garstang focus - may 2015

Garstang FOCUSYour Free Monthly Magazine

Scorton - Cabus - Garstang - Bonds - BowgreaveCatterall - Churchtown - St Michaels

May 2015 Issue 176

What’s on in GarstangAprilMonday 27th “Evening of Jazz - and a Little Swing” - Garstang Recorded

Music Society 10

MayFriday 1st “Food Banks” - Garstang Lifelong Learning Group 4

Family Prize Bingo - Calder Vale Club 39

Saturday 2nd Scorton Bikes & Barrow Festival (until Mon 4th) 6

Coffee Morning - Calder Vale Methodist Church 9

Bric-a-brac Stall - St John’s Hospice 12

Charity Spinning Class - Garstang YMCA 24

Brass Band Concert - St Peters Church, Scorton 47

Tuesday 5th Coffee Stop at Catterall Village Hall - Inglewhite Church 4

Beginner’s Bridge - Garstang Arts Centre (also 12th,19th & 26th) 16

Jean Grange Art Exhibition - Garstang Arts Centre 22

Memory Cafe - Garstang Library 26

Wednesday 6th Art Exhibition - Garstang Arts Centre (until 30th May) 16

Garstang Children’s Festival Tableaux Meeting - Royal Oak 32

‘30 Years Behind the Lens’ - Garstang Camera Club 38

Thursday 7th Charity Coffee Morning - Garstang URC 7

Parkinson’s UK Fundraising Coffee Morning - Garstang URC 10

Stroke Awareness Day - Free Blood Pressure Tests - Rotary 21

Saturday 9th Cockerham Tractor Road Run 19

Tuesday 12th Coffee Stop at Inglewhite Church Hall (also 26th May) 4

Sequence Dancing - Claughton Memorial Hall (also 26th May) 5

“Life as a Magistrate” - Scorton WI 8

“It Shouldn’t Happen to a Vicar” - Galloways Blind Club 19

“Dr. Dolittle” - Garstang Theatre Group 39

Wednesday 13th “History of Honeywell Meats” - Kirklands WI 5

Over Wyre & Garstang Focus Magazineswww.focusmags.co.uk Tel: (01253) 813433

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“Air Ambulance Service” - Garstang Phoenix WI 8

Garstang Millennium Green AGM - The Royal Oak 25

Bowland Choir - Garstang Library (also 27th May) 26

Thursday 14th Garstang Stamp Club (also 28th May) 9

Garstang Library Reading Group (also 19th May) 26

Amy Speace Duo - Garstang Unplugged - Kenlis Arms 31

Garstang Country Market (weekly) 47

Friday 15th T’Break for Over 60s - Garstang Free Methodist Church 5

The June Baker Singers - Scorton Methodist Church 25

Saturday 16th Patronal Flower Festival (until 20th May) 7

Open Weekend - Bleasdale Tower Gardens 47

Sunday 17th Table Top Sale - Winmarleigh Village Hall 12

“An Evening with Jack” - Garstang Arts Centre 22

Monday 18th Garstang Wine Circle 20

Tuesday 19th Garstang Floral Art Group - Garstang Arts Centre 16

“The History of Garstang in Bloom” - Catteral Gardening Club 49

Wednesday 20th Concert - One Voice Community Choir - St Helen’s Church 7

Oil Painting Demonstration - Garstang Painting Group 22

Thursday 21st “English Country Dance” - Forton WI 9

Friday 22nd Poetry Appreciation - Garstang Arts Centre 16

F.L.O.W. Lunch - Garstang Free Methodist Church 37

Saturday 23rd Garstang & District Children’s Whitsuntide Festival 12

Elswick Farmer’s Market - Elswick Village Hall 25

Monday 25th Garstang & District Children’s Festival 32

Wednesday 27th “Life as a Nanny to the Saudie Royal Family” - Cherestanc WI 5 Canoeing Taster Session - Garstang Canoe Club (also 31st May) 23

What’s on in Garstang

June 2015 deadline for editorial and adverts Monday 18th May

June deliveries commence 28th May 2015While every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine to ensure accuracy, Focus Magazines

cannot be held responsible for editorial content supplied by contributors. Our acceptance of an editorial item or an advertisement does not necessarily indicate our endorsement

of the products, services or views contained within it.

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Life Long Learning Our May meeting is on Fri 1st May at Garstang United Reformed Church, Croston Road at 2:00pm.The speaker is Netta Blundell on the subject of ‘Food Banks’.As always, we welcome all members and visitors. The cost for visitors is £2.50 each including refreshments.Frank Jones (01995) 600938

CALDER VALE ST JOHN’S CHURCHNestled in the beautiful Bluebell woods we will be serving refreshments/Light Lunches throughout the month of May to all visitors on Saturdays and Bank Holiday’s. Proceeds for Church Funds. All welcome. Parties catered for by prior arrangement: Janet 07970 009 103.

We are open in the village hall every 4th Tuesday between 10:00am and 12noon. Volunteers from Inglewhite Church run this community ‘cafe style’ event, serving coffee and cake.If you live in the area we would love you to join us on Tues 5th May and Tues 2nd June. Free parking is available next to the playing field so come along and bring your friends.We are also open in Inglewhite Church Hall on Tuesday mornings at the same time on the 12th and 26th May.Both groups are invited to book places for our two day ‘Holiday at Home’ event which will take place on Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd June. Come along to collect a booking form at any of our May events.See Inglewhite Church website for further details. Lesley Hardman

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CHERESTANC WIClaughton Memorial Hall Tues 12th & 26th MayMusic by John Lancaster. £3.00 per person. Regular dances arranged so why not come and join us?Nancy Cowell (01995) 605803

KIRKLANDS WIWed 13th May‘History of Honeywell Meats’. Gus Gornall will tell us the story of how Honeywell meats began.

We meet the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7:30pm at Kirkland & Catterall Memorial Hall, The Avenue, Churchtown. New members and visitors always welcome. It’s a great way to meet neighbours and friends. For more information contact the secretary Dorothy Walmsley (01995) 602558

The May meeting of the Cherestanc WI will be on Wed 27th May at 7:30pm in the United Reformed Church Hall.

The speaker will be Heather Slater talking about her life in Saudi Arabia as a nanny to the royal family.

New members are always welcome. If any one wishing to come along would like to be met at the door by a member of our WI, please ring (01995) 605135.Girvan Airey

T’ BREAK FOR OVER 60’ST’ Break for the over 60s will meet on Fri 15th & 29th May. Join us for a cuppa and a chat at Garstang Free Methodist Church on Windsor Rd. No charge.Sharon Henriques

SEQUENCE DANCES - CLAUGHTON


Sat 2nd - Mon 4th MayList of Events

Daily

10:00am - 4:00pm: Art Exhibition & Family Art Challenge, St Peter’s Church.

Sat 2nd May

9:40am Garstang Cycling Club 25 mile ride to Conder Green. Meet opposite the shop. All welcome. Details from 07914 799 427.

11:00am - 4:00pm Spring Fair at the Village Hall - stalls, games, coffee & cake. Visit the classic MG cars on display too!

1:00pm Scorton Rose Queen Day Parade followed by stalls & games on the field. Lunches served in the Methodist Chapel.

7:30pm Brass Band Concert at St Peter’s Church. Tickets £5, including light refreshments from the Village Shop.

Sun 3rd May9:15am Scorton Fun Run. 1k followed by Sherriff 10k at 10:00am. Meet at Scorton Primary School.

11:00am - 4:00pm Visit the classic cars & motorbikes displayed in the village.

11:00am Family Friendly Bike Ride with Garstang Cycling Club. 10 miles, fairly flat. Meet opposite the shop. All abilities welcome. Details from 07914 799 427.11:00am - 4:00pm Gyrocopter static display on the playing field.

12:00noon - 4:00pm Music Festival on the Field. Live bands, great music, beer tent, hog roast, pancakes and games.

1:00pm - 4:00pm Classic Afternoon Tea served with style in the Village Hall.

4:00pm Songs of Praise at the Chapel, outside if the weather is good!

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Mon 4th May10:30am Scorton Dog Show, Church Drive. All welcome.

11:00am - 4:00pm Lancashire Food & Gift Fair at Scorton Village Hall. Refreshments available, many stalls, free entry.

1:30pm Morris Dancing in the Square by the Leyland Morris Men. Visit the classic Aston Martins on display too!

2:00pm Wacky Wheelbarrow Racing on the playing field. Beer tent and food available. Stalls and games for children.

3:00pm Sheep Racing on the playing field, followed by an Egg Throwing Competition. Wear a pinny!

Joanne Golton

CHARITY COFFEE MORNINGSGarstang URCFirst Thursday of each month at Garstang United Reformed Church, Croston Road, 10:00am - 12 noon.Thurs 7th May Parkinson’s UK. (Preston Branch).Thurs 4th June - Lancaster and District Homeless Action Service.Hilary Ralphs (01995) 603056email: [email protected]

PATRONAL FLOWER FESTIVAL‘It’s a Work of Art’Sat 16th May - Wed 20th May St Helen’s Church, Churchtown, PR3 OHT Church and tea room open daily 10:30am to 5:00pm. Free admission and free parking.

Wed 20th May - 7:00pm: Concert by ‘One Voice Community Choir’. Tickets £7 including glass of wine. Festival details and concert tickets available from (01995) 602914 and (01995) 606560.

BIKES & BARROW FESTIVAL (Cont)

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The ladies of Garstang Phoenix WI will be holding their next monthly meeting on Wed 13th May, when we will have a representative from the North West Air Ambulance Service talking to us about the vital life saving work they carry out.

We meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 2:00pm in Garstang United Reformed Church Hall. Refreshments are served and there is always time to meet new people or to catch up with those you may have lost touch with.

New members and visitors are always welcome – please come and join us if you are interested.

Lesley Wilson (01995) 605274

GARSTANG CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL 25th May 2015

We need your support for the fancy dress parade!

We really want to increase the number of participants in this year’s evening fancy dress parade. It is a fantastic opportunity for sport societies, youth clubs, social groups and work places to get involved.

Support this community event and have some fun. Further details at www.garstangchildrensfestival.org

SCORTON WIWhat do we think a magistrate is like? Intimidating? Strict? Knowledgeable about the law of the land? Members of Scorton WI will have a chance to find out at their meeting on Tues 12th May when Anita Davies will talk about ‘The Life of a Magistrate’. We meet at 7:30pm in Scorton School and new members are most welcome.

Mary Hodges (01995) 604755

GARSTANG PHOENIX WI


Monthly Coffee Morning

Sat 2nd May from 10:00am till 12noon. Proceeds will go towards our Building Fund. Usual stalls of Cakes, Bring and Buy, Craft and a quiz.

Saturday 6th June. Proceeds will be divided between Calder Vale Children’s Festival and the Chapel.

Edith Gorst (01995) 602078

GARSTANG STAMP CLUBMeetings are in the Meeting Room of the Public Library, Windsor Rod, Garstang. PR3 1ED from 7:30pm - 9:30pm.

Thurs 14th May: Social & Presentation Evening.

Thurs 28th May: AGM and Sale of Stamps

Beginners and enquirers are welcome to attend before joining.

D. Jones (01995) 602665

FORTON WIThurs 21st May

Roy Smith - ‘English Country Dance’.

All meetings are at Forton Village Hall and start at 7:30pm.

New members & guests are always welcome. (Our members come from Lancaster, Cabus, Garstang, Catterall & Winmarleigh so don’t think because you don’t live in Forton you can’t come!)

Christine Smith (01524) 793549

FREE METHODIST LADIES WALK Wed 13th May - 9:30am. An hour’s walk around Scorton and Woodacre. Meet at church. All welcome For further details from Ruth Shuttleworth (01995) 602400

CALDER VALE METHODIST CHURCH

10 Did you know that you can read the “Green Book” on line?

Parkinson’s. It is controlled by medication. The effects are many and varied and the condition worsens with time.

Parkinson’s U.K. is a national charity which raises funds to finance research in order to try and find a cure.

I raise funds for the Preston and District Branch who focus on helping people affected by Parkinson’s to cope on a day to day basis.

This varies between holding social events to loaning specialised equipment to assist in daily living, thus removing a financial burden. It is bad enough to have to cope with the disease without having to worry about the cost.

Steve Hardaker (01995) 608962

GARSTANG RECORDED MUSIC SOCOn 13th April, new member, Paul Capell’s ‘Mercury – A Living Presence’ celebrated some amazing sound recordings of the 1950s and 60s. It was a colourful programme, rich in orchestral spectacle, concluding with the famous Tchaikovsky 1812 Overture, recorded in 1960, complete with cannon and bells. Our ears are still ringing. Thank you Paul! Going to press, we look forward to letting our hair down again on Mon 27th April for Ian Drummond’s ‘Evening of Jazz – and a Little Swing’.On Mon 11th May we play host to friends from the Morecambe Recorded Music Society for a shared programme of favourite music.New members and visitors are always welcome. Meetings are in the Arts Centre at 7:30pm. £2 entry for non-members, including light drinks and biscuits.Visit www.Garstang.org.uk and click Groups/Recorded Music

David Greenwood

May FundraisersOn Thurs 7th May 10:00am - 12noon at the Garstang United Reformed Church Hall we are holding a coffee morning where you will be able to take part in a raffle, buy bric-a- brac or homemade cakes and take your chance on the tombola.

Money taken over the drink and biscuit counter will be donated, by U.R.C., to Preston Space Centre.

The second event is on Sat 30th May with the Charity Market Stall, outside the Market Hall, where we will be selling bric-a-brac.

Parkinson’s is a degenerative disease that is caused by the progressive loss of dopamine brain cells in a part of the brain, Substantia Nigra, which produces dopamine.

Dopamine is a chemical that is used to help co-ordinate movement. There is no cure for

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CHILDREN’S WHITSUNTIDE FESTIVALbe accompanied by an adult. Suppers should be booked in advance from any member of the Festival Committee or contact (01995) 602558. Appeal for HelpersAre you able to help at this year’s festival? Could you help serve teas (1 hour), man a stall (1 hour), enter fancy dress, hold tape for races (30 min) or help take things down at the end of the afternoon (30 min)? If so, please telephone 07973 525 478.Dorothy Walmsley

ST. JOHN’S HOSPICE Fundraising NewsA big thank you to all those who supported our Coffee Morning on 21st March. We raised £350 to help patients and their families. Volunteers made cakes and cards etc and helped on the day. Visitors spent money for a good cause! The URC made it all possible by allowing us to use their church hall.Our next event is on Sat 2nd May when we’ll run a Bric-a-Brac stall outside the indoor market on Garstang High Street from 9:00am - 3.00pm. We had great success last year by including costume and jewellery. We hope to repeat this. If you have good bric-a-brac or items of jewellery to donate, contact the number below to arrange collection. Gillian Benn (01995) 602246

TABLE TOP SALEWinmarleigh Village Hall Winmarleigh Church are holding their annual Table Top Sale at Winmarleigh Village Hall on Sun 17th May from 9:00am - 2:00pm. Refreshments available throughout.

To book a table or for further information call Joyce Smith (01995) 603581 or Irene Pye (01995) 605660. Ruby Briggs

Churchtown & DistrictSat 23rd MayA procession of visiting queens, tableaux, fancy dress, dignitaries, local organisations and bands will leave Kirkland Memorial Hall field at 1:00pm. Led by the Boddington Belles Morris Men, it will make its way to Churchtown for a service at St Helen’s Church at 1:30pm before returning to the field for the crowning of this year’s queen, Ellie Singleton at 2:15pm. Anyone wishing to enter the fancy dress should arrive by 12:30pm. On the field, Darrel Edwards will be our compere and there will be children’s sports, a football competition, donkey rides, zorbs, a bouncy slide, games, plant stall, sweet stall, tombola, afternoon teas and refreshments.

At 6:30pm there is a family disco with a pie and peas supper costing £3. All children must

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It’s been a while since I last put pen to paper (or rather, fingers to keyboard) in my mission to encourage everybody to be safe online.That doesn’t mean the battle has been won – far from it! The bad guys become ever more inventive in their schemes to wreak havoc and part people from their cash. So it’s probably time to remind everyone, old hands and newbies alike, of the risks and hopefully give you some guidance to help along the way.Keeping safe online requires three different aspects to be working properly – hardware, software and the user. All three need to be right to keep problems and the enemy at bay.Hardware is the first element – this is the equipment you use so it includes PCs, laptops, tablets (eg. iPads) and ‘smartphones’. All of this should be kept physically secure, which means protecting it from a number of risks. Computer equipment and mobile phones etc. are vulnerable to fire, flood, accidental damage and theft. However, the consequences of

COMPUTER SAFETY

losing your computer can be much more serious because of the information stored on it – this can be irreplaceable material such as photos, music, contact numbers or that book you’ve spent two years writing, or it can be personal/financial information which could be used for the purposes of fraud etc. So you need to take all the usual precautions to keep your equipment safe from being stolen or lost just like you would any valuables.Additional Advice for IT Equipment If you are at risk from flooding, try to keep computers out of danger on upper floors or on top of tables/desks rather than on the floor.Position machines carefully – don’t leave them where they can be knocked off, leave cables trailing to trip people up, or block the air vents etc.Make a note of computer serial numbers to enable reporting if stolen (and store the note away from the computer!)Use a security marker to label your computers.Register your computer equipment on the Immobilise National Property Register (www.immobilise.com). If it is recovered by the police, there is a better chance of being re-united with you.If you take any equipment away from home, keep it hidden or physically locked up if not in use. Carry laptops in hand baggage on an aircraft or coach. Never leave a laptop on a car seat - even if you are in the car, your laptop is vulnerable whilst parking or at traffic lights.If your equipment goes missing, notify the Police and obtain a crime or loss reference number for tracking and insurance purposes. If you have registered with the Immobilise National Property Register, log on and update their records to show the theft. And just to be on the safe side, change your passwords as soon as possible.If you have any questions, please do give me a ring for a quick chat.Joan Bailey - 07528 173 891

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Beginners’ Bridge Class

This will continue to meet in the Music Room on Tuesday afternoons from 1:30pm - 4:30pm, which this month will be May 5th, 12th, and 26th. We also meet on the morning of May 19th from 10:00am to 12noon.

We are a friendly group with mixed levels of skill and ability, and would be very pleased if you would like to join us, whether to have a go at Contract Bridge for the first time, or brush up your skills from years ago. More details from Pat Hansell (01995) 600397 or Mary Thornber (01995) 605210.

Garstang Floral Art Group

The next meeting, at 2:00pm on Tues 19th May, will be a workshop with Phillipa Blundell from Fylde Flowers in Poulton-le-Fylde. Phillipa will provide everything required to make a stunning arrangement so we need definite numbers before Monday 11th May. Anyone who does not wish to take part but would like to come and watch will be very welcome. For more information please contact June Gornall (01995) 602505.

Poetry Appreciation

This session, on Fri 22nd May from 2:00pm - 4:00pm will transport you to other worlds! Hilary McGrath will lead us on ‘Trains, Boats, Planes and Bicycles’. There are plenty of interesting poems for the ardent traveller. Come and join us. Try one of our taster sessions if you have not been before. We look forward to seeing you.

This year’s programme is available on the Arts Centre Website at www.Garstangartssociety.org.uk Click on Arts Society Groups choose Poetry Appreciation. For further information contact Marie Whalley (01995) 603605

Pat Hansell (01995) 600397

May Art Exhibition

The exhibition, from Tues 5th - Sat 30th May, is by Lancashire based artist Barry Wearing. Barry took a Pre-Diploma course at Art College and is mainly self taught.

Growing up in Liverpool, early education was spent sketching on exercise books at the back of the class. Art always remained a hobby except for the odd commission which earned a bob or two.

More recently, Barry taught Art for Lancashire Adult College but it was a recent ‘health scare’ that kick started the real passion. Art became a way of raising money for a local charity but now it has become personal! Barry is determined to make a ‘niche’ for himself in the art world. He is influenced by the greats such as Rembrandt and Turner; modern artists such as Voka are also a great inspiration.

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE

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Garstang Blind ClubThe talks for our May meetings will be given by two very well known Garstonians.Wed 12th May will no doubt be very humourous as the Rev. Canon Greenall will tell us why ‘It Shouldn’t Happen to a Vicar’.On Wed 27th May Harry Kenyon will tell us of the ‘Life and Times of Harry’. We meet alternate Wednesdays at the Garstang Sports and Social Club on Lancaster Road. Anyone who is blind or partially sighted will be most welcome to join us.Lorna Musgrave (01995) 471319

GARSTANG MUSICAL PRODUCTIONSAdvance noticeOur next social event is on June 27th. Tickets are available now from Market Place News or Car Care, Garstangm(or see posters).

GALLOWAYS COCKERHAM TRACTOR ROAD RUNThe Cockerham Tractor Road Run takes place on Sat 9th May at 6:00pm - 8:00pm. It starts and finishes at Cockerham Village Hall, Main St, Cockerham, Lancaster LA2 0EF.The tractor run is a fundraising event that helps to finance Cockerham Field Day which will take place on 4th July.The night will start with the tractors leaving the Village Hall at 6:00pm. Spectators can then go into the Village Hall to join in the family night with craft stalls, children’s stalls and refreshments. Entry to the Village Hall is free and entry for the tractor run is £12 which includes hot food and refreshments.Registration will take place from 4:30pm for a 6:00pm start.For all enquiries or entries, please contact Mark on 07796 006 126.Mark Hewitt


GARSTANG WINE CIRCLEmore colour, depth and character than Guy’s but my favourite of the night was Guy’s Tabali, deep in colour, rich and luscious. Also available locally at less than £10!

Battle honours were even at the end of the night.

If you wish to learn more about wines and enjoy a convivial evening, why not come along to the next meeting on Mon 18th May at the Arts Centre. Visitors are most welcome. For more details ring Don Goodier on (01995) 603720.

Anne Marie Whitehead

Described by Ann Wicks in her vote of thanks as ‘a sophisticated evening’, the April meeting proved to be enjoyable, entertaining and informative.

Richard Harrison, recently back from New Zealand, presented wines from the Hawkes Bay region. New Zealand wines aim to be at the prime end of the market and Richard’s choices of Craggy Range Kidnappers Chardonnay, Trinity Hill Syrah and Babich’s The Patriarch were excellent as was the unusual Gamay Noir.

Guy Pugh took on the challenge of finding matching, cheaper, Chilean alternatives. His Casa Lapostelle Cuvee Alexandre Chardonnay, the Tabali Syrah Reserva and the Lauca Cabernet Sauvignon Gran Reserva stood up well to the test. Chilean wines tend to be medium priced and cheap and cheerful.

I thought that Richard’s chardonnay had

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ROTARY

Stroke Awareness DayThurs 7th May

Following the success of last year’s exercise and thanks to the generosity of Booths in Garstang plus the services of Heartbeat,

the Rotary Club of Garstang and Over Wyre are able to participate once again in a campaign to raise public awareness of one of the main cause of strokes - high blood pressure.

To achieve our objective, Heartbeat from Preston is providing the staff and equipment to conduct blood pressure tests. Their personnel are fully experienced in giving any appropriate advice, following the tests.

The private facility will be available from 10:00am until 2:00pm on Thurs 7th May

on the first floor of Booths Garstang store. Access to the facility is via the stairs or by the lift.

The whole test will be conducted in confidential surroundings, for which there is no charge. No booking is required. Just turn up on the day. Rotarians will be in attendance to advise you should there be any problems or any waiting time involved.

This campaign is part of a public awareness exercise being undertaken by Rotary Clubs throughout Great Britain and Ireland.

High blood pressure is a common problem, affecting about 10 million people in the UK. It often has no symptoms, so having it measured is the only way to tell if your blood pressure is high.

Event Organiser: Ted Gee (01995) 603093

Don Goodier

GARSTANG PAINTING GROUP


As April, with all it’s excitement recedes into history, the Group embarks on another month of interesting activity.Sat 2nd May: entries for the Jean Grange Exhibition to be handed in. The exhibition, at the Garstang Arts Centre, opens on Tues 5th May and promises to be a really fascinating show as many of the techniques learned over the last few months will be displayed.Wed 20th May: a demonstration of Oil Painting will be given by Colin Ross Jack. This will be very interesting as only a few members are regular oil painters and their numbers should be increased after this event.Sat 30th May: the Jean Grange Exhibition draws to a close and we prepare to work towards the next members’ exhibition in June. Phew, its all go here at the Painting Group!Don’t forget, there’s an Art Exhibition almost every week at the Garstang Arts Centre so

pop in and feast your eyes. Many of the paintings are for sale at very reasonable prices and an original work of art can be priceless!For more information, contact Joyce McCormick 07786 271 450.Bill Barnes

AN EVENING WITH JACK Jack Garner will need little introduction to music lovers in Garstang: he has been a pillar of the musical life of the town since the Dead Sea was only a bit off-colour. He is often seen sprinting across roads or cycling around town, attracting many an envious glance from people half his age. His distinctive baritone voice and stage presence have brought smiles to Garstonian faces for many a decade.On Sun May 17th at 7:30pm everyone is invited to ‘An Evening With Jack’ at the Arts Centre, Croston Rd, Garstang PR3 1HQ.Jack recently passed his four score and ten and is improving with age, going down so well at our last fundraiser that people have since been clamouring for a “Jack-only” evening. Four fabulous songstresses from the group which Jack co-founded, Garstang Musical Productions, will launch the evening. Jack will not only be performing, he will also be looking back over a life which cannot have been much fuller. So fetch a bottle, we’ll supply the candles and Jack will supply the magic. There’s no admission charge. This is a celebration. You can donate to the charity Jack has chosen if you wish, but mainly we want you to enjoy yourselves – and you WILL!! See you there!To avoid disappointment, let us know if you are coming. The hall holds 100 max.Tel: 01995 600 537 / Mob: 07743 579 260 Email: [email protected]


GARSTANG CANOE & KAYAK CLUB

As part of national Go Canoeing Week we are holding two taster sessions on Wed 27th May 6:15pm - 8:15pm and Sun 31st May 10:00am - 12:00noon. The events are free and will take place from the club’s base at the Garstang Sports & Social Club. All are welcome from age 8 upwards (under 16s must be accompanied). Please bring a change of clothes and a towel.All equipment including kayak, paddle, spray deck, cagoule, helmet and buoyancy aid is

provided, plus instruction and refreshments.We are a friendly club catering mainly for river running and playboating kayak paddlers. We welcome open boats and sea kayaks too. We are fortunate to have access to the River Wyre in Garstang, with easy access to a stretch of water perfect for training and a weir for practicing moving water paddle skills.The club has many BCU accredited instructors ranging from the new BCU UKCC Level 1 to the BCU Level 3 Inland Kayak Coach award.We meet at 6:15pm every Wed from April 15th to early Oct at the weir in Garstang (park at Garstang Sports & Social Club). We aim to be on the river by 7:00pm and try to guarantee an hour depending on daylight and weather!”More information on the club is available at www.garstangcanoeclub.co.uk

In Aid of Macmillan Cancer ResearchSharon Hartley (41) and Ann Boardman (43), from Catterall, are taking part in the London to Paris bike ride on 7th Sept to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.They’ve never cycled further than the village pub, which is one whole mile down the road, so undertaking 234 miles over three days is nothing short of terrifying. It’s a huge challenge.To show their commitment to the charity 80% of their fundraising target needs to be given to Macmillan before the end of June. So, as well as their training, their drive to hit their fundraising target of £4,000 begins now!Garstang YMCA are supporting Sharon and Ann by hosting a 90 minute charity spin class on Sat 2nd May at 1:00pm. The cost is £10 per bike and all proceeds will be donated to Macmillan Cancer Support. To

take part, visit the YMCA in person to book. Goody Bags will be provided to everyone.The YMCA are also lending Sharon and Ann spin bikes when they will sit and pedal outside Booths all day on Sat 11th July collecting money for Macmillan.Why Macmillan?A good friend and work colleague of theirs found out his wife, Jenny, had cancer in November. Without the Macmillan nurses, Jenny would not have known what to do next. These nurses are very special people and the more of them there are, the more help and support there will be for everybody who is living with cancer!Donating to their ‘Just Giving’ page is easy and sends your donation straight to Macmillan Cancer Support. You will find it at: www.justgiving.com/TeamShazzAnnSharon Hartley & Ann Boardman

LONDON TO PARIS CHARITY BIKE RIDE


Elswick Village Hall, Roseacre Rd, PR4 3UDSat 23rd May, 9:00am - 1:00pmA variety of food, craft and plant stalls. We also have a community café where you can enjoy a drink and bacon barm after your shopping!

We welcome any new stall holders so if you produce local food or have a craft you want to share please do not hesitate to contact Stephanie on 07752 149 214 or email me at [email protected].

GARSTANG MILLENIUM GREENAnnual General MeetingTo be held on Wed 13 May at 7:30pm at The Royal Oak. The public is encouraged to attend to hear what has been achieved over the past year, what is planned for the coming year and to contribute if they so wish.

Kathleen Knipe

Scorton Methodist ChurchFri 15th May at 7.30pm

The June Baker Singers wil be entertaining in aid of the `Ryan Stanford Appeal’.

There are three groups of singers, two in Preston, one in Garstang (Thursday afternoons) and they meet up to perform charity concerts.

June has been leading the groups for 21 years now and thousands of pounds have been raised during that time.

There will also be a concert at Longridge Civic Centre on Sat 2nd May in aid of the `Brittle Bones Society’.

We have fun performing, and audiences can share that fun - the real joy of singing! Tickets £5 on the door for either concerts.

June Baker

ELSWICK FARMER’S MARKET THE JUNE BAKER SINGERS



Memory CafeWed 5th May 10:00am - 12 noonGarstang Library is pleased to be involved with this free drop-in cafe for carers and those living with dementia. All are welcome to come along to the library meeting room for a chat and cup of tea. Further details from Sandra Perkins (01995) 471236.Bowland ChoirWed 13th & Wed 27th May The Bowland Choir meets in the library every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 6:30pm. No experience of singing or reading music is necessary to join the group as they sing together for fun and friendship. So come along and give it a try. New members are always welcome.Children’s ActivitiesBaby Bounce and Rhyme: Mon and Fri at 10:00am

GARSTANG LIBRARYToddler Rhyme Time: Tues at 2:00pmStorytime for the under 5’s: Friday at 2:00pmAll these events are free so just come along and join in the fun. Knit and Natter Our Knit and Natter group meet at the library every Tuesday afternoon 2:00pm - 4:00pm and every Friday morning 10:00am -12noon. The group are looking for new members to join so if you enjoy knitting or fancy starting up a new hobby, come along to the library and join in with this friendly group. Refreshments are provided as well as expert help and advice.Reading Groups Meeting on Thurs 14th May at 2:00pm and Tues 19th May at 7:30pm. Meeting Room For HireDid you know that you can hire our meeting room for as little as £3 per hour? Interested? Call into the branch for more details.May Bank Holidays Please note that the Library will be closed on Mon 4th May and Mon 25th May.Mobile LibrariesThe mobile library routes for May will be as follows:Scorton : Wed morning 6th & 27th May Catterall & Churchtown: Thurs morning 21st MaySt Michaels: Rawcliffe Rd: Tues afternoon 9th MayGarstang Library 03001 236 703 [email protected]

HM COASTGUARD Open DaySun 3rd May: 10:00am - 4:00pmCoastguard Station, Bourne May Road,Knott End. Free Admission.Phil Smith - Deputy Station Officer

27Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

[email protected] | 01253 700902 / 07930 406257

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DOWN TO EARTH

Cucumbers. Did you know that according to Pliny (a Roman author and naturalist), the Emperor Tiberius had cucumber on his table every day during the summer and winter. As we know the Romans were an inventive lot and they apparently used artificial methods (similar to the greenhouse system) of growing cucumber so that it was available for the Emperor’s table every day of the year. Pliny reports that the Emperor “was never without it; for he had raised beds made in frames upon wheels, by means of which the cucumbers were moved and exposed to the full heat of the sun; while, in winter, they were withdrawn, and placed under the protection of frames glazed with mirrorstone.” Rather than nipping down to the nearest Roman supermarket the Emperor knew that home grown cucumbers have a vastly

superior flavour and texture to any shop bought cucumbers - and if you don’t have a greenhouse (or a raised beds on wheels!) they can be grown outside but they’ll just take a bit longer to produce fruit.So if you fancy having a go, you need to sow your seeds in 8cm (3in) pots this month and then transplant them into larger pots, grow bags or directly in the soil late May to June.They’ll need to be supported with long canes and water little and often – don’t allow cucumbers to dry out or to become waterlogged.Pinch out the growing tips when they reach the top of your supports and this will encourage bushy growth and voila! Your cucumbers will be ready for picking about three months after sowing and will continue cropping until the end of September. Cut the cucumbers when they are about 15 to


DOWN TO EARTH (cont)

20cm (6 to 8in) long and still green.If you’re lucky enough to own a greenhouse then it’s well worth growing cucumbers indoors. Greenhouse cucumber plants produce long, smooth fruits and they don’t need pollinating - in fact, you should remove any male flowers to prevent pollination happening as this produces fruits with a bitter flavour. Outdoor varieties are called ridge cucumbers. These varieties tend to be shorter with a rougher skin and produce male and female flowers. These need to be pollinated but this isn’t a problem as the insects outdoors will do the job for you. Once you’ve planted up your cucumbers you’ll be looking for some further inspiration so why not consider a day out at the Holker Hall Garden Festival?Show gardens, floral marquees, artisan and

local produce will all be available set within the grounds of Holker Hall at Cark-in-Cartmel, Cumbria and will take place from Fri 29th to Sun 31st May.In the meantime I’m off to the supermarket – until our veg has grown, the nine month old baby is stuck teething on shop bought cucumbers. I have a fair idea of her opinion of it – most of it ends up on the floor.Happy Gardening!Alison Tarpey-Black - ARTNOIRE 07738 515 846 (01253) 810039.

CABUS WHIST & DOMSCabus Village Hall

Whist & Domino Drives on alternate Friday afternoons 2:00pm at Cabus Village Hall, A6 Road, Cabus PR3 1WL. All welcome.

Joan Wilkins (01995) 602028


Kenlis Arms - Thurs 14th MayAmy Speace (Duo)Although Amy Speace began in the theatre, acting with, amongst others, The National Shakespeare Company, she left to pursue music full time. She’s now touring to promote ‘That Kind of Girl’ - her new CD, which has been likened to an early Lucinda Williams style of music with open lyrics and strong tunes. She’s gained support and praise from legends such as Judy Collins (who signed her to her own label), Guy Clark and Nanci Griffith, Ian Hunter and Alejandro Escovedo; an unlikely combination until you hear Amy’s songs. The Houston Press called her “The unconscious cool of Americana”, nodding to the lean poetry of her rootsy folk - an edge possibly learned busking in the subways of NYC or playing Juliet in parking lot productions.

It’s her voice that catches the audience off guard. Some voices are a bridge from the past to the future; we need them to keep singing. These voices open hearts with this rare, one-in-a-million quality. Amy Speace has such a voice. Judy Collins said, “Amy’s got it and then some. She’s a timeless artist, part past, part future, and that’s a really good thing.” She’s with Garstang Unplugged at the Kenlis Arms, Ray Lane, Garstang PR3 1GD on Thurs 14th May. The music starts at 8:30pm. Tickets are £10 on the door, through the website or by telephone on (01995) 602795. Our monthly Singers Night will be on Wed, 27th May from 8:00pm.For more information, visit:www.amyspeace.com orwww.garstangunplugged.com

Don Moore.

GARSTANG UNPLUGGED


CHILDREN’S FESTIVALGarstang & DistrictMon 25th MayPreparations are nearly complete for this year’s festival.One of the highlights of the day must be the brightly decorated children’s tableaux. Parents will be very busy in the next few weeks putting the floats together, and I’m sure that the usual large crowds will appear to watch both the morning and evening processions to marvel at the quality of the tableaux and to show their appreciation.There is still time to enter a tableau for this year’s event which anyone can enter - Play Groups, Schools, Church Groups, private individuals and there are no restrictions on the number of children involved. Financial assistance is given both towards decorating the floats, insurance and to the children who participate.

The final Tableaux meeting for this year’s event takes place on Wed 6th May at the Royal Oak Hotel starting at 7:30pm. It would be appreciated if a representative from all tableaux entries attend the meeting in order to arrange insurance and to receive final instructions for the day.Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Festival Secretary, David Gardner (01995) 604549 or the Tableaux Steward, Frank Worthington (01995) 604628.The crowning of the 2015 Festival Queen, Alex Walmsley, will take place at the Market Cross at 11:00am. Alex will be crowned by the Retiring Queen, Laura Poulton. Following this, the morning procession will proceed through the streets led by the Morris Dancers, the festival and retiring queens plus many other queens from surrounding villages and churches.


There will be seven bands in attendance on the day: Pilling Brass Band, Brindle Brass Band, The Red Rose Brass Band, The Hyndeburn Comets Majorette Troupe, Bolton Caledonia Pipe Band, The City of Lancaster Brass Band and St Peters Brigade Band.Also taking part in the procession will be the Garstang School of Gymnastics and members from the Scouts and Guides. On completion of the morning procession, attention will switch to the Moss Lane Playing Fields where activities will start at 1:10pm with a display from the Garstang School of Gymnastics followed by a display from the Hyndeburn Comets Majorette Troupe. This will be followed by the children’s races and the football semi-finals.Throughout the afternoon, there are many attractions for younger children including a professional face painter, children’s rides, bouncy castles and Punch and Judy shows.

CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL (cont)All activities are free of charge so bring the little ones down for a great family day out.

Refreshments are available throughout the afternoon.

The evening procession starts at 6:00pm at Moss Lane Playing Fields. This will include the Fancy Dress Parade in which there are many prizes to be won.

The Fancy Dress Parade is open to anyone. Entries are accepted from 5:15pm on Moss Lane Playing Fields.

Judging will take place between 5:30pm and 6:00pm and along the procession route, so why not try your luck and have great fun at the same time?

The day concludes with the final of the Football Competition at 7:30pm.David Gardner - Festival Secretary.


GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONSEaster EggsOur annual Easter egg raffle raised over £800 for local good causes and Garstang Lions would like to thank all the pubs and shops who took part.

Motor Neurone Disease CollectionGarstang Lions agreed once again to help with their annual collection which this year was at Booths on 25th April.

Frank Miller – Running the London MarathonWe have agreed to support and sponsor local man Frank for £100. His chosen charity is “riders for health” which is a small charity that delivers medical supplies in rural Africa.

Lions National Junior Disabled GamesThis is a wonderful event that is held annually and we will be donating £200 to help disabled children take part.

3rd Garstang GuidesTwo local guides are busy raising money to go to the 23rd Scout Jamboree and we will sponsor both for £50 each.

Lastly - Lions International have set up Libra, a charity to help fight blood cancer. The District Governor’s wife, Erica, who boasts a rather colourful hairstyle, has agreed to have it all shaved off for the charity and Garstang Lions will be sponsoring her for £100.

To see what we get up to look at our scrapbook on the website.

As always the Lions welcome new members or anyone who is just interested in seeing what they do. Information is available on the web site or just speak to a member or simply come along to a meeting - 3rd Tuesday of the month in the Royal Oak at 8:00pm. Look for anyone in a dark blue fleece or light blue polo

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David Lewis (01995) 605146Email: [email protected]: www.garstanglions.co.ukFacebook: Garstang Lions

ST MICHAELS LADIES SOCIAL CLUBMembers met on a lovely summery evening - at last! The speaker, Julie Holmes, gave a talk on reflexology, initially asking members to close their eyes and leading them into a very comfortable state of relaxation, following with the history of reflexology which went back to the Egyptians, then China and India, in days when the body was encouraged to heal itself.

This method was studied by Dr. Bayley in 1913 in America. A lady convert, Eugene, brought it to England in 1930. It is an holistic

GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS (cont)treatment and pressure points in the feet, also the hands, are used to relieve pain, enhance the immune system and could highlight health problems, although it’s not diagnostic.

The belief is the hands and feet mirror the body and the pressure points unblock the meridian pathways around the body bringing wellbeing, self healing and relaxation.

This is not a beauty treatment. Many questions were answered and the talk was extremely well received.

Members: please note a change in the Programme - Thurs 14th May will be a social meal at The Grapes, St. Michaels with a choice of menu. Meeting at 7:00pm. If you wish to attend phone Judith on (01995) 679240 or Jeanette on (01995) 679272.

Judith Hunter


Final Update on the Big Bra HuntOur final total of bras given by our supporters stands at just under 600! A big ‘thank you’ to everyone. Our hunt is now over, but if you should find a few more in the future please drop

them off at any Oxfam shop, as the work at Frip Ethique is ongoing. Thank you.Diamond Education GrantThis year we have raised £750 for this charity. The purpose of the Fund, set up as a registered charity in 1977, is to make grants to help women to advance their education. The Fund Trustees assist recipients in updating their skills or acquiring new skills, thereby improving their opportunities for employment and promotion.

Applicants do not have to be Soroptimists. The only requirement is that they are female and resident in one of the countries of our Federation.Applications for help come mainly from the UK, but also from Bangladesh, Mauritius, Nigeria, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe. Assistance was sought for courses as diverse as Furniture Upholstering to an MSc in Primate Conservation.Grants totalling £8,000 have been awarded to 16 applicants. The Committee is now concentrating on grants that will make a real difference.Other WorkSoroptimists are not just about raising funds and supporting the poorer people in our world. We are also committed to raising awareness of women’s issues at home and abroad. Under the heading of Health, this

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month I would like to highlight one of them.Endometriosis is a condition where cells like the ones lining the womb, are found elsewhere in the body, most commonly inside the pelvis, around the ovaries and fallopian tubes. The monthly hormonal cycle causes these cells to grow, break down and bleed, but unlike those in the lining of the womb, there is no way for them to leave the body, leading to inflammation, pain and the formation of scar tissue.What causes endometriosis?Although there are several theories there are no proven causes.What endometriosis is not. It is not an infection, it is not contagious and it is not cancer.Can endometriosis be treated?Yes, there are ways of managing the symptoms, disease, pain and discomfort.For a full explanation of this condition visit www.endometriosis-uk.org, send a request by email to [email protected] or ring the help line on 0808 808 2227.If you are interested in our work come and join us. Ring (01995) 606 604 for all the details. To view our work, follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/SoroptimistsGarstang or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GarstangSoroptMuriel Burnham-Airey

F.L.O.W LUNCHFriday Lunch for the Older & WiserThe F.L.O.W Meal, a two course lunch for £7.00 will be available at the Free Methodist Church, Windsor Rd on Fri 22nd May. An opportunity to enjoy good food and good company . Ring (01995) 602852 to book.Sharon Henriques


GARSTANG CAMERA CLUBMay finds the Garstang Camera Club winding down and reflecting upon its past winter programme. Steve Pendrill is still to come on Wed 6th May with his ‘30 Years Behind the Lens’ and all the photographs he has taken for the Garstang Courier over that time. Our AGM is on Wed 13th May and the Presentation Evening on Wed 20th May, but mostly we look forward to the summer opportunities to put into practice what we may have learnt. On April 15th, Martyn Mackie, a local photographer, showed us the tricks of the trade in taking portraits, so that they looked less like passport entries and more like real people. But as a top personal memory, we remembered that during March members of the club had helped the Garstang Scouts with their Photographers’ Badges. In this modern age the concept of a large camera with many interchangeable lenses is perhaps out of date, with many brilliant photos being taken on phones, iPads and digital cameras made just to slip into your pocket.

The photographs the Scouts produced showed knowledge of techniques that will have members of the Club looking over their shoulders at what future members of the club will be producing. Good luck to them. Derek Pratt


CROSSWORD (ans page 51)

Across3 Faction, celebration (5) 6 Spoken (4)8 Thief (6)9 Not working (4)10 Tennis star ___ Williams (6)11 Pictures (6)12 Heroic (4)13 Aviatrix ____ Earhart (6)14 Gaffer (4)15 Arena (5)Down1 “3a, 1d, 7d” vote-seeking TV statement (9)2 Senate, assembly (10)4 Homes, habitats (6)5 Cookery measure (10)7 Spread, publish (9)10 “___ is believing” (6)

Calder Vale Children’s Festival The Calder Vale Children’s Festival will be held on Sat 13th June. Crowning is at 11:00am followed by the procession, lunches, games, sports, duck race and children’s entertainer.

Family Prize Bingo for Festival FundsFri 1st May - 7:30pmCalder Vale Club.

Table Top SaleSun 10th May 11:00am - 5:00pmCalder Vale Mission Room. Refreshments available from Bluebell Teas next door in the Village Hall. Limited availability for tables so booking is on a first come first served basis. To book a table please call Nicky on (01995) 602384.

Fundraising Race NightCalder Vale Club on Fri 10th July. Tickets £7.50 each. Includes hotspot supper and a

homemade pud. Name and own your own horse for £3.50 per horse. £1 bets on the night.

For tickets/horses or information, call Nicky on (01995) 602384.Nicky Mason

DOCTOR DOLITTLEGarstang Theatre GroupTues 12th May - Sat 16th May

The Magical Colourful Musical - book, music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse - is at the Arts Theatre, Garstang Community Academy nightly at 7:30pm.

Tickets: adult - £9 / under 16yrs - £7 from Market Place News (01995) 604883, Mace Croston Road (01995) 603234 or Phone (01995) 603551

Terry Underdown

CALDER VALE SCHOOL ASSOC


MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOC.We have been busy recently with an in-store collection at Booths on April 25th which did very well. We would like to thank Booths for their support and Garstang Lions who kindly helped us to collect.

On Sat 9th May we will have a stall outside the Market Hall with lots of lovely and useful things for sale. Donations of items or help on the day will be gratefully received!

On Sun 21st June the team will be at Scorton Steam Fair distributing leaflets.

On the following Saturday 27th June we will be at Woodplumpton Charity Shoot who are generously fundraising for us.

Thank you for your support.

If you would like to know more about MND or would like to help please contact Marie Whalley (01995) 603605.

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GREY MATTER TEST (ans page 51)1 Which common vegetable belongs to the

same family as the tomato?

2 What is the name of the scale used to measure sound intensities?

3 What is the green deposit formed on copper called?

4 Who said “Father, I cannot tell a lie”?

5 What is the start of a game of ice-hockey known as?

6 Who played the headmaster in the film ‘Clockwise’?

7 What sort of creature is a natterjack?

8 What was known in early times as Cathay?

9 Which river forms a border between Devon and Cornwall?

10 What is a John Dorey?

11 The goat represents which sign of the Zodiac?

12 What nationality are the folk singers, Foster and Allen?

13 Which series of films featured a rowdy girls’ school and starred Alastair Sim?

14 Women campaigners for the vote were known as what in 1906?

15 What is agate?

16 What is the name for someone who studies handwriting?

17 Who was the Beast of Bolsover?

18 What does it mean if something is held ‘in camera’?

19 Complete the proverb, “Cut your coat...”

20 Which public figure made her first journey by rail on 13th June 1842?


• 2tbsp chopped chives• 4 mackerel fillets• 400g vine-on cherry tomatoesMethod• Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6.• For the topping, heat the oil in a frying

pan and fry the onion for 4-5 minutes. Add the oats and apricots and cook for 1-2 minutes. Stir in 100ml water, the herbs and season well. Cool slightly.

• Press the topping onto the flesh side of the mackerel. Place on a large baking tray.

• Add the cherry tomatoes on the vine and bake for 15 minutes until cooked throughout.

GARSTANG LAKELAND CLUBWe have enjoyed six new and interesting walks since the New Year and the weather has generally been kind to us.Future more strenuous walks will be to the Scandale Skyline (May) and the Watendlath Cicuit (June).The moderate walks will be leaving the Lake District for a couple of months to explore other areas of the North West. We shall be visiting Rivington (May) and Stainforth (June) where we shall be holding our Annual Summer BBQ after the walk.If any readers are interested in having a “taster” walk, please contact Michael (01995) 604358, Gwyn (01995) 604538 or Rob (603206) for more details.Michael Collins

CHARLIE’S CAMPAIGN Coffee Morning, URC, Croston RoadThurs 14th May: 10:00am - 12:30pm.A charitable event to raise funds for research into Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and to support 7 year old Charlie with future care needs. Come along and have a coffee/tea and a piece of cake. Bric a brac, plants, cakes and home produce on sale.Sue Hardman

Oat Topped Mackerel with Roast Tomatoes

A supper that provides all the benefits of oats, plus is low in salt and saturated fat, and contains omega 3, 6 and 9 – all important for a healthy heart.Ingredients• 1tbsp rapeseed oil• 1 onion, chopped• 75g oats• 50g dried apricots, chopped• 25g pack parsley, chopped

FOCUS ON FOOD


Springtime brings it’s regular issues as the days get longer and people busy themselves with gardening. Please be aware that you may not hear anyone intent on depriving you of your possessions whilst you are beavering away in the back garden. Lock your front door and windows!We have had several reports about cold callers visiting elderly and vulnerable residents. Please look out for your neighbours and call us if you have any suspicions about these visitors or their aggressive sales techniques. Trading Standards monitor such companies so it’s worth giving them a call with details of any vehicles they may be using.Have you had any suspicious or annoying phone calls from telesales people? You can stop or certainly reduce these nuisance calls by registering with the Telephone Preference Service at www.tpsonline.org.uk/tps/index.htm Alternatively get help from Citizens Advice Bureau www.adviceguide.org.ukAlso beware of scams by phone or email. Never divulge your personal or bank details either online or over the phone unless you are certain who you are corresponding with.Reports have come in of teenagers taking advantage of disused buildings to drink alcohol underage and/or smoke cannabis. We are keeping an eye out but would appreciate a call if you see anything? Do you know where your children are when they’re out of your sight? Apart from the obvious dangers of using illegal drugs and alcohol, the premises they are using are derelict and in a dangerous condition.If you want to report drug dealing in your street or local park etc. please phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. You can remain anonymous.You can now ‘Do it Online’ at www.lancashire.police.uk where you can report a crime or incident, report lost or found property, contact a member of staff, say thanks or complain

POLICE NOTES


POLICE NOTES (cont)

about a member of staff.Remember to always call 999 if a crime is happening now, the offender is nearby or if you or other people are injured or in danger.Visit us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/GarstangNHPYou can email us at [email protected] or you can contact us via our communications room on 101 or in an emergency 999.PC 2425 Gary Cross PC 1136 Matt Butcher PC 3774 Dave Kerfoot PCSO 7169 Terry Molloy and PS 6336 Danielle Freaney

FRIENDS OF TRINITY HOSPICEI start this month’s installment with excellent news. The charity night held at the Working Men’s Club on Friday 10th April raised a grand total of £1,363.30 to date. The event was a roaring success with positive feedback. Graham Bradley also raised a large amount for the night after completing a sponsored “half-head” shave wearing a Blackpool Football Shirt and as an avid Preston North End supporter that’s no mean feat. Once his sponsorship is added we believe the final total will be roughly £1,900. The Chair would like to thank everybody involved for all their time and effort in making the event a great success.Our next event is at Knott End Golf Club on Sat 20th June at 7:30pm. They are hosting our annual Jazz Supper. Tickets are priced at £15 per person and includes a two course dinner. It’s a great Father’s Day gift idea. To purchase tickets please call either Catherine (01253) 700167 or Terry (01253) 810019.Bingo is on as usual on Tues 12th May at St. Oswalds Parish Hall 8:00pm - 9:30pm. We hope to see old and new faces there.Gemma Gray 07870 671 927

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Robert Blackburn01995 602 220 / 07714 762 478www.catterallhousecarehome.co.uk

Vinegar also supports heart health in multiple ways. As explained in the Journal of Food Science: “Polyphenols such as chlorogenic acid, which is present in high levels in apple cider vinegar, could inhibit oxidation of LDLs and improve health by preventing cardiovascular diseases.” Vinegar may help you lose weight, as it appears to have an anti-obesity effect by increasing satiety and reducing the total amount of food consumed. If you get sinusitis take two tablespoons of ACV twice a day, it helps to break up and reduce mucous in your body, helping to clear your sinuses. Acid reflux often occurs because you have too little acid in your stomach (yes, too little so taking your antacids merely maintains your problem). You can easily improve the acid content of your stomach by taking one tablespoon of raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a large glass of water daily. The pectin in apple cider vinegar may also help to soothe intestinal spasms.It also works for a variety of skin ailments, from bites to sunburn. You can either apply it directly to the irritated area or try soaking in a bath with about one cup of vinegar added.Topical application of ACV may help remove warts, probably because of the high levels of acetic acid it contains. Tape a ball of cotton wool soaked in ACV to your wart overnight. Apple cider vinegar contains potassium and enzymes to help banish fatigue. Plus, its amino acids may help prevent the buildup of lactic acid in your body, further preventing fatigue. If you decide to try ACV the best one to buy should be organic and have ‘the mother’ in it. The mother is the pulp which gives it a cloudy effect and has many of the health giving enzymes and ‘goodies’ in it. Nick Tofalos


I thought I would touch upon a good old fashioned remedy for a myriad of ailments this month, truly one of the few ‘cure alls’ out there that actually does have many benefits. It is one of my all time favourite natural remedies….apple cider vinegar! (ACV)The tricky bit is figuring out where to begin with what is a very ancient product. Hippocrates himself documented its uses by the Ancient Greeks.So perhaps we should fast forward from the world of the ancients to a very modern problem….diabetes.Vinegar has a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels and has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity in individuals with type 2 diabetes and a third of people with pre-diabetes. Taking two tablespoons before bed lowered blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes by up to 6 % by the morning.

NATURE’S PANACEA


GARSTANG COUNTRY MARKETGarstang’s weekly Country Market continues this month and every month through the rest of the year.The non-profit making market is held every Thursday (March to December) at Garstang Sports and Social Club.The market comprises a group of men and women who enjoy baking, gardening and making handicrafts of all types. Everything is home-grown, home-baked or home-made locally. The market, which has been running in Garstang for several decades, is open from 10 am to noon.There is plenty of free parking next to the clubhouse, as well as coach parking spaces. To get to the venue, follow the signs from LBT Motors at the northern end of High Street (PR3 1FB). Tea, coffee and cake available from 9:30am. For information contact Mary Curwen on (01995) 603644

CABUS WIOur meeting in May will be our Games Evening. Dominoes and Whist will be played. Could members remember their 4 prizes, 2 booby and 2 good. Why not come and join our friendly group, you will be very welcome.

Margaret Swift (01995) 606676

BRASS BAND CONCERTSt Peter’s Church, ScortonSat 2nd May 7:30pmBlackpool Brass Band will travel to St Peter’s Church, Scorton for a one-night show as part of this year’s Bikes & Barrows Festival.

Tickets are £4 in advance (from the village shop) or those attending can pay £5 at the door on the night.

The entry fee includes a nice glass of wine!

Joanne Golton

Private Garden Open WeekendSat 16th & Sun 17th May12:00 noon until 4:30pmBeautiful gardens and scenery plus BBQ, cream teas, school exhibition, bric-a-brac, tombola, local history display, cakes, plant stalls etc. Sat: vintage tractors. Sun: vintage cars, motor bikes and Guardian Concert Band.All proceeds to Bleasdale School, Church and Parish Hall. Adults £4 / 12–16 yrs £1. Under 11s free. Signposted from Brock Garage/Spar on A6. Sat Nat PR3 1UY.Sue McDade

BLEASDALE TOWER GARDENS


Annual General MeetingThe AGM was held at the Arts Centre on 14th April. The members present who were representing the 16 Activity Groups based in the Centre told of a very successful year, with the Arts Centre being able to balance its books despite a couple of large items of additional expenditure during the year such as a considerable amount of money spent upgrading both the toilets. Fund raising over the past year has again been a big part of the Arts Centre calendar with the 200 Club, Craft and Collector Fairs, Lunchtime Concerts, an evening presentation on Spitsbergen, the Grand Draw in November, the Christmas Craft Fair and the Victorian Evenings.The 4th Annual Primary Schools Painting Competition and the annual Jean Grange Awards for the most outstanding student at

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GARSTANG & DISTRICT ARTS SOCIETY

GCSE level at Garstang Academy were both well supported and very successful.2014’s new venture was a Junior Poetry Competition, well supported by our local schools and much appreciated by the winners who were presented with their prizes at a ceremony at the Arts CentreThe Arts Centre’s sale of tea, coffee and cakes continues to be popular with a large group of local residents who take the opportunity to meet with friends, catch up on local gossip and enjoy the many and varied exhibitions around the Schoolroom and Music Room walls, with the added excitement of searching for suitable gifts in the Craft Fair in the run up to Christmas. Many of the members took part in the Arts Festival week in August. Card Design, Floral Art, the Painting Class and the Poetry Group all had open meetings to show their skills and welcome new members. The Painting Group were lucky with the weather and held three outdoor painting sessions in the Arts Centre Courtyard. On the Friday evening the John Towers Band entertained people at Cabus Village Hall and on the final day of the Festival the Arts Centre was open to the public for refreshments. In the hall several of the groups had displays and activities to illustrate what takes place during the year.We have lost both our Vice Chairman, Bob Parker, who did not stand for re-election because of ill health, and our Chairman, Mary Thornber. After 7 very successful years at the helm, Mary had announced her decision to stand down, but no one stepped forward to take her place. John Whalley volunteered to become Vice Chairman, and an Extraordinary General meeting will be held on Mon 1st June at 7:30pm to elect a new Chairman. Anyone interested should speak to John Whalley, Pat Hansell (Secretary) or Pat Manley (Treasurer).


After an excellent inaugural meeting in March, our friendly little club for enthusiastic gardeners is flourishing. Thank you to everyone who attended the April meeting, when Andrew Thompson from The Barn, Scorton, enthralled us with his skills at planting up colourful pots and baskets for Summer. Thank you Andrew and Joan, you were inspirational!

On Tues May 19th our guest will be Norah Hoyles MBE, speaking about the history of Garstang in Bloom and how they became RHS champions.

As always, there will be a plant stall, with proceeds going towards club funds so if you have a spare plant or two, please bring them along! We are very grateful for your continued support and look forward to meeting up with you again in May.

We meet on the third Tuesday of the month at Catterall Village Hall from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. New members always welcome. Annual membership is £15 or just pay £3 at the door.

For more information from Jan (01995) 604771 or Netta (01995) 605385

INNER WHEEL The Inner Wheel Club of Garstang and Over Wyre recently held a Coffee Morning at the United Reformed Church Hall. Thanks to everyone who attended and supported our fundraiser to benefit ‘Garstang in Bloom’ and other Inner Wheel charities.Thanks also to all who helped and donated items for the book, toy and cake stalls, the bottle tombola and ‘glam stall’. A cheque will shortly be presented to the Garstang in Bloom committee. If you are interested in joining us we meet twice a month in the Garstang Country Best Western Hotel. For further information please ring our Club Secretary, Maureen Garstang on (01995) 604336.

CATTERALL GARDENING CLUB


Family and Friends Test

When asked ‘How likely are you to recommend Windsor Surgery to Friends & Family’ in March, patients responded as follows:Extremely likely – 80%Likely – 13%Neither likely nor unlikely – 2%Extremely unlikely – 5%94% of these responses were received via SMS, 4% via the post box in reception, and 2% online. Examples of feedback received in March include: ‘Superb care from doctors and desk staff. Amazed at care and seamless reading of my present complex history felt as if they each knew me personally. Each doctor kind and unhurried and contacted the hospital on my behalf. Office staff kind and concerned and set up a sit and wait appointment right away.

That’s a clever device. Good thinking and good management. Have not come across it before. Thank you.’

‘I was given specialist opinion and advice on the two matters raised. I was not put under any ‘time pressure’ and was asked to return should the remedies prove to be ineffective.’

‘Always a pleasure to deal with, especially when the occasion is usually stressful’

We are very grateful to everyone who has participated in the Friends and Family Test so far. You can do so online via our website at www.windsorsurgery.nhs.uk, via a post box in reception or by SMS after an appointment, if we have your mobile number on record.

Appointment Reminders We send appointment reminders via text message to those who have mobile numbers on their record. If you would like us to contact you via SMS and we do not already have your details, you can update them at reception or online via Patient Access.

Help DirectDid you know that ‘‘Help Direct’ provide a local free support and information service for all adults? They can help you with a variety of issues including managing finance, mobility and transport, employment and support in living independently. They also offer advice to carers and can direct patients and carers to other appropriate support services if necessary.

A Help Direct Advisor holds a clinic at Windsor Surgery every week on Friday mornings. Please enquire at reception to book an appointment. We are always happy to welcome new patients. Please pop into reception to obtain a registration form.

The Windsor Surgery Team (01995) 603616

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garstang focus - may 2015

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