garstang focus

Garstang FOCUSYour Free Monthly Magazine

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

March 2015 Issue 174

What’s on in GarstangTuesday 3rd ‘Request Stop’ - a talk by David Evans - Garstang Library 58 ‘Hurray for Haydn’ - Garstang Recorded Music Society 23 Coffee Stop - Inglewhite Church (also 17th) 50Wednesday 4th Meat Bingo 12 Wolfwood - Garstang Millenium Green 21 Garstang Camera Club (also 11th & 20th) 27 ‘The Air Ambulance’ - Galloways Blind Club 35 Memory Cafe - Garstang Library 58 Sequence Dancing - Claughton Memorial Hall (also 17th & 31st) 45Thursday 5th Garstang Country Market 4 Free Methodist Ladies Meeting 6 Country Coffee Morning - Garstang URC - CRY 12 ‘Istanbul, where East meets West’ - Travel & Holidays Assoc 49Friday 6th ‘The Life & Times of Harry’ - Garstang 3L’s 5 Women’s World Day of Prayer 33 T’Break for Over 60’s (also 20th) 55Saturday 7th Open Day - The Fig Tree @ St John’s 32 Coffee Morning - Calder Vale Methodist Church 45 Bric-a-Brac Stall - Garstang Soroptomists 34Sunday 8th International Women’s Day 4Monday 9th AGM & Spring Bulb Show - Garstang Gardening Club 28Tuesday 10th ‘Underwater Safari’ - Scorton WI 37 Coffee Stop - Catterall Village Hall 50 ‘Me, Myself & I’ - Art Exhibition - Garstang Arts Centre 54Wednesday 11th Kirkland WI - Kirkland and Catterall Memorial Hall 33 Free Methodist Ladies Walk 6 ‘A Glimpse into Garstang’s Social History’ - Garstang Hist. Soc. 14 ‘Reminicences of a Private Investigator’ - Garstang Phoenix WI 49

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Thursday 12th Live Wyre Gang Show - ‘Back to Broadway’ (until 14th) 45 ‘Rwanda to Uganda’ - St Michael’s Social Club Friday 13th Beta Testing - an evening of juggling and comedy - Spot on 29Saturday 14th Winmarleigh Farmers’ Ball 6 Dancing in Pilling (also 28th) - Pilling Memorial Hall 33Monday 16th Garstang Wine Circle 57Tuesday 17th ‘Growing Vegetables from Seed’ - Catterall Gardening Club 12 Garstang Ladies Speakers Club 14Wednesday 18th Lunch - Garstang 3Fs 9 ‘The History of Lancaster Castle’ - Galloways Blind Club 35 Garstang Painting Group (also 21) 19Thursday 19th ‘The Little Black Dress’ - Forton WI 29 Awna Teixeira - Garstang Unplugged 36Saturday 21st Choral Classics with the Lidun Singers 7 Chat about Fracking - Stop Fylde Fracking 35 World Cafe - 3rd Garstang Guides 45 Coffee Morning - Friends of St John’s Hospice 57Sunday 22nd Kirkland Table Top Sale 7 Garstang 7 Mile Gallop - Garstang Running Club 30Monday 23rd Croston House Coffee Morning 5Wednesday 25th Singer’s Night - Garstang Unplugged 36 ‘Morecambe Bay Underwater Safari’ - Cherestanc WI 57Thursday 26th Inner Wheel Coffee Morning 7Friday 27th Longridge Brass Band - Garstang Free Methodist Church 55 Friday Lunch for the Older & Wiser 57Monday 30th ‘In Miss Jemima’s Footsteps’ - Garstang Library 58Tuesday 31st Easter Celebration - Inglewhite Church Hall 50

What’s on in Garstang

April 2015 deadline for editorial and adverts Monday 16th March

April deliveries commence 26th March 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.

Are you using a product or service from an advertiser?4

GARSTANG COUNTRY MARKETGarstang’s weekly Country Market re-opens on Thurs 5th March.The non-profit making market is held every Thursday (March to December) at Garstang Sports and Social Club - follow the signs from LBT Motors at the northern end of High Street (PR3 1FB).We are a group of men and women who enjoy baking, gardening and making handicrafts of all types. For quality baking, preserves, handicrafts, gifts, fruit and vegetables in season pay us a visit. We also have a large selection of plants during the growing months. All produce is home grown, home baked and home made locally.The market, which has been running in Garstang for several decades, is open from 10:00 am to 12 noon. There is plenty of free parking next to the clubhouse, as well as

coach parking spaces. Tea, coffee and cake available from 9:30am.For information contact Mary Curwen on (01995) 603644

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAYFree Event for all WomenThe Blackpool, Fylde & Wyre International Women’s Day event will be held in the Spanish Hall, Winter Gardens, Blackpool from 11:00am to 3:00pm on Sun 8th March. The celebrity guest is Linda Nolan, and there will be entertainment, over 50 stalls, workshops, interactive activities, raffle prizes and goody bags. Monies raised on the day will be donated to local charities. It is going to be an amazing day and we look forward to seeing you! If you require any further information please email [email protected]

5Tell them you saw it in the Green Book

GARSTANG 3L`S CROSTON HOUSELife Long Learning Our next meeting is on Fri 6th March at Garstang United Reformed Church, Croston Road, at 2:00pm. The speaker this month is Harry Kenyon on ‘The Life and Times of Harry.’ All members and prospective new members are welcome. Frank Jones (01995) 600938

CABUS WIOur next meeting is on Wed 4th March, at Cabus Village Hall at 7.30pm, and will feature a talk by our local butcher Mr Tim Hamlett. The competition is Your Favourite Mince Recipe.We would love to welcome new members. We are a very friendly group and would love you to join us.Margaret Swift (01995) 606676

Open Charity Coffee MorningWe are holding our next open coffee morningon Mon 23rd March: 10:30am – 12:30pm at Croston House, 113 Croston Road, Garstang.We will also have a craft stall selling a range of handicrafts. Everybody welcome.Ruth Hornsby (01995) 606469

FORTON BOWLING CLUBThe bowling club re-opens for the summer season on 1st April. We would welcome anyone who enjoys light exercise, pleasant company and a convivial game of bowls.If you would like to join us come along to Forton Bowling Club, School Lane, Forton on Wednesday afternoons from 1:00pm or Monday and Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm. Further information from Margaret Dayus (01524) 416494


GARSTANG PATCHWORK QUILTERSSat 14th March at 7:30pm

Tickets £15:00 to include a sit-down three course meal followed by dancing to Joel David at Winmarleigh Village Hall. To book a ticket ring Jimmy Hull (01253) 790499.

The Committee would welcome any new members to help them continue with this very enjoyable event, any profit is donated to village projects.

FREE METHODIST LADIES WALK Wed 11th March, a road walk in Deepdale Rd and Moor Park, Preston. Meet at church at 9:30am. All welcome. For further details from Ruth Shuttleworth (01995) 602400.Ladies meeting on Thurs 5th March, 7:30pm. Chris and Lis Lowe, c2c, will give an illustrated talk of a bike ride from coast to coast. Men welcome.

Biennial Exhibition

17th,18th & 19th April 2015 at the Village Hall, Bilsborrow, PR3 0RE (on A6 north of Preston, Lancashire). 10:00am - 4:00pm daily. Admittance Adults £3, accompanied children under 16years free.

The venue has a large free car park and disabled access throughout. Local quilt shops will have trading stands. Refreshments served all day.

Raffle Prize: Quilt ‘Flights of Fancy’ awarded Judges Merit at Harrogate Show 2014 plus many other raffle prizes. For raffle tickets contact the Publicity Secretary on (01253) 854380, Quilters Quarters Shop, Longridge, or Sticky Fingers Shop, Coppull.

www.garstangpq.weebly.com.

Proceeds to Rosemere Cancer Foundation and The Space Centre (Preston).

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5 & 6 Pringle Court, Thomas’s Weind Garstang PR3 1LN

The Inner Wheel Club of Garstang and Over Wyre are holding a Coffee Morning in the United Reformed Church Hall, Garstang on Thurs 26th March from 10:30am to 12:30pm.

There will be cake and bottle stalls amongst others and a glam stall selling jewellery, bags and scarves which proved popular last year. We will also be holding a raffle.

The Coffee Morning is being organised by Faith Thompson, Community Service Organiser, and proceeds will again benefit our local ‘Garstang in Bloom’ project. All are welcome!

The aims of Inner Wheel are to promote true friendship, to encourage personal service and to foster international understanding whilst enjoying ourselves and raising money for local and international charities. We meet in The Best Western Hotel twice a month on a Thursday evening.

Anyone interested in finding out more information or in joining us please contact Maureen Garstang (01995) 604336.

LIDUN SINGERS‘Choral Classics’ with the Lidun SingersSat 21st March at 7:30pmSt Thomas’ Church, Garstang. Tickets : £6.00 - contact Marian Jackson (01995) 604626, Charles Hill (01995) 670246 or [email protected]

TABLE TOP SALETeam Kirkland are hosting a Table Top Sale on Sun 22nd March from 9:30am till 12:30pm at Kirkland Memorial Hall. Refreshments will be available on the day. Tables cost just £7.

To book please call or text Kate on 07956 638 882

All proceeds will go to Kirkland and Catterall St Helen’s CE School.

INNER WHEEL

Are you phoning an advertiser for a quote?8

How exciting – less than a month until the official start of British summertime – hurrah! Unfortunately, as we all know, this doesn’t mean that we instantly enjoy a sudden leap in temperature allowing us to fling our winter clothes to the back of the wardrobe in favour of our shorts and Hawaiian shirts. It does however mean an extra hour of daylight in the evening which for the geeky gardeners among us means an extra hour in the greenhouse. Even if you don’t have a greenhouse, a sunny window ledge will provide a good growing environment if you fancy having a go at sowing some seeds.You may remember my last article concentrated on spuds and feedback from those mammoth onion growers at Robinsons suggests quite a few of you attended their potato event. Hopefully by now your newly purchased seed potatoes have been happily chitting away developing strong sprouts which will help them to grow quickly once planted. Our greenhouse is already bursting at the seams with germinating veg seeds so our spuds are in the second greenhouse, otherwise known as the conservatory – as I say, window ledges can have many uses.Seed potatoes fall into four categories. First Earlies should be planted March to April and can be harvested 65 to 100 days later between June and August. Second Earlies should be planted April to May and can be dug up 100 to 130 days later between July and September. Maincrop spuds should also go into the ground April to May to be harvested 125 to 180 days later between September and October and finally Salads should be planted out March to April for harvesting July to September.If you’re planting outside, start turning that veg patch over now digging in lots of manure. Consider ‘earthing up.’ Once your plants have emerged a few inches create peaked rows by

DOWN TO EARTH


Mon 30th March - 2:00pm

Denis Jones will be showing ‘In Miss Jemima’s Footsteps’ in the Meeting Room of Garstang Public Library.

This well-illustrated talk follows seven intrepid travellers as they visit Geneva, Chamonix, the Bernese Oberland and Lake Lucerne as part of Thomas Cook’s first-ever trip to Switzerland in 1863.

Admission and refreshments are free.

We hope to see you there!

drawing soil up around the plant giving your spuds more earth to grow in.Alternatively spuds also grow well in containers. Fill the base of a container with 10cm of compost, add your spuds and cover with another 10cm of compost. Keep adding compost as your plant grows and when it reaches the top of the pot you can leave well alone and let it grow normally.One of my favourite spring plants is the Aquilegia but sadly a new virulent disease has been identified. Look out for Aquilegia Downy Mildew which will kill your plants. The leaves of the plant will look frazzled, burned and withered. If you think your Aquilegias may be suffering, remove them immediately and dispose of them where they can’t infect other plants.On a jollier note it’s fantastic to see green shoots popping up all over the garden. This just happens to be coinciding with the emergence of our baby’s two front teeth. Daffodils however seem to make far less fuss over their arrival and don’t require bottles of Calpol and lots of cuddles to aid their progress. At least babies don’t suffer from Downy Mildew.Happy Gardening!Alison Tarpey-Black, Artnoire 07738 515 846

GARSTANG 3FSFaith, Food & FellowshipWe warmly invite you to join us for our monthly lunch on Wed 18th Mar at 12:45pm for 1:00pm at the Methodist Church, Park Hill Road, Garstang. Cost £7 per head. Please contact Margaret Abbott on (01995) 603213 to book your place.If you can’t manage Wednesdays why not pop into Wesley’s cafe on Thursday, Friday or Saturday from 10:00am.to 2:00pm for a coffee and a tasty snack. We would love to see you.

DOWN TO EARTH (cont) SWISS SLIDE SHOW

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

doubt, see a Podiatrist. • Increase your workload slowly. Try

adding a couple of miles at a time and when you do, lower your pace a little. Take a week or two to build your pace back up at the new distance before you increase distance again. This will allow your body to adapt slowly.

• Take a little time to stretch and warm up properly both before and after you run. Take rest days. Remember that most club runners need to be doing 25-50 miles per week to do a marathon but they need days off too. Rest days allow your body to recover and this dramatically reduces the risk of injury and will increase your speed.

• Make sure you taper your training so that in the last two weeks before your event you are running a lot less so that your body will be in the best possible condition.

There are lots of books, magazine articles and websites that suggest training routines and methods. Many of them have merit and give great structure to the way you train. Pick one that suits you and stick with it.

If you do get injured, don’t ignore it. Remember that a healthy runner will almost always beat an injured one assuming they are at similar levels.

You may lose some pace by missing training for two weeks but you’ll lose a lot more if you are in pain on the big day.

Most things will not resolve on their own whilst you are in heavy training. Get help! A good physiotherapist will not prevent you running unless it’s really essential and will get you back to training as soon as possible.

Simon Eason, Garstang Physiotherapy Clinic

Are you Prepared?

Every year at this time, the first of the London marathon entrants start hobbling through the door of the clinic.

Most people have been training for a few months and, having got through the worst of the winter and Christmas excess, start to increase their running distance. This is when the injuries start to appear. Below are a few basic tips to try to avoid injury:

• Make sure you are wearing good footwear. Your shoes are your only point of contact with the ground. Many running shops supply really good running shoes and offer biomechanical assessment to make sure that your shoes are correct for your feet.

• Remember that after several thousand steps even a slightly badly positioned foot can start to cause problems. If in

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12 Focus advertisers support this community magazine

CHARITY COFFEE MORNINGSA St. Michael’s welcome was afforded to speaker, Anna Eastham, who’s enthusiastic, descriptive and well delivered talk on the Bronte sisters and their family was all embracing. After the humble birth of Patrick, in 1777 in Ireland, his mental ability raised him to Cambridge and a degree in theology. Over six foot and handsome, he had a loving marriage to Maria Branwell, in 1812, a gentle-woman from Penzance, the cousin of a friend. The births of their six children followed, then the tragic death of Mrs Bronte from cancer, aged 38, leaving all the children. Maria, aged 12 and Elizabeth both died in 1825, leaving the only son, the wayward, Branwell, who died aged 30, the tall, moors-loving Emily, the quiet Ann and Charlotte, all extremely talented and very imaginative. In their efforts to get published in a man’s world they used pseudonyms, Charlotte’s, Currer Bell, Ellis Bell and Acton Bell. Sadly all were outlived by their father Patrick Bronte, who died in 1861, leaving a wonderful history and a unique literary legacy from his children. The whole fascinating story of the Bronte’s, as told by Anna, was riveting and very well received .On Thurs 12th March at the village hall Heather Hamblin will give a talk at 7:30.pm entitled ‘Rwanda to Uganda’ . All are welcome.Judith Hunter.

CATTERALL GARDENING CLUB Tues 17th March Sue Redmayne ‘Growing Vegetables from Seeds’, just perfect timing for the new season. We will meet at Catterall Village Hall on the third Tuesday of every month. We welcome you all to join in with our small and friendly club.Please contact Jan (01995) 604771 or Netta (01995) 605385

ST. MICHAELS LADIES SOCIAL CLUBGarstang URCFirst Thursday of each month at Garstang United Reformed Church, Croston Road, 10:00am - 12 noon.Thurs 5th March - CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young).Thurs 2nd April - Garstang URC Women’s

Guild (For new organ fund).Hilary Ralphs (01995) 603056email: [email protected]

MEAT BINGOWinmarleigh Village Hall Wed 4th MarchFirst Wednesday of the month September - May 7:30pm prompt.Refreshments served at half time. All welcome! For more information contact : (01995) 600715

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Garstang historian and author Dr Brenda Fox is the guest speaker at the March meeting of Garstang Historical Society.Her topic is ‘A Glimpse into Garstang’s Social History circa 1777 to 1900.’Brenda is the author of a recently published book on the history of the town’s Independent chapel/Congregational Church (now the United Reformed Church). Her talk and presentation will reveal how the history of the chapel has often interwoven with that of the town.The meeting will begin shortly after 7:30pm on Wed 11th March at the United Reformed Church Hall, Garstang, and is open to all. Entry is free to members and £2 for non-members.Members and friends of the Society who have booked for the Society’s annual buffet meal (to be held in the Church Hall an hour or so

GARSTANG HISTORICAL SOCIETY

before the lecture on 11th March) are asked to arrive at 6:15pm for a prompt 6:30pm start. Catering will be by Beryl Richardson of Bells Farm, Pilling. NB: The previously advertised evening of historic popular music from the Dolphinholme/Wyresdale area, exploring the music of “The Winders of Wyresdale” to be led by musician and music historian Andy Hornby of Lancaster will now be held at the meeting on 8th April. More details in next month’s Focus.Further information about the historical society can be obtained from chairman Peter Burrell on (01995) 601054 (after 6:00pm), or by visiting www.garstanghistoricalsociety.org.uk

GARSTANG LADIES SPEAKERS CLUB

How much higher up the promotion ladder could you get if your speaking and presentation skills were practised and honed in a friendly, supportive environment? The ability to speak and listen at business meetings is an important addition to any CV. The fundamental skills learned at a Speakers Club are fully transferable to any work based activity.Visitors are always very welcome. Come along and see what it’s all about.The Club meets at 7:15pm in the comfortable surroundings of the Garstang Country Hotel & Golf Club on the first and third Tuesday of each month from September to May. There will be one meeting on Tues 3rd March and the club’s Annual Charter Dinner on Tues 17th March.For more information visit our website at www.garstangladiesspeakersclub.org or find us on Facebook To contact a club member phone Maureen Moon on (01253) 810704 or email Sue Hubbard at [email protected]

15Tell advertisers that you saw them in the Green Book


THE MOON CHARITABLE TRUSTThis Charitable Trust was set up by Mrs Edith Moon who lived in Lancaster Road, Pilling. Articles in Focus in previous years have invited grant applications from local charities and the Trustees have made a further thirty awards last year to local charities in the Pilling and surrounding areas.

In a few months’ time, the Trustees will be considering making a further round of grants from the Charity. Applications for grants are invited now, therefore, from Pilling, Knott End, Stalmine, Preesall, Hambleton and surrounding areas, from local charitable groups. Previous applicants will be considered. Grants will generally be between £500 and £1,000, though larger sums may be awarded in suitable cases.

If any group would wish to apply for a grant, application should be made to the correspondent of the Charity: Linder Myers LLP, Solicitors, 21-23 Park Street, Lytham, FY8 5LU. Tel No. 0844 984 6025 (Sue Walker), requesting a Grant Application Form.

The Application Form should be completed and returned by 1st May 2015. Registered Charity Number 1102742

ONE LIFE GOSPEL COURSEJoin us on a seven-session journey through Mark’s Gospel to discover who Jesus is, why he came and what it means to follow him.This free course will be available in Catterall this Spring. You don’t need to know anything about the Bible. You won’t be asked to read aloud, pray or sing. You can ask any questions you want.To register an interest please return your contact details to [email protected], or ring the Church office on (01995) 641175 or speak to me for more details.Lesley Hardman

17Tell them you saw it in the “Green Book”


The end of the first quarter of 2015 finds the Painting Group growing in size and enthusiasm as we take on board more talent and interest in new media.March continues this trend with a demonstration on Wed 18th March by Les Darlow of pastels (a new media for several of us ) covering various subjects from ‘Landscapes and Seascapes’ to ‘Big Skies and the Weather’! And later in the month Les is holding an all-day workshop on Sat 21st March, again on the subject of pastel technique. Both these events are for members only.And so the year continues in colourful and exciting style for the members of Garstang Painting Group with an interesting selection of demonstrations, workshops and exhibitions to look forward to.For more information contact Joyce McCormick on 07786 271 450

GARSTANG BUSINESS CENTREBids Received for Garstang BuildingBids for Garstang Business Centre were considered by Wyre’s Cabinet on Wed 18th February.The centre was initially listed by Wyre Council as an under-performing asset on 5th Dec 2012.After being alerted to this Garstang Town Council applied to have it listed as an Asset of Community Value which came to fruition in June 2014.As a result disposal was put on hold for six months until 19th Dec giving the town council time to explore the options for a community buyout retaining the building for the electorate of Garstang but the town council concluded such a move would not be viable.Discussions between the borough and town council have continued, including options such as a partnership arrangement.

GARSTANG PAINTING GROUPThe building on High Street has been advertised on the open market and has attracted interest from developers, who at this stage cannot be named for reasons of commercial sensitivity.Councillor Peter Gibson, Leader of Wyre Council, said: “Should Cabinet be minded to accept an offer, it will be the first stage in what can often be a long and difficult process. Past experience tells us any final sale could take up to or beyond 12 months.“During that period we will work with our existing business tenants and Garstang Town Council to secure alternative premises.“We are mindful that there are a number of community activities taking place in the existing building and I look forward to continuing positive discussions with the Garstang Town Council Working Group to explore and evaluate all possible options.”

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A Helping HandThe Forum recently sponsored an event focussing on care in the community. In the coming months we will bring you details of some of those services.We kick off with the Wyre Care and Repair team who offer advice and support with repairs and adaptations to the home and also operate a Handyperson Scheme.

They can help people who: • Are aged over 60 or have a disability • Live in Wyre or Fylde • Need repairs or adaptations to their

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measures. Fit grab rails and hand rails• Install key safes• Make tripping hazards safeIf you require work which is not covered by the Handyperson Scheme they may be able to assist with details of a reliable contractor you can contact.

There is a small charge for the Handyperson service in addition to the cost of any necessary materials.For any of these services you can write to them at:Care and Repair (Wyre and Fylde)Civic CentreBreck RoadPoulton-le-FyldeFY6 7PUYou can call them on (01253) 887569 or email: [email protected]

GARSTANG MILLENNIUM GREENEver wondered what Wolfwood does? Come along and find out at an evening talk held by the Garstang Millennium Green Trust on Wed 4th March at 7:30pm, at the United Reformed Church Hall on Croston Rd. Christine Cummins


Brian VosperGarstang & District Lions Club members sadly wish to report the death of Lion Brian, the only remaining Charter Member of the Club, which was

formed in March 1971. Lion Brian was a valued member, being President in 1984/85, 1996/97 and 1997/98. He was also Treasurer for many years and took an active part in the many events of the Club, right up to his short illness, a few months before he died. His coffin was covered with the Lions drape and Club members formed a guard of honour, together with other club members from the area. Sympathies go out to Jacqui, his wife and his family. The Lions have made a donation to Brian’s chosen charities.

GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONSDarts DashThe recent Lions Darts Dash looks set to have raised around £1800. Most of this has already been donated to the local Oaklands home (part of Leonard Cheshire Disability) and the remainder will be used to support other good causes.

New MemberGarstang Lions have welcomed a new Lion, Kim Carlyle. Kim has already attended a number of meetings and has also assisted at the Garstang Bonfire and Firework Display.

Charter Night 28th FebruaryAs we go to press Garstang Lions were preparing for their annual Charter Anniversary Dinner on the 28th of February at the Wyrebank Banqueting Suite. The guest speaker is Julie Bell who is the Girl Guiding Lancs North West Commissioner, Lancashire County Library Manager, and chair of the Garstang Children’s Festival Committee.

Marie Curie Daffodil Appeal The Lions will once again be assisting the Marie Curie Daffodil Appeal at local supermarkets, Sainsburys, the Co-op, and Booths, on Fri 6th March, Sat 7th March, and Sat 4th April. Community First Aid CorpsGarstang Lions are donating £200 to support the newly formed Community First Aid Corps. The Group has 13 members and will be able to provide first aid support at the various local events.Easter EggsThe Lions are beginning to organise their annual Easter Egg appeal. Around 25 large luxury Easter Eggs will be distributed in shops, pubs, and clubs around the area and can be won for only £1. The eggs will start to appear around the town in the middle of March, in time to win one for Easter!

23Tell them you saw it in the Garstang Focus

GARSTANG & DISTRICT LIONS (cont)Garstang GatorsLions are donating £200 to the local swimming club, Garstang Gators, to help fund their annual ‘Friendly Gala’. The Gala is aimed at giving younger or inexperienced swimmers an insight into competitive swimming and also helping increase confidence in nervous swimmers.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: www.garstanglions.co.uk, 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 shirt, (don’t worry - it’s not compulsory to get ‘dressed up’ if you join!)David Lewis (01995) 605146Email:[email protected]:Garstang Lions

‘All things Royal’ was David Ralph’s theme for Feb. He presented us with a fine programme of music with regal connections, from Rule Britannia to Candle in the Wind. We were right royally entertained. Thank you David. Two upcoming programmes this month:Mon 3rd March David Greenwood proposes a Hurray for Haydn – a chance to enjoy some happy and inspiring music by the great 18th Century master. Mon 23rd March we play host to the Poetry Appreciation Group - a joint programme of music chosen by members of both groups.New members and visitors are always welcome. Meetings are in the Arts Centre at 7:30pm. £2 entry for non members, includng refreshments.Visit www.garstang.org.uk and click ‘Groups/Recorded Music’David Greenwood

GARSTANG RECORDED MUSIC SOC.


Do you suffer from pain in your feet? And if you do what have you been told about it?In my experience many people simply put up with foot pain, often resorting to the mantra society chants at us all day long, namely, “It’s your age”. In my opinion this view on what happens as we age is nonsense…age does not have to bring pain. Not only is it nonsense but it also dooms many of us to crippling pain and an inability to do the things we love, thus affecting our chances of leading a full and active life.I have seen countless examples of foot pain, and other problems, where the patient has been written off with a cursory comment of, “It is arthritis, there is nothing we can do”, when it is blindingly obvious to me that there is not a hint of arthritis and that the problem can be fixed.Our feet are vital shock absorbers that enable us to deal with uneven surfaces without falling

PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEPover. A clever system of three arches play a vital role in absorbing forces to enable us to walk effectively whilst adapting to the floor.Our feet hold masses of tension and this can affect our whole body which is where I suspect much of the effectiveness of reflexology comes from.You can spot this tension with a very simple experiment. It requires a tennis ball or other such firm ball: stand up and bend forward as if trying to touch your toes, do not worry how far you get. As you are bent forward tune in to where you can feel tension in your body. You may well feel the backs of your legs are tight, or your arms and shoulders. Once you have felt this tension stand back up and spend several minutes massaging the sole of one of your feet with the ball, do this firmly, the ‘it hurts but feels good’ level of pressure as opposed to sheer agony! The best way to do this is to stand on the ball and roll it or sit down and put pressure on it. Spend three or four minutes doing this on one foot only, then bend forward again and tune into the tension of your body. You should feel that the leg on the side where you massaged your foot feels much less tension than the other side.This is the kind of balancing and changing of tension that osteopaths use to solve problems and pain. However, there are other foot specialists who can also contribute and cure many problems with your feet. Podiatrists are highly trained and skilled and the really good ones will spot problems that are coming from other regions too which is why we often work together to help people.And of course reflexologists can spot many problems by analysing your feet and provide a wonderful calming and relaxing treatment that is both gentle, pleasant and effective. If you have never tried one and you have sore feet, then give it a go!Nick Tofalos


GREAT BRITISH FISH & CHIP SUPPERGreat British Fish and Chip Supper – Fri 15th May 2015Want to eat Fish and Chips, while raising money for charity? Hold a fish and chip supper on Friday 15th May whilst raising awareness of spinal cord injury.You can hold a fish and chip supper in your own home, at work or hold a larger supper at your local community centre.The Spinal Injuries Association will provide a fundraising pack containing hints and tips, recipes, invitations and donation envelopes. By inviting eight friends and asking them to donate £5, you will raise at least £40 from your supper, but we will also give you additional fundraising ideas to raise even more.In 2015 we want to make the batter matter and raise £40,000 from everyone holding suppers. Last year we raised £20,000 from the suppers.The money raised will help SIA offer support to individuals who become paralysed, from the moment a spinal injury occurs and for the rest of their lives by providing services and publications which enable and encourage paralysed people to rebuild their lives.Every year in the UK over 1,000 people experience a spinal cord injury and there are an estimated 40,000 spinal cord injured people in the UK alone. Community Fundraising Manager, Elizabeth Wright, says, “The Fish and Chip Supper is a wonderful opportunity for a great evening with friends and family. We are also encouraging people who work to hold a Fish and Chip Lunch in their work places to raise even more funds. You may even be a local community group wanting to run a fun evening with your group.For more information or request a fundraising pack call Elizabeth Wright on 0845 071 4350 or [email protected] or visit www.siafishandchips.co.uk

Fundraising GroupMany thanks to all our supporters. We have raised just over £10,000 since May last year. This is a fantastic amount in only 9 months. We are very grateful for all your help and support.Special thanks to the family of Mr Alan Boardman, from Hambleton, who died on 2nd January 2015, for the donations totaling £470 in his memory.We are organizing a Luncheon on Fri 8th May at the Daffodil Hotel in Grasmere. The cost for the 3 course lunch is £ 25 plus the cost of the coach .There will be free time before lunch for you go into Grasmere or you can book a Spa Treatment etc at the hotel.For more details please contact:-Jean Horner (01253) 700555 - Pat Owen (01995) 672760 or Val Southward (01995) 670800

HELP BEAT CANCER


GREY MATTER TEST (ans page 58)1 In which city would you find the Gorbals?2 Which Tropic runs through Namibia,

Botswana and Mozambique?3 Who founded the first US detective

agency in 1850?4 What type of animal is a macaque?5 What is the name of the Professor in the

game ‘Cluedo’?6 Of which Dickens novel is Pip the central

character?7 How many yards in a furlong?8 Who played Baldrick in the Blackadder

comedy series?9 On which metallic element does verdigris

form?10 Who was the first woman MP to sit in the

House of Commons? 11 What was the name of Dorothy’s dog in

the Wizard of Oz?

12 According to Paul Simon, how many ways are there to leave your lover?

13 Baffin Bay lies between Canada and which other country?

14 What was Robert Burns’ “wee sleekit, cow’rin’ tim’rous beastie”?

15 What is the capital of Austria?

16 Whose book of Household Management was published in parts from 1859-60?

17 Which hill in Paris is the gathering point for artists and portrait painters?

18 Who is the patron saint of travellers?

19 Who wrote the Enigma Variations?

20 Who were given to the destruction of new technology in the Industrial Revolution?

GARSTANG CAMERA CLUB

Wed 4th March sees Garstang Camera Club’s Annual Competition, where the best of our digital images, colour and black and white prints are whittled down to the best three of each, with any number of Highly Commended and Commendeds. Judge Ken Ainscow has the unenviable task of letting us down gently from what we thought was brilliant but, in his opinion (and reality), was just not quite so.

On Wed 11th March, member Mike Tempan completes his talk on getting the best out of our compact and bridge cameras, and then on Wed 20th March we visit Holme Camera Club for our Annual Competition with them. On 18th Feb we had an evening to decide which pictures we would put forward, and all of a sudden the job of a judge was not quite so easy. Choosing between two very similar pictures is hard enough in itself, but having to give reasoned feedback for the benefit of the picture taker was even harder. But eventually we reduced 96 digital images down to 15 and 26 prints to the same number. High Dynamic Range and catch lights in eyes were all mentioned, but in the end a picture of a summer afternoon remained in the memory, and even if it did not come in the top 15, it did give a moment of tranquillity to the evening.Thanks to John Moxham. Derek Pratt

Mon 9th MarchAGM and Spring Bulb ShowThis is the evening all members have been waiting for: a chance to put their names forward to help on the club committee and in future gain so much extra out of their membership at no extra cost !YES, at 7:30pm at the Crofters Hotel the club will be holding the 35th AGM.We are desperately in need of a Minutes Secretary, a person of either sex, preferably under 80 years of age, literate - though no actual proof will be required on this evening, and willing to attend five committee meetings, which includes the AGM to record said minutes, type-up and distribute them before the next meeting. That, literally, is all. No financial incentive but just the pleasure of becoming a member of the hierarchy with all the honour that that bestows. Just think about that! In accepting

this post you will be following Sue Macdade who has done splendid work for many years but is no longer going to be free. There is room for others to join the committee to bring in fresh ideas and give physical help. Again it helps if you are aged 80 or under but the club is not ageist by any means. Out of our over 100 members we are very hopeful we can draw forth volunteers, it really is good fun.The A.G.M.does not usually take very long but does give our judge/s time to over look the masses of entries you have brought along, in the classes listed next . The Spring Bulb Show is always very colourful and scented, worth popping in for, even for non members. No charge except for a cup of tea or at the bar.This is an opportunity for members to show their actual skills as gardener’s with the first class being for the 3 daffodil bulbs given to all members in the Autumn. They have to be in

GARSTANG GARDENING CLUB


CROSSWORD (ans page 58)Across1 Cheerful (6)7 Perfect (5)8 Awake, arouse [archaic] (6)9 Bread ingredient (5)12 Burning, caustic (5)13 Water vapour (5)14 Sleep noisily (5)17 Slack, latitude (6)18 Aida, for instance (5)19 Sewing implement (6)

Down2 Crossing point of no return (7)3 River of ice (7)4 Straighten (4)5 Greek letter (4)6 ___ machine – “One armed bandit!” (4)10 Extraordinary (7)11 Coastal protection (7)14 End (4)15 Frank (4)16 Panache (4)

bloom and self supporting. Easy!Classes 2 and 3 are for a pot of miniature daffodils and for any other Spring bulbs but not daffodils. Class 4,5 and 8 are for cut blooms in vases, 3 Standard Daffodils , 3 miniature daffodils and single Hellebore blooms, containers supplied.There are also two classes for the Floral Artists where Spring Flowers dominate, one to a maximum base diam. of 12” and the other between 12” and 24”. A maximum of 2 entries are allowed in each class.We would be delighted if you decide to come along earlier than usual with your entries as you will be welcomed to help us ‘set up stall’! Also obviously you then get prime places on the show benches. What more could you want? Looking forward to your entries and attendance at the A.G.M. GOOD LUCK! Ben Andrews.

Thurs19th March -‘The Little Black Dress’ - Mary Hart.Competition: Corsage of Fresh Flowers.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!) Further details from Christine Smith on (01524) 793549

BETA TESTINGSpot on Rural TouringSpot On Rural Touring are back in Scorton! As a lead up to the Bikes & Barrows Festival the village hall will be hosting Beta Testing - a hotpotch of juggling and comedy - on Fri 13th March at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced at £6/£4 and are available from the village shop or by calling Annie on 07714 486 581.

GARSTANG GARDENING CLUB (cont) FORTON WI



GARSTANG RUNNING CLUB

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The entry fee is £8 for members of a running club or £10 if not. It costs an extra £2 on the day. All finishers will receive a medal and a Mars bar! Race headquarters will be at Garstang Sports Club next to the football pitch and will open around 9:00am. There will be refreshments, changing and showers available.The club recently had its AGM and decided to increase the membership fee to £15 for the year to February 2016. It is a small and friendly club and new members are always welcome. There is a wide mix of ages and ability. If unsure you can come along as a guest to any of the regular runs and see how you feel. Although many people like to run on their own, the club does provide the opportunity to meet new people, find new running routes both off and on-road, and to do training sessions on Tuesday evening, the main regular run (7:00pm from Garstang Sports & Social Club). One of the members regularly leads interval training while others do a 5 or 7 mile run.Now a permanent fixture is the weekly Monday morning run meeting at 9.15am, usually taking a short drive to the starting point. These runs are always at least 7 miles and off-road with the option for breakfast afterwards! Often muddy and a mix of hills and flat they cover a variety of routes so useful if you are looking for a fresh outlook for your runs. Last year we travelled to Warton Crag, Beacon Fell, Scorton, Condor Green, Barton and even Kendal. If you can run 7 miles non-stop at approximately 14 to 15 minutes a mile pace and you are free Monday mornings you will be welcome!If you are interested in joining please email [email protected] Miller - Garstang Running Club.

Garstang 7 Mile GallopThe Garstang Gallop 7 mile road race will take place on Sun 22nd March. This is a new route staring in the High Street at 11:00am and will head out through Dimples Lane, Barnacre and back to Garstang via Green Lane East.This race has been our annual charity fund raiser for a few years now and this year we are supporting The Bone Marrow Unit at The Manchester Children’s Hospital. The son of one of the club members has been receiving treatment there since January so it was an obvious choice. All race profits will go to the charity so why not get your running shoes on and support them? An entry form together with a link for on-line entry is on the club website at www.garstangrc.co.uk


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We are now settling into our new premises at St John’s, North Road, Lancaster. Again thanks to our customers and friends in Garstang for their support and we look forward to welcoming you to our new location soon.The centre is now open selling light refreshments on Friday and Saturday from 10:00am. to 5:00pm. and Thursdays from 1.30pm to 5:00pm after a service held in the church. Our Fair Trade/Slave Trade exhibition is also now on display. The FIG Tree @ St. John’s continues to host international and school visits and educational workshops for all ages. We would like to thank Garstang Youth Club for their support during our move. In return we are offering up to 20 youth members a free place in one of our unique Chocolate Making Workshops to be delivered at the Youth Club on Wed 25th March. Places can

be booked through the Youth Club only. For further information about The FIG Tree @ St. John’s and/or to book a resource visit: www.fairtradecentre.org Volunteers needed for our new cafeWe are recruiting volunteers to help out in a variety of roles, but particularly to serve refreshments at our new location in Lancaster. Please contact us by emailing [email protected] or visit our website at www.fairtradecentre.org to find out more.Open Day – Sat 7th MarchThis event takes place from 10:00am - 5:00pm with activities for all ages and an opening by the Mayor of Lancaster at 11:00am. All are very welcome to turn up on the day.Garstang Cars has kindly offered to provide complimentary transport to enable previous FIG Tree customers living in and around

THE FIG TREE @ ST JOHN’S


THE FIG TREE @ ST JOHN’S (cont) WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER


Garstang to attend our Open Day. The taxi will leave from outside the old FIG Tree site at 10:00am and return around 1:00pm. Places are limited and are by arrangement only. To reserve your free seat contact Bruce at: [email protected] Friends of The FIG TreeWe are delighted to announce the return of The Friends of The FIG Tree. To become a Friend, sign up for a regular monthly contribution (however small) by bankers order and in return you will receive a regular Newsletter as well as exclusive updates, 10% discount at The FIG Tree café, and priority booking for events. Active volunteers will automatically be registered as members. Our aim is to register ‘The Friends of The FIG Tree’ as a charity and collect valuable Gift Aided donations to be put back into the educational projects and development of the centre. For further information and to register an interest visit http://form.jotformeu.com/form/50352850483353”http://form.jotformeu.com/forBruce Crowther

CHILDREN’S SOCIETY CHARITY SHOPNew local charity shop opening soon!Volunteers are needed to join the team at your new local charity shop at Unit 1 Stoops Weind, Garstang. To find out more contact our Lancaster shop (01524) 65910 or visit our website at www.playyourpart.co.ukWe also urgently need your good quality unwanted items of clothing, jewellery, accessories, bric-a-brac, toys etc.Your donation will help to improve the lives of some of the country’s most disadvantaged children. www.childrenssociety.org.uk

The Women’s World Day of Prayer will be held at All Saints’ Church, Barnacre on Fri 6th March at 2:00pm. The service has been prepared by the women of The Bahamas. Please support and enjoy a time of worship. The service will be followed by refreshments in Barnacre Memorial Hall.Alison Bates

KIRKLANDS WIWe meet the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7:30pm at Kirkland & Catterall Memorial Hall, The Avenue, Churchtown, Nr. Garstang. Wed March 11th: ‘An English Woman’s view of Russia today’ – Daphne Sanders will tell us about her recent visits to Russia.New members and visitors always welcome. For more information contact the secretary Dorothy Walmsley on (01995) 602558Kath Wiggans


Bric-a-brac Stall and the Big Bra HuntLast month I wrote about this campaign so this is just a memory jog to please bring your unwanted bra’s to our stall, Sat 7th March outside the Market Hall,

High Street, Garstang to help Oxfam in their Big Bra Hunt campaign.

Remember, any condition of bra will do!

GARSTANG SOROPTOMISTS

Not just a Soroptimist Day

We have chosen this date to launch our campaign for its proximity to International Women’s Day on the 8th March. A date celebrated by many women’s groups worldwide.

Space is limited here but I will try to give a little history of the origins of this important day.

1909 - Started in the USA when women workers went on strike to protest against poor working conditions.

1910 - A conference in Copenhagen of over 100 women from 17 countries established a Women’s Day, international in character, to honour the movement for women’s rights and to build support for achieving universal suffrage for women.

1911 - As a result of the Copenhagen initiative, I.W.D. was marked in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland, where more than one million women and men attended rallies, demanding women’s rights to hold public office, access vocational training and an end to job discrimination.

1913-1914 - As part of the peace movement I.W.D. became a mechanism for protesting World War I. Russian women observed their first International Women’s Day and in Europe, on 8th March, women held rallies to protest the war.


1917 - Women in Russia again chose to protest and strike for ‘Bread and Peace’ on the 8th March. Four days later, the Czar abdicated and the provisional Government granted women the right to vote.

The United Nations and Gender Equality – signed in 1945. This charter was the first international agreement to affirm the principle of equality between women and men.

Emma Watson (Harry Potter star) at The UN today - Google ‘History of International Women’s Day’, scroll to the bottom and listen to Emma’s inspiring speech at the U.N.

Looking forward to chatting with many of you on the 7th March or contact us through our web site www.sigarstang.org.uk or visit our Facebook or Twitter page.

Muriel Burnham-Airey (01995) 606604

Sat 21st March 2:00pm - 4:00pmCome along to this informal gathering and find out what the latest developments mean for this area. Thornton Methodist Church Hall, 60 Victoria Road East, Thornton.www.stopfyldefracking.org.uk

GALLOWAYSGarstang Blind ClubWe are now settled in our new venue at the Lancaster Road Sports and Social Club. We meet on alternate Wednesdays from 2:00 - 4:00pm. Our next meeting is on Wed 4th March where Mr & Mrs Stewart will talk about the Air Ambulance. On Wed 18th March, Colin Penny from Lancaster Museum, will speak on ‘The History of Lancaster Castle.’Anyone who is blind or partially sighted is welcome to join us.Lorna Musgrave (01995) 471319

CHAT ABOUT FRACKINGGARSTANG SOROPTOMISTS (cont)


GARSTANG UNPLUGGEDMesmeric Po’Girl singer Awna Teixeira is from Toronto – the name is from her family’s heritage in Madeira (It’s pronounced ‘Teshira’). She’s performing songs from her back catalogue as well as most of her recent solo album ‘Where the Darkness Goes’. As you would expect from someone as multi-talented as Awna she will be featuring accordion, guitar, ukulele and harmonicas as well as that unforgettable voice. Jay Speed is with her on backing guitar and vocals.In 2004, after playing bass in several groups, Awna decided to start her solo career. That venture was cut short when she ran into Allison Russell of Po’girl. The two hit it off right away, and the group toured until 2102. Awna’s solo projects were on hiatus for those years. Since then she has been working on children’s books, her own solo career, and her ‘How to Guide’ for the Gutbucket Bass is now for sale!

She’s with us at Garstang Unplugged, The Kenlis Arms, Ray Lane, Barnacre, Garstang PR3, on Thurs, 19th March. The music starts at 8:30pm. Tickets are £10 through our website, or on (01995) 602795.The monthly Singers Night will be on Wed 25th March from 8:00pm.www.garstangunplugged.com www.hazytales.meDon Moore

PHOENIX STRINGSIf you are an adult who has started to play a stringed instrument or you have rediscovered the instrument you used to play you might be interested in joining Phoenix Strings. We are a string orchestra of about 40 adults. This encompasses first and second violins, violas, cellos and double bass. You need to be at least Grade 3 or equivalent to join us. At the moment we would particularly welcome violinists. We meet weekly and practice in a friendly constructive atmosphere. If you decide to join us you will have a lot of fun, learn about playing in an ensemble and make some good friends. As we have members attending from various parts of Lancashire you can usually arrange a shared lift. We work towards a number of concerts during the year. Rehearsals are Wednesdays 7:00pm to 9:00pm at All Saints Anchorsholme, 36 Valeway Avenue, Thornton Cleveleys, FY5 3RN.For further information e-mail: [email protected] or tel John Foster (01253) 823599. To learn more about us check out our website at www.phoenixstrings.net

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Last month saw a rise in rural crime with a number of burglaries from farms and stables. Targets appear to be anything from wheelbarrows to quad bikes. There were also burglaries in the Over Wyre area which have coincided with breaks into electricity sub-stations to cut the power to properties. This has obviously had the effect of rendering CCTV and alarm systems inoperative unless they have another power source. Worth considering if you are thinking of installing systems - make sure they have a back-up power supply in case of a power failure.With more complaints of speeding vehicles through our villages, we will be targeting the problem areas with Community Roadwatch and other enforcement measures. Watch out for the Smiley face on the radar speed signs which we will be deploying around the villages to try and educate drivers to slow their speed.Not a week goes by without us getting complaints of dangerous and selfish parking around schools. Please remember that the parking restrictions around schools are there to provide safer places for children and parents to cross the roads when travelling to and from schools. Also please respect the residents and do not park across their driveways. Imagine how you would feel if you lived near to a school and had to put up with being blocked in your drive by thoughtless parkers on a daily basis?There have been reports of fly-tipping in various remote spots. If you are paying someone to take away your rubbish please be aware that it is your responsibility where it ends up! Always use licensed companies and avoid being fined for illegally dumped rubbish.If you spot anyone fly-tipping please try and get a registration number and call us or inform Wyre Borough Council.

POLICE NOTESVisit us on Facebook. To click and ‘like’ our page visit: 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

SCORTON WIHave you ever wondered what lies beneath the surface of Morecambe Bay? At Scorton WI’s meeting on Tues 10th March, Gordon Fletcher will take us on an Underwater Safari.

We meet in Scorton School at 7:30pm. New members welcome.

Mary Hodges (01995) 604755


BEN WALLACE MPFebruary is always a cold month and I hope you have been managing to keep warm. It is often especially difficult for the residents of park homes to heat their homes. Over

the years, I have challenged successive governments on their policies on assisting park home residents with their heating costs. The Warm Front Scheme and subsequently the Warm Home Discount and Green Deal did not apply to park homes. However, I have good news to report: the Government has recently taken a number of actions which will ensure that park home owners are able to benefit in the same way as other homeowners.

Park home residents who are in receipt of Pension Credit will qualify for the Warm Home Discount (which was worth £140 last year) from 2015/16. The Government’s Electricity Rebate (a non-means-tested payment which amounted to £12 last year) will also be paid to park home owners. The Government is also amending the methodology for producing Energy Performance Certificates, to enable the certificates to be available to park home residents. These certificates are a key eligibility requirement for the Green Deal, which allows for new energy saving improvements to be made to homes (such as new heating systems). The Government is currently working with Ofgem and suppliers to develop the most appropriate way to deliver these energy schemes to park home residents and I will keep you updated on the details as the policy is developed.

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I recently visited the Windsor Surgery and the Kepple Lane Pharmacy at the Kepple Lane Health Centre in Garstang. At the Surgery, I discussed with staff and GPs their concerns about the pressures on GP practices, particularly in future given the number of planning applications which have been submitted in the area. It is vital that local services (such as GPs and schools) are supported if they are expected to cater for an increased population. At the Kepple Lane Pharmacy, I was delighted to give support to the British Heart Foundation Wear it - Beat it Campaign by taking part in a bike-a-thon in conjunction with students from Myerscough College. The campaign is aimed at raising awareness about heart and circulatory disease. The pharmacy is also trying to raise awareness about the support pharmacists can offer patients, such as advising patients on how to

BEN WALLACE MP (cont)use their medication and how to treat minor symptoms. In this way pharmacists are about to help relieve pressure on GPs and emergency departments.Please be assured that while I have not mentioned Canatxx/Halite in my last few columns, I have not forgotten about them! The planning application remains under consideration by the Department for Energy and Climate Change. I believe that, along with local residents and the Protect Wyre Group, I have put forward a strong case for the rejection of the application. As soon as there is any update, whatsoever, I will be sure to make readers aware.Last month I had the pleasure of meeting Orla McShannon, the Catterall Gala Queen, and Cassidie Hannigan, the Hambleton Gala Queen, at the Houses of Parliament. In March, I am looking forward to welcoming


BEN WALLACE MP (cont)Isobel Jones, the Nateby Rose Queen Laura Poulton, the Garstang Children Festival Queen Jennifer Miller, the Calder Vale Rose Queen and Jemima Towers, the St Michael’s on Wyre Gala Queen. I always like to invite the Gala Queens from across the constituency (17 in total this year) to tea at the House of Commons, to thank them for their service to the community. I think our galas are wonderful in bringing the community together and retaining the individual identity of our towns and villages.Have you been watching the Inside the Commons, a behind-the-scenes documentary about the workings of the House of Commons? I’ve seen a couple of episodes and would certainly recommend it. I’m not aware that I’ve been caught on camera, but perhaps you’ll be able to spot me in the background.

I hold regular surgeries. If you would like to book an appointment please call my Office at the House of Commons on 0207 219 5804. I can also be contacted at my Constituency Office on (01995) 672976. Alternatively you can email me at [email protected] or write to me at the House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA.Ben Wallace MP - Member of Parliament for Wyre and Preston North

WINDSOR SURGERY NEWSAppointment InformationWe provide same day appointments with a doctor or nurse practitioner each morning Monday – Friday. You may ring on any of these days before 10.00am (11.00am on Mondays) and you will be offered an appointment that morning with a clinician. This may not be your usual doctor but all clinicians including locum doctors have access to your clinical records. The receptionist will need to ask you a few questions to ensure you are directed to the most appropriate clinician. On Mondays all the doctors have same day appointments available. Please note that whilst we do our best to accommodate requests to see your usual doctor on a Monday, this cannot be guaranteed. If your need is urgent please tell the receptionist. Unless a true emergency, patients are asked NOT to present at the surgery without first telephoning. There are a limited number of emergency only, same day appointments in the afternoon. If you have an urgent problem in the afternoon that cannot wait until the next morning, please give the receptionist as much information as possible so that you are directed to the most appropriate clinician for advice. Please see our ‘How Can We Help’ leaflet available in reception for further information.


WINDSOR SURGERY NEWS (cont)If your problem can wait and you would rather book a more convenient appointment time, we can normally book appointments up to two weeks in advance. Holiday TravelWe are offering a new service at our Kepple Lane Dispensary for travel vaccination advice and administration. Our fully qualified pharmacist is now carrying out ALL travel vaccinations for our patients including both NHS and private vaccines. This new service will streamline travel advice for our patients and will provide a wider range of appointment times.Please visit our dispensary onsite at the Garstang Medical Centre or call (01995) 604800 for further details.DNA’sIn January 2015 we had 83 DNA’s (did not attend). This is a waste of valuable doctor and nurse appointments that could have been offered to other patients. 20% of the DNA’s were for two of our Practice Nurses that currently have a four week waiting list for non-urgent appointments for patients with chronic illness such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease. If you are unable to attend your appointment then please let us know as soon as you can so that the time can be offered to other patients.You can cancel your appointment by contacting reception, online if you are registered for Patient Access, and also via SMS if we have your mobile number on record.We are always happy to welcome new patients within the practice boundary. Please pop into reception for more information/a registration form The Windsor Surgery Team (01995) 603616


have all performed exceptionally well with the B team winning all their matches in the recent Fylde and Wyre Tournament.In the Indoor Athletics Competitions, both Year 8 boys and girls did well and the girls’ team came second out of nine other schools. This reflects the dedication and training not only of the students but also our PE teachers who inspire the youngsters to achieve.Engineers of the Future?Our team entered a Young Engineers Competition and were up against some stiff opposition. To everyone’s delight we came second out of seventeen other schools. This really was an amazing accomplishment and means they will go through to the national final on 11th March with a chance of winning £10,000 worth of kit for the school. Special congratulations go to the team of four students Abi Coyne, Olivia Bick, Brandon Evans and Kieran Anderson.

We are always proud of our students but the successes of so many last month made us realise the amazing talent we have.‘13’ – A show that stunned the audience every night!If Oscars were awarded to students for their school performances then, without a doubt, the cast and directors of our recent show ‘13’ would win every category! The whole cast captivated the audience with their excellent vocals, brilliant choreography and hilarious one liners! Students from all year groups took part in this musical about the complexities of teenage life. Every night was a truly accomplished performance which showcased the diverse talents of our youngsters and staff.Sporting SuccessWe have many students who not only excel in the classroom but are very talented on the sports field. Our Year 7 and 8 netball teams

SAINT AIDAN’S NEWS


Food Themed DaysA new idea, devised and developed by the Student Leadership Team is ‘themed’ food days in the refectory. The first one was held on 12th Feb and had a Chinese theme. We are looking forward to the ‘theme’ for March but it is being kept a secret as yet! Thanks go to Mrs Rigney and her team for creating the food for these days which will give an insight into aspects of the culinary cultures in different countries.Unstinting GenerosityOur students are always prepared to help those less fortunate than themselves, raising money for charities both at home and abroad. Recently, one form, K7 has made and sold ‘Valentine’ biscuits to raise money for their form charity, Happy House in Kenya. Mrs Rossall and all her form worked together to create some tasty heart shaped biscuits that they then sold to students and staff around

school.Hillary House are also raising money for Cancer Research. Each form has a collecting box into which students can put any spare change they may have. It is very competitive as Form Tutors will be nominating their most generous student who will then have the chance of winning a brand new tablet which has been kindly donated. The ‘Final Count’ is being held in the last week before we break up for Easter when the winner of the tablet will be announced.And finally!We are always keen to be involved in and help the local community so please do let us know if as a school we can support you or your organisation in any way. Please contact me at school by phone or email. Sue Marland Assistant [email protected]

SAINT AIDAN’S NEWS (cont)


Rotary District ConferenceRoger Mason from the Rotary Club of Garstang & Over Wyre is the President of District 1190 covering Cumbria and

Lancashire. Every year Rotary in Cumbria and Lancashire hold an annual Conference. Roger has chosen Blackpool for the Conference venue.This year it is being held at the Imperial Hotel North Promenade from 13th to 15th March. We start with a Business Networking Breakfast at the Imperial 7.00 am for 7.30 am on the Friday morning. The guest speaker is Assistant Chief Constable of Lancashire Mark Bates. Anyone who has business contacts in Blackpool

and wishes to attend this free event please contact [email protected]. Entry is strictly ticket only.As it’s the 110th year of Rotary we celebrate the projects and service of Rotarians. We showcase our work with Primary Schools, called Rotakids. We have talented Young Musicians, both instrumentalists as well as singers and our Youths Speaks public speaking finalists.Open to the Public is our showcase which demonstrates the charities that Rotary support, so if you are in Blackpool on the Saturday, pop in to the Imperial and see the work of Rotary at first hand. The main Conference is only open to Rotarians who are registered to attend.If you would like further information about Rotary please contact Don Goodier (01995) 602720 at [email protected]

ROTARY

CALLING ALL LOCAL MUSICIANS! Fleetwood Riffs

The Battle of the Bands

The Marine Hall, Fleetwood is set to host Fleetwood Riffs - a brand new Battle of the Bands event taking place on Sat 28th March.

Giving all local bands, musicians and performers the chance to perform on stage, the event has a cash prize fund of £1500.

There will be three categories to enter including young bands aged 12 to 17, soloists and duos and a final category for established groups that are well-known on the local music circuit.

To find out more and to apply visit the website at www.marinehall.co.uk/fleetwoodriffs

Tickets to watch the event are just £5 each and are on sale now.

To book call (01253) 887693


Monthly Coffee MorningSat 7th March - 10:00am - 12 noon Proceeds to be divided between the Chapel and Wyresdale Children’s Homes.Usual stalls and quiz plus Adam’s Toasted tea cakes.The April Coffee Morning on Sat 4th April will be to raise money for our Annual Summer Canal Outing.

Edith Gorst. (01995) 602078

SEQUENCE DANCES - CLAUGHTONClaughton Memorial Hall Wed 4th March - music by Alan Cookson, Tues 17th March - music by John Lancaster Tues 31st March - music by John Lancaster. £3.00 per person. Regular dances arranged so why not come and join us?

Nancy Cowell (01995) 605803

Meetings are in the Meeting Room of the Public Library, Windsor Rod, Garstang. PR3 1ED from 7:30pm - 9:30pm.Thurs 5th Mar: ‘The Galapagos Islands’M.W. EverissThurs 19th Mar: Annual Competitions plus sale of stamps.Thurs 2nd April: ‘Turkey 1900 - 1922’ P. Longbottom.Beginners and enquirers are welcome to attend before joining.

D. Jones (01995) 602665

LIVE WYRE GANG SHOW 2015Back To BroadwayThurs 12th - Sat 14th March at 7:30pmMarine Hall, Fleetwood. Ticket Hotline: (01253) 887693www.marinehall.co.ukwww.livewyregangshow.org.uk

CALDER VALE METHODIST CHURCH GARSTANG STAMP CLUB

WORLD CAFE3rd Garstang Guides will be holding the annual World Cafe on Sat 21st March to raise funds for three young leaders, Hannah Lawrenson, Amelia Colquhoun and Alicia Clegg who are going to California in the summer with a county trip.The girls give up their time each week to help the guides and as we have 50 guides, we do need their support. The trip will give them opportunity to meet guides and girl scouts from all over the world. On their return we will benefit from their experiences as they always bring new ideas for us all to learn from and enjoy.The cafe will sell light snacks and cakes from 11:00am - 2:00pm. Each of the guide patrols will be organising a variety of different stalls as well. We look forward to welcoming you to our guide and scout HQ on Kepple Lane, Garstang.Julie Bell


Last month again was a busy one, both in Westminster and here locally. In Parliament, I was on my feet in a debate on the plight of the Dairy Industry. It seems to me that things have got to

a ridiculous level, when a bottle of mineral water is priced higher than a bottle of milk. I feel that even taking into account the world market situation, a lot more needs to be done. I, along with colleagues, was talking about giving more ‘teeth’ to the Grocery Adjudicator, so they can deal more effectively with Supermarkets and take them to task. However, in the long term I feel we need to be able to turn more milk in this country into products than can be exported, like cheese, to further enable this vital part of our farming industry to prosper.Locally I was delighted when the Government announced that it would be giving £2.5m to finally get Fleetwood’s Fish Park up and running.This project which is going on across the water has the potential of regenerating the area, something that benefits us all, and creating 150 new jobs. On the subject of jobs and closer to home, Iain Duncan Smith agreed to come and visit A&G and Sons Precision Engineers in Preesall to have a look at the incredible work between local schools like St Aidan’s and this successful company. A & G run an apprenticeship programme whereby they encourage students to take work experience then go on to apprenticeships and then full time jobs with a 100% success rate so far! Currently they have 4 apprentices working with them and are taking on an additional 4 later in the year.

ERIC OLLERENSHAW MP


It was also great to welcome James Brokenshire MP, the Security and Immigration Minister to an open meeting in Knott End which proved an excellent and well attended event with straightforward questions getting straightforward answers.Finally, I managed to pay a visit to Winmarleigh and Bleasdale primary schools at the invitation of their joint Headteacher Mr Cookson. As well as getting a tour, I was questioned by pupils at both schools - which I hope I managed to deal with to their satisfaction! I must say how impressed I was by the standard of work of both pupils and staff and the commitment of teachers and Governors. We all need to ensure that we provide every support necessary to keep these vital small schools going both in terms of the high quality education they give to our children and the vital role they play in our village communities.Eric Ollerenshaw MP

IN THE ARCTIC FOR MENCAPDog sledding in the arctic Swedish Lapland was a big challenge, achievable because of the help of personal trainer Jenny Wren at Fenton’s Fitness and membership of the YMCA in Garstang for regular swim, gym and advice.Thank you to all those who helped me to raise a further £4,000 to help those with learning difficulties through the work of MENCAP.-20° in arctic wilderness, hauling water out of the river, sawing and chopping wood for cooking and heating and indoor candle light made you think how easy our lives are now, pushing a plug in or pressing a switch.Driving a sled with four Alaskan huskies for 7 hours a day through forests and across lakes and rivers was an awesome and challenging experience - but I chose this challenge. Unlike the challenge faced by people with learning difficulties and their families, mine

ERIC OLLERENSHAW MP (cont)ended when I arrived back in Garstang safely.In appreciation of ongoing support.Pat Ascroft - Garstang

TOWER TO TOWER CHALLENGEOn 18th April 2015 a group of keen Over Wyre cyclists will be undertaking the Tower to Tower Challenge from Blackpool to Paris in aid of Cancer Research UK.Daniel Holden, Dewi Howell, Carl Morphet, Stephen Pammenter and Scott Taylor-McCormick, will begin their 600 mile adventure hoping to arrive in Paris within seven days.To sponsor them and support this excellent charity, or if you simply want to find out more information, please visit www.justgiving.com/TowertoTower2015. You can also donate via text! Just text TOWR80 followed by your amount to 70070.

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March Events Tues 10th March 11:00am - 3:00pm Free micro chipping at Winnipeg Place, Community Flat 56, Bispham, FY2 0LU All animals must be 12 weeks and above. Also at the Community Hub Centre, Gorton Street. Blackpool, FY1 3JW 10:00am - 3:00pmFri 20th - Sun 22nd March Fundraising at Pets at Home, Holyoake Ave, Bispham, FY2 0QX - Tombola and Information Stall.Sat 4th April - Easter event at the Animal Centre, Old Toms Lane, Stalmine, FY6 0JR including a tombola, Easter raffle, children’s egg hunt, coffee van, face-painting and animal awareness workshops. Fun for all the family and helping to raise money for the animals in our care.Sun 5th April - Lytham Hall Easter event. We will be holding a stall at their event to raise awareness of animals in our care and our locationSpecial Appeals

Stitch and Mort are two brothers about 3-6 years old. They were rescued from their previous home where there were 40 cats.They are both very affectionate and love cuddles and can be quite vocal when they’re not getting them! They love to cuddle up together and groom each other and are obviously bonded so we want to re-home them together. We think Mort is a bit older than Stitch but they’re both very lively. [email protected] or (01253) 703000Natasha Henderson

RSPCA


March meetings of the Travel and Holidays Association are as follows:

5th March: ‘Istanbul, where East meets West’. Mo Holland returns to continue the story she started on the Black Sea.

12th March: ‘Finding Cuba’. Tonight we visit Cuba when photographer Jane Black takes us to the Caribbean.

26th March: ‘Balkan Adventure’. We enjoy a celebrity lecture by broadcaster John Pilkington who spent the summer of 2013 walking from Trieste to Istanbul. New members and visitors welcome. Visitors may pay at the door. £4 per meeting held at the Concert Hall, Blackpool Sixth Form College, Blackpool Old Road, Blackpool FY3 7LR at 7.30pm. www.fyldetravellers.org.ukJoan Gaffiney (01253) 700799

Garstang Phoenix WI will be holding their next monthly meeting at 2:00pm on Wed 11th March at Garstang URC Church Hall. The speaker will be George Hughes who will be reminiscing about his work as a private investigator. If you have an afternoon to spare why not come along and join us. New members and visitors are very welcome.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. 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 info: www.garstangchildrensfestival.org

TRAVEL & HOLIDAYS ASSOC GARSTANG PHOENIX WI


COFFEE STOPInglewhite Church Coffee Stop welcomes you this Spring.We open in a cafe style format between 10:00am am and 12 noon serving coffee and cake.Join us if you can in the Church Hall on Tues 3rd and Tues 17th March or in Catterall Village Hall on Tues 10th March. Free parking and disabled access at both events. Everyone welcome.On Tues 31st March the Inglewhite and Catterall groups will join together for an Easter Celebration. We will be open in Inglewhite Church Hall from 10:00am serving coffee. At 11:00am we invite you to a short Easter Service followed by a light lunch.For contact details & more information see the Inglewhite Church Website.Lesley Hardman

FOCUS ON FOODPotato and Chorizo Bake

Ingredients• 4 Medium potatoes cut into small thin

wedges• 2tbsp Olive oil• 100g Chorizo sausage, cut thickly• 2 Red peppers, deseeded and cut into

chunks• 1 Red onion, peeled and thickly sliced• 3 Tomatoes, roughly chopped

• Paprika, Seasoning• Sour cream and chive dip to serve

(optional).

Method1. Preheat the oven to Gas Mark 6, 200ºC,

400ºF.2. Place all the ingredients (except paprika,

tomatoes and dip) onto 1 or 2 baking trays, and combine the ingredients together to coat in oil. Spread the ingredients out into a single layer on the baking tray(s). Sprinkle with a little paprika.

3. Place in preheated oven for about 25 minutes until tender and golden.

4. Scatter with tomatoes and serve as a pile with a dollop of your favourite dip, for example sour cream and chive and salad leaves.


were joined at the event by Dianne Oxberry and her camera team, filming for a feature called ‘Inside Health’, a programme currently scheduled to be shown on BBC, 23rd Feb at 7:30pm, so definitely one to watch out for!We know that many people were disappointed that they did not get a place on this year’s screening. We are hoping to hold another at a similar time next year - so we need to get cracking and raise the £7,000 required to stage the event. We hope that you can help us achieve this. Thurs 5th March - A Country Coffee Morning at Garstang URC - 10:00am - 12 noon. You are warmly invited to join us for this free entry event where we will have a range of hand made cards and gifts, upcycled and vintage crafts by Hannah, sweets, treats, jams. jellies, jigsaws, plants, raffle, box tombola and so much more. Sun 19th April - CRY Canal Caper - a 19 mile trek along the Lancaster Canal from The Water Witch, Lancaster to ‘Owd Nells, Bilsborrow. Julia, Kath, Sharon, Zoe, Tom, Jill, Karen, Pauline, Barry and myself are taking part and are hoping to raise awareness and funds for The Matthew Hesmondhalgh Memorial Fund @ CRY. So if you’re around the lovely ‘Black & White’ canal on 19th April, bridges 99-44, give us a wave, or come and say hello and perhaps drop a few pennies in the pot. We are setting off at 8:30am and hoping to keep a pace of about three miles an hour, probably with a couple of stops to admire the scenery etc. With any luck we’ll arrive at Nell’s in time for tea!For further information or to sponsor anyone on the walk contact Kath at Car Care, visit our page at www.virginmoneygiving.com/SomeoneSpecial/CRYCanalCaper or ring Paula on 07785 106 976

Screening WeekendOn the 7th and 8th Feb, Garstang Academy kindly played host to a 2nd CRY cardiac screening event for young people aged 14-35. Hearteningly, of the 208 people checked the majority resulted in a ‘normal’ ECG reading or were reassured that all is well after being given a additional echocardiogram. However, 7 of those tested were found to need a further range of follow up measures. This means that these young people and their families now have the opportunity for additional testing and/or treatment to manage a possible heart condition. Our thoughts and prayers are with them for an active and healthy future. Thanks to the Academy and the army of volunteers and professionals for their hard work and dedication over the weekend. We

CARDIAC RISK in the YOUNG (CRY)


March 2015Our March Art Exhibition in the School Room features the work of Lynne Shaw. From Tues 10th March - Thurs 2nd April. ‘Me, Myelf & I’ is a series of mixed media paintings exploring the concept of the lone figure. Open during the Arts Centre’s normal opening hours.Beginners’ Bridge Class This will continue meeting in the Music Room on Tuesday afternoon from 1:30pm to 4:30pm on March 3rd, 10th, 14th and 31st, and from 10:00am to 12 noon on the morning of Tues 17th. We are a friendly group with mixed levels of skill and ability. We 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 GroupThe next meeting will be on Tues March 17th at 2:00pm in the Arts Centre. The speaker, Sara Barrow, from Goosnargh will be giving a talk and slide presentation with the title, “Exhibiting at Chelsea Flower Show”. Sara was featured in the Courier last year after winning an RHS Gold Medal at Chelsea. She is also a UK Florist of the Year. Light refreshments will be served. Visitors are always very welcome. Further details from June Gornall on (01995) 602505 or Mary Thornber on (01995) 605210. Poetry AppreciationFri March 27th 2:00pm to 4:00pm. Our guest speaker today is Nevill Joseph who will recite poems which he remembers from his childhood and those which he learnt from inspirational teachers. Nevill Joseph has led an adventurous life and is a very entertaining speaker. Come along and join us for an interesting session. For more information contact Marie Whalley (01995) 603605 or Pat Hansell (01995) 600397

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE


Town Council Website The Town Council is going to develop a new website to explain exactly what the Council does and its responsibilities. For many residents, the website could be the first port of call to find out information about Garstang and relevant services. However we do not want to do this in isolation, therefore we need your feedback on what it is that you wish to see on the website and your thoughts on what should, or should not be included. Please send us your ideas to the Town Clerk, via email or letter as detailed below.Town Council SurgeryThe next surgery is on Sat 7th March, from 10:00am to 12:00 noon. Please come along to the library to air your views with members of the Town Council.Garstang Youth CouncilMeetings are held every other month in the Community Centre. The next meeting is on Wednesday 11th March at 6:00pm. We also have a youth panel that young people can join with no obligation to join the Youth Council. Would you like to raise any issues with your youth councillors? Would you like to join them? If you are aged 11 - 18 years old, are community minded, have some good ideas or just want to get your voice heard, then please contact the Town Clerk as detailed below or Cllr Lynn Harter (01995) 606404 [email protected] along to the next meeting - just to see what Garstang Youth Council are all about. Any enquiries to the Town Council can be made to the Town Clerk, Mrs Edwina Parry 07592 792 801 email: [email protected]; Room G17, Garstang Business & Community Centre, High Street, Garstang PR3 1EB

GARSTANG TOWN COUNCILOn Fri 27th March Longridge Brass Band will be giving a concert at Garstang Methodist Church. The concert will start at 7:30pm. Tickets are priced at £8.50 each and can be obtained from band members, by contacting Ruth on (01995) 602006 or by calling into Wesley’s coffee lounge at Garstang Methodist Church on Thursdays, Fridays or Saturdays between 10:00am until 2:00pm.We look forward to seeing you.

T’BREAK FOR OVER 60s

Fri 6th & 20th March at Garstang Free Methodist Church, Windsor Road (next to the Leisure Centre). Why not join us for a cup of tea or coffee and a chat with friends. For more information ring (01995) 602852

GARSTANG FREE METHODIST CHURCH


AGMWed 29th April at 7:30pmThe current Committee is very small and we are seeking new people to assist in the running of the Village Hall and the Village Green. Any help would be greatly appreciated. This is YOUR Village Hall. Be a part of it.

The title of “Go Brazil” might well suggest to some that Wine Circle members had taken the pledge and decided to taste coffee at their latest meeting, but we were actually sampling some wines from the latest South American country whose wines are appearing on the international markets. Brazil has been producing wine since Jesuit missions established vineyards the 1500s. But it was in the 1800s that the industry really established itself with the arrival of immigrants from Italy, who brought grape varieties from their homeland in order to establish vineyards. According to Jancis Robinson, Brazil became the third most important country in South America in terms of production during the 1980s and 90s. Quality began to improve with the introduction of modern wine-making techniques and more of the grape varieties associated with the wines that we commonly see on our shelves.The wines however have not received as much exposure on the international stage as those from Chile, Argentina and more recently Uruguay. We were fortunate therefore that Circle Member, Jennifer McNamee had been to a tasting of Brazilian wine and was able to source suitable wines to accompany her excellent presentation at our tasting.We sampled three whites, and five reds. A varied and interesting collection, including some of real quality, very much supporting the comments of Hugh Johnson that Brazilian Wine is still at the experimental stage with some wines already showing great promise.There cannot be many wine groups in the UK who have tasted a collection of Brazilian wines, and thanks go to Jennifer for putting Garstang Wine Circle at the forefront of the wine scene, to Anne Whitehead who gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the circle, to Freda Goodier and Judith Richardson who provided the refreshments and to Jack Richardson

GARSTANG WINE CIRCLEWINMARLEIGH VILLAGE HALL

SUBMITTING PHOTOSIf you are sending digital images to us, please ensure that the finished ‘cropped’ size is at least 768 pixels wide at 300 dpi. Ask us if you need help. Ed


GARSTANG WINE CIRCLE (cont) CHARITY LUNCHwho ably helped to serve them!The next meeting will be at 7:30pm in the Arts Centre on Mon 16th March when the speaker will be Bruno Rafala, our friend and expert on Italian and Sicilian Wines. For details contact Don Goodier on (01995) 603720.Mervyn Stokes

CABUS WHIST & DOMSCabus Village HallWhist & Domino Drives on alternate Friday afternoons 2:00pm at Cabus Village Hall, A6 Road, Cabus PR3 1WL. All welcome. Joan Wilkins (01995) 602028

CHERESTANC WIThe March meeting of the Cherestanc WI will be held in the United Reformed Church Hall at 7.30pm on Wed 25th March. The speaker will be Gordon Fletcher talking about the ‘Morecambe Bay Underwater Safari’. New members are always welcome and if you would like to be met at the door by a member please ring (01995) 605135.Girvan Airey

FRIENDS OF ST JOHN’S HOSPICE Coffee MorningOur fundraising for 2015 starts with a coffee morning on Sat 21st March at the United Reformed Church Hall, from 10:00am -12.00 noonAs well as refreshments there will be a variety of stalls - books ( including an excellent selection of crime/thrillers), plants, cakes & preserves, tombola, raffle and goods from the hospice shop. Thanks to the kindness of the URC and the generosity of all those who helped and attended, last years event was a great success. Please help us to raise funds this year by coming along to join us.Gillian Benn (01995) 602246

Garstang Bursary FundThurs 26th MarchYou are invited to this Charity Lunch supporting the Croston House Garstang Bursary Fund at Ferrari’s Hotel, Chipping Road, Thornley PR3 2TB. Stalls from 11:30am, a three course lunch is served at 12:30pm followed by comedian Mike Harding’s tour manager Steve Swithin’s amusing talk ‘Daft – I call It!’Admission £25 by prior booking only. Information or tickets Tel. (01995) 640185/(01772) 864689. Reg. Charity No.1032828

F.L.O.W.Friday Lunch for the Older and WiserFri 27th March Price £7 for a two course lunch. To book ring (01995) 602852

March Talks In The LibraryRequest StopTues 3rd March at 6:30pm. David Evans will be hosting a talk entitled ‘Request Stop’. It is a chance for customers to choose transport images at random and he will then guide everyone through the history of the chosen image. Charge of £2.00 at the door with refreshments available.In Miss Jemima’s FootstepsMon 30th March 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Denis Jones will be in the library with his talk entitled ‘Miss Jemima’s Footsteps’ which is based on Thomas Cook’s first tour of Switzerland in 1863. Denis will in his own unique way discuss the history of this world famous tour operator.The event is FREE. Tea /coffee and biscuits will be available.

Memory CafeGarstang Library is very pleased to be involved with this new 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. The cafe will be running every 1st Wednesday of the month from 10:00am until noon. For further details ring Sandra Perkins (01995) 471236 or simply pop in to the library.Next Memory Cafe – Wed 4th March. Bowland ChoirThe 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.Dates for this month are: Wed 11th and Wed

GARSTANG LIBRARY


GREY MATTER ANSWERS CROSSWORD ANSWERS1 Glasgow 2 Tropic of Capricorn3 Allan Pinkerton4 Monkey5 Professor Plum6 Great Expectations7 2208 Tony Robinson9 Copper10 Nancy Astor11 Toto12 5013 Greenland 14 A Mouse15 Vienna16 Mrs Beeton17 Montmatre18 St Christopher19 Edward Elgar20 Luddites

Across 1 Bright 7 Ideal 8 Abraid 9 Yeast 12 Acrid 13 Steam 14 Snore 17 Leeway 18 Opera 19 Needle. Down 2 Rubicon 3 Glacier 4 Tidy 5 Beta 6 Slot 10 Extreme 11 Seawall 14 Stop 15 Open16 Elan

25th March. Children’s ActivitiesBaby Bounce and Rhyme: Mon and Fri at 10:00amToddler Rhyme Time: Tues at 2:00pmStorytime for the Under 5’s: Fri 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 2:00 - 4:00pm and every Friday morning 10:00am -12 noonThe group are looking for new members to join, so if you enjoy knitting or fancy starting up a new hobby just come along to the library and join in with this friendly group. Refreshments are provided as well as expert help and advice.Reading Groups Our reading groups will meet on Thurs 12th March at 2:00pm and Tues 17th March at

7:00pm. 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.Mobile Libraries.The mobile library routes for March are as follows:Scorton: Wednesday 4th & 25th March Catterall and Churchtown: 19th March (AM)St Michaels - Rawcliffe Road: 17th March (PM)Garstang Library 0300 123 6703 [email protected]

FYLDE BIRD CLUBOur next meeting is on Tues 24th March at 7.45pm at The River Wyre Inn, Poulton.www.fyldebirdclub.orgEmail: [email protected]

GARSTANG LIBRARY (cont)


garstang focus

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