over a little foot bridge and out onto farm land. Keeping to the left we follow the path to the corner of the fi eld and turn right continuing along the edge of the fi eld until we emerge on to Holmeswood Road. Crossing the road to the pavement on the other side we turn left. It’s only a short walk before the turn right in to Hunters Lane (opposite Sandy Lane).

This is a farm track, which means Jack is running free again, as we follow the track until passing two ponds on the left, at which point we take the track to our right, which is Birch Lane. The fi elds here are full of various crops; we see lettuce, potatoes, leeks, onions and barley. A fl ight of swallows appear to follow us on our walk, stopping for a moments rest on a wire fence before taking fl ight again. We continue along the track until reaching the corner of a surfaced road. Here we keep to the left and follow the road up towards Park Farm.

35

36

Park Farm to RuffordJust before the gate the path turns off to the left and continues round until it picks up Croston Drive. We follow this to its junction with the A59 (yes Jack’s on his lead again), crossing over and into Spark Lane. This road curves round to the left and up onto Croston Road, emerging by the side of Sparks Bridge. Turning left we cross the bridge and take the steep narrow path on the right that leads down to the canal towpath.

This section of towpath appears to be little used and Jack was happy running free again along its grassy surface. After a short while we pass another swing bridge and the path changes to a more compacted surface with the occasional muddy bit. Here you can see Rufford Old Hall on the other side of the canal and the remains of the bridge that once stood there. Emerging from the shelter of the trees that line this part of the canal we‘re soon heading up the sloped path that brings us out onto Church Road. Turning left we head back towards the station car park and tick off another of Jack’s Tracks.

Park Farm to RuffordJust before the gate the path turns off to the left and continues round until it picks up Croston Drive. We follow this to its junction with the A59 (yes Jack’s on his lead again), crossing over and into Spark Lane. This road curves round to the left and up onto Croston Road, emerging by the side of Sparks Bridge. Turning left we cross the bridge and take the steep narrow path on the right that leads down to the canal towpath.

This section of towpath appears to be little used and Jack was happy running free again along its grassy surface. After a short while we pass another swing bridge and the path changes to a more compacted surface with the occasional muddy bit. Here you can see Rufford Old Hall on the other side of the canal and the remains of the bridge that once stood there. Emerging from the shelter of the trees that line this part of the canal we‘re soon heading up the sloped path that brings us out onto Church Road. Turning left we head back towards the station car park and tick off another of Jack’s Tracks.


Woof!My name is Jack and I’m in charge of walks here at Local Life. I’ll be bringing you a series of circular walks from the local area, one in each issue of Local Life. The humans at the offi ce tell me that you will also be able to get these walks from something called the web, whatever that is, when they get round to it. I’ve been doing one walk a month for Local Life for the past two years and I love my job, although the pay isn’t much to bark about.I was found as a puppy wandering around in a bit of a bad way on Jacksmere Lane in Scarisbrick, (which is why I was christened Jack), and I was taken to an animal rescue place in Ormskirk to be nursed back to health. I now live in Billinge with my master, Bill, and a lady called Alison, whose job is to remind Bill to take me for a walk.When the idea for featuring local walks was fi rst raised at Local Life, a Jack Russell bitch called Rosie (the boss’s dog) was lined up for my role, but the boss changed his mind at the last minute and said that a border collie was more suitable for the job. So I get my picture in the magazine each month and Rosie has made my life a misery ever since – she really is a bitch in every sense of the word!Apart from these walks, my other interests include chasing balls of any description. I can sniff any abandoned balls within sixty paces, which makes

me quite useful when I walk around Dean Wood and Gathurst Golf Courses. Frustratingly though, my master keeps giving away the balls I fi nd in exchange for shiny bits of metal; I will never understand you humans.Anyway, if you have a favourite walk that you would like me to feature in Local Life, then please email me the details at [email protected], or write to me at Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8 – Hewitt Business Park, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB. If I feature your walk in a future issue, I’ll even send you one of our free drinking bowls for humans, also known as a Local Life mug!

me quite useful when I walk around Dean Wood and

Rufford Old Hall is a glorious Tudor manor located in Rufford, Lancashire and is a treasured National Trust property. The Great Hall was built around 1530 and has been owned by the Hesketh family for nearly 500 years. It is a Grade I listed building and is set amongst beautiful Victorian and Edwardian gardens and it is even claimed that a young Shakespeare visited and performed within the Hall in the 16th Century. Access within the house provides the opportunity to behold the marvels of the Old Hall, from fantastic furniture to armour and tapestries, there is something for everyone to appreciate. As the Hall is located in such an idyllic setting a scenic walk is a must! There are formal gardens to enjoy but also woodland to explore. Or why not visit the shop or browse the plant centre? When lunchtime comes there is the option of dining in as the Victorian tea-room provides all the scones and confectionery one could want. All facilities, including the house, garden, shop and tea-room are open from 11:00am til 5pm for 6 days of the week as the Hall is closed on Fridays. The price of admission is £3.35 for a child, £6.70 for an adult, £5.70 for a group and £15.50 for family admission.

Rufford Old Hall

Address: 200 Liverpool Road, Rufford, L40 1SG Email: [email protected]: 01704 821254

38


The Heritage Festival is bigger than ever for 2012 and this year sees festival organisers bringing together a range of events that will allow local people to delve in to the town’s history.

The biggest draw again this year will be the Heritage Open Days event - every year for four days in September, buildings of every age and style offer free access to the public. Venues throughout the Borough will be open from today (7th September) through to Sunday 9th September celebrating the town’s fantastic history. It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities, which bring local history to life.

What’s on your Doorstep?

Also this year the council will be hosting a fantastic showcase of vintage cars at its Classic Car Show on Saturday 15th September between 10am-4pm in Church Square. Stroll down memory lane and take a peek at some classic cars, including a replica of the iconic James Bond 007 Aston Martin DB5.

New for 2012 will be the fantastic Viking Day in Church Square on Saturday 29th September – packed with Viking themed family entertainment take the kids to enjoy some historical re-enactments, arts & crafts and street performances.

This is just a snippet of what the Heritage Festival has to offer so for more information please contact the St Helens Tourist Information Centre on 01744 755150 or have a look online at www.whatsoninsthelens.com

Heritage Open Day Sites• St.Helens Parish Church• St.Helens Masonic Hall• Smithy Heritage Centre• Friends’ Meeting House• St.Helens Cemetery• St.Helens Town Hall• The World of Glass• Fir Tree Farm• Citadel Arts Centre• Holy Cross and St Helens RC Church• St Mary’s Lowe House• Dream• Haydock Community Centre• Borough Archives• St.Helens Sea Cadets• Sankey Canal Restoration Society• St Peter Church• St Aiden’s C of E Church

Also this year the council will be hosting a fantastic

Photo credit: Tony Glover

40

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Answers at the back of this magazine

Fed up with those never-ending aches and pains?Banish them now – Call 01942 321235!First consultation FREE until the end of July. Please quote ‘BONES’ for this offer.The Bridgeman Centre has been treating the people of Wigan since 1981. The Centreoffers physiotherapy, acupuncture, refl exology & also specialises in the treatment of M.E.

The Bridgeman Centre, 18 Bridgeman Terrace, Wigan. WN1 1TDT: 01942 321235 or visit www.bridgemanphysiotherapy.co.uk


Concerts and PerformancesAugust – November 2012

Wednesday 8th August, 1pm (£6)Horn of Plenty

A lunchtime recital of Brahms’ Horn TrioCli� Jones (Horn) Anthony Ridley (Violin) Eva Warren (Piano)

Saturday 8th September, 7.30pm (£10)Guitar Magic

An evening recital with Scott Bradley

Saturday 6th October, 7.30pm (£12)

Beethoven NightAt St Helens Town Hall

Overture to CoriolanPiano Concerto No.3

with pianist Ron AbramskiSymphony No.2

Special advanced booking arrangements for Beethoven:Please send cheque and SAE to

St Helens Sinfonietta, 33, Humber Crescent, St Helens WA9 4HD

Tickets and BookingsMain ticket prices shown – students & under 16’s half price

Tickets and enquiries:

01744 600846 or 01925 291273www.sinfonietta.org.uk

at the United Reformed Church, King Street (unless otherwise stated)

Concerts and Concerts and PerformancesPerformances

42

MagicalMusicTour

There are countries that you visit where a single visit would suffi ce. A few attractions are all they have to offer.. box ticked, move on. But there are other countries which are so vast and have so many attractions, that you wouldn’t even scratch the surface with a single holiday - welcome to America!

New York, Boston and New England, Florida, Vegas, Alaska, Hawaii all offer very different types of holidays...and then there’s the Deep South, which is completely different yet again, but is fast growing in popularity.

Marken Travel has teamed up with Collette Worldwide Holidays to offer you the chance to take an eight day escorted tour to America’s Music Cities. Collette, who have been running high quality escorted holiday tours since 1918, will be at Marken Travel on Thursday 27th September from 6.30pm onwards to answer any questions you have about the America Music City tour.

The company are highly recommended, with many satisfi ed customers returning to the UK singing the praises of the quality of these escorted tours.

According to current travel guides, New Orleans is one of the top ten most visited cities in the United States, and it’s here in the Big Easy that we begin our tour! This soulful city abounds with rich history and you’ll be spending 3 nights in The Inn on Bourbon, an elegant, renovated hotel in the heart of New Orleans’ historic French quarter.

During your stay, you’ll discover all the highlights of the city on a leisurely walking tour and you’ll also have time explore at your own pace. You can fi nd out why New Orleans is known as the Birthplace of Jazz with a visit to a local jazz club, and you’ll roll up your sleeves at a unique cooking demonstration at the New Orleans School of Cooking, and learn how to cook New Orleans style!

On day 4, you’ll travel north to Memphis, the home of blues, soul and rock n’ roll, and you’ll stay the next two nights in the Memphis Marriott Downtown. You’ll feast on southern cuisine on


Marken Travel, 200 Main Street, Billinge.Telephone: 01744 893291

www.markentravel.co.uk

The MagicalMusic Tour

Thursday27th September

6:30 PMA relaxed and informal evening to discover the

delights of the US Music Cities Tour.Wine and nibbles served

RSVP to confi rm your attendance toMarken Travel on 01744 893291

£50 d

iscou

nt if

book

ed by

30th

Sept

embe

r

2012

Memphis’ world famous Beale Street and immerse yourself in Memphis’s energetic musical scene.

Musicians from Memphis join you on a tour and tell the story of Memphis’ musical heritage. One of the undoubted highlights is a trip to Graceland, the 14 acre estate and palatial home of Elvis Presley. You can catch a glimpse of this private corner of Elvis Presley’s world, and also visit the Mediation Garden where Elvis and other members of his family have been laid to rest.

You will then take the short journey to the music capital of the world – Nashville. Take your seat for the Grand Old Opry, which was started as a local radio show in 1925 and has now grown to an entertainment complex that attracts fans from all over the world. You’ll be staying for two nights in the awesome

Gaylord Opryland Hotel, with its nine acres of indoor gardens, cascading waterfalls and an indoor river with a Delta flatboat!

You’ll enjoy a special dinner at the Wildhorse Saloon, home of a ginormous dance floor which is used every night of the week by dancers, and also tour Nashville’s oldest remaining recording studio, RAC Studio B, where Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton once recorded some of their classic hits. You can also explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, which is the largest museum of pop music in the world.

Sadly you’ll then have to fly back from Nashville; the end of a magical music tour full of fascinating experiences that will leave you smiling (and singing!) long after you touch down in the UK.

Don’t miss the holiday of a lifetime – call Marken Travel now on 01744 893308 and ask for a free brochure on the Magical Music Tour and the other tours offered by Collette Worldwide Holidays. If you want to find out more about the Tour, do come along to the Open Evening on 27th September. See you there!

44


Derek BroughtonMusic Tuition

Piano – Keyboard – Organ• Visiting Tutor / One to One Sessions

• All Ages & Abilities• Beginners Welcome

• All Enquiries Acknowledged• Exams by Request

Phone Derek for details: 01744 616430

Give your businessa good push!

AdvertisingAdvertising packages from just £20 per month (+VAT)

Easy monthly payment scheme - interest free!Artwork included

LeafletsLeaflet distribution from £25.00 per thousand (+VAT)

No competing leaflets - guaranteed!Minimum distribution 4,000

For further details call Chris now on

01744 649722we make it our business to help yours

Animal MagicA great family day out in September is a visit to the Animal Magic weekend at Martin Mere, near Burscough. The event, which takes place on the weekend of 22/23 September, is one of the tourist attraction’s highlights of the year. In addition to the usual attractions, visitors can get up close to a huge selection of animals, such as meerkats, skunks, ferrets, alpacas, greyhounds, chinchillas and a Kune Kune pig, to name but a few. There will also be vultures, owls and eagles on show, plus a range of reptiles and some bats and hedgehogs.The canoe safari and den building will appeal to those with more adventurous children, and there’s also pond dipping and face painting too. For more details on the event, visit www.wwt.org.uk/martinmere

Bold as BrassThe unmistakable sound of brass will be returning to St Helens Town Hall on Saturday 15th September when Parr Band take centre stage, accompanied by Trinity Girls Brass Band from Garswood. This concert will raise funds to help both bands to travel to the National brass band finals in Cheltenham. The bands have had to battle through intense regional qualifiers to reach this stage and they now have the opportunity to compete against the best of the best. You will be treated to a varied set of music, combining classical and popular pieces. Tickets cost £10 and are available from Martin Halliwell at Parr Band on 07835 214722. Doors will open at 6.45pm, ready for a 7.30pm start.

Boot SaleBillinge East & West Residence Association will be holding a car boot sale on at St Mary’s Club on Saturday 13th October at Trent Road between 9am-1pm. Entry for cars is just £8, anyone wanting to book a space please contact Janet on 01744 603210 or Anne on 01744 893260. Funds raised will be put towards the over-60’s and children’s Christmas party.

46

Friday 7th SeptemberPreston Proms in the Park Katherine Jenkins, the world’s most prolifi c classical artist is to sing with José Carreras in a world fi rst at Preston Guild’s Proms in the Park. Preston Proms in the Park at Avenham Park will attract 10,000 people and is expected to be a sell out as it will be a unique opportunity to see these two international classical stars perform together at a one-off open-air concert as part of the Preston Guild 2012 celebrations. Cost: £65.00 eachTime: 7pm (gates open 5pm)Contact: 0845 344 2012or visit www.prestonguild2012.comSat Nav Ref: PR1 3TD

Saturday 8th September The Southport Air ShowThis year’s show is celebrating its 21st year! Come and enjoy a family day out at the biggest event of its kind in the North West. Witness pure magic in the sky as skilled pilots demonstrate some truly stunning aerobatics.

As well as these thrilling aerial displays, there’s a fun-packed show village on the ground where people of all ages can enjoy the displays and attractions from a variety of exhibitors and traders. The Air Show opens from 9am and we encourage you to arrive early to maximise your day out – the show also runs on Sunday 9th September.Cost: £7.00Time: 9am – 5.30pm (the air show commences at approx. 12pm on both days)Contact: 01704 533333Sat Nav Ref: PR8 1RY

Sunday 9th SeptemberWalton Hall Gardens Country FayreThere are lots of craft stalls at this country fayre, plus a children’s fun fair, dog displays, narrow boat rides, live music, a re-enactment by the civil war society and much more. And what’s more entry is free! Walton Gardens is located just off the A56, 2 miles from J11 M56 and are adjacent to the Bridgewater Canal. Cost: FreeTime: 11am - 4pmContact: 01925 601617 (option 2) or visit www.warrington.gov.uk/waltongardensSat Nav Ref: WA4 6SN

Thursday 14th September Harrogate Flower ShowRunning until Sunday 16th September, this popular fl ower show sees top chefs from across the region will be sharing a daily menu of mouth-watering ideas for turning home grown produce into delicious meals with visitors to the Cookery Theatre. Thousands of top-quality garden products, more than 70 unique craft and gift stalls, and dozens of specialist food outlets provide unrivalled early Christmas shopping opportunities.Cost: £11.50-£15Time: 9.30am – 5.30pmContact: 01423 546157 or visit www.fl owershow.org.ukSat Nav Ref: HG2 8PW

Saturday 15th SeptemberOpen Studio WeekendGlass manufacturer and design company Morpheus Glass hosts an open studio weekend at their base on the Hewitt Business Park, off Winstanley Road in Orrell with stock on sale at up to 70% off normal retail prices. Refreshments available. This event also runs on Sunday 16th September.Time: 10am-4pmCost: FreeContact: 01695 624182 or www.morpheusglass.co.ukSat Nav Ref:WN5 7XB

What’s on in the North West...

© E

urofi ghter - G. Lee


Saturday 22nd SeptemberAnimal Magic

The Burscough Wetlands centre hosts the popular Animal Magic event on the weekend of 22nd/23rd September. In addition to the centre’s usual attractions, visitors can get up close to a large selection of other animals, such as meerkats, ferrets, skunks, chinchillas, vultures, owls and eagles. A great day out for all the family!

Cost: Family £25.55-28.10, adult £9.50-10.45, child £4.64-£5.10. Under 4’s -freeTime: 9.30am-5.30pmContact: www.wwt.org.uk/visit/martin-mereor 01704 895181Sat Nav Ref: L40 0TA

Friday 28th September British Musical Fireworks ChampionshipsSouthport’s sky bursts into light as the three day British Musical Fireworks Championships returns over the weekend of 28th to 30th September. Watch as some of the country’s top pyrotechnic teams compete with stunning fi rework displays synchronised to music, to try and win the prestigious industry title of UK Champions. Three day passes to the event are available and also single date tickets or Priority Viewing tickets to buy via telephone or at the Southport Tourist Information Centre. Cost: from £5 to £20 (children under 5 free with a paying adult)Time: 7pm – 10pmContact: 01704 533333Sat Nav Ref: PR8 1RX

Saturday 29th September North West Vintage RallyAlso running on Sunday 30th September, this a great free day out with fun for all the family at Victoria Park in Widnes! Hundreds of classic cars and bikes, vintage machinery, vintage funfair, model boats, miniature steam engines, entertainment arena - this year featuring 3SIXTY mountain bike display team and much more! Free car parking is available at the municipal building with a free shuttle bus to the park.Time: 10am - 5pmContact: 0151 511 8914or visit www.northwestvintagerally.co.uk Sat Nav Ref: WA8 7SU

Friday 5th October FarmaggedonRunning until Saturday 3rd November, Farmaggedon is a “Scream Park”, an interactive horror experience based at Farmer Ted’s tourist attraction in Downholland, near Ormskirk. The whole park is themed with roaming zombies and creatures of the night. Warning – this is not for the faint hearted and under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Fancy Dress is allowed but masks must not be worn inside the houses. This is a timed event and booking is essential.Time: 7pm until 8.45pmCost: £15, £16.50 & £17.50Contact: 0844 736 0152 or visit www.farmaggedon.co.ukSat Nav Ref: L39 7HW

Wednesday 31st OctoberHalloween RacedayHaydock Park is the perfect day out for all the family with lots of spooky Halloween entertainment. The fi rst day of the jumps season includes an action-packed afternoon of top-quality jump racing plus plenty of free Halloween entertainment for children. Remember, children aged 17 and under gain access to the course for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Cost: tickets from £13.00Time: gates open at 11.10amContact: 0844 579 3006, 01942 725963or visit www.haydock-park.co.ukSat Nav Ref: WA12 0HQ

What’s on Guide events keyEvents & Festivals

Special InterestWalks & Nature

Family

48


Golden Post-Box BidA golden post-box could be appearing in Newton-le-Willows if St Helens Council has anything to do with it. The council has asked Royal Mail to paint one of their iconic post-boxes gold in honour of Olympic cycling medallist Ed Clancy. Although born in Yorkshire, Ed has lived in Newton le Willows for almost seven years - as well as training at the Velodrome he regularly joins local cycling clubs for a quick road workout around the borough and is a real inspiration for cycling hopefuls in local clubs. Although Royal Mail usually paints post-boxes in the athlete’s home town they have set a precedent with Bradley Wiggins. Although born in Belgium he has been recognised in his adopted town of Chorley. Council Leader Marie Rimmer said, “Everyone all over St Helens was rooting for Ed and there is a real groundswell of opinion that he should get what others have, a gold painted post-box to commemorate his exceptional victory and outstanding Olympic performance.”

50

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Crossword Competition Rules1. Only one entry per household

2. Entrants must be over 16 years of age

3. The winners will be notifi ed within 14 days of the closing date.

4. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that are delayed or damaged in the post.

5. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate relatives are not eligible to enter this competition.

Local Life 247 Ltd is registered under the Data Protection Act and abides by the guidelines of the act. We will never sell or pass your data to any third party company. However, we would like to contact you occasionally by email with news of great local offers and also to check our magazine distribution in your area.

If this is acceptable to you, please tick this box.

Across4. WWT stands for Wildfowl and Wetlands _5. Martin Mere event on 22nd & 23rd September,

Animal _6. Take this boat out on Safari

Down1. Semi-aquatic rodent, the _ vole2. Martin Mere is near which Lancashire village?3. Toothy favourites, live in lodges

Name .............................................................................

Address .........................................................................

........................................................................................

............................... Post Code .....................................

Phone ............................................................................

Email .............................................................................

Autumn is a special time of year at Martin Mere, and Local Life have got our hands on ten family tickets worth over £250 to be won in this month’s competition! Simply complete the crossword and return to Local Life Crossword, Unit 8 - Hewitt Business Park, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB or email your answers along with your name, address and contact number to [email protected]. The closing date for this competition is 30th September 2012.

To start the Autumn with a bang, WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre is holding its most popular annual family event - Animal Magic! This wildlife spectacular is being held at the centre on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd September.

Hug a greyhound, cuddle a skunk, watch meerkats, Asian short-clawed otters and alpacas play, get close to a variety of birds of prey, stroke a chinchilla, see Shetland ponies and Kune Kune pigs or be scared by lots of reptiles

and insects. Most of the displays will be indoors so whatever the weather you are guaranteed a great day out. The event is taking place from 10am to 4pm and normal admission prices will apply to enter the Centre.

If you haven’t been to Martin Mere for a while, don’t forget to try the guided boat tours, or if you are feeling adventurous, the Canoe Safari. This self guided canoe safari offers families and adults a safe and fun way to explore the recently created reedbed habitat and its rich biodiversity. Adults and children alike will be able to enjoy spotting some of the UK’s most threatened species ranging from water voles to reed buntings whilst

having plenty of fun! The canoes can have up to three people in them and the charge to use the safari is £5.00 per boat. The attraction will be open every day until 31 October from 10am to 3.30pm.

For information on these events and other activities happening at the centre visit www.wwt.org.uk/martinmere and click on events, or call 01704 891220. WWT Martin Mere is open every day from 9.30am to 5.30pm. Situated off the A59, it is signposted from the M61, M58 and M6. The Centre is also accessible via the Southport to Manchester and the Liverpool to Preston line by train from Burscough Rail Stations.

For a great familyday out this Autumn,

you just can’t beat Martin Mere!

This popular Wetlands centre near Burscough is where wilderness and family-friendliness combine. Its year-round attractions include a beaver lodge, otter enclosure, pond dipping zone, an inspirational eco-garden and the opportunity to enjoy close-up encounters with around 100 species of international water-birds as they swim, feed and wander in wetlands custom-designed to mimic their natural homes. A survey in 2002 recorded well over 2,000 different species of birds, mammals, insects, fi sh, amphibians, reptiles and mini-beasts living in and around the mere which gives the site its name.


1

2 3

4

5

6

Crossword Competition Rules1. Only one entry per household

2. Entrants must be over 16 years of age

3. The winners will be notifi ed within 14 days of the closing date.

4. Local Life 247 Ltd cannot accept responsibility for entries that are delayed or damaged in the post.

5. Employees of Local Life 247 Ltd or their immediate relatives are not eligible to enter this competition.

Local Life 247 Ltd is registered under the Data Protection Act and abides by the guidelines of the act. We will never sell or pass your data to any third party company. However, we would like to contact you occasionally by email with news of great local offers and also to check our magazine distribution in your area.

If this is acceptable to you, please tick this box.

Across4. WWT stands for Wildfowl and Wetlands _5. Martin Mere event on 22nd & 23rd September,

Animal _6. Take this boat out on Safari

Down1. Semi-aquatic rodent, the _ vole2. Martin Mere is near which Lancashire village?3. Toothy favourites, live in lodges

Name .............................................................................

Address .........................................................................

........................................................................................

............................... Post Code .....................................

Phone ............................................................................

Email .............................................................................

Autumn is a special time of year at Martin Mere, and Local Life have got our hands on ten family tickets worth over £250 to be won in this month’s competition! Simply complete the crossword and return to Local Life Crossword, Unit 8 - Hewitt Business Park, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB or email your answers along with your name, address and contact number to [email protected]. The closing date for this competition is 30th September 2012.

To start the Autumn with a bang, WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre is holding its most popular annual family event - Animal Magic! This wildlife spectacular is being held at the centre on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd September.

Hug a greyhound, cuddle a skunk, watch meerkats, Asian short-clawed otters and alpacas play, get close to a variety of birds of prey, stroke a chinchilla, see Shetland ponies and Kune Kune pigs or be scared by lots of reptiles

and insects. Most of the displays will be indoors so whatever the weather you are guaranteed a great day out. The event is taking place from 10am to 4pm and normal admission prices will apply to enter the Centre.

If you haven’t been to Martin Mere for a while, don’t forget to try the guided boat tours, or if you are feeling adventurous, the Canoe Safari. This self guided canoe safari offers families and adults a safe and fun way to explore the recently created reedbed habitat and its rich biodiversity. Adults and children alike will be able to enjoy spotting some of the UK’s most threatened species ranging from water voles to reed buntings whilst

having plenty of fun! The canoes can have up to three people in them and the charge to use the safari is £5.00 per boat. The attraction will be open every day until 31 October from 10am to 3.30pm.

For information on these events and other activities happening at the centre visit www.wwt.org.uk/martinmere and click on events, or call 01704 891220. WWT Martin Mere is open every day from 9.30am to 5.30pm. Situated off the A59, it is signposted from the M61, M58 and M6. The Centre is also accessible via the Southport to Manchester and the Liverpool to Preston line by train from Burscough Rail Stations.

For a great familyday out this Autumn,

you just can’t beat Martin Mere!

This popular Wetlands centre near Burscough is where wilderness and family-friendliness combine. Its year-round attractions include a beaver lodge, otter enclosure, pond dipping zone, an inspirational eco-garden and the opportunity to enjoy close-up encounters with around 100 species of international water-birds as they swim, feed and wander in wetlands custom-designed to mimic their natural homes. A survey in 2002 recorded well over 2,000 different species of birds, mammals, insects, fi sh, amphibians, reptiles and mini-beasts living in and around the mere which gives the site its name.

52

Angie is a quali� ed award-winning gardendesigner who will plan your garden toyour needs from start to � nish, supplyingreputable contractors and the ideal plants.

Call her now for your free consultation!

Award Winner

Roses have a bit of a reputation for being diffi cult. True, there can be some issues associated with growing roses such as lack of winter interest, correct pruning techniques, aphids and disease such as black spot, but the beauty of roses for me far outweighs these issues which are easily remedied. Take a look at David Austin’s website (www.davidaustinroses.com) which has lots of useful advice as well as hundreds of roses to tempt you.

I must admit it took me a while to appreciate the joy of growing roses but when I think about it, my interest was sparked many years ago when I was growing up in London. Back then you had one telly per household, you had to get up to change the channel (of which there were only 3 to choose from!) and your Dad decided what you watched. Hence my introduction to Grandstand on a Saturday afternoon and when I was allowed to stay up late, Match of the Day on Saturday night. All this led to my introduction to Georgie Best - simply the most gorgeous footballer EVER!

What has this got to do with roses? Well a few years ago I was reading an article about a new rose introduction called George Best - well of course it was a red one (sorry any City fans who are reading this) and well I just had to have it. That was the start of my love affair with roses. My most recent purchase is David Austin’s ’Falstaff’ - it has the most fabulous, intoxicating fragrance and I love it.

You can buy bare root roses from the end of next month so if you’re not yet a lover of roses - give it a go - you’ll be very pleasantly surprised.

This is a photo of ‘George Best’ in my garden - see what I mean - dreamy!!!

Award Winner

Author: Angie Barker Dip GD(Inst GD) BA (Hons)Garden Design For All SeasonsTel: 01942 522 405Mob: 07857 008 383

www.angiebarker.co.uk

Wake up and smell the Roses!


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54

It’s no sports car, but the all-new, tech-packed CX-5 could be the most exciting Mazda for years. David Vivian checks it out in 2.2 150PS form.

� e name might lead you to think that the CX-5 is nothing more than a perfunctory scaling-down of CX-7 SUV to � ll the appropriate market slot. But it’s far more than that. Part of Mazda’s ‘Skyactiv’ programme, the CX-5 really is all new, from its engines to the way it’s built. Most will want the 2.2 150PS diesel variant we look at here.

The CX-5 is Mazda’s third SUV, following on from the larger CX-7 and much larger CX-9 (not sold in Europe). It’s also the most important and interesting. Important because it competes in the key compact SUV sector, tasked with taking on impressive newcomers like the Audi Q3 as well as established stars such as the Land Rover Freelander, Ford Kuga, Skoda Yeti and Volkswagen Tiguan. Interesting because a) it’s the fi rst production car to feature Mazda’s new Kodo design language, showcased by the Minagi (a concept base for the CX-5) and Shinari show cars and b) it’s the fi rst production car to implement Mazda’s new Skyactiv technology which seeks to save fuel and the planet by matching rigid, lightweight construction with new super-effi cient powertrains. Mazda’s claim at launch is that CX-5 is the most eco-friendly compact SUV you can buy.

All-new Skyactive engines, then: a 2.0-litre petrol unit and the twin-turbo 2.2-litre diesel we look at here in 150PS form. Intriguingly, both share a 14:1 compression ratio, which is a very high value for the petrol motor, but said to improve economy, and lower-than-average for the oil-burner to reduce NOx. Thanks to the lower compression, the diesel’s block can be made out of aluminium rather than iron, saving 25kg. It comes in two power outputs (175PS as well as 150PS) and both meet the super-stringent 2014 Euro-6 pollution regulations without the need for a Nitrogen Oxide trap.

The chassis has some impressive moves, too, in some respects feeling more like it belongs to a well-sorted family hatch than a high-riding SUV, even if the steering is a little dead around the straight ahead. There’s plenty of grip, a pleasing reluctance to run wide when negotiating tight bends and tautly controlled body movements. The suspension system is refreshingly straightforward - MacPherson struts up front, multilink at the rear and passive dampers - with none of the ‘adaptive’ electronics found on some rivals. The ride is on the fi rm side but, even rolling on 19-inch alloys, never uncomfortable.

Refi nement is very good indeed, wind- and road-noise only becoming notably intrusive at higher speeds, and the engine’s contribution is well suppressed, too, especially on the motorway.

It’s a good-looking little SUV, the CX-5. Very much in the current Mazda idiom, it’s a tautly contoured, cohesive design with a minimum of brightwork. It’s exceptionally well packaged, too. Although signifi cantly smaller than the CX-7 on the outside, there’s actually more leg room in the rear and the materials used in the cabin are of higher quality. Not only is the rear seat roomy enough to carry two full-sized adults or three children without

complaint, but the backrests have a useful 40/20/40-split arrangement to accommodate long or bulky items. All three portions can be released from the 480-litre boot, which also offers some underfl oor stowage space.Up front, the driving position offers a fi ne, elevated view down the road while still feeling comfortably car-like. And front seat occupants will appreciate the upgraded infotainment equipment which comprises a 5.8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth and the usual USB and auxiliary connections.

With two model lines and three engines to choose from, expect to pay between £21,000 and £29,000 for your Mazda CX-5. There are two trim options for each engine, starting with the 2.0-litre petrol unit which comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The diesel models are offered in both two- and four-wheel drive - the front-driver using the 150PS motor while 4x4 customers can stick with that or go for the 175PS powerplant and gain the option of a six-speed auto transmission.

The base trim level includes 17-inch alloys, front foglights, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, privacy glass and Smart City Brake Support, which is Mazda’s emergency braking function. Sport trim adds 19-inch alloys, active xenon headlights, leather trim with heated front seats, an electrically operated driver’s chair and a reversing camera.

As you might hope, given the build up, the Mazda CX-5’s economy and emissions stats are pretty spectacular. Best in range is the front-drive 150PS 2.2-litre diesel we tried which, when teamed with a six-speed manual gearbox, returns 61.4mpg on the combined cycle and emits just 119g/km of CO2, which puts the car in the £30 per year road tax band C.

The 175PS diesel model with the auto ‘box fi tted is rather impressive, too, emitting 144g/km of CO2 while travelling over 51 miles on each gallon of DERV. To put that in some kind of perspective, a 138bhp VW Tiguan with the DSG ‘box emits 158g/km and does 47.1mpg.

It’s hard to see how the CX-5 can avoid being anything other than a big hit for Mazda, especially in 150PS 2.2-litre diesel form. An altogether more advanced prospect than the CX-7 (which will continue as a

feeling comfortably car-like. And front seat

a 5.8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth and the

run-out model), it delivers understated style, excellent packaging, class-leading economy and emissions and very competitive equipment and pricing. If isn’t quite the best drive in a highly competitive sector, it has everything it needs to be the best all-rounder.

heated front seats, an electrically operated

to choose from, expect to pay between

petrol unit which comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The diesel models are offered in both two- and four-wheel drive - the front-driver using the 150PS

The 175PS diesel model with the auto ‘box fi tted

CO2 while travelling over 51 miles on each gallon of DERV. To put that in some kind of perspective,

run-out model), it delivers understated style, excellent


With two model lines and three engines to choose from, expect to pay between £21,000 and £29,000 for your Mazda CX-5. There are two trim options for each engine, starting with the 2.0-litre petrol unit which comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The diesel models are offered in both two- and four-wheel

5��


It’s no sports car, but the all-new, tech-packed CX-5 could be the most exciting Mazda for years. David Vivian checks it out in 2.2 150PS form.

� e name might lead you to think that the CX-5 is nothing more than a perfunctory scaling-down of CX-7 SUV to � ll the appropriate market slot. But it’s far more than that. Part of Mazda’s ‘Skyactiv’ programme, the CX-5 really is all new, from its engines to the way it’s built. Most will want the 2.2 150PS diesel variant we look at here.

The CX-5 is Mazda’s third SUV, following on from the larger CX-7 and much larger CX-9 (not sold in Europe). It’s also the most important and interesting. Important because it competes in the key compact SUV sector, tasked with taking on impressive newcomers like the Audi Q3 as well as established stars such as the Land Rover Freelander, Ford Kuga, Skoda Yeti and Volkswagen Tiguan. Interesting because a) it’s the fi rst production car to feature Mazda’s new Kodo design language, showcased by the Minagi (a concept base for the CX-5) and Shinari show cars and b) it’s the fi rst production car to implement Mazda’s new Skyactiv technology which seeks to save fuel and the planet by matching rigid, lightweight construction with new super-effi cient powertrains. Mazda’s claim at launch is that CX-5 is the most eco-friendly compact SUV you can buy.

All-new Skyactive engines, then: a 2.0-litre petrol unit and the twin-turbo 2.2-litre diesel we look at here in 150PS form. Intriguingly, both share a 14:1 compression ratio, which is a very high value for the petrol motor, but said to improve economy, and lower-than-average for the oil-burner to reduce NOx. Thanks to the lower compression, the diesel’s block can be made out of aluminium rather than iron, saving 25kg. It comes in two power outputs (175PS as well as 150PS) and both meet the super-stringent 2014 Euro-6 pollution regulations without the need for a Nitrogen Oxide trap.

The chassis has some impressive moves, too, in some respects feeling more like it belongs to a well-sorted family hatch than a high-riding SUV, even if the steering is a little dead around the straight ahead. There’s plenty of grip, a pleasing reluctance to run wide when negotiating tight bends and tautly controlled body movements. The suspension system is refreshingly straightforward - MacPherson struts up front, multilink at the rear and passive dampers - with none of the ‘adaptive’ electronics found on some rivals. The ride is on the fi rm side but, even rolling on 19-inch alloys, never uncomfortable.

Refi nement is very good indeed, wind- and road-noise only becoming notably intrusive at higher speeds, and the engine’s contribution is well suppressed, too, especially on the motorway.

It’s a good-looking little SUV, the CX-5. Very much in the current Mazda idiom, it’s a tautly contoured, cohesive design with a minimum of brightwork. It’s exceptionally well packaged, too. Although signifi cantly smaller than the CX-7 on the outside, there’s actually more leg room in the rear and the materials used in the cabin are of higher quality. Not only is the rear seat roomy enough to carry two full-sized adults or three children without


With two model lines and three engines to choose from, expect to pay between £21,000 and £29,000 for your Mazda CX-5. There are two trim options for each engine, starting with the 2.0-litre petrol unit which comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The diesel models are offered in both two- and four-wheel drive - the front-driver using the 150PS motor while 4x4 customers can stick with that or go for the 175PS powerplant and gain the option of a six-speed auto transmission.

The base trim level includes 17-inch alloys, front foglights, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, privacy glass and Smart City Brake Support, which is Mazda’s emergency braking function. Sport trim adds 19-inch alloys, active xenon headlights, leather trim with heated front seats, an electrically operated driver’s chair and a reversing camera.

As you might hope, given the build up, the Mazda CX-5’s economy and emissions stats are pretty spectacular. Best in range is the front-drive 150PS 2.2-litre diesel we tried which, when teamed with a six-speed manual gearbox, returns 61.4mpg on the combined cycle and emits just 119g/km of CO2, which puts the car in the £30 per year road tax band C.

The 175PS diesel model with the auto ‘box fi tted is rather impressive, too, emitting 144g/km of CO2 while travelling over 51 miles on each gallon of DERV. To put that in some kind of perspective, a 138bhp VW Tiguan with the DSG ‘box emits 158g/km and does 47.1mpg.

It’s hard to see how the CX-5 can avoid being anything other than a big hit for Mazda, especially in 150PS 2.2-litre diesel form. An altogether more advanced prospect than the CX-7 (which will continue as a

feeling comfortably car-like. And front seat

a 5.8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth and the

run-out model), it delivers understated style, excellent packaging, class-leading economy and emissions and very competitive equipment and pricing. If isn’t quite the best drive in a highly competitive sector, it has everything it needs to be the best all-rounder.

heated front seats, an electrically operated

to choose from, expect to pay between

petrol unit which comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The diesel models are offered in both two- and four-wheel drive - the front-driver using the 150PS

The 175PS diesel model with the auto ‘box fi tted

CO2 while travelling over 51 miles on each gallon of DERV. To put that in some kind of perspective,

run-out model), it delivers understated style, excellent


With two model lines and three engines to choose from, expect to pay between £21,000 and £29,000 for your Mazda CX-5. There are two trim options for each engine, starting with the 2.0-litre petrol unit which comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The diesel models are offered in both two- and four-wheel

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56

MotoringRetro Revival Th e Retro Revival Day Festival takes place at Haydock Park Racecourse on Saturday 22nd September 2012, running from 10.00am – 11.30pm. Th is fabulous all-day event has live bands and super-star DJS, playing all your favourite hits from across the decades, plus some very special guest appearances.Th ere’ll be a Show and Shine, so bring along your classic cars and bikes. All hot rods, pick-ups, military vehicles and muscle cars are welcome, with free entry to all those coming in a classic car. Of course there’ll be all your favourite vintage stalls selling Ladies and Men’s fashions, Jewellery, Accessories, Homewares, Antiques, Books, Music, Militaria & Collectables;

You can get all this for the recession-busting entrance price of £5.00, which you can pay for on-the-door and stay for the whole day and evening. Even better, if you’re a serving member of the armed forces then bring along your ID and you’ll get in free!

If you’d like a trade stall at this event, then please call Stella on 07848 924509.


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JobsDomestic Cleaners Required - All AreasGrowing company requires cleaning staff for immediate start. You must be honest and reliable, and all references supplied will be checked. Flexible hours to suit your lifestyle and good rates of pay for the right candidate. For details call Stephen on 0800 043 0722 or 01744 649091.Distributors RequiredLocal Life requires distributors (aged 13+) for the following areas Newton - Winwick Road, Wayfarers Drive estate, Banastre Drive estate, Ashton Road, Cheltenham Drive, Vista Road. Billinge - Main Street, Wigan Road, Beacon Road, Ashfi eld Crescent Estate. Moss Bank - Moss Bank Road. Windle Island - St Helens Road and Rainford Road. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every 8 weeks, delivering in their own neighbourhoods. You must be fi t, enthusiastic and reliable. Please e-mail your name, address, landline number and date of birth to [email protected]

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Protec Roo� ng is a long established roo� ng company that serves domestic and commercial customers throughout the North West. Whatever your roo� ng requirements are, from emergency roo� ng repairs to new roofs to roo� ine, Protec Roo� ng are there to help you.

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When someone has died, Tell Us Once and we’ll tell all of the relevant services within St.Helens Council plus other government agencies for you.

For more information, visit www.helens.gov.uk/tellusonce or call 01744 676789.

AshtonCllr B Clarke 01942 487 673Cllr J Haddley 01942 487 689Cllr N Ash 01942 736 216Ashton Library 01942 727 119Ashton Police Team 0161 856 7436Billinge & GarswoodCllr A Bacon 0787 293 8085Cllr S Murphy 01942 743 098Cllr J Pearson 01942 743 021Billinge Medical Practice 01744 892 205Garswood Surgery 01744 621 670Billinge & Garswood Police Team 0151 777 6054Billinge Parish Council Clerk 01744 892 355Selenley Green Parish Council Clerk 01744 892 167Billinge Library 01744 677 535Garswood Library 01744 677 797HaydockCllr W Anderton 0787 985 0518Cllr Banks 01744 676 109Cllr A Burns 01744 677 295Haydock Medical Cen. (Dr Vaughan) 0844 477 8626Haydock Medical Cen. (Dr Roberts) 01744 22272Haydock Library 01744 677 801Moss BankCllr J Fletcher 01744 884 984Cllr Fulham 01744 676 109Cllr P Lynch 01744 676 109Windermere Medical Centre 01744 739 645Moss Bank Library 01744 677 988

Newton Cllr S Dyer 01744 671 900Cllr Gomez-Aspron 01744 676 109Cllr N Taylor 01925 220 104Newton Community Hospital 01925 222 731Dr Pitalia – Comm. Hosp. 01925 220 469Dr Pitalia – Bridge St 01925 225 755High St Surgery 01925 290 311Patterdale Lodge 01925 227 111Market St Surgery 01925 221 457Newton Library 01744 677 885RainfordCllr A Jones 01744 893 367Cllr R Nichols 01744 676 109Cllr D Monk 01744 678 032Rainford Health Centre 01744 882 855K McRae Health Centre 01744 882 606Rainford Library 01744 677 820Rainford Parish Council 01744 884 709General MedicalSt Helens Hospital 01744 26633Wigan Infirmary 01942 244 000Whiston Hospital 0151 426 1600Minor Injuries Walk in Centre 01744 627 400NHS Direct 0845 4647Police & CouncilsMerseyside Police 0151 709 6010Greater Manchester Police 0161 872 5050St.Helens Council 01744 676 789Wigan Council 01942 244 991

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Local Life - St Helens & Ashton - Sept/Oct 2012

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