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[
"Adam Bennett",
"Adam.Bennett Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T13:06:53 | null | 2016-08-15T13:27:13 | Bottles of posh squash have been pulled from the shelves over fears they may explode. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Flifestyle%2Fjuice-recalled-over-explosion-fears-1-8069774.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8069773.1471264148!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Juice recalled over explosion fears | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Bottles of posh squash have been pulled from the shelves over fears they may explode.
Some batches of Blossom Cottage Morello Cherry Cordial sold through Sainsbury's may start fermenting causing a buildup of gas.
Customers are warned not to try and open the 500ml glass bottles or drink the contents but to dispose of the unopened bottle "immediately".
The bottles have the best before date July 2017 and batch numbers 2000 16203 and 2230 16203.
A full refund will be offered to customers who bought the £2.50 drink from one of Sainsbury's 1,374 stores across Britain.
A Sainsbury's spokesperson said: "It has been brought to our attention that a limited number of bottles of the above product may be affected by a fermentation issue.
"As a precautionary measure, Blossom Cottage are asking all customers who have bought this product not to consume it and instead dispose of it immediately.
"A full refund can be claimed by returning to your nearest Sainsbury's with proof of purchase.
"No other products or date codes are affected by this issue, and we apologise for the inconvenience this has caused."
A spokesperson from the Food Standards Agency said: "Blossom Cottage is recalling a batch of its Morello Cherry Cordial 500ml bottles because fermentation has occurred in some of the bottles.
"The affected batch was sold in Sainsbury's stores.
"If you have bought this product with a batch number between 2000 16203 and 2230 16203, do not attempt to open the bottle or drink the contents.
"The product potentially presents a risk to health because it has fermented and pressure may have built up in the bottle.
"A recall from customers is being carried out as a precautionary measure.
"If you have bought the above product do not attempt to open the bottle or drink the contents. Instead, dispose of the unopened bottle immediately.
"A full refund can be claimed by returning to your nearest Sainsbury's with proof of purchase."
No other Blossom Products have been affected.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Juice recalled over explosion fears Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/lifestyle/juice-recalled-over-explosion-fears-1-8069774 | en | 2016-08-15T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/f52b4cc8db9ec11af0cb873be1fc1374bcc2bf9ba79ac913265b283e4c0d1af9.json |
[
"Andrew Nowell"
] | 2016-08-26T13:10:02 | null | 2016-08-26T11:16:01 | Deanery High School pupil Libbie Arrowsmith’s success has been particularly hard won. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Flibbie-s-amazing-gcse-success-in-the-face-of-adversity-1-8090508.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8090507.1472206545!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Libbie’s amazing GCSE success in the face of adversity | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Deanery High School pupil Libbie Arrowsmith’s success has been particularly hard won.
The 16-year-old, who achieved an amazing eight A*s and one A, was forced to miss most of Year 10 and months of school at a time after being diagnosed with anorexia.
It’s affected my school work quite a bit. The problems started when I was relatively young in Year 6, but I managed to keep it under control Libbie Arrowsmith
The 16-year-old from Swinley said: “It’s affected my school work quite a bit. The problems started when I was relatively young in Year 6, but I managed to keep it under control.
“However as school pressures increased and changes in my personal life developed the anorexia took hold last year, so I missed an very important year.
“I had weeks off. I worked at home and also had hospital appointments. It was hard.
“But when I went back to school, I did a lot of extra work to catch up and I have worked really, really hard.
“I hope I can be an inspiration to other young girls who suffer from this illness.
“I am so thrilled with my results, I am in total shock, I really didn’t expect those grades having missed so much time away from school.”
Libby is planning to go to Winstanley College to study A-levels in biology, chemistry and physics next year and has set her heart on a career in science.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Libbie’s amazing GCSE success in the face of adversity Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/libbie-s-amazing-gcse-success-in-the-face-of-adversity-1-8090508 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/439da81ac0bbad36a31c90304cc3cef5603ea47631b5ccf53b984485d1682bb5.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T06:52:03 | null | 2016-08-30T07:26:57 | Gary Caldwell thinks the transfer window should close before the season starts. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Fcaldwell-close-the-window-earlier-1-8095113.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8095112.1472538396!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Caldwell: Close the window earlier | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Gary Caldwell thinks the transfer window should close before the season starts.
With tomorrow’s deadline looming, the Latics manager is still hoping to capture reinforcements for his squad as life back in the Championship begins to take shape.
But even though he will take advantage of being able to sign and offload players five league games into the campaign, Caldwell thinks the current set-up breeds confusion.
He said: “I don’t think the transfer window should run into the season.
“I think it confuses teams and players, and having this media speculation as you’re going into games isn’t right for football.
“It should shut as the season starts.
“But it is what it is, and we all have to deal with it and get through it.”
Caldwell’s recruitment drive this summer has seen additions such as Nick Powell, Jake Buxton and Alex Gilbey arrive at the DW, as well as Jordi Gomez sealing a return to his old club.
But even at the 11th hour, the manager admits he is ready to strike for the right player.
“We’re looking at a number of different targets in a number of different areas,” he said.
““You have to be ready to react to certain situations, and we will be ready to do that if anything comes up.
“We know where we need to strengthen, and we’re in a good place to do what we need to do, to get the squad ready to compete in this league from Wednesday onwards.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Caldwell: Close the window earlier Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/caldwell-close-the-window-earlier-1-8095113 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/ddff0a613517223daa1040dc04171873531f17b0cba45452b0ff3e61b5e656ac.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T16:51:49 | null | 2016-08-30T14:19:14 | The M6 southbound was blocked in Lancashire this afternoon after a “serious” traffic accident in which a pedestrian was hit by a vehicle. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fupdated-m6-blocked-in-lancashire-after-pedestrian-hit-by-vehicle-1-8096012.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096175.1472567502!/image/image.jpg | en | null | UPDATED: M6 blocked in Lancashire after pedestrian hit by vehicle | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Sorry, we're having problems with our video player at the moment, but are working to fix it as soon as we can
The M6 southbound was blocked in Lancashire this afternoon after a “serious” traffic accident in which a pedestrian was hit by a vehicle.
The North West air ambulance was called to the scene between junction 28 at Leyland and junction 27 at Standish
Picture and video supplied by Jack
Police closed all three lanes.
The road was blocked and queuing traffic was reported at 2pm.
Motorists have been warned to expect delays on the M6 and on surrounding routes.
Police said this afternoon the motorway would remain closed for “several hours”.
The northbound carriageway was briefly closed but was reopened about 2.30pm.
Lancashire police said: “The M6 has been closed southbound at J28 following an incident.
“We are advising motorists to avoid the area and use alternative routes.”
The “serious” incident happened on the M6 southbound close to Charnock Richard Services.
Police were called at approximately 1.45pm to reports a pedestrian had been involved in a collision with a vehicle. The pedestrian is critically injured.
Chief Insp Damian Kitchen, of Lancashire Police, said: “We recognise the disruption this is causing and are working hard to re-open the road as soon as possible.
“However, at this time of day, delays through rush hour and beyond are inevitable.
“Please plan either alternate routes or delay your journey. Surrounding roads and towns are also likely to become congested.
“We will release further information when we are able.” | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/updated-m6-blocked-in-lancashire-after-pedestrian-hit-by-vehicle-1-8096012 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/51badc72ff6ed71e43a1e1036116d05550451b7fc1777adfe2ed754ce308f664.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:12:07 | null | 2016-08-25T09:32:46 | Travellers have taken to parking up at a rugby club, much to the annoyance of nearby residents. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Ffury-at-travellers-rugby-club-camp-1-8087409.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8087408.1472113950!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Fury at travellers’ rugby club camp | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Travellers have taken to parking up at a rugby club, much to the annoyance of nearby residents.
It has become a regular occurrence for caravans to appear on the car park at St Pat’s Rugby Club on Harper Street in the last three months.
And despite the efforts of the people who run the club to move them on, the travellers keep coming back.
One resident, who contacted the Wigan Evening Post, said the noise the travellers made were making his life a misery.
The man, who asked not to be named, said: “It is council property but they lease it out to the rugby club and said it is up to them to sort out.
“I am sure the club is doing what it can but it I think the council should do more to help. It is their land, surely they have a responsibility for how it is used. The travellers have been coming every weekend for months and sometimes there are up to 12 or 14 of them.
“They have dogs running around barking and electrical generators that go all night so we can’t have our windows open. It is really having an effect on us.”
But club committee member Joe Charnock, said the local councillors had been very helpful.
He said: “We have rung the council, who own the land, but they said it is our responsibility because we lease the land from them.
“But the councillors for our area have been great and have given us advice. One told me to handwrite an eviction notice so I did and the travellers left the next day. But when they came back I tried that again and they stayed for two weeks.
“They do have the generators running all night which I can understand could be a cause for complaint from residents.”
“We would as a club like to thank the community for their support. We will be installing a barrier to hopefully stop this nuisance. The club along with Wigan Council planning and Deputy Leader David Molyneux are working towards this.
“We are a totally unpaid voluntary organisation, so St Pat’s will have to raise the funds for the barrier. The clubs aim is to work alongside the community in whatever way it can to make the area a safer and better environment.”
Karl Battersby, director for economy and environment at Wigan Council, said: “We understand residents frustrations in this situation and we are working with St Pat’s Rugby Club to look at how they can stop vehicles such as caravans from gaining access to the site and parking on the club car park.
“The land at St Pat’s Rugby Club is owned by Wigan Council but is on lease to the rugby club. As part of the terms of that lease the responsibility to remove trespassers is with the club who have taken action on previous occasions to remove travellers from the site.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Fury at travellers’ rugby club camp Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/fury-at-travellers-rugby-club-camp-1-8087409 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/134611ab8647742167d25e157ebb20c9b6db3668667c4c32e6ad24e70c3fcbc5.json |
[
"Digital Editor",
"Lep.Newsdesk Lep.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:02 | null | 2016-08-23T09:52:11 | With GCSE Results Day finally upon us, hundreds of thousands of teenagers across the country will be weighing up their options for the future. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flife-after-gcses-1-8083462.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8083461.1471942414!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Life after GCSEs | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | With GCSE Results Day finally upon us, hundreds of thousands of teenagers across the country will be weighing up their options for the future.
Although A-levels remain the traditional educational route after GCSEs, they are not the only option. More and more students are turning towards apprenticeships and further education as real alternatives.
Many of the teenagers picking up their results have already been in education for the best part of 12 years.
But, these days teenagers, up to the age of 18, are legally required to stay in education, training or get a job with accredited training, something the government calls 'raising the age of participation'.
Being in further education or training doesn’t mean teenagers have to stay in the same school. There are lots of options.
So, for those students who didn’t do so well in their GCSEs, or don’t find the prospect of another two years at school studying A-levels appealing, here are our top three options for life after GCSEs.
Do an apprenticeship
Apprenticeships have had some mixed press. The quality and rates of pay have been in the news, but there are lots fabulous apprenticeship opportunities out there and lots of organisations who can help, and offer you the right information; checkout The Student Room’s new Apprenticeship Hub it’s full of accurate and up-to-date information and it can even help to dispel some of those apprenticeship myths.
We found a fabulous apprenticeship scheme with national company, Be Wiser Insurance - they offer a starting salary of £14,000. There are other companies doing similar, so do your homework.
Do a traineeship
Not quite ready for an apprenticeship? Need to work on your skills? Don’t worry there are lots of opportunities for you to complete a traineeship – Have a look at what a company like EDF Energy can offer you.
Go to your local college
There are two types of college – 6th Form college and Further Education college. 6th Form Colleges are mostly geared up for students between 16 and 18 years old, and tend to concentrate on academic education. Further Education colleges are generally much bigger than 6th Form colleges and offer a wider range of subjects, including vocational education (Btecs and NVQs), and they’re not just for teenagers. Further Education colleges offer adult education and higher education too.
The GOV.UK website can help you find more information about courses offered by schools and colleges in your area if you’re between 14-19.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Life after GCSEs Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/life-after-gcses-1-8083462 | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/2705d85e7c1990e3641eef7796d89780fc3b100ca744a3160092e71f1cb8a18e.json |
[
"Pam Norfolk",
"Pamnorfolk Tiscali.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T14:49:51 | null | 2016-08-15T10:00:00 | It’s not hard to see why Yorkshire is known as ‘God’s own country.’ The largest county in England is also the most beautiful… just ask anyone who lives there! | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fbook-review-yorkshire-in-photographs-by-dave-zdanowicz-1-8068196.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8068195.1471171888!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Book review: Yorkshire in Photographs by Dave Zdanowicz | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | It’s not hard to see why Yorkshire is known as ‘God’s own country.’ The largest county in England is also the most beautiful… just ask anyone who lives there!
This vast swathe of northern England is famous for its diverse landscape, from its past rooted in Roman and Viking history and its gritty towns and cities which helped forged the Industrial R evolution to its sturdy Norman castles, magnificent medieval abbeys, rugged coastline and two breathtaking national parks.
If there is a heaven then it must surely look like this, claim Yorkshire folk, and landscape photographer Dave Zdanowicz, born and raised in Bradford, has captured its essence in this outstanding collection of beautiful photographs.
Zdanowicz, who bought his first camera just three years ago and has not looked back since, takes us on a seasonal journey of discovery through the rolling hills, distinctive dales and timeless villages of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and on to the spectacular, wave-battered east coast and the dramatic North York Moors National Park.
The magic of Yorkshire’s extraordinary landscape comes alive in these vibrant, atmospheric images which also explore some hidden corners of the county… isolated moors and hills, reservoirs and lakes, beaches and stunning cliffs, all representing a unique moment in time and captured at different times of the year.
Enjoy scenic Flamborough Head with its boats and majestic headlands in springtime, marvel at the ethereal beauty of ruined Whitby Abbey on its lonely coastal perch, wander through the streets of historic Howarth, bask in the glow of a summer sunset over picturesque Grassington and savour a snowy winter’s day in enchanting Harold Park in Bradford.
Packed with all the drama, serenity, colour, beauty and majesty of a unique and awe-inspiring landscape, this enchanting book is the ideal gift for all lovers of photography, the countryside, local history… and good old Yorkshire!
(Amberley, paperback, £15.99)
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Book review: Yorkshire in Photographs by Dave Zdanowicz Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/book-review-yorkshire-in-photographs-by-dave-zdanowicz-1-8068196 | en | 2016-08-15T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/539aed89879d436132a5b98b45042b1b2eea42f76c7cd1ffebe1ced2155ff523.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:09:06 | null | 2016-08-24T13:30:00 | Householders are being asked what they think about Wigan Council. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Ftown-hall-consults-residents-on-what-they-think-of-its-services-1-8085594.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8085593.1472031116!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Town hall consults residents on what they think of its services | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Householders are being asked what they think about Wigan Council.
A survey asking a range of questions about the local authority’s services is being sent out to 4,250 homes across the borough.
It is an important piece of research for the town hall and bosses say that the results will help to shape services in the future.
As part of The Deal, the council has committed to “listen, be open and honest”.
The Deal is now well known as the informal contract between the authority and residents and it includes a commitment for both sides to work together to make Wigan borough a better place.
The survey has been directly sent to a representative sample of residents to fill in.
Everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a draw to win an iPad.
The questions cover topics such as recycling, roads and anti-social behaviour.
The survey is being carried on the council’s behalf by independent research agency Ipsos MORI.
A similar survey was sent out to homes in 2014.
The results then found that most residents love living in the borough, with three quarters of them saying they were satisfied with where they live and 71 per cent saying they felt like they “belonged” to their neighbourhood.
Coun Terry Halliwell, cabinet member for service transformation at Wigan Council, said: “It’s really important residents tell us what they think about the services we provide.
“Their views will help us to make vital decisions in the future and will ensure we’re delivering the best service possible.”
The survey takes just 15 minutes to complete and should be returned by a deadline of October 21.
The 2014 headline results were as follows:
l 62 per cent of residents said they were satisfied with Wigan Council - a 21 per cent improvement on the survey carried out in 2008;
l 75 per cent of residents said they were satisfied with their local area; and
l 71 per cent feel they ‘belong’ to their neighbourhood.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Town hall consults residents on what they think of its services Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/town-hall-consults-residents-on-what-they-think-of-its-services-1-8085594 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/533bd8f049b4d01949e720d85c47fade3287248810fc2a61d04657e1cde71c36.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T08:51:44 | null | 2016-08-30T08:00:00 | A stalker who drove his car at a terrified young couple walking home after celebrating New Year, has had his jail term slashed on appeal. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fstalker-s-jail-term-is-slashed-1-8094549.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8094547.1472478931!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Stalker’s jail term is slashed | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A stalker who drove his car at a terrified young couple walking home after celebrating New Year, has had his jail term slashed on appeal.
George Chereni followed the pair in his car before heading straight towards them at speed in an “extremely disturbing” incident.
The 40-year-old then wielded a metal bar at a passing off-duty police officer who saw what happened and went to help the victims.
Chereni, of Kendal Road, Ince, was jailed for six years at Liverpool Crown Court after admitting dangerous driving, threatening with a weapon and attempted unlawful wounding.
But his sentence was cut to five years and three months by judges sitting at London’s Criminal Appeal Court, who said the original term was “too long”.
The court heard Megan Cohen and Aaron Roper were walking home at about 5am on January 1 after celebrating the New Year in Wigan.
Chereni, who was driving a Renault Megane, pulled up beside them.
When they realised they didn’t know him, they carried on walking but he followed them before driving forwards and stopping in front of them.
He wound his window down and they asked him to leave them alone, but he just smiled at them.
When Miss Cohen asked why he was following them, he said because he found her attractive.
The pair ran away from him and called the police, but he continued to follow them.
He then drove straight at them, mounting the pavement.
Miss Cohen realised he wasn’t going to stop and jumped out of the way behind a lamp post.
But he hit Mr Roper, who went over the bonnet and roof of the car and landed on the ground as it crashed into the lamp post.
Chereni then got out of the car and grabbed hold of a metal bar, which he wielded at the young couple.
They managed to escape, but an-off duty police woman who was passing and went to help the couple feared he was going to assault her with it.
He told her they had tried to kill him and then ran off.
Although no-one suffered any physical injuries, despite Mr Roper being thrown over the car, the incident left them badly shaken and Miss Cohen had to have treatment for anxiety.
Mr Justice Jeremy Baker said the incident was serious and justified the highest possible sentence for such a case.
But, reducing the sentence, he said the crown court judge didn’t take enough account of Chereni’s admissions of guilt.
Sitting with Lord Justice McCombe and Sir Alistair MacDuff, he added: “Although we consider that the circumstances of this case warranted the maximum sentence available for this piece of driving, the appellant was entitled to a discount for his guilty pleas.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Stalker’s jail term is slashed Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/stalker-s-jail-term-is-slashed-1-8094549 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/422a0afff5dc4cec88fbaac94f8f5bbc257667e05689e82eb32b66023ebf8b79.json |
[
"Gaynor Clarke"
] | 2016-08-26T13:11:01 | null | 2016-08-26T07:00:00 | A Wigan MP has poured cold water on hopes that extending the opening hours of Chorley’s urgent care centre will ease the pressure on Wigan’s A&E unit. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fnew-opening-hours-will-do-little-to-ease-a-e-demand-1-8089525.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8089524.1472143665!/image/image.jpg | en | null | New opening hours will do ‘little’ to ease A&E demand | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A Wigan MP has poured cold water on hopes that extending the opening hours of Chorley’s urgent care centre will ease the pressure on Wigan’s A&E unit.
The service opened in April to replace Chorley And South Ribble Hospital’s A&E department, which closed temporarily amid staffing problems.
Without action from the Government, this situation is likely to get worse during the winter when patient demand for NHS services increases dramatically. We deserve to know if a decision to downgrade the A&E unit at Chorley has been made permanently Lisa Nandy MP
It is currently open from 8am to 8pm to treat patients who are not in a serious or life-threatening condition.
The centre will instead open 24 hours a day, with private firm gtd healthcare providing GP-led urgent care for minor illnesses and injuries.
The longer opening hours could mean fewer people travelling to other hospitals, such as Wigan Infirmary, for treatment.
But MP Lisa Nandy is concerned that the extended opening hours will not be enough to ease the demand at Wigan’s A&E department.
She said: “The downgrading of Chorley’s A&E department to an urgent care unit has increased patient numbers at neighbouring hospitals including Wigan. Extending the opening hours of the downgraded A&E department, while welcome, will do little to take the strain off NHS staff at the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary who are working incredibly hard while government ministers sit on their hands.
“Without action from the Government, this situation is likely to get worse during the winter when patient demand for NHS services increases dramatically. We deserve to know if a decision to downgrade the A&E unit at Chorley has been made permanently.”
Bosses at Wrightington, Wigan And Leigh NHS Foundation Trust earlier this week repeated their call for people to stay away from A&E unless it is a serious or life-threatening emergency.
They have seen a large rise in the number of patients attending in recent months, with the closure of Chorley’s A&E unit cited as a contributing factor.
An average of 7.5 extra patients are attending every day from Chorley and the surrounding area.
Dr Matt Orr, GP and urgent care lead for Chorley and South Ribble Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “By providing a 24/7 urgent care service that incorporates GP out of hours, the GP visiting scheme for patients who don’t need to be taken to hospital by ambulance, patients who need medical help fast but don’t need A&E can be treated in the most appropriate place for their need.
“This in turn will help free up emergency departments for those with life-threatening or serious illnesses or injuries.”
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[] | 2016-08-29T06:51:21 | null | 2016-08-29T07:00:00 | A talented teenager is another step closer to turning her dream of becoming a professional ballet dancer into reality. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Falice-is-on-her-way-to-becoming-a-ballet-star-1-8093553.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8093552.1472407200!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Alice is on her way to becoming a ballet star | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A talented teenager is another step closer to turning her dream of becoming a professional ballet dancer into reality.
Alice Dealing , 16, has secured a place to study dance at Ballet Theatre UK in Hinckley, Leicestershire.
She will begin a three-year course there next month studying a higher national diploma (HND) in professional dance.
Proud mum Sue Dealing said: “She is very excited and a little bit nervous for a new start with different people.”
Alice, from Orrell, will spend around 16 hours per week dancing while at the school.
Mrs Dealing said: “It’s a ballet school so she will spend most of her time ballet dancing.
“There’s ballet, contemporary, jazz and commercial dance, with ballet being the main one.
“They do anatomy and injury prevention and stuff like that.”
Alice is a former pupil of Orrell Holgate Primary School and has been dancing since the age of four, when she joined Miss Sutcliffe Academy Of Dance in Pemberton.
When she was 11 she joined Tring Park School For The Performing Arts in Hertfordshire, where she studied for three years, before spending two years at The Hammond School in Chester.
Mrs Dealing said: “She has lived away from home since she was 11 and to do that is quite an achievement. You don’t do that if it’s not something you don’t want to do. She’s very dedicated to it.”
Alice hopes her hard work and commitment will lead to her becoming a professional dancer once she has completed her studies.
She has already performed with the English National Ballet several times, including as Clara in a production of The Nutcracker at the Coliseum in London during Christmas 2013.
Alice has also attended summer schools run by The Royal Ballet and National Youth Ballet.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Alice is on her way to becoming a ballet star Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/alice-is-on-her-way-to-becoming-a-ballet-star-1-8093553 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/f15f2c1ae1a1acd06cf4a820d303f2f4d205b8703f68ba0ca06756569bf4a747.json |
[
"Tom Mccooey"
] | 2016-08-29T12:51:54 | null | 2016-08-29T12:47:07 | Mike Grundy is plotting his next move in his bid to break into UFC. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fother-sport%2Fgrundy-targets-ufc-1-8094324.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8094322.1472471207!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Grundy targets UFC | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Mike Grundy is plotting his next move in his bid to break into UFC.
The Wigan fighter is weighing up his options going into his next fight in October, but hopes to have done enough to break into the Ultimate Fighting Championship next year.
A few more wins now and I’ll be knocking on the door of UFC Mike Grundy
Earlier this month, the featherweight took his latest MMA victory by defeating Hungary’s Zsolt Fenyes in Manchester with a signature submission.
And 29-year-old Grundy, originally a wrestler, is hoping it will act as a further boost to his ambitions.
“A few more wins now and I’ll be knocking on the door of UFC,” he told the Evening Post.
“I want one more fight before the end of the year and I want to be in UFC early next year.”
The fight, under the Ice FC banner moved Grundy onto six wins since turning professional, to go with the five he earned under the BAMMA organisation.
It took Grundy just 55 seconds to dispatch Fenyes with a key lock move, a technique which gives an opponent opportunity to tap out by locking their arm in a hold on the ground.
“It’s a common technique,” explained Grundy.
“My opponent is quite experienced so it was a good win for me, and it also put my rank up to eighth in the UK so I’m in a good place.”
But even with a goal of reaching the UFC in his sights, Grundy will be given a tough decision to make when the 2018 Commonwealth Games appear on the horizon.
Grundy won bronze for England in the 2014 Games in Glasgow, and has been asked to consider representing his country on the mat again.
“I’ve been asked about representing England at 2018 Commonwealth Games and I’ll have a really good think about it but I’ll be in UFC by then,” he explained.
“UFC would be my first choice.”
While a chance to improve the colour of his medal would be tempting for Grundy, he has never made a secret of his desire to break into one of the glamour of UFC, with fighters such as Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey becoming household names such is the rapidly-growing popularity of the sport.
“I’m concentrating on MMA 100 per cent,” he explained.
“Training is always the same, I’ve always taken it as a pro.”
And despite McGregor’s profile, Grundy thinks if he does achieve his ambition of climbing into the UFC octagon, he would step confidently into the cage.
“McGregor –that’s the money fight,” Grundy smiled.
“My style would clash with his but I’m confident whoever I face.”
Grundy’s next fight, against an unconfirmed opponent, will take place in Liverpool on October 1.
Anyone who wants tickets can contact Team Kaobon at eckersley Mill or call 0151 522 9350.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Grundy targets UFC Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/other-sport/grundy-targets-ufc-1-8094324 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/84ee2ab5b32d864dc0dd80f9e52739acd9537322fce2c4ecb52c758961ba81aa.json |
[
"Phil Wilkinson"
] | 2016-08-31T08:52:29 | null | 2016-08-31T07:50:51 | Shaun Wane is adamant Widnes will arrive at the DW Stadium with all guns blazing tomorrow night. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-warriors%2Fwane-warns-about-the-wigan-factor-in-vikings-ranks-1-8096439.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096437.1472572280!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Wane warns about the ‘Wigan factor’ in Vikings ranks | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Shaun Wane is adamant Widnes will arrive at the DW Stadium with all guns blazing tomorrow night.
And he believes the “Wigan factor” will provide an extra incentive for them to try and claim a scalp.
The Vikings have no chance of making the top-four play-offs spots before the season ends.
Bookmakers are predicting a comfortable home victory as the Warriors chase two points which would draw them level with leaders Hull FC.
But Wane has dismissed the notion Widnes have “nothing to play for”.
He said: “I know it’s an issue for everyone else but that’s not how I see it, and it’s certainly not how my players will be looking at it. Professional players have a lot of pride, they’ll want to give a good account of themselves whether they have a chance of the top-four or not.
“And when you think of how many ex-Wigan players involved there, all of them will want to come here and play well against us.”
Widnes are coached by Wigan legend Denis Betts, who oversaw an 18-12 victory at the DW Stadium in March, during their golden start to the campaign.
They finished the regular campaign in the top-eight, before the split for the Super 8s phase, but have no chance of clawing into the mix for the Grand Final battle.
Betts yesterday named his 19-man squad which included five ex-Warriors – Kevin Brown, Gil Dudson, Stefan Marsh, Greg Burke and Joe Mellor.
Burke only moved to the Vikings last month, in part to secure his long-term future and to also free up space under the salary cap for Wigan to recruit Frank-Paul Nuuausala.
Betts has also included Connor Farrell, who is on a season-long loan from Wigan and is poised to face his brother Liam for the first time.
“The ex-Wigan lads always raise their game against us,” said Wane.
“They’ll have family and friends in the stands, so anyone who thinks they won’t be fired up is wrong.
“Denis was a great player at this club and he’ll want them to come here and play.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Wane warns about the ‘Wigan factor’ in Vikings ranks Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-warriors/wane-warns-about-the-wigan-factor-in-vikings-ranks-1-8096439 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/641449e1fdeb9f2b6c313f45201c9fdbec6aeee2ddb002e3b7e1042e6f3e73c8.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:10:23 | null | 2016-08-26T09:00:00 | A pensioner whose sister had taken out a court order to stop him from contacting her was fined after he rang her. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Foap-admits-order-breach-1-8089506.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8089503.1472143239!/image/image.jpg | en | null | OAP admits order breach | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A pensioner whose sister had taken out a court order to stop him from contacting her was fined after he rang her.
Wigan magistrates heard Alastair Armstrong phoned his sibling Margaret twice on June 21.
The prosecution claimed the Scholes 63-year-old subjected his sister to foul and abusive language but he completely denied swearing at her when interviewed by the police.
But he admitted leaving a message on her phone and making a silent call, and pleaded guilty to breaching the non-molestation order.
The court heard that, sadly, the relationship between the pair had deteriorated to such an extent that court intervention was needed to stop him ringing, although the bench was not told why this was done.
Justices were told Armstrong lives in St John’s Nursing Home but is being helped to find a bungalow to live in and to do voluntary work.
Carl Gaffney, prosecuting, said: “There have been no further issues between the protagonists since this allegation arose and no further breaches of the order. I don’t condone breaching the order but it’s one incident. Although we are talking about two calls it’s a one-time matter.”
Defending, Kenny Ip said his client had assured him there would be no repeat of the calls. He added: “He didn’t fully appreciate the implications of the order. I’ve gone through it with him today and he promises not to make any further calls or contact his sister. Clearly the relationship has deteriorated to an extent where it will never recover. He has effectively lost all his immediate family members.
“He didn’t remember making the call at the time but now accepts he did call her and leave the message. He won’t breach the order in the future. He just wants to get his life back on track.”
Armstrong was fined £110 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £30 victim surcharge.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story OAP admits order breach Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/oap-admits-order-breach-1-8089506 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/b08713f38c880f18843f2794b96bfc47f9b6893bc88de06ef078129e092b5a76.json |
[
"Lynda Roughley"
] | 2016-08-31T06:51:57 | null | 2016-08-31T07:00:00 | A young man who was left for dead after a deliberate hit-and-run smash today said he could finally re-build his life after his ambushers were jailed. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fambush-victim-s-terror-as-he-was-mown-down-and-left-for-dead-1-8096519.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096515.1472573956!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Ambush victim’s terror as he was mown down and left for dead | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A young man who was left for dead after a deliberate hit-and-run smash today said he could finally re-build his life after his ambushers were jailed.
Liverpool Crown Court heard that Owen Williams was lured into a potentially deadly trap by a Wigan girl he had met on Facebook.
Owen Williams
Abby Liptrot persuaded the 23-year-old sales executive into the middle of a road only for her friend Robert Taylor then to run him down in his car, inflicting terrible injuries.
Mr Williams, who is still suffering physical and mental repercussions from the crash, today said he felt justice had been done.
Six months later he is still attending hospital appointments and suffering mentally and physically.
Liverpool Crown Court heard that the 23-year-old had been in contact with Abbey-lee Liptrot by mobile phone and text messages during the course of the night and repeatedly invited her to a “lock-in” at his local pub.
The two of you made a deliberate decision to go to the location of Mr Williams even though he had made it clear that if you, Liptrot, was with male company that was likely to cause problems Judge Denis Watson QC
He told 18-year-old Liptrot, whom he had never met, that she could bring her female friend along but that no men were welcome.
She was in the front seat of a Ford Fiesta being driven around by Robert Taylor, whom she had also met via Facebook, and her friend was in the back seat, said Catherine Ellis, prosecuting.
While they were driving around in the early hours of February 2 this year, Liptrot and Mr Williams were in touch and it became apparent she was in the car with Mr Taylor and the two men argued over the phone and Mr Williams sent him an abusive text.
Shortly before 4am they arrived in Wargrave Road, Newton-le-Willows, by the Sunbeam pub and Liptrot sent him messages saying the car was outside and to walk towards it.
Robert Taylor
“The prosecution case is that he was brought into the roadway so that something could be done to him,” said Miss Ellis.
Once he was outside the Fiesta left its parked position and 20-year-old Taylor drove it, on his admission, at 30mph along the road, which had cars parked on both sides. “It struck Mr Williams and threw him in the air and left him with a number of serious injuries.”
He suffered four fractured ribs, a fractured and dislocated left shoulder, a small cut to his liver, bleeding in both sides of the chest and bruising to his right lung. He also suffered cuts to his forehead which have left him scarred.
The Fiesta sped off and Taylor considered torching it but instead decided to hide it and told his insurance company it had been vandalised. Taylor and Liptrot were arrested later that day and the car was recovered.
When interviewed they suggested the victim had dived in front of the vehicle. “The prosecution do not accept that account,” said Miss Ellis.
Mr Williams’s friend told how he had “no chance” of getting out of the way and text messages between the defendants showed “no remorse whatsoever”.
Taylor said he had just driven to the pub to see if “it was real” and to see what was going on but got bored and moved off.
Jailing Taylor for 32 months and Liptrot, for 22 weeks, Judge Denis Watson, QC said, “Neither of you showed any remorse at all.”
He told them: “The two of you made a deliberate decision to go to the location of Mr Williams even though he had made it clear that if you, Liptrot, was with male company that was likely to cause problems.”
Liptrot messaged him that she was not prepared to walk down the road and that she was with a woman friend Taylor Whalley. The clear impression of her messages was to persuade him out of the pub and once he came out Robert Taylor drove at speed and he was hit.
The victim’s life has been “turned upside down” and he is self-conscious of the scarring to his forehead, he said.
Taylor, of Bickershaw Lane, Abram, admitted dangerous driving causing serious injury and Liptrot, of Belvoir Street, Scholes, admitted dangerous driving.
Judge Watson told Taylor: “This was a very serious piece of driving indeed. You knew perfectly well that he was being effectively brought out that pub to facilitate your intention to drive with the purpose of scaring him or terrifying him and you caused those serious injuries.”
Taylor was banned from driving for four years four months and Liptrot for two years and are both banned from contacting Mr Williams for five years and an order was made depriving Taylor of his car.
Defence barrister Tom Watson described Liptrot, who was due to start a hair and beauty college course tomorrow, as an immature person and immature mother. She has a young child who she has access to twice a week, he said.
It had been claimed she had been “laughing and smirking” during her last court appearance but Mr Watson said it was naievety and stupidity on her part and the recognition of her behaviour that night was slowly dawning on her.
After the hearing, sales executive Mr Williams told the Wigan Evening Post: “I am happy because this draws a line under the whole affair. Abby had been boasting on social media that she wasn’t going to prison so justice has been done and both have restraining orders.
“It means I can get on with my life. The sentences are a massive relief.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Ambush victim’s terror as he was mown down and left for dead Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/ambush-victim-s-terror-as-he-was-mown-down-and-left-for-dead-1-8096519 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/453d3cd73b4ea811e470f9188c748bc61321f150ce49b0ed8a50e67b4f8b2823.json |
[
"Paul Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-27T16:50:37 | null | 2016-08-27T17:00:01 | Wigan Athletic fired a blank for the first time this season as QPR centre-back Nedum Onouha found the only goal to secure the points. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Fwigan-athletic-0-qpr-1-1-8092503.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8092502.1472314369!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Wigan Athletic 0 QPR 1 | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Wigan Athletic fired a blank for the first time this season as QPR centre-back Nedum Onouha found the only goal to secure the points.
Onouha was the match-winner for the visitors, firing home from the edge of the box just two minutes into the second half.
Latics had enjoyed the better of the first half, but saw two goals disallowed by the linesman on the far side.
First captain Craig Morgan headed home Luke Garbutt’s free-kick six minutes before the break, only to look up and see the flag raised for offside.
Then, in first-half stoppage-time, Nick Powell was penalised for a foul as he slotted home from close range.
Not even the introduction of Jordi Gomez at the midway point in the second period could inspire Latics to a breakthrough, as they suffered their first home defeat of the campaign.
Two great chances fell to Will Grigg in stoppage-time, but Wigan’s top scorer could only head inches over the top, before seeing another effort deflected wide for a corner.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Wigan Athletic 0 QPR 1 Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/wigan-athletic-0-qpr-1-1-8092503 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/1657ae8474d0fe92aeb82ac6c0629456e42756c7d1b6c007f347b37d51142446.json |
[
"Phil Wilkinson"
] | 2016-08-30T06:52:05 | null | 2016-08-30T06:47:22 | Micky McIlorum has all but surrendered hope of playing again this season. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-warriors%2Fmcilorum-doubts-he-will-return-this-year-1-8094406.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8094405.1472474874!/image/image.jpg | en | null | McIlorum doubts he will return this year | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Micky McIlorum has all but surrendered hope of playing again this season.
The hooker hasn’t played since breaking his ankle in the World Club Series loss to Brisbane in February.
McIlorum had targeted a return to action before the end of this Super 8s campaign.
Those hopes swelled when he started running a month ago.
But the 28-year-old admits the recovery since then has not gone as quickly as he had wanted.
And with only four games left – starting with Thursday’s visit of Widnes – before a play-offs match and a potential Grand Final on October 8, he may be beaten by the clock.
McIlorum said: “I think I’ll be struggling for this season.
“I was hoping to get back in the next couple of weeks, but I think time is running out.
“The surgeon says it’s going to plan, and that I can’t rush it because it was a traumatic injury, but it’s not going as quick as I want it to!
“I’d set targets in my head that probably aren’t realistic, so I’ve probably made it tough for myself, but that’s my mindset – I just want to be back as soon as I can and help the boys out.”
Having sat out the majority of the season as Wigan, McIlorum says the frustration has grown since the season split for the Super 8s phase.
“Because that was around the time I started running, and I think it’s the last 10 per cent which will be the toughest part,” he said. “It’s a case of so close, but so far.” He is one of three players out for the year, along with forward Joel Tomkins and winger Dom Manfredi.
But otherwise, Shaun Wane has a strong roster to choose from – including fit-again duo Tony Clubb and Sean O’Loughlin.
Sam Powell has covered the No.9 duties in McIlorum’s absence, and helped the Warriors climb to third in the Super League ladder.
Wane has his sights on overtaking Challenge Cup finalists Warrington and Hull FC and claiming the league leaders’ shield – which comes with a £100,000 prize fund for the club – and a home semi-final.
McIlorum has used the extra time off to plan events for his testimonial season in 2017, to celebrate his decade in the Warriors first-team.
“If ever there was a good time to break my leg, this was it - there’s a lot to sort out,” smiled the Yorkshireman. “It doesn’t seem two minutes since my debut, it’s quite scary how quickly it has gone.”
McIlorum recently flew to Errea’s base in Italy to oversee the design of a special testimonial shirt, and has planned race and golf days, and dinners in Cumbria, Wigan and Manchester.
Sponsorship opportunities and details are at his website mmc9.co.uk.
Meanwhile, Wigan stand-off George Williams has been shortlisted for the First:Utility Super League player of the month award for a second consecutive time.
He is joined by Jack Buchanan (Widnes), Danny Houghton (Hull FC), Denny Solomona (Castleford) and Alex Walmsley (St Helens) on the shortlist for the August prize.
Fans can vote via the First Utility Super League Facebook page, until 12pm on September 2, and the two players with the most votes will then be considered by a judging panel.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story McIlorum doubts he will return this year Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-warriors/mcilorum-doubts-he-will-return-this-year-1-8094406 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/368bdf5f45e685ab920d11af009292824ede7f509635a2a0c1d678a3a0f1725f.json |
[
"Pam Norfolk",
"Pamnorfolk Tiscali.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T13:03:31 | null | 2016-08-24T10:00:00 | From poet John Keats to Prince Charles, and from life-changing scientists to prize-winning authors, some of the world’s most famous people have relied on ‘bedders’ to see them through their toughest student days at Cambridge. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fbook-review-the-staircase-girls-by-catherine-seymour-1-8081798.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8081797.1471861083!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Book review: The Staircase Girls by Catherine Seymour | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | From poet John Keats to Prince Charles, and from life-changing scientists to prize-winning authors, some of the world’s most famous people have relied on ‘bedders’ to see them through their toughest student days at Cambridge.
In her fascinating account of just some of the hundreds of working-class women who have looked after the students of Cambridge University, Catherine Seymour, whose grandmother and great-grandmother were bedders, reveals their secret lives, heartaches and joy.
For centuries, the university’s bedders – the equivalent at Oxford is a ‘scout’ – have cleaned, tidied, made beds, dispensed advice and physical aid, and offered a reassuring maternal presence to generations of nervous, lonely students.
Bedders still look after today’s Cambridge students but the work they do, and the young people they care for, have changed over the last decades.
Until the 1980s, bedders carried buckets of coal up the stairs to light fires in the rooms of the fellows as well as dusting, tidying, taking away rubbish and, in some colleges, making the students’ breakfasts.
It was hard work but it came with privileges and offered an experience unlike other jobs available to working-class women. Some of the bedders had previously worked in shops or as waitresses, cleaners, factory hands and other low-paid manual jobs.
The college offered them family-friendly hours, starting work early but allowing them to get home in time for lunch and to make an evening meal for their children. Often bedders would pay neighbours to look after their pre-school youngsters.
In the first half of the 20th century, some of the upper class (male) students saw their bedders as simply servants but for many others, these women who instructed them on everything from dressing properly to combing their hair, were the only warm, motherly presence in an otherwise cold, paternalistic environment.
In turn, many bedders enjoyed their glimpse into a world they knew little about and during her research Seymour discovered that the women appreciated the genuine return of affection from students who often left gifts for them at Christmas, term ends and after graduation.
And for some of the bedders who got to know their students well, graduation was almost like watching their own children leave home.
In these unique, vivid and often moving stories, inspired by the accounts of bedders from the 1920s to the 1960s, we meet women who endured the Second World War and then had to contend with poverty, ill health and bereavement.
For 16-year-old Joyce, who lived in one of the poorest streets in Cambridge, the college building where she was about to start work represented privilege, wealth, a life she would never live. What she never expected was to find herself mothering, chastising and sometimes even covering up for ‘her boys.’
These hard-working women loved, lost and loved again. But their friendships gave them strength, and their work gave them happiness, and even a lasting connection with their charges, some of whom would go on to run the country.
As much a social history as the individual stories of the bedders, The Staircase Girls is a memorable and eye-opening glimpse into the remarkable lives of a very special group of women.
(Pan, paperback, £7.99) | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/book-review-the-staircase-girls-by-catherine-seymour-1-8081798 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/0cc3dd0fcb149f1e3bf28ee79579e651cff16fd4ee725e0be9c612b6219f5660.json |
[
"Daniel Bailey",
"James.Trembath Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-27T06:50:02 | null | 2016-08-27T07:00:23 | There aren’t many hotels that boast a two-Michelin star restaurant, but this delightful haven in Devon has just that. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fgastronomy-at-its-finest-daniel-bailey-enjoys-a-star-studded-stay-at-a-devon-country-house-hotel-1-8084711.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8084710.1471969287!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Gastronomy at its finest - Daniel Bailey enjoys a star-studded stay at a Devon country house hotel | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | There aren’t many hotels that boast a two-Michelin star restaurant, but this delightful haven in Devon has just that.
Set on the doorstep of Dartmoor National Park, near Chagford, stunning Gidleigh Park ticks all the boxes for a five-star weekend of food heaven.
Standing proudly on a bank within more than 100 acres of private woodlands, its location is wild and dramatic, with the immaculate gardens a vision of beauty.
Refined, traditional and classic are just three words to describe the stunning Tudor building, which also boasts an immensely stylish interior.
Before check-in, ensure to stretch your legs with a stroll around the beautiful estate, which is a lovely way of soaking up the fantastic green surroundings.
A circular route takes you past the picturesque water gardens, tennis courts, croquet lawn and Bluebell Copse wood.
Also make time for a spot of golf on the large lush putting green, with 18 testing holes featuring various water hazards and narrow slopes.
Inside is everything you’d expect from a country house hotel – antique furniture, stone fireplaces and elegant bouquets of flowers – all very sophisticated and ideally suited to the quiet atmosphere.
Our beautifully-decorated room, one of the hotel’s luxury suites, included a roll-top bath, his and hers sinks and the biggest walk-in shower you may ever see.
If you book the Manaton room, you’ll get a private rooftop hot tub where you can bask under the stars and top-of-the-range Dartmeet houses a marble bath, sauna and steam room.
Sipping drinks on the terrace is a great way to admire the stunning panoramic views and the lounge is an area where you can make yourself feel at home.
There’s also a well-stocked bar, conservatory and self-service pantry stocked with teas, coffee and biscuits.
Dinner is a gastronomic experience of a lifetime, with chef Michael Wignall a food genius who will take you on a food journey you will never forget.
His exquisite seven-course tasting menu was a culinary carnival which was simply the best meal I have ever had the pleasure of eating.
From the elegant dainty canapes through to the rich malt and yeast frozen cream dessert, the flavours in each dish complemented each other perfectly, leaving your palette purring.
Torched eel, loin of rabbit, baked smoked carrots and St Austell bay mussels were just a few of the delights on offer.
There’s an informative aspect to the meal as well, with restaurant staff explaining in detail the flavours of each dish and how they were prepared.
For breakfast, there’s the more traditional menu, featuring full English, Eggs Benedict, kippers and porridge.
No words will do this place justice unless you go and experience it for yourself, for this was an experience that has left memories we will treasure forever.
Hotel facts:
Overnight stays at Gidleigh Park start from £250 for a double room, or £125pp, on a bed and breakfast basis.
Lunch is £40 for three courses Monday to Thursday, or £50 Friday – Sunday.
A seven-course tasting menu, available at lunch or dinner, costs £110, while a ten-course tasting menu, available for dinner only, is £130.
Afternoon tea is served every day between 3.30 and 5pm and costs £37.50 per person, or £50 including a glass of champagne.
For further information or to book visit www.gidleigh.co.uk or call 01647 432367.
Hire a car with Rentalcars.com
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Popular destinations include London, Mallorca, Alicante, Dublin, Malaga and Edinburgh.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Gastronomy at its finest - Daniel Bailey enjoys a star-studded stay at a Devon country house hotel Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/gastronomy-at-its-finest-daniel-bailey-enjoys-a-star-studded-stay-at-a-devon-country-house-hotel-1-8084711 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/b2e72b881342d6cdc969804c3b35675e69477414bc3abc672c1de9f6577edadf.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T10:51:45 | null | 2016-08-30T10:08:49 | The grieving parents of a domestic violence victim say they are expecting a call they dread “any day now”. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Ffamily-s-dread-over-killer-s-release-bid-1-8095328.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8095323.1472551700!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Family’s dread over killer’s release bid | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | The grieving parents of a domestic violence victim say they are expecting a call they dread “any day now”.
Trevor and Sheila Fairhurst are bracing themselves for news of killer Darren Pilkington’s parole hearing, which could see him back on the streets within weeks.
Carly Fairhurst
A decade ago Pilkington, who was then dating their 19-year-old daughter Carly, pushed her downstairs at a house they were minding and left her for dead.
The critically injured Hindley teenager was on a life support system for several days before losing her battle for life.
Pilkington, now, 33, became one of the first people in British legal history to admit to two separate cases of manslaughter. He was serving a jail term for his part in the death of Hindley man Paul Akister when he first became close to Carly.
He has already served many years over his original minimum tariff, and could in fact have already been released had there not been an incident at an open prison when he was not found to be in his cell.
He was thereafter returned to a higher category jail and the system decrees that he will not return to a lower category one before release.
Mr and Mrs Fairhurst have been waiting for months to discover when the all-important parole hearing will be, when a panel will decide whether he needs to stay behind bars longer or be released on licence.
Mr Fairhurst said: “It has been an anxious wait. It’s odd because no news is good news – the longer he stays behind bars the better. But we are also waiting for the news of the hearing and it can’t be long now.
“I imagine that during the summer break it is difficult to get everyone together for consultation on his fitness to be released. You need the prison governor, a senior probation official, a representative of the Secretary of State and police.
“He is past his tariff and, since that incident at the open prison, he seems to have played the system so he could well be released. It is a worry.”
If Pilkington is allowed out there will be very strict licence terms imposed. These are likely to include not entering Greater Manchester for at least 10 years. He will also be in a hostel where he will be tested for drugs and alcohol every evening and, of course, he must make no attempt to contact the Fairhursts.
Any breach of these conditions and he will find himself back behind bars.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Family’s dread over killer’s release bid Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/family-s-dread-over-killer-s-release-bid-1-8095328 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/3e833d71aa6834bc785fb04c6fda0ce65eaeabd1618f1a1312e0ad5559cb53ff.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:07:07 | null | 2016-08-19T13:16:59 | This week, F1’s 2016 Limited Edition hits pole position on Xbox One, Tropico 5’s Complete Collection is let loose on PS4 and Overcooked sizzles on Xbox One. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Fgames-central-startlingly-real-racing-action-in-f1-s-2016-limited-edition-1-8078595.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8078592.1471609001!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Games Central: Startlingly real racing action in F1’s 2016 Limited Edition | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | This week, F1’s 2016 Limited Edition hits pole position on Xbox One, Tropico 5’s Complete Collection is let loose on PS4 and Overcooked sizzles on Xbox One.
Elsewhere, Reigns and Midnight Star Renegade land on smartphone and tablet
F1s 2016 Limited Edition
GAME OF THE WEEK:
Title: F1 2016 Limited Edition
Platform: Xbox One
Genre: Racing
F1s 2016 Limited Edition
Price: £41.99
ASIN: B01GCBP6MW
Startlingly real racing action
Yet again, Lewis Hamilton is leading the way again in the F1 stakes this year, and now you can step onto the virtual circuits in F1 2016, putting you in control of his high-speed destiny or, indeed, any of the other drivers on this year’s racing roster. This annual racing release has been tweaked and tinkered with to pull further away from the competition, delivering an excellent racing experience that handles just as brilliantly as it looks. We’ve got the introduction of the safety car and virtual safety car this year, as well as the Baku circuit in Azerbaijan and the new Haas F1 team, while under the hood there’s the usual ultra-realistic career mode for players to tackle, as you, your agent, engineer and team search for the perfect recipe for success. It’s perhaps one for seasoned drivers, offering the most intense on-track action, and will no doubt lead to a few race-ending crashes, realised in superb 1080p high definition. F1 gaming continues to feel fresh, and this 2016 iteration will give you renewed vigour to step into the pits and find your own high-speed path to glory.
89%
Title: Tropico 5 Complete Collection
Platform: PS4
Genre: Strategy
Price: £31.99
ASIN: B01H39NXPE
An awesome island adventure
Packed with a host of new gameplay features and new artwork designed from scratch, Tropico 5 has taken the series in a new direction - dynasties! You, as El Presidente, must first take control of the infamous island of Tropico during early colonial times and then guide it through the centuries as the world changes and moves ever forward. You’ll need to tackle the changing needs of your people, as well as opposing governments and factions, all the while laying the foundations for your own dynasty. Can you survive both World Wars, prosper through the Great Depression, rule as an iron-fisted dictator through the Cold War and advance your country to modern times and beyond? From advanced trading mechanics and technology, to scientific research trees and island exploration, Tropico 5 is a fabulous tycoon experience, which sticks to the series’ well worn path with the addition of some excellent add-on packs in this PS4 Complete Collection. Whether you’re forging your own way in the ultra-liberating sandbox mode or tackling the challenges together with pals online, this is an island adventure you can’t refuse.
85%
Title: Overcooked
Platform: Xbox One
Genre: Arcade
Price: £12.79
ASIN: N/A - Download from Xbox Store
You’ll be desperate for seconds
Overcooked is a chaotic co-op cooking game that charges you to work as a team as you and your fellow chefs prepare, cook and serve up a variety of tasty orders before the baying customers storm out in a huff. In single player mode, you’ll toggle between two chefs, carefully maximising your time for all the tasks you need to complete to get your dishes prepped. You have the option of controlling both with the two controller sticks, but this is pretty tough to wrap your head around. Your cooking environments don’t make it any easier, too, as you might be slinging ingredients from one fast moving truck to another or even slipping around in an icy arctic location. The co-op local multiplayer is where the action becomes totally crazy, and you’ll need well-planned teamwork to progress through each increasingly difficult scenario. The pursuit of culinary perfection and deep strategic elements complement the fun cartoon visuals perfectly, and this is a game that’ll keep you hungry for more.
85%
Title: Reigns
Platform: iPhone/iPad
Genre: Strategy
Price: £2.29
ASIN: N/A
A strategy card game that proves it’s tough at the top
Reigns is an interesting little app concept. Essentially a leadership simulator, in your position of power you are constantly approached by people “cards” from your kingdom and must take decisions for each differing request that maintain a balance of respect from the church, the community and the army, as well as keeping your bank balance healthy. You’ll generally find your finger swiping left to answer negatively to a request and right for positive. You can also hold your swipe to see more details about what you’re about to say. Random events and special cards will also throw some tasty challenges into the mix, and as you build harmony across the board, your score (or years in charge as ruler) increases. Get it wrong, and your castle will be stormed and you’ll be killed, only to start again from scratch as a brand new leader. It’s an interesting premise with slick, simple controls that will present all sorts of dilemmas for you to deal with before you get off the bus for work!
80%
Title: Midnight Star Renegade
Platform: iPhone/iPad
Genre: Shooter
Price: Free (with in-app purchases)
ASIN: N/A
On-rails shooter star struggles to shine
The original Midnight Star has been crunched and compressed in Renegade to try to recreate the high-energy on-rails shooter experience that worked so well first time out. Alien annihilation is the name of the game as you move through each set-piece, tapping on the screen to shoot, pinching to zoom and using other buttons on-screen to shift your viewpoint or throw grenades. Renegade forces more control upon your character by making your swipe to move as well as all the above, and it does make the action overwhelming at times. Rather than becoming fantastically frenetic, it actually makes the whole experience of bit of frustrating mess. And, with stripped back game modes, repetitive level designs and similar enemies, the boiling down of Midnight Star results in a title that may be fun for an hour or two, but quickly loses its lustre.
62%
WHAT’S HOT AND WHAT’S NOT?
As gamers’ Pokemon Go creature collections have probably swelled significantly over the mobile app’s first few weeks of launch, the coffers of developers Niantic have become similarly stuffed. Estimates from Sensor Tower suggest that global revenues for the game have surpassed 200 million dollars in the app’s first month of availability. This commercial performance eclipses that of Clash Royale, another highly successful gaming app with in-app purchases, which registered 120 million dollars of revenue in the same time frame.
Meanwhile, in the charts this week, No Man’s Sky stormed enjoyed intergalactic sales success, debuting at the number one and nudging GTA V down to second, while Uncharted 4 also toppled down from two to five.
GAME CHART ALL FORMATS FULL PRICE
1. No Man’s Sky
2. Grand Theft Auto V
3. Overwatch
4. LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens
5. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
6. Rocket League
7. FIFA 16
8. Doom
9. Call of Duty: Black Ops III
10. Minecraft: Xbox Edition
Leisure software charts compiled by Chart Track, (c) 2016 UKIE Ltd | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/games-central-startlingly-real-racing-action-in-f1-s-2016-limited-edition-1-8078595 | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/0f5efd69b09b76aae5e8c23b6de261507a993c253977965ff5cff2edc7e2c5ce.json |
[
"Phil Wilkinson"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:34 | null | 2016-08-25T17:00:50 | Wigan officials have named next month’s game against Catalans as the Big One VI, with ticket offers and promotions to try and attract a big crowd. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-warriors%2Frichards-reflects-on-his-career-and-reveals-next-step-1-8087532.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8087530.1472115697!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Richards reflects on his career... and reveals next step | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Wigan officials have named next month’s game against Catalans as the Big One VI, with ticket offers and promotions to try and attract a big crowd.
Had it not been for a cruel knee injury to one of their opponents, they wouldn’t need such a marketing ploy to lure in the fans.
With the French outfit struggling to crack into the top-four, the final-game of the Super 8s was shaping as Pat Richards’ last match before he hung up his boots.
Fitting, then, that he face Wigan, the club where he built his legacy by breaking points-scoring records over eight years.
“But you can’t always write the script, especially in a game like rugby league,” Richards told the Observer.
“When the fixtures came out I was looking at it and thought it would be a good to go and play at the DW again, say a few goodbyes.
“But I was struggling with the knee and I couldn’t really train, my performances were going down.
“I’d already decided not to take up the option of my second year with Catalans, and I wanted to finish the year well.
“It was unfortunate it’s ended the way it has, it’s not the fairytale, but I’ve been playing for 17 years so I’ve no complaints.”
Richards’ penultimate game was the 26-6 defeat against the Warriors last month.
Pat Richards won the Man of Steel in 2010
In a surreal moment after the match, the Wigan players went to applaud the travelling army of fans – only for them to sing “Richards is Superman” in tribute to Catalans’ winger.
“I was talking to a couple of the boys and they were laughing about that,” said Richards. “But I’ve always had great support from the Wigan fans.”
Richards was already a Grand Final winner in the NRL with Wests, in which he scored a memorable long-range try, when he moved to Super League in 2006.
Signed by Ian Millward as a centre, he struggled to make his mark in a team which tumbled to the foot of the table.
But he helped Wigan avoid relegation in a memorable finish to the season and the following year, took on the goal-kicking duties.
Richards quickly became a fans’ favourite, slotting over a memorable drop-goal in a sensational 31-30 play-offs win at Bradford.
The following year he returned to Australia with the Ireland in the World Cup squad, and he had already re-signed with Wigan by the time Michael Maguire arrived as coach in 2010.
In that pivotal campaign, Richards became Super League’s top tryscorer (with 29), scored 38 points in a match against Catalans – the most ever by a Wigan player in a league match – and finished the year as both Man of Steel and International Winger of the Year.
He also celebrated Grand Final glory at Old Trafford, and he would later add another Super League ring, two league leaders’ shields and two Challenge Cup wins to his haul before deciding to return to old club Wests at the end of 2013.
Arguably his most impressive highlight for Wigan came in defeat – his monster drop-goal against St Helens in his final season. Just inside the opposing half, he received a scrappy pass and – under pressure – let fly with a stunning effort from just inside the touchline. It was tracked at 52 metres, just 3m shy of Joe Lydon’s world record in 1989.
“I still don’t know why I did that,” said the 34-year-old. “When you look back now, it was a crazy thing to do... but it would have been better if we’d got the win too.” Richards is third on Wigan’s goal-scoring list (900) and points list (2,468), behind Jim Sullivan and Andy Farrell.
“When I joined Wigan, my plan was to go over for two or three years - I never intended to stay for eight,” smiled Richards, who eclipsed the seven years chalked up by his former team-mate, Brett Dallas.
“But I stayed because I loved it there, and I played my best footy there. It was a big part of my life.
“I’ve no regrets about any of the decisions I’ve made.
“I’m glad I went back and had another go in the NRL, and even though on the field it didn’t work out as well as I’d hoped at Catalans, it was a great experience for my family.”
He picks out captain Sean O’Loughlin as the best player he has ever lined-up alongside, and as for his career highlight?
“Just to play so long, and play in different countries and meet so many great people,” he said. “And just the trophies. When you win something, you have that bond with those blokes.
“Whenever I see someone who was on that coach ride home from Wembley, it doesn’t matter how much times passes, you have that bond of winning the trophy together and celebrating it.”
Richards hopes to stay involved with the game, and has spoken to his old club Wests Tigers about a role as a development and kicking coach. And though he plans to settle in his native Sydney, he will be keeping a close eye on results from Wigan.
“I’ve already had a lot of nice messages from people in Wigan,” he added. “I still have a lot of good mates there, and I’ll be watching their games and following their results, for sure.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Richards reflects on his career... and reveals next step Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-warriors/richards-reflects-on-his-career-and-reveals-next-step-1-8087532 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/fa3c67905ea57bd2ff7a2495f4a117e9645d6811db70f561478bf9f9a8d95d92.json |
[] | 2016-08-31T08:52:00 | null | 2016-08-31T08:00:00 | Could Dave Whelan’s empire-building days be coming to an end? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fwhelan-doubles-size-of-dw-empire-in-one-go-1-8096540.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096538.1472574388!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Whelan doubles size of DW empire in one go | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Could Dave Whelan’s empire-building days be coming to an end?
In an exclusive interview with the Wigan Evening Post today, the millionaire said that a deal to take over most of Fitness First’s gyms to double the number of his DW Sports Fitness outlets at a stroke will probably be as big as the business will be allowed to get because of retail competition rules.
When the deal is secured we will have around 130 outlets in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales Dave Whelan
The 79-year-old former Wigan Athletic chairman was speaking from a holiday in Majorca as news broke back home of the £65m take-over of 63 health clubs.
He said: “The deal should be completed within the next fortnight.
“We are getting 63 health clubs which are mainly in the south of England where DW does not have so much of a presence. There nearest thing to a clash is Poole in Dorset and they are five miles apart. Quite a few of them are in the London area where we don’t have a presence at all at the moment.
“It is also a good fit because they do a lot of we do and have also recently spent quite a lot of money doing the gyms up. Half of them have swimming pools as well as gyms.
“Fitness First have 250 other gyms around the world and they are stepping back and selling most of them off. We at DW are not interested in buying the overseas ones.”
Half a dozen UK Fitness First gyms are being sold to Gym World, Mr Whelan saying he wasn’t interested in them because they were “dry” - in other words didn’t have a pool - and/or did not have very much time left on their leases.
Mr Whelan said: “We are not expecting any trouble from the competition people with the deal that we have.
“But it will be difficult to spend more because of the competition rules and regulations. You cannot dominate towns and cities.
“When the deal is secured we will have around 130 outlets in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
“I don’t think the Fitness First staff have anything to worry about either. We operate our company much in the same way as Fitness First.”
Mr Whelan, who turns 80 later this year, launched his DW Sports Fitness business in part to rescue vestiges of the JJB Sports empire he had once built up to be the biggest retailer of its kind.
At its height JJB had boasted more than 600 stores but fell into terminal decline after Mr Whelan left the business.
He has a track record at starting afresh just when everyone thinks he is going to take it easy.
After retiring as a professional footballer in the 1960s, Mr Whelan built up a small supermarket empire which he sold at an impressive profit to Morrisons. The intention then was to take early retirement but he joked in his autobiography that after a week of being taken on shopping expeditions by wife Pat he was ready for a new business challenge and so bought himself a Wigan town centre sport and angling shop called JJB.
The business made him a multi-millionaire and he has had a number of other commercial interests over the years including the Wrightington Hotel and Country Club, Poole’s bakeries and Vizwear.
He relinquished the chairmanship of Wigan Athletic to his grandson David Sharpe a couple of years ago but remains its owner.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Whelan doubles size of DW empire in one go Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/whelan-doubles-size-of-dw-empire-in-one-go-1-8096540 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/6849a7e229271a46027db98bb382a2080b6d0b7701f04aa6be06ae8214820678.json |
[
"Phil Wilkinson"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:36 | null | 2016-08-25T09:48:29 | Warriors coach Shaun Wane has received a double-boost – a week before their next match. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-warriors%2Fdouble-boost-for-warriors-1-8087459.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8087458.1472114894!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Double boost for Warriors | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Warriors coach Shaun Wane has received a double-boost – a week before their next match.
Prop Tony Clubb has been given the green-light to make his long-awaited return to action.
And captain Sean O’Loughlin has recovered from a hamstring injury which has sidelined him for two matches.
Wane confirmed both are likely to be brought back into his squad for their home match against Widnes next Thurday.
Clubb, 29, has not figured in more than three months.
He was in strong form until suffering a neck injury which required surgery.
And it’s hard to over-state O’Loughlin’s value to his hometown club.
Wane said: “It’s going to be great to have those two players coming back in.
“One area we do need to be stronger in is the middles, and Clubby and Lockers will improve us.
“Obviously Clubby has not played in a while but he has been training really hard and I’ve no doubts he’ll be ready to go.”
Third-placed Wigan are just two points behind leaders Hull FC, with four games of the Super 8s to go.
And the return of Clubb and O’Loughlin will intensify competition for places at the perfect time.
Lee Mossop was squeezed out of the frame for the 25-0 derby win against St Helens.
And Wane must now find two other forwards to make way.
Although Joel Tomkins is out for the rest of the year with a knee injury, the Warriors chief has Ben Flower, Dom Crosby, Ryan Sutton, Taulima Tautai, Frank-Paul Nuuausala and Willie Isa all competing for spots in the side.
Wane also has the option of dropping livewire Jake Shorrocks – who has figured in seven of the last 10 – and loading his bench with four forwards.
The players trained at their Orrell base yesterday and will today be at Preston’s University of Central Lancashire campus again, before an early weekend break ahead of preparations for next Thursday’s clash.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Double boost for Warriors Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-warriors/double-boost-for-warriors-1-8087459 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/69a0c872604292d7386c5418f7d0d63fe7c936fa9e3584a585e52af03fc552b0.json |
[
"Charles Graham",
"Charles.Graham Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-30T16:51:48 | null | 2016-08-30T16:00:13 | The countdown has begun for a village’s second annual cultural bonanza. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fthousands-to-attend-major-street-fest-1-8096231.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096230.1472568099!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Thousands to attend major street fest | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | The countdown has begun for a village’s second annual cultural bonanza.
The Parbold Street Festival of Arts and Music returns on the weekend of September 3 and 4 and organisers are promising an even bigger and better one than the impressive first which attracted 5,000 visitors.
It gets under way at noon on Saturday with a performance by the Red Rose Band, playing New Orleans music through the village. The Big Stage, behind the Railway pub hosts music from many local bands and singers over the two days including Burly Chassis, the Whiskey Casers and On the Line.
More than 40 stalls will be set up, and there is a Problem Child Beer and Gin Festival at the Wayfarer. The Lancashire Society will be in the Women’s Institute showcasing songs, stories and dance plus theatrical performances from days gone by. A German beer and sausage event will be at the Stocks Tavern.
To celebrate the bicentenary of the Leeds/Liverpool canal, the Canal and River Trust will be bringing George, a Victorian barge, turned into an interactive museum. Ambush, another Victorian barge, will also be there plus the Rose of Parbold will be turned into a floating art gallery for the weekend.
The Windmill is offering a hog Roast and cider event plus market place in the centre of the village.
The Mill Leat area will be turned into “The Village” containing a second, stage, food, drink, stalls and attractions. Parbold Equestrian Centre, working with Riding for the Disabled, will be providing demonstrations, taster classes, fun and games and attractions at their site opposite the Stocks Tavern. Music will be performed at Coffee etc and Yours is the Earth.
Barges will be coming and, dressed in lights, will be parading in the Festival of Light on Saturday evening.
Sunday will see an inter-denominational church service on the Big Stage at 11am followed by our Grand Duck Race at 1pm on the canal. The Village Stage will have performances by Blowjangles, the Worldwise Samba Drummers and Ukes Alive.
Over the weekend, there will be theatre and parades enacting The Legend of Parbold Hill which tells the story of Sunny the dragon who lives under the hill. There is a Kids’ Zone with fairground, stalls and attractions, including Paint Ball target shooting, crazy golf, and sand art.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Thousands to attend major street fest Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/thousands-to-attend-major-street-fest-1-8096231 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/cc9576e3654bc7c5ed8edf99c40135f52010b586e71d7d36059b4fae9ee995b1.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:10:42 | null | 2016-08-25T17:00:24 | Round-up of people brought before Wigan and Leigh magistrates ... | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fweek-in-court-1-8089368.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8089366.1472140807!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Week In Court | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Round-up of people brought before Wigan and Leigh magistrates ...
Thomas Richard Price (23): Marlborough Avenue, Ince - Drove on Warrington Road, Springview, without due care and attention, failed to stop at the scene of an accident: Driving record endorsed with five points, £135 fine, £20 surcharge to fund victim services, pay costs of £75 to the Crown Prosecution Service.
Stephen Martin Blair (45): Yates Grove, Beech Hill - Without reasonable excuse, attended at Rose Street, Ince, while prohibited from doing so by a restraining order: £320 fine, £32 surcharge to fund victim services, pay costs of £85 to the Crown Prosecution Service.
James Stephen (21): Ormskirk Road, Pemberton - Possession of baseball bat in a public place, possession of cannabis - guilty pleas entered: Sentencing at Liverpool Crown Court on August 24.
Daniel Robert Bond (28): Copperfield, Swinley - Stole cash cards, threatened unlawful violence, damaged laptops and other property to the value of £2,000, assaulted Shaun Bond - guilty pleas: Sentencing at Liverpool Crown Court on September 5.
Bernard Christopher Ward (45): No fixed address - At Wigan, assaulted Elizabeth Ward by beating, drove while disqualified: Jailed for 28 days, £115 surcharge to fund victim services, disqualified from driving for 15 months.
Liam Anthony Makin (28): Charles Street, Wigan - Damaged wing mirrors of three cars to the value of £440, committing an offence while a suspended sentence for assualt was in operation: Jailed for 14 weeks.
Bradley David Finch (18): Prestt Grove, Worsley Mesnes - Without lawful excuse, attended an address at Lansbury Street while prohibited from doing so by a restraining order: 12-month community order with 40 hours of unpaid work requirement, £85 surcharge to fund victim services, £85 costs to the Crown Prosecution Service.
John Anthony Brown (43): Pool Street, Poolstock - Failed to comply with requirements of a community order given for theft: Jailed for two months, suspended for 12 months, for the original offence of theft.
Jason Fleming (42): Yewdale Road, Ashton - Failed to comply with the requirements of a community order: £20 fine.
Cieran Harrison (30): No fixed address - Drunk and disorderly in Market Place, Wigan: £37 fine, £30 surcharge to fund victim services, £85 costs to the Crown Prosecution Service.
Roy Smalley (47): Closebrook Road, Worsley Hall - Failed to surrender to custody, committing an offence while a suspended sentence for theft was in operation: Jailed for 14 weeks.
Stacie Cooper (36): Ridyard Street, Pemberton - Failed to comply with requirements of a community order given for failing to ensure their child attended at school: Community order made with curfew requirement.
Frank David Birtle (40): Silverdale Avenue, Ince - Possession of diamorphine, had a metal bar as an offensive weapon on Bird Street, damage a door to the value of £100 belonging to Gareth Roberts: Community order with 30-week curfew, £85 surcharge to fund victim services, £85 costs to the Crown Prosecution Service.
Craig MacDonald (30): Rivington Drive, Bickershaw - Drink driving on Bickershaw Lane with 91 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, with the legal limit being 35 microgrammes: £308 fine, £30 surcharge to fund victim services, £85 costs to the Crown Prosecution Service, disqualified from driving for 24 months.
Adam David McGuire (26): Trevore Drive, Standish - Drink driving on Bickershaw Lane with 44 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, with the legal limit being 35 microgrammes: £440 fine, £44 surcharge to fund victim services, £85 costs to the Crown Prosecution Service, disqualified from driving for 12 months.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Week In Court Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/week-in-court-1-8089368 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/2823136c46f4628558d52efd8d84064c1b95e11be4cbcf10a8573f7617b2ef99.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:07:51 | null | 2016-08-19T10:27:23 | Do you think it’s okay to allow children to drink some alcohol at home? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Foffbeat%2Fdo-you-think-it-s-okay-to-allow-children-to-drink-some-alcohol-at-home-1-8078038.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8078037.1471608443!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Do you think it’s okay to allow children to drink some alcohol at home? | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Do you think it’s okay to allow children to drink some alcohol at home?
A study has found that half of parents with children under the age of 14 allow them to drink alcohol at home.
And, perhaps more worryingly, one in ten respondents to the Churchill Home Insurance survey allow children between the ages of five and seven to drink alcohol.
While it is not illegal for a child between the age of five and 16 to drink alcohol on private premises, it flies in the face of advice from the Chief Medical Officer whose official advice warns: “Children and their parents or carers are advised that an alcohol-free childhood is the healthiest and best option. However, if children drink alcohol underage, it should not be until at least the age of 15 years.
“Parents and young people should be aware that drinking, even at age 15 or older, can be hazardous to health and that not drinking is the healthiest option for young people.”
The UK Chief Medical Officer highlights that “drinking, even at age 15 or older, can be hazardous to health and that not drinking is the healthiest option for young people.” | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/offbeat/do-you-think-it-s-okay-to-allow-children-to-drink-some-alcohol-at-home-1-8078038 | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/6379dec4f02fee7fe26a1810bfb6f91d1ffb947aae80962229ca2828fa3f6a3c.json |
[
"Paul Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-27T22:51:14 | null | 2016-08-27T22:14:07 | Gary Caldwell admitted there were positives to be gleaned from Wigan Athletic’s disappointing 1-0 home defeat to QPR - but beomoaned another lapse at the back that proved costly. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Fclose-but-no-cigar-caldwell-1-8092796.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8092795.1472333493!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Close but no cigar - Caldwell | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Gary Caldwell admitted there were positives to be gleaned from Wigan Athletic’s disappointing 1-0 home defeat to QPR - but beomoaned another lapse at the back that proved costly.
Latics signed off for the international break with a second league defeat on the spin, thanks to a 8th-minute strike from Nedum Onouha, who was given time and space to lash home from 15 yards.
The home side had enough ball and possession to do some damage themselves, but didn’t force Rangers goalkeeper Alex Smithies into enough meaningful action.
“There were a few positives, we created opportunities, the players gave me everything, they kept going,” acknowledged Caldwell.
“I can’t fault the desire, but we have to get better in terms of know-how, and playing in the right areas.
“We just have to work hard and make sure we get the little things right that become big things in the game.
“We could have switched play better, could have played in wide areas better, we know they’re a team that plays narrow.
“We just didn’t exploit that space as much as we would have liked.
“Again we conceded a poor goal, and we have to learn that clean sheets are going to be the bedrock of our success this season.
“We have to stop conceding poor goals.”
On-loan Everton left wing-back Luke Garbutt came closest to scoring for Latics, only for his second-half effort to be brilliantly saved at full stretch by Smithies.
Will Grigg also had a couple of decent chances in stoppage-time, the first of which flew just over and the second was foiled by a brilliant block by ex-Latic James Perch at the far post.
“I thought the first one was a great cross but maybe just too high for him,” said Caldwell.
“For the second one, Perchy defends well at the back post.
“There just wasn’t enough of that for my liking.
“We should have been doing that in the first half, and putting them under more pressure.”
Latics thought they’d taken the lead six minutes before the break, only for captain Craig Morgan’s header off Garbutt’s pinpoint free-kick to be disallowed for offside.
“When you see it back, he is marginally offside,” admitted Caldwell.
“But I didn’t expect anything else, every time somebody went through they were offside.
“He (the linesman) got more wrong than he got right, but the goal was marginally offside.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Close but no cigar - Caldwell Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/close-but-no-cigar-caldwell-1-8092796 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/a0e482c61f99bb90b999b0066435b82f8cbfa93464fe0ec27867de5068ebbbe5.json |
[
"Stuart Chandler",
"James.Trembath Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-27T06:50:05 | null | 2016-08-27T07:00:15 | Victoria went on to rule for 63 years, and was our longest serving monarch until she was overtaken by Elizabeth II on tith September 2015. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Flong-to-reign-over-us-1-8084685.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8084684.1471968729!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Long to reign over us | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Victoria went on to rule for 63 years, and was our longest serving monarch until she was overtaken by Elizabeth II on tith September 2015.
BAFTA-nominated actor Rufus Sewell is cast alongside Jenna starring as Lord Melbourne, Victoria’s first prime minister. The two immediately connected and their intimate friendship became a popular source of gossip that threatened to destabilise the Government – angering both Tory and Whigs alike.
Tom Hughes stars as Prince Albert. Appearing in the drama from episode 3, Albert immediately makes an impression on the young queen, his first cousin. Although Victoria resisted attempts to rush her into marriage initially, her partnership with Albert was a success and they would ultimately produce nine children.
We caught up with former Doctor Who companian Jenna to find out about the drama. . .
Jenna explains one of the most useful aids to understanding Victoria was her sketchbook...
“I read her diaries but although those have her words they’re more about the rhythm of her writing and her emphasis and consciousness in a way. She’s very emphatic in her writing.
What she likes is in capital letters and underlined and it was very thorough and passionate but I think for me, the most interesting thing was her sketchbook because that is the one thing that has been untouched of her vision and what interests her and how she saw the world. I never knew Victoria was such a good artist but most of what she draws is very human and is not about grandeur or jewels or affairs of state in a way it is much more about nature, horses and people, drama and opera and when she was younger the heights of passion and emotion. She drew Lord Melbourne a lot at one stage and then obviously Albert as well as a lot of landscapes. It is interesting to see the world through her eye which you feel more from her when looking through her sketches.”
What helped your transformation into Queen Victoria?
“We went through a lengthy process with the contact lenses trying to find the right ones that would look natural and work on camera. There were a couple that made me look like a white walker from Game of Thrones but I would rehearse in the lenses and I kept them in all of the time because once you have them in, to look at yourself in the mirror and see yourself completely differently is fantastic. It was the make-up designer Nic Collins idea to go with the lenses because in all of the portraits the one thing that really sticks out are her eyes; they are so big and such a known feature about her.”
But ultimately Jenna explains it was finding the voice of Victoria that was the biggest challenge...
“As well as the relationship between crown and girl it was her voice that was most interesting because for me I start at a place of voice and can hear the voice very clearly before I play a person or character so I think finding a regal voice that was of the time, accessible but not inhibiting in a way was a challenge. I listened a lot to Emily Blunt in Young Victoria and Judy Dench in Mrs Brown and bridging that age gap.
“For speeches you had to up it a certain notch and then when behind closed doors with Albert, finding the more human elements to her because I think one of the biggest fears in period drama is being so stiff that you become talking heads and you have to be mindful of the etiquette and as a girl, she is impulsive. Also taking her through an age. Beginning at 18 and growing her up and yet doing that quite quickly and in less of a marked way, going from someone who is vulnerable and actually insecure and inexperienced yet someone who has a big sense of will and who is incredibly stubborn and flawed yet trying to get across her likeability through that. Trying to get her lust for life through all of that.”
Jenna tells us what it has been like to undertake such an incredible role and what she was keen to portray to an audience.
“Something we spoke about a lot was this idea of playing between state and private, between Victoria’s public face, her private face and going between those two worlds. When she is in her quarters she is undone and private. It’s about finding the human within the role of Queen and discovering the girl taking on this incredible responsibility.’
“With so much access to her diaries you know a liEle bit about what her daily life was like. On the day of her coronation, for example, she woke up at 4am and could hear the crowds outside and the cannons being fired. It is so fascinating to think of her experience inside the palace and outside those four walls and what her relationship was to the public.
“So it’s about fulfilling that on screen, seeing her the way we see her, as queen Victoria in this role that she plays but also seeing her as the girl that she was, behind the scenes and playing between the private and public worlds.”
Queen Victoria had a vast number of hidden talents, which meant that Jenna had to learn a whole new set of skills for this role.
“It was very interesting because once I got the job it was a matter of three weeks before I had to be on horseback riding on camera, ballroom dancing and playing the piano. I managed to get some Beethoven down. I have a piano in my house and I have wanted to learn for ages so it was the perfect opportunity. Tom (Hughes) is an amazing musician, he actually really could do it all and I could do one small section and then completely fudge the rest by methods which were rather ludicrous. Apparently she sings opera but I’m not so sure I would get those skills up to par but we will see!”
Victoria start on Sunday at 9pm on ITV with a 90-minute special and continues on Monday.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Long to reign over us Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/long-to-reign-over-us-1-8084685 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/3ad8bfdad9bda8b91edf6638bb79b902d535a23e8a27e7900e7bb4c79daa9cb1.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:07:24 | null | 2016-08-19T12:06:46 | Showbiz royalty Dame Barbara Windsor has been announced as this year’s guest of honour at the Illuminations Switch-On ceremony. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Fcan-you-match-these-stars-to-the-year-they-switched-on-the-blackpool-illuminations-1-8078383.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8078380.1471604797!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Can you match these stars to the year they switched on the Blackpool Illuminations? | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Email verification
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Verification link has expired, please click on resend verification email from your profile page. | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/can-you-match-these-stars-to-the-year-they-switched-on-the-blackpool-illuminations-1-8078383 | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/811676ca32a92c86ca759076e698ddc35c40607712a12dd6f51238245b59358a.json |
[
"Pam Norfolk",
"Pamnorfolk Tiscali.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T13:05:19 | null | 2016-08-22T11:07:38 | In the final, chaotic months of the Second World War, a young German soldier pits himself against the remnants of the brutal SS in a bid to save the woman he loves. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fbook-reviews-the-constant-soldier-by-william-ryan-1-8081783.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8081782.1471860593!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Book reviews: The Constant Soldier by William Ryan | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | In the final, chaotic months of the Second World War, a young German soldier pits himself against the remnants of the brutal SS in a bid to save the woman he loves.
But it’s a race against time as the merciless Soviet army is closing in with only one single-minded aim… to wreak revenge on their despised German enemy.
Irish-born William Ryan, author of a string of crime novels set in 1930s Stalinist Russia, moves out of what has become his ‘home’ territory and into the dying days of the Second World War in a thrilling, beautifully written and breathtakingly powerful story of evil, inhumanity, love, hope and redemption.
One man’s crusade to right the wrongs of his countrymen and repay a haunting personal debt becomes a gripping battle for survival in an Upper Silesian village in central Europe where he grew up.
In 1944, Paul Brandt, a soldier in the German army, returns wounded and consumed with guilt from the bloody chaos of the Eastern front to his village home in Silesia, annexed from Poland by the Germans.
Brandt’s face is badly disfigured by a Soviet explosion during the retreat from Russia and he has lost both an arm and his enthusiasm for life. But, deeply ashamed of his enforced military service with the Wehrmacht and haunted by an event at the start of the war, he is determined to make amends.
Much has changed in his village where the residents live in the dark shadow of an SS rest hut, a luxurious retreat for the Nazis who manage the nearby concentration camps. Modelled to look like a pre-war holiday camp, the rest accommodation is run by a small group of female prisoners who, against all odds, have so far survived the war.
When, by chance, Brandt glimpses one of these prisoners, he realises that she is a face from his guilty past and he knows he must find a way to access the hut. His fate has been tied to Agneta Gruber since their arrest five years before and now he must do all he can to protect her.
As a wounded German hero, Brandt secures a job as the rest hut’s steward but, with the Russian offensive moving ever closer, the days of the Nazi ‘holiday camp’ and its SS inhabitants are numbered.
And while hope for Brandt and the female prisoners grows tantalisingly close, the danger is also now greater than ever. Because in a forest just to the east, a young female Soviet tank driver awaits her orders to advance…
Ryan moves up a gear in this brilliant, emotionally-charged story which combines a poignant romance with an edge-of-the-seat thriller. But what impresses most is the author’s powerful writing which blends taut action sequences with passages of soaring literary beauty.
Inspired to write the novel by photographs of some of the worst perpetrators of the Holocaust relaxing and enjoying themselves at the real-life Silesian rest hut at a time when Auschwitz was at its most lethal, Ryan wrote this story from the heart.
And Brandt’s one-man mission, set amidst the terror, uncertainty and turmoil of the disintegrating Nazi machine, is certainly portrayed with mesmerising atmosphere and shocking veracity.
The dark and ever present threat of the ruthless SS masters and the approaching menace of the Soviet army are thrown into stark relief by the quiet power and unquenchable flame of enduring love.
A modern classic from a master storyteller…
(Mantle, hardback, £16.99) | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/book-reviews-the-constant-soldier-by-william-ryan-1-8081783 | en | 2016-08-22T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/3d29112674dc65cff98a569d7e4747ec7103bf51be06329810c03e9a07b839f9.json |
[
"Colin Ainscough",
"Colin.Ainscough Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T13:06:17 | null | 2016-08-25T12:04:11 | As the pound continues to go in the dollars favour 42% of Americans say they are more likely to visit the UK for a holiday, according to new data* from Hotels.com™. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Famericans-flock-to-the-uk-thanks-to-kate-middleton-and-fish-chips-1-8088030.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8088029.1472123142!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Americans flock to the UK thanks to Kate Middleton and Fish & Chips | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | As the pound continues to go in the dollars favour 42% of Americans say they are more likely to visit the UK for a holiday, according to new data* from Hotels.com™.
London topped the list of destinations Americans would most like to visit (88%), with Cambridge (41%) and Liverpool (39%) closely vying for second place for statesiders looking for a cultural fix. The unexpected winner, however, was Grimsby with more respondents keen on visiting the northern fishing town than the majestic Snowdonia.
The Royal Family still has huge appeal for visitors from the States with Buckingham Palace the attraction they'd most like to visit (76%) with the home of the crown jewels (the Tower of London, 65%) and royal wedding venue, Westminster Abbey, (52%) also in the top five attractions. Finishing off the royal fever, Kate Middleton was the number one celebrity Americans would most like to meet, closely followed by Her Majesty the Queen. In a girl power worthy line up, the top five famous faces respondents would most like to meet were all women:
1.Kate Middleton (46%)
2.The Queen (45%)
3.JK Rowling (31%)
4.Adele (30%)
5.Kate Winslet (27%)
It seems Britain's culinary kudos isn't as poor as it once was with 68% of Americans keen to try the cornerstone British cuisine – the humble fish and chips. However, sweet treats rounded out the top five with apple crumble (44%), cream tea (43%) and a traditional afternoon tea (39%) just behind a full English (48%).
When quizzed on their perceptions of Britain as a nation many stereotypes rung true with a third of Americans believing Brits loved their pubs and that it always rains (only during a great British summer of course). Yet it seems Americans love our chit chat, as almost three quarters state their favourite thing about Brits is our accents and over a third love our sense of humour.
Simon Matthews, Senior PR Manager of Hotels.com Brand comments, “The fact that some Americans want to visit Grimsby on their next trip proves they must be really savvy about where to get the best British grub, as we all know Grimsby is famous for its Fish and Chips! The rising interest from our American cousins is likely more to do with the strong dollar than the draw of our culinary delights, however it would be a welcome boom for the UK travel industry.”
*2,000 adults from the U.S. were polled by One Poll, commissioned by Hotels.com in July 2016 | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/americans-flock-to-the-uk-thanks-to-kate-middleton-and-fish-chips-1-8088030 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/d5bb81b956a39a0df170ed5c5e651591859290569cfab133434570d0f1d890f8.json |
[
"Andrew Nowell",
"Andrew.Nowell Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T13:11:19 | null | 2016-08-25T11:01:59 | The borough’s teenagers are celebrating incredible exam successes in their GCSEs. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fstar-performers-celebrate-gcse-success-1-8087711.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8087988.1472123310!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Star performers celebrate GCSE success | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Sorry, we're having problems with our video player at the moment, but are working to fix it as soon as we can
The borough’s teenagers are celebrating incredible exam successes in their GCSEs.
At Fred Longworth High School in Tyldesley, Lauren Dawes and Megan Walsh both swept the board by getting the top grade in every subject they sat.
Students get their GCSE exam results at Standish Community High School
Both Megan and Lauren ended up with 11 A*s and could not hide their delight and surprise at how well they had done.
Megan said: “I have worked really hard for this, but was shocked at the results.
“The teachers were really supportive and I wouldn’t have done it without them.”
At St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic High School a stunning 75% of pupils received five A to C grades including English and Maths.
Star pupil Lauren Dawes from Fred Longworth High School, who got straight A*s in her GCSEs
Head Teacher Mark Dumican commented: “We are tremendously proud of all of our pupils and their achievements. The results reflect their hard work and effort, and also the commitment of the staff, who have worked tirelessly on their behalf. What a fantastic way for our students to end their five here.”
At Up Holland High School 73 per cent of pupils achieved five A to C grades including English and Maths, an increase of around 15 per cent on last year’s results.
Headteacher Mrs Barton said: “This reflects the hard work of our pupils and staff. Not only are there some fantastic individual results here and the percentage of pupils achieving A* to C grades across all subjects shows the entire cohort performed above expectations.”
Vishal Chahwala, who attends Up Holland High School, was also celebrating as he racked up an incredible 12 A*s in his GCSEs.
Star pupil Megan Walsh from Fred Longworth High School, who got straight A* grades in her GCSEs
At Shevington High School 71 per cent of their students have five A to C grades - nine per cent up on last year.
The achievements of teenagers who secured hauls of top grades is all the more pronounced as nationally the number of very high achievers has fallen this year.
Tweet your pictures to us @WigToday
Abby Glaze with her results of 10 A* and one A at Standish Community High School
Pupils celebrating at Up Holland High School
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Star performers celebrate GCSE success Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/star-performers-celebrate-gcse-success-1-8087711 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/4b389cda0a8c6296eeb2dfc02272c4060d78122a9ab1f1e9d44faf0e0627f0d0.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T08:50:20 | null | 2016-08-27T07:47:41 | A garage was destroyed and two others were damaged when a fire was started deliberately. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fgarages-damaged-after-fire-breaks-out-1-8092128.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8092127.1472280441!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Garages damaged after fire breaks out | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A garage was destroyed and two others were damaged when a fire was started deliberately.
Two crews from Wigan fire station were called to Downall Green Road, Ashton, at 4.40am today to reports of the blaze.
The large wooden garage was alight and the flames spread to two neighbouring garages.
Shaun Aspey, watch manager at Wigan fire station, said: “It was quite a large fire and it did wake all the neighbours.”
Firefighters spent an hour putting out the blaze.
Fortunately the owner had removed a car from the garage yesterday, but there were other items inside.
The fire is thought to have been started deliberately.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Garages damaged after fire breaks out Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/garages-damaged-after-fire-breaks-out-1-8092128 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/3aa277c31decca6e64c547e3059edbcd2630e5fb1ad01e10607cd3ce1087efd2.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:11:27 | null | 2016-08-24T11:17:21 | A man accused of assault will face a trial after pleading not guilty. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Ftrial-for-assault-accused-1-8085717.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8085706.1472033703!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Trial for assault accused | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A man accused of assault will face a trial after pleading not guilty.
Barry Edwards appeared at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates’ Court and denied a charge of assault by beating.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) claimed the 35-year-old punched Roberto Mosquito several times during the alleged incident on May 18.
Edwards, from Alderley in Skelmersdale, pleaded not guilty to the incident, which is alleged to have taken place in a block of flats in the town.
Edwards’ defence solicitor told the court, presided over by district judge Mark Hadfield, that his client completely denied even being present at the place where the alleged assault took place.
The defendant will now return to Wigan and Leigh Magistrates’ Court for trial on October 28. He was granted unconditional bail.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Trial for assault accused Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/trial-for-assault-accused-1-8085717 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/fb66afb3956b2cd81de7fc632731aa5f222116fb092c3710d81d795a83f5637d.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:12:30 | null | 2016-08-26T11:38:43 | Anyone of a certain age might remember a children’s gameshow called Runaround hosted by a gravel voiced pre-Eastenders Mike Reid, who implored the kids to “Run-arrrraaannnd” in that comedy Cockney accent and find a corner to put themselves into. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Fthe-12th-man-latics-fans-have-their-say-1-8090563.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8090562.1472207905!/image/image.jpg | en | null | The 12th Man: Latics fans have their say | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Anyone of a certain age might remember a children’s gameshow called Runaround hosted by a gravel voiced pre-Eastenders Mike Reid, who implored the kids to “Run-arrrraaannnd” in that comedy Cockney accent and find a corner to put themselves into.
Well it’s that time of year again when the clubs in the Championship carry out that exact same exercise as those of us who narrate upon the sport seek to compartmentalise each of our competitors into a suitable box.
For example, there are the “Big Guns” such as Newcastle, Villa and Norwich. The perennial bridesmaids: Derby, Brighton and Sheffield Wednesday. The “good club gone bad” – Blackburn Rovers, please feel free to run over and join Leeds and Fulham.
There’s the “Eternal Strugglers” such as Rotherham and Preston North End (arf!) and then there’s those “New Wave” clubs jostling out of their own mould of mediocrity such as the Dortmund influenced Huddersfield and the latest billionaire’s plaything, Wolves.
Where do Wigan Athletic fit into all this, I hear you cry? Well, I don’t think we will ever agree on a consensus on paper let alone in real life so it could be a challenge.
It’s very difficult to place us given we have hopscotched up and down the leagues so much in the past 20 years, but it’s safe to say that even the most optimistic of fans cannot possibly envisage us being one of the big guns in this division
Even when we did finish 2nd and 5th we were tiny in comparison to many of the clubs around us, and if you use attendances as your benchmark, we are grimly hanging on to 19th spot, just above Blackburn, who I should imagine have quite a few staying away.
At the other end of the scale, there is one corner of the room which we must avoid and has remained strangely vacant thus far. This despite a reserved placeholder with “Burton Albion” marked upon it and the aforementioned Blackburn Rovers getting sucked slowly towards it, and that is the notorious “Whipping Boys” corner.
Clearly, there are a few problems defensively with Latics at the minute, and one characteristic of the Whipping Boys is a leaky defence. Yet, all is not lost.
Last time we went to Forest we got battered 4-1 in an awful, inept performance in what turned into an awful, inept season. We are at least competing this time, with arguably fewer resources.
To lose by the odd goal in seven is not a disgrace, though there is clearly work to be done on Wigan’s away form.
What will hopefully remedy this is our ability to score goals – which we also appear to have in our locker.
And if we can cut out those defensive mistakes then the results will pick up on the road.
First, however we have the small matter of QPR visiting the DW Stadium, and I think it’s fair to say we owe them one from the play offs.
Let’s hope their team coach is parked firmly within a regulated zone this time and not in front of the away goal.
Martin Tarbuck
Yet again, last-minute goals and defensive mistakes has been the downfall of our championship campaign thus far.
On Saturday, it was a comedy of errors with let to all four of Nottingham Forest’s goals. They all could and probably should of been prevented.
On the other hand, it would of so easily been many more, if it wasn’t for Adam Bogdan to be on hand to reduce the deficit. A string of fine saves in both half’s and also a penalty save was undoubtedly his highlight of the match.
We saved one of the best comedy of errors till last, Nottingham’s right back Pereira strolled through three defender’s unchallenged, and then found Lam on the edge of the area, who guided the ball past Bogdan with ease.
One Wigan defender who came under heavy criticism for his performance was Dan Burn. A sloppy back pass to Bogdan let Forest in to take the lead. The ‘sloppy’ back pass is identical, to the one Titus Bramble played against Manchester City all those years ago.
Burn seems to have one or two errors in his game which if aren’t corrected, could end up costly for us throughout the season.
Also, Caldwell selecting to start Yanic Wildschut at right wing back wasn’t one of his better managerial decisions. You could see the threat he causes the opposition when running at their goal, but when he’s running towards his own and having to track back, it’s not hard to notice it isn’t his preferred position.
However, there’s no doubting our attacking ability in the final third, scoring three goals away from home and end up on the losing side is hard to take, but if we can’t get the simple defending basics right, we’re going to lose a lot more than we win.
Joe O’Neil
One might assume that a certain island in the West Indies will be watching Saturday’s game very closely indeed.
After all, the combined squads of Wigan Athletic and Queens Park Rangers contain a healthy total of two players representing the tiny British Overseas Territory of Montserrat. Such a contingent would in theory account for about 1/2500th of the island’s total population.
However, it might surprise you to learn that according to Wikipedia, the Montserrat national team’s 2018 World Cup Qualification squad contained 19 British-based players.
Granted, since those individuals are plucked from clubs in disparate non-league divisions, they don’t often face each other in domestic competition. Hence, it will be a fairly significant moment in Montserratian football history should Donervon Daniels and Brandon Comley square off for their respective Championship clubs at some point this season.
But not as significant as one might first think. As Montserrat is a British Overseas Territory, it is relatively easy for residents to migrate to the United Kingdom.
“According to the 2001 UK Census 7,983 Montserratian-born people were residing in the UK (almost twice the population of Montserrat itself).” -- Wikipedia
When Montserrat’s Soufrière Hills volcano became unsafe in 1995, much of the island’s population – and thus footballing talent – departed, accepting the UK Government’s offer of residency in Britain (source: The Football Pink).
Over 20 years later, Montserrat football still shares a strong bond with the United Kingdom. Many of those selected for the island’s national team were born in England – that is certainly the case for QPR’s Comley, and while Daniels was born in Montserrat, he has spent much of his football career in England.
Owing to injuries and selection preferences, it’s unlikely both will feature on the pitch tomorrow. But having spent a whole summer screaming ‘get Grigg off the bench’ at Northern Ireland Manager Michael O’Neill, we know how Montserratian fans might feel.
So come on, Gary! Put Donervon on… for the nation of Montserrat! Even if he is injured.
Dan Farrimond
The 4-3 loss at Nottingham Forest could just be the wake-up call that Gary Caldwell suggested his players needed.
On paper, you would expect to get at least a point if you scored three goals away from home.
We did exactly that, but we came away with nothing thanks to a deserved last minute sucker punch.
Having said that, the result showed us a lot about this current crop of Wigan Athletic players.
The teams heart and spirit can’t be questioned, as we came back not once but THREE times to level up the scores.
Going forward we are ruthless, we really are. Our strikers, Will Grigg and Craig Davies, have both been amongst the goals early doors, and now they have some quality service behind them.
We have creative players like Michael Jacobs and Jordi Gomez, who can unlock Championship defences.
We also have some quality wingers in Yanic Wildschut, Ryan Colclough and Alex Gilbey, who all have the pace and trickery to beat a defender and get in behind a backline.
In fact, I’d go as far as saying every position is sorted, except the defence…
Okay, Jake Buxton is back from suspension this weekend for the visit of Queens Park Rangers, but we need a defender with pace.
Because our wing-backs pushed so high up at Forest, their pacey wingers had space to exploit and they could get one-on-one with two of our three centre-halves.
Nothing against Stephen Warnock, he’s a great player, however, he came up against a young and hungry winger in Oliver Burke who tore us to bits at the back.
Dan Burn got a lot of stick in pre-season, but I thought he had a decent start to the regular campaign.
Despite a steady start, it has become evident that he does have a mistake in him when he’s under pressure on the ball.
I’m sure Caldwell has a few more deals up his sleeve before the transfer deadline, but let’s hope he can make them happen.
We need some speed at the back, or else we’re going to throw away points we’ve earned and we simply can’t afford to do that.
Kieran Makin
The September 1 transfer deadline is fast approaching and the turnover in the Latics’ playing staff shows no sign of abating.
Gary Caldwell has already been very active in the transfer market and has brought in 10 new players: Stephen Warnock, Alex Gilbey, Dan Burn, Kyle Knoyle, Nick Powell, Adam Bogdan, Jake Buxton, Jordi Gomez, Shaun MacDonald and Luke Garbutt but there are likely to be more comings and goings before the deadline.
Caldwell created practically a whole new team last season and he seems to be working on similar lines this time around. The manager is determined to bring in more new players to boost the club’s chances this term. Currently top of Caldwell’s shopping list are a right back and a striker but don’t rule out further additions in other positions as well. Latics have been linked with numerous transfer targets, most recently Benfica striker Nélson Oliveira, Bolton defender Josh Vela, Hearts defender Callum Paterson and West Ham defender Reece Burke.
Of course, there are also likely to be outgoings as well. Latics have already released several players either permanently or on loan, and Tim Chow, Sam Morsy and Ryan Colclough have all been attracting interest from other clubs.
The scramble for players will reach a crescendo next Wednesday as each team seeks to gain an advantage. There is so much media hysteria around the transfer window and players’ agents are constantly talking up their client’s abilities so Latics must not get caught up in the hype. The quality of the incoming players is paramount and Caldwell and his recruitment team must ensure that they bring in the right type of player.
Latics come up against old foes Queens Park Rangers on Saturday and they will be looking to revenge the disappointment of an extra time play-off defeat in May 2014. Gary Caldwell will remember the game for all the wrong reasons as he conceded a penalty and Rangers went on to win the game 2-1 and progress to the play-off final.
Caldwell will certainly be looking for Latics to improve defensively against QPR after some basic errors let the team down at Nottingham Forest. The manager was very critical of the team’s defending and admitted that they conceded some ridiculous goals. He went on:
“It’s basic things like tracking runners, making tackles and allowing their right back to get into the box too easily and cutting it back for the lad to have a free hit from the edge of the box”. Add silly back passes to the list and you have a recipe for disaster.
The priority this week will have been working on defensive drills and cutting out basic mistakes. Let’s all hope all the lessons have been learned and Latics can quickly get back to winning ways.
Ian Aspinall
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story The 12th Man: Latics fans have their say Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/the-12th-man-latics-fans-have-their-say-1-8090563 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/b0ce565ef084fea896ef2bfc624654223d1dae97a651aab818832452c88787b9.json |
[
"Philip Cunnington",
"Philip.Cunnington Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T14:49:41 | null | 2016-08-12T15:55:21 | It’s been a strange summer, politically speaking. Westminster seems to have gone through some sort of collective spasm, a funny turn of epic proportions, all caused by the referendum on whether or not Britain should stay in the European Union. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fbrexit-bunglers-were-in-it-for-themselves-1-8064437.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8064436.1470927472!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Brexit bunglers were in it for themselves | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | It’s been a strange summer, politically speaking. Westminster seems to have gone through some sort of collective spasm, a funny turn of epic proportions, all caused by the referendum on whether or not Britain should stay in the European Union.
All through May and June, the political classes frothed and raged over how much Britain paid to the EU, how much it would cost each household if we left, the huge windfall the NHS might get if we voted for Brexit.
Meanwhile, as Laura Kuenssberg’s documentary Brexit: The Battle for Britain (BBC2, Monday, 9pm) revealed, the great British public got ready to give the country’s rulers an almighty kick in the ballots.
What really shone out was how almost everyone at the top of the two campaigns was – no matter what they may have said publicly – only out for themselves.
Cameron called the referendum in the first place to head off the threat of UKIP in the Tory shires – no one was clamouring for their say on the EU, except UKIP’s leader Nigel Farage, who now saw it as an official endorsement of UKIP’s position.
The two ‘big beasts’ of the official Leave campaign, Michael Gove and Boris Johnson, meanwhile, saw a victory as their main chance to replace Cameron as Prime Minister.
Kuenssberg failed to get interviews with Gove and Johnson, whose gamble, let us remember, led to embarrassing personal failure, but some of the lesser lights revealed a few interesting titbits.
Will Straw, a director of the Remain campaign, for example, disclosed he tried for six months to get an appointment with Jeremy Corbyn’s advisors, such was the Labour leader’s lukewarm attitude to the EU. While former deputy PM Nick Clegg blamed Gove for leaking the story the Queen backed Brexit.
Meanwhile, up in Sunderland, working class Jimmy said: “It was our way of turning round and telling all those bigwigs, all those MPs, hey, listen to us.”
What this conveniently forgets is that all those leading the Leave campaign had been immersed in the Westminster bubble for decades, and were part of the “metropolitan elite” themselves.
Really, it’s way too soon to predict what will happen now, save to say that same old people will make the same old mistakes.
And Jimmy in Sunderland will still be ignored.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Brexit bunglers were in it for themselves Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/brexit-bunglers-were-in-it-for-themselves-1-8064437 | en | 2016-08-12T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/1e5e2a8156e720b782939773c70b37bd6bb5b5d9509565a24940bc72673de686.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:12:41 | null | 2016-08-25T16:32:57 | Wigan Athletic have been told they will need to increase their bid if they want to land Callum Paterson. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Flatics-told-to-increase-callum-paterson-bid-1-8089251.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8089250.1472140693!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Latics told to increase Callum Paterson bid | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Wigan Athletic have been told they will need to increase their bid if they want to land Callum Paterson.
Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson revealed they had rejected a second offer from Latics.
The 21-year-old is in demand but the capital club are willing to hold onto the defender, who has just 12 months remaining on his current deal.
Neilson said the Championship club’s valuation of Paterson fell “substantially” below the asking price.
He said: “There’s been another offer in from Wigan but we knocked it back. The two clubs are miles apart in the valuations of the player.
“We believe he is a real asset to us, he is a Scottish international, has played a lot of games for us and scored a lot of goals. He is back in the Scotland set-up for the next qualifying group.
“We value the player at a price and they have come in significantly below that. The valuation differences between the two clubs is vast and unless Wigan are prepared to move substantially, he will be here after the window.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Latics told to increase Callum Paterson bid Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/latics-told-to-increase-callum-paterson-bid-1-8089251 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/17773cb42063a97f3db23b779dc3eaa17f9b546ad2aafa47884d2615fc98a037.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:11:56 | null | 2016-08-24T12:00:00 | A Wigan man battling drug addiction and mental health demons was racked with guilt after a minor bump of his friend’s car, an inquest heard. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fyoung-man-s-drug-tragedy-1-8085546.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8085545.1472030400!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Young man’s drug tragedy | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A Wigan man battling drug addiction and mental health demons was racked with guilt after a minor bump of his friend’s car, an inquest heard.
Terence Frank Minshull, 31, who had only recently also been released from prison, was found dead in his home in Worsley Mesnes on May 27, by his loving sister Nina.
And a post-mortem examination would reveal that there was a fatal combination of prescription and illegal drugs, including speed, cocaine and heroin, found in his blood.
But an inquest at Bolton Coroner’s Court heard this week that there was no evidence that former factory worker Mr Minshull, who was single and latterly unemployed, had intended to take his life.
He was attending medical appointments and receiving appropriate medication for his psychosis.
And had been talking “very positively” to his probation officer Ann Miller about how his family had helped him decorate his flat in Belvedere Place and were helping him equip it with furniture.
However, Mr Minshull had declined to continue treatment for his drug addiction from the Wigan and Leigh Drug Alcohol Recovery Services based at Coops Foyer, revealed team manager Aaron Moss, including abandoning his methadone prescription.
He told his family that he was “embarrassed” that being seen attending would demonstrate to outsiders that he was still an addict and pledged to do “cold turkey” himself.
Recording the cause of death as mixed drug toxicity, area coroner Alan Walsh said Mr Minshull’s life had been “beset” with problems from a young age but his family had “stood by him throughout.”
He said that although Mr Minshull managed to wean himself off drugs for periods of his life, he would return to them in “times of crisis.”
And because of his mental health problems, including schizophrenia, which had been induced by heavy drugs use in his past, comparatively minor issues assumed undue importance.
Mr Walsh said: “Sadly he couldn’t resist returning to drugs when something inside triggered it’s need.”
His sister Pemberton shopkeeper Nina O’Connor, of Appley Bridge, told the hearing she had made tea for Terence the night before his death and went to his flat the following morning to take him some shopping, only to discover his lifeless body.
She said the previous evening he had assured her “everything is OK” and had given her the impression he wasn’t using illegal drugs any longer and seemed “better than he had been for a long time.”
Verdict: drug-related death.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Young man’s drug tragedy Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/young-man-s-drug-tragedy-1-8085546 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/5b6a49593febc526574ef9a6c645d4a4fc414480ee3e979e8f8dd9e6996e1312.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:55 | null | 2016-08-23T07:17:03 | Shaun Wane has yet to decide whether to bolster his wing ranks in wake of Dom Manfredi’s cruel knee injury. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-warriors%2Fwane-yet-to-decide-whether-to-seek-wing-cover-1-8082837.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8082836.1471882651!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Wane yet to decide whether to seek wing cover | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Shaun Wane has yet to decide whether to bolster his wing ranks in wake of Dom Manfredi’s cruel knee injury.
The in-form flyer saw his England hopes collapse when he damaged his Anterior cruciate ligament playing against Castleford earlier this month.
His recovery period is going to eat well into next season, leaving a gaping hole in Wane’s squad.
The Warriors boss has other options – Oliver Gildart, usually a centre, filled the role in the 25-0 win against St Helens.
Utility-back Lewis Tierney has also done enough this season to earn a new deal, while 19-year-old Jack Higginson has poked into the senior side this year.
But with Manfredi facing such a long spell on the sidelines, Wane may yet seek a reinforcement for next year – either on a short-term deal or a loan signing.
He will speak to rugby manager Kris Radlinski and chairman Ian Lenagan before making a call.
Wane said: “I need to sit down with Rads and Ian, that’s a decision for the off-season.
“I’m happy with Lewis and Oliver, and we have got some good young players coming through, so I’m not sure which way we’re going to go.
“It’s really sad what happened to Dom, and we’ll be supporting him the whole way.
“But we’ve had bad luck with injuries all year so we’re used to dealing with it.”
Winger Joe Burgess is returning to the club in the off-season to replace Sale Sharks-bound Josh Charnley.
Burgess yesterday sealed a 12-6 win against Cronulla with a last-gasp try for Souths, who he joined mid-season after struggling to crack into the Sydney Roosters side. Meanwhile, Wigan’s players return to training today – in a different setting.
Wane has shifted the session to the gym at Preston’s University of Central Lancashire, and will take another session there on Thursday.
The players did pre-season testing at the facility, and Wane said: “We have a great partnership with them.
“We’re going up there to use their fantastic facility, purely to freshen the players up with a change of scenery.
“We’ll get lots of skill work into the players.”
Wane’s assistant John Winder handled the media responsibilities after Friday’s derby triumph.
“There were some unforced errors we need to get rid of,” added Wane.
“But to make more errors than Saints and still win 25-0 is a testament to our attack.”
No Wigan or St Helens players were cited by the RFL’s match review panel yesterday.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Wane yet to decide whether to seek wing cover Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-warriors/wane-yet-to-decide-whether-to-seek-wing-cover-1-8082837 | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/f2f696d476100e700f04e4211296e0f5ed390e7a96c528cd2f47f77dc61c6e2f.json |
[
"Paul Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-26T14:50:14 | null | 2016-08-26T15:45:21 | First of all, I have to say it’s good to be back! | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Flatics-guest-player-column-jordi-gomez-1-8091364.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8091362.1472222706!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Latics guest player column - Jordi Gomez | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | First of all, I have to say it’s good to be back!
I had a great time here in my previous spell, and it’s very nice to return to Wigan Athletic.
Obviously I know Gary (Caldwell) from when I was here before, and he didn’t need to sell the club to me.
I knew Wigan were interested at the start of summer, and that was very important for me.
I wanted to stay in England, I’ve been here so long, I know the area, so it was a pretty easy decision for me.
And I’m looking forward to the challenge.
In my last season here, we managed to get into the play-offs and we very nearly went back up into the Premier League.
It’s always disappointing when you are so close to your objectives and you come up just short.
Hopefully this time we can do something, we can have a good season, and we’ll see what happens.
Obviously the club has been down to League One since I left.
But last season was a very good one, and hopefully we can build on that momentum.
There is a very good group of players here, and I always looked for their results while I was away.
Obviously a lot has changed since I was last here.
We have a new training complex for a start, and it’s much better than the one we had at Christopher Park.
As a player you always want to improve, and a facility like Euxton can only help us do that.
The stadium is the same, of course, but I actually haven’t been back to the DW since my last game there - against QPR in the play-offs two years ago.
It was a close tie over the two legs, we came so close to getting through to the final.
But it wasn’t to be and you have to move on.
It’s funny that I could make my ‘second’ debut at the DW this weekend...and it’s QPR who are the opposition.
They are one of a few teams who have been relegated from the Premier League and want to get back there.
But we are also one of them, and it will be a good game.
Even though it’s only two years since I left, there’s hardly any of my team-mates still here.
Obviously there’s Mike Pollitt - and Mike is...well, Mike.
There’s also Nick Powell from my last season, and obviously Gary who’s now the manager.
When you get relegated, you have to make major changes.
The club did that, and in some ways it’s nice to be joining a completely fresh group of players.
But it doesn’t matter if it’s full of players who were here before or a brand new group, as long as it’s a good team.
You need that, because it’s a very good league and a very good season.
You need numbers and also quality - and I think we have both.
Obviously I’m not quite up to the physical standards of the rest of the squad yet.
I only played one pre-season game because of my situation at Sunderland.
I’m getting better day by day, and I’m hoping to be back to full speed as quickly as possible.
But it was great to be named on the bench at Nottingham Forest.
Whatever the manager feels he has to do, he will do, and I’m just concentrating on working hard.
It was just nice to get the Wigan shirt back on again.
And obviously it will be better when I’m back on the pitch and hopefully in the starting side.
At the moment I’m taking it game by game, and the team is also taking it game by game.
As for our aims for the season, we won’t talk about them in the press...
The most important thing is just to train hard every day, and take that into the game on a Saturday or a Tuesday night.
If we can do that, I’m sure we’ll be okay.
As you know, I experienced a little bit of everything during my first spell...
It’s not something that’s just happened with me, and it’s not something that bothers me to be honest.
But there were some really great moments as well.
And at the end, it was a happy ending, to draw a line under my time here.
The reaction of the fans to me coming back has been absolutely fantastic – I really don’t know why!
I guess it means I did something good for the club in the past, which was appreciated by them.
Of course, I was ‘Player of the Season’ in my last year here, but I can’t focus on that now.
In football, you cannot live in the past.
We’ve had some great moments over the years, but that is all in the past.
The focus now is on the present, and helping the team to achieve its aims this season.
I just want to continue where I left off at Wigan, and enjoy many more good times here.
I want to be the best professional I can be, work hard in training, and take it into the games.
That’s my only aim.
Jordi Gomez was speaking to Paul Kendrick
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[] | 2016-08-27T18:50:32 | null | 2016-08-27T17:45:08 | Firefighters were called to a garage in Wigan when a blaze broke out. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Ftumble-dryer-on-fire-1-8092585.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8085273.1472316289!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Tumble dryer on fire | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | The types of cookies we, our ad network and technology partners use are listed below:
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[] | 2016-08-29T14:51:31 | null | 2016-08-29T10:00:10 | A Wigan man has admitted indecent image crimes. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fman-to-face-judge-over-porn-images-1-8094001.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8094000.1472461190!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Man to face judge over porn images | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | The types of cookies we, our ad network and technology partners use are listed below:
Revenue Science ► A tool used by some of our advertisers to target adverts to you based on pages you have visited in the past. To opt out of this type of targeting you can visit the 'Your Online Choices' website by clicking here.
Google Ads ► Our sites contain advertising from Google; these use cookies to ensure you get adverts relevant to you. You can tailor the type of ads you receive by visiting here or to opt out of this type of targeting you can visit the 'Your Online Choices' website by clicking here.
Digital Analytics ► This is used to help us identify unique visitors to our websites. This data is anonymous and we cannot use this to uniquely identify individuals and their usage of the sites.
Dart for Publishers ► This comes from our ad serving technology and is used to track how many times you have seen a particular ad on our sites, so that you don't just see one advert but an even spread. This information is not used by us for any other type of audience recording or monitoring.
ComScore ► ComScore monitor and externally verify our site traffic data for use within the advertising industry. Any data collected is anonymous statistical data and cannot be traced back to an individual.
Local Targeting ► Our Classified websites (Photos, Motors, Jobs and Property Today) use cookies to ensure you get the correct local newspaper branding and content when you visit them. These cookies store no personally identifiable information.
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Add This ► Add This provides the social networking widget found in many of our pages. This widget gives you the tools to bookmark our websites, blog, share, tweet and email our content to a friend. | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/man-to-face-judge-over-porn-images-1-8094001 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/cd3a673863551a38c7529820848a0882fcdb8bd571bc584ef22a168ba85586f2.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T14:50:07 | null | 2016-08-26T14:36:45 | Police are appealing for help to find a missing man. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fpublic-warned-not-to-approach-missing-man-1-8091127.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8091125.1472219078!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Public warned not to approach missing man | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Police are appealing for help to find a missing man.
Darren Hillman, who is originally from Wigan, but now lives in St Helens was last seen at around 9am this morning, Friday, on Peasley Cross Lane at the address he was staying at and has not been seen or heard from since.
Darren Hillman
Extensive enquiries have been ongoing by Merseyside Police to locate the 27-year-old.
He is described as white, 5ft 10in tall, with brown hair and of medium build. He also has a scar to the left side of his head. He was wearing a dark T-shirt and dark jeans and trainers when he was last seen.
Members of the public are advised not to approach Darren, but to contact police if they see him.
Police officers are making extensive efforts to find him and return him home safely and would urge Darren, anyone who knows his whereabouts, or who has seen a male resembling him, to call 101.
Alternatively information can be left with the independent charity Missing People by calling 116 000 or by emailing 116000@missingpeople.org.uk. | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/public-warned-not-to-approach-missing-man-1-8091127 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/ed60900cdf229c04ded9666423e1a5b923a4f5a414fa3e07346384a162989873.json |
[
"Paul Kendrick",
"Paul.Kendrick Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-29T06:51:48 | null | 2016-08-29T06:00:53 | Gary Caldwell will today step up his efforts to bring in the ‘few’ players he feels Wigan Athletic need ahead of Wednesday’s transfer deadline, with West Ham defender Reece Burke understood to be top of his wish-list. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Fburke-top-of-caldwell-s-list-1-8093452.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8093451.1472402195!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Burke top of Caldwell’s list | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Gary Caldwell will today step up his efforts to bring in the ‘few’ players he feels Wigan Athletic need ahead of Wednesday’s transfer deadline, with West Ham defender Reece Burke understood to be top of his wish-list.
With no game now for a fortnight because of the international break, the Latics chief can throw all his attention towards strengthening a squad he readily admits is light in more than one area.
But it’s right wing-back where his major problem - and his most pressing need for reinforcements - lies.
With the gamble to play Yanic Wildschut there at Nottingham Forest not paying off, Caldwell elected to redeploy Max Power during Saturday’s 1-0 home defeat to QPR.
And while Caldwell was delighted with the way Power took one for the team and filled in admirably, it meant his undoubted influence in the midfield battle ground was missing.
“I thought Max was excellent out of position, and when he went into the midfield in the second half he gave us energy and drive,” Caldwell acknowledged.
“But he’s clearly not a right wing-back, and it’s clearly a position we need to strengthen.”
“There’s a few problems we have to deal with, and the club is working hard to make sure we do deal with that.
“We’ll definitely be doing business in the next few days.”
Caldwell has already signed one right wing-back from West Ham this summer, although season-long loanee Kyle Knoyle suffered a badly-broken elbow within days of arriving last month and won’t be back in the foreseeable future.
With Donervon Daniels also out long-term after undergoing knee surgery, Caldwell has targeted another Hammers youngster, Burke, to answer his SOS.
The 19-year-old spent last term on loan in League One at Bradford, where he enjoyed an outstanding campaign that saw him voted the club’s ‘Player of the Year’.
Burke had been hoping to secure some game-time back at West Ham this season, but the Hammers’ shock failure to make the group stages of the Europa League last week means another loan - at Championship level - is now the favoured option.
Caldwell has to move fast, with Brighton also thought to be keen on securing his services.
The Scot is also looking to bolster the striking ranks, with Craig Davies - the only senior back-up to Will Grigg - having netted only once in the last 12 months.
Another creative spark could also be on his shopping list, especially if the speculation linking winger Ryan Colclough with Sheffield United proves to be correct, while Sam Morsy is also expected to depart before the deadline, with Barnsley his most likely destination.
It promises to be a busy start to the week for the Latics boss, who denied Saturday’s home defeat - their first of the campaign - had exacerbated the need for new blood.
“Not at all,” he responded. “I knew very early in the season what we needed, and I still know what we need.”
Caldwell is refusing to panic, despite back-to-back defeats leaving Latics on four points from a possible 15, and above third-bottom Rotherham only on goal difference.
“We’re not panicking at all,” he added.
“Last year we got off to a slow start, and we showed with hard work and desire that we could get there in the end.
“I have total belief in this group of players that we can get there again.
“We will improve in the next few days, of that I am sure, and we’ll work hard over the next two weeks to be ready for the next match.
“I’m actually looking forward to getting out there on the training pitch, and working on things we need to get right.
“The international break gives us the chance to work with the players, and make sure the things that have been going wrong can be put right.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Burke top of Caldwell’s list Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/burke-top-of-caldwell-s-list-1-8093452 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/769cf8daa387992f9c84dfc24a570bd2c1c552db2ff1f5de56e5f286fac9fa38.json |
[
"Paul Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:11 | null | 2016-08-25T10:00:00 | Glass half full or glass half empty? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Ftalking-football-latics-are-halfway-to-paradise-1-8086923.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8086929.1472064783!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Talking football - Latics are halfway to paradise | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Glass half full or glass half empty?
There’s two ways to look back on Wigan Athletic’s agonising 4-3 defeat at Nottingham Forest.
Obviously, to concede four – in Gary Caldwell’s words – ‘ridiculous’ goals is unacceptable at this or any level.
But those seeking a positive need look no further than the three goals Latics plundered at the other end for hope.
Three times Latics pressed the self-destruct button at the back, yet three times they hauled themselves off the canvas to level.
If I was a betting man, with 90 minutes up, I’d have said a seventh and decisive goal was more likely to go into the Forest net rather than Wigan’s, such was the visitors’ increasing threat on the counter.
Of course, I’d have lost my money if I had lumped on.
But the point remains.
While neither scenario is ideal, would you rather be following a team unable to buy a goal, or a team leaking them at the other end?
I’d suggest the latter, because it’s far easier to put right on the training ground.
Which, speaking to Caldwell and several players this week, is exactly what’s been going on over at Euxton.
Despite being newcomers to the division, Latics have hit their straps in attack.
Only Burton (nine) have scored more than their tally of eight goals from four matches.
Will Grigg has emphatically answered questions about whether he can score goals at this level, with three in four games – and four in five in all competitions.
The attacking options – including Yanic Wildschut, Michael Jacobs, Nick Powell and now Jordi Gomez – is mouth-watering at this level.
Caldwell insisted only last week his midfield was up there with the best in the Championship.
If Latics can just tighten up at the back – and they will be boosted this weekend by the return from suspension of Jake Buxton – they’ll surely start to record a points tally more in keeping with the quality in the squad.
It was great to see Shaun Maloney on target for Hull at the weekend in their surprise victory at Swansea.
Having been tipped by EVERYONE for immediate relegation back to the Championship, the Tigers are already six points nearer to their 40-point target with 36 matches to go.
Maloney had also scored on his previous Premier League away game – that brilliant free-kick at Arsenal in May 2013 that was, sadly, not enough to steer Latics away from the drop.
Speaking of Latics old boys, how about Adam Forshaw’s sublime reverse pass that unlocked the Sunderland defence to lay on Middlesbrough’s killer second goal on Sunday?
Quite how he, and Maloney, could not get a regular start in a struggling Latics side two years ago – leading to both leaving in the January transfer window – is anyone’s guess.
Just weeks after leaving Latics, Emyr Huws has regained his spot in the Wales squad.
Whether it’s being closer to the selectors in Cardiff or sparkling early-season form that’s seen him replace the injured Aaron Ramsey, we can but speculate.
But somewhere in there lies a player of undoubted class, who I’m sure will prove to be international class over the next few years.
It’s just a shame we saw it so infrequently in a Latics shirt.
Social media throws up all manner of brilliant facts and stats, but I haven’t seen one better than this for a while.
When Arsenal last won the league, Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford was six years old.
When Liverpool last won it, his Dad was only 10!
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Talking football - Latics are halfway to paradise Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/talking-football-latics-are-halfway-to-paradise-1-8086923 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/4f707f7b2cff5382682b3275e3c3c0e312cfd5b24ad196fe02d216ad92d9f8f5.json |
[] | 2016-08-31T08:52:25 | null | 2016-08-31T09:09:43 | Joe Hart is expected to finalise his proposed loan move to Torino by the time the transfer window closes at 11pm tonight. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Flatest-transfer-deadline-day-1-8097191.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8097187.1472631341!/image/image.jpg | en | null | LATEST: Transfer deadline day | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Joe Hart is expected to finalise his proposed loan move to Torino by the time the transfer window closes at 11pm tonight.
The Manchester City goalkeeper was given permission to leave England’s training base, where they are preparing for Sunday’s World Cup qualifier against Slovakia, to resolve his club future.
Hull signed Manchester United's ex-PNE loanee Will Keane
Hart, 29, was photographed in Turin on Tuesday and is expected to seal a season-long deal with the Serie A side, having been relegated to third-choice stopper under Pep Guardiola following the arrival of Claudio Bravo.
Samir Nasri could also be on his way out of the Etihad Stadium, with Sevilla reportedly set to take the France midfielder on a season-long loan.
In another eye-catching potential loan deal, Tottenham have reportedly made enquiries about Real Madrid midfielder Isco.
Meanwhile, the total spent so far by Premier League clubs during the summer transfer window reportedly reached £1billion on Tuesday. The previous record stood at £870million.
Confirmation of Shkodran Mustafi’s switch to Arsenal from Valencia was Tuesday’s highest-profile transfer – for a reported £35million – and concluded Arsene Wenger’s near summer-long pursuit.
They had earlier completed the signing of striker Lucas Perez from Deportivo La Coruna for a fee said to be around the £17million mark.
“Coming here I’ve made a step forward, because Arsenal is a big club with big players and a great manager,” Germany international Mustafi told the club’s website.
While Arsenal’s supporters had been waiting for the arrivals of new players, Hull secured three in one afternoon.
Caretaker manager Mike Phelan began the season with only 14 fit senior players, but on Tuesday signed Ryan Mason, David Marshall and former Preston North End loanee Will Keane, the former for a club record. | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/latest-transfer-deadline-day-1-8097191 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/c37e29e6aece3ffec750a8bc92e5963ec0c351e0672b5934e0690b48f13c3ef1.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T08:51:46 | null | 2016-08-30T08:38:27 | A supermarket’s smoke alarm was set off when a bin was set alight outside. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Ffire-in-bin-spreads-to-lorry-1-8095193.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8085273.1472542687!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Fire in bin spreads to lorry | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A supermarket’s smoke alarm was set off when a bin was set alight outside.
Firefighters from Wigan were called to the rear of Iceland, on Standishgate, Wigan, when the fire started at around 10pm yesterday.
The bin had been set on fire and the flames spread to a lorry parked nearby.
The back of the lorry was completely burnt out by the blaze.
Smoke set off the alarm at Iceland, but checks by fire crews found the fire had not spread to the building.
The fire was thought to have been started deliberately.
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[] | 2016-08-29T14:51:13 | null | 2016-08-29T14:02:08 | Two charity cyclists will follow in the footsteps of one of Wigan’s most famous visitors when they set off from the town on a 70-mile ride. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fpier-we-go-for-orwell-odyssey-1-8094422.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8094421.1472475706!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Pier we go for Orwell odyssey | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Two charity cyclists will follow in the footsteps of one of Wigan’s most famous visitors when they set off from the town on a 70-mile ride.
James Gartland and Martin Dutton, who work at Wigan firm Estate Research, will commemorate the 80th anniversary of George Orwell publishing The Road To Wigan Pier by pedalling from the borough to Sheffield.
Solicitor James and genealogist Martin have put together the route to visit as many of the places the celebrated author visited when he came to look at industrial working conditions in the North West as possible.
Their choices of charities to support, a national lung charity and Wigan homelessness cause The Brick, have also been influenced by Orwell.
James, 35, said: “The route seeks to broadly retrace the route George Orwell took when he looked for himself at the conditions of the working man in the north of England.
“It starts at Wigan Pier and skirts south of Manchester and then goes on the trans-Pennine route that uses the Woodhead Pass.
“We’re not looking forward to all the hills in the Peak District but the prospect of a well-earned beer in Sheffield should keep us going.
“We’re massive fans of Orwell and I don’t think Wigan makes enough of its connection to the great man.
“We’ve tried to go with the George Orwell theme with the charities too. He suffered all his life with lung problems and ultimately died of tuberculosis and he also took great effort to help the homeless, spending time in Paris and London living like a vagrant.”
Wiganer Martin and Warrington native James are teaming up for their first cycle ride together and have never previously done a long distance fund-raising event.
James regularly cycles to work from his home but for Martin it will be a new challenge, with preparation involving buying a new bike especially for the ride.
James says there is also a personal connection to the charities the pair are supporting.
He said: “I used to work as an industrial disease solicitor and am aware what pain people go through when they have asbestosis or mesothelioma. Breathing air is a function we all take for granted until it becomes impaired.
“I feel there are more and more homeless people on the street and the best way to help those in dire straits is through organised charities.”
James and Martin hope to raise £500 from their ride early in September, with Estate Research matching any funds gathered up to that total and dividing it equally between the charities.
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[] | 2016-08-26T13:10:51 | null | 2016-08-24T17:31:14 | Firefighters came to the rescue of a missing cat who was spotted up a tree. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fmissing-cat-rescued-from-a-tree-1-8086753.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8086752.1472056256!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Missing cat rescued from a tree | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Firefighters came to the rescue of a missing cat who was spotted up a tree.
Crews from Wigan fire station were called to Chatsworth Avenue, Ince, at 3.30pm today to help the cat.
It was around five metres from the ground in a tree in a neighbour’s garden.
Grahame Sumner, crew manager, said: “An owner had lost a cat. It had been missing for a couple of days and was noticed in a neighbour’s garden up a tree.
“The RSPCA were there with a basket for us so we got a ladder and went up the tree to bring it down.”
The cat was rescued from the tree and was reported to be okay.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Missing cat rescued from a tree Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/missing-cat-rescued-from-a-tree-1-8086753 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/20eb964e75999a7e0cb69f3fcefe7a68c2aafb9684fd9ebe473eccc8aac1175e.json |
[
"Paul Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-27T06:50:34 | null | 2016-08-27T07:00:00 | Gary Caldwell says his Wigan Athletic side will be going ‘back to basics’ as they attempt to get back on track this afternoon against QPR. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Fback-to-basic-for-caldwell-and-latics-1-8091693.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8091690.1472228430!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Back to basic for Caldwell and Latics | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Gary Caldwell says his Wigan Athletic side will be going ‘back to basics’ as they attempt to get back on track this afternoon against QPR.
The Latics chief was scathing in his assessment of last weekend’s 4-3 defeat at Nottingham Forest, and in particular the four ‘ridiculous’ goals his side shipped.
However, he thinks the message has got through to his players ahead of Wigan’s final game before the international break.
“When you concede four goals, it’s clear where the problem lies,” Caldwell told the Evening Post.
“And I don’t just mean the defence or the goalkeeper.
“I’m talking about the whole team in terms of how we defend and our desire to defend.
“I’ve spoken this week about strikers having the mentality of not letting the opposition into our half, the midfield not letting them in our box, and the defence not letting them get shots off. And that has to be our mentality from this day forward.
“When we lose the ball, everybody becomes a defender. When we win the ball, everybody becomes an attacker.
“At the minute, we’re only playing one aspect of the game, and that’s when we have the ball.
“It’s not rocket science – it’s football.
“Every team that’s ever been successful has played that way, and everybody has to be a part of it.
“Forest had 23 shots at our goal, and that’s far too many.
“If you get that every week, you won’t win many games.
“We had to get back to basics, we had to get back to hard work, being confrontational and aggressive, and I want to see that come out on Saturday.”
Caldwell has been balancing his time between preparing for today’s game, while overseeing attempts to bring in new blood ahead of Wednesday night’s transfer deadline.
“I still see quite a lot being done,” revealed Caldwell, who has already added 10 players this summer. “There’s key areas we need to strengthen, and we’re working extremely hard to do that.
“It is difficult to do that, with salary demands and agents’ demands, it is a difficult process. We have to make sure that, even at this late stage, we don’t panic and get the wrong player.
“But I’m pretty sure we’ll have a few new faces come Wednesday.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Back to basic for Caldwell and Latics Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/back-to-basic-for-caldwell-and-latics-1-8091693 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/d2a44da557a3b05cc042855b2432c1ca9cc19e11dc3536a92d8edd4717109152.json |
[
"Charles Graham"
] | 2016-08-26T13:09:50 | null | 2016-08-25T11:53:52 | The RSPCA is appealing for information after a starving puppy, thought only to be about six weeks old, was abandoned in a cat carrier in a supermarket car park. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fstarving-puppy-dumped-in-supermarket-car-park-1-8087976.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8087971.1472123426!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Starving puppy dumped in supermarket car park | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | The RSPCA is appealing for information after a starving puppy, thought only to be about six weeks old, was abandoned in a cat carrier in a supermarket car park.
The female dog, thought to be a springer spaniel or pointer crossbreed, was found by a passer-by quivering in the carrier outside Tesco in Derby Street, Leigh, on Wednesday August 10.
Lilian
As well as being underweight, the puppy - who has been named Lilian - was dehydrated. Her abandonment comes just weeks after the RSPCA released figures showing animals are more likely to be dumped during the summer months, with one found every hour from June, to August.
RSPCA inspector Helen Smith, who is investigating, said: “Poor Lilian was absolutely terrified when she was found and, although she is learning to trust people now, she is still a little scared of everything. She was not in a good way when she was found but thankfully she is on the road to recovery. It must have been very scary and distressing for her to have been dumped in the callous way that she was.
“We don’t know for certain how long she was there for before she was found, but she would have been very vulnerable out there on her own. We are urging anyone who has any information about how Lilian came to be how she was to please contact us in complete confidence on 0300 123 8018. It is very important we find out more information.
“The carrier which Lilian was dumped in is very distinctive as it had a number of stickers of flies on the top of it. Somebody must recognise this carrier as it is unusual.”
We don’t know for certain how long she was there for before she was found, but she would have been very vulnerable out there on her own Helen Smith
Lilian is now being cared for in a foster home. It is hoped that she will be available for rehoming soon.
Insp Smith added: “Every year the RSPCA sees an increase in the number of young animals that come into our care at this time of year after unplanned pregnancies result in unwanted litters - which is why we always advise people to get their pets neutered. We also think it is very important for people to research thoroughly when they take on a new pet - whatever that animal may be they do need to research it, make sure it will suit their lifestyle and that they will be able to provide for it for the entirety of its life - however long that may be.”
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[] | 2016-08-29T10:51:11 | null | 2016-08-29T11:17:56 | Many a Harry Potter fan think they know all there is to know about Quidditch, cauldrons and where you can buy Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Ftest-your-harry-potter-knowledge-at-quiz-1-8094167.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8094165.1472465852!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Test your Harry Potter knowledge at quiz | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Many a Harry Potter fan think they know all there is to know about Quidditch, cauldrons and where you can buy Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans.
But a Wigan pub is challenging lovers of the franchise to put their knowledge to the test and help them raise some money for charity.
The Brocket
The Brocket Arms on Mesnes Road will play host the magical quiz and the staff are hoping to raise more than £1,000 for CLIC Sargent, a charity which supports children with cancer.
The quiz is the brainchild of the new pub manager Tom Quinn who held a similar event at his previous pub and hopes to repeat the success of that event here.
He is being helped out by staff at the Wetherspoons pub, including shift manager Danielle Stanistreet.
She said: “The charity is our official Wetherspoons charity, so every pub in the country is raising money for CLIC Sargent.
“We try and bank about £100 a week for the chairty but with this event we are hoping to raise more than £1,000.
“It was our new pub manager Tom’s idea to have a Harry Potter theme. He held a similar event at his previous pub and it went really well, it had sold out in a week.
“It is all Harry Potter themed, so all the questions will be about Harry Potter.
“People can dress up as him as they want or any of the other characters if they would prefer but they don’t have to if they would rather not.
“The more people in harry potter fancy dress the better there will be prizes for best team name and best fancy dress.”
“Tom is a big Harry Potter fan and quite a few of the other staff are as well. We are really looking forward to it. I think someone even has a Harry Potter tattoo.
“Tom will be responsible for writing the questions so I am sure he’ll out everyone’s knowledge to the test.”
The questions will cover the seven books and eight Harry Potter films and there will be a number of categories about the franchise.
There will also be Harry Potter themed games with prizes available at the event which will start at 7.30pm on October 5.
Tickets for the quiz are currently on sale from behind the bar at The Brocket and are £3 per person.
Danielle said there had been lots of interest on social media and advised anyone who was interested to make sure they get their tickets too.
Teams are limited to six people.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Test your Harry Potter knowledge at quiz Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/test-your-harry-potter-knowledge-at-quiz-1-8094167 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/c25e4e0c7af019245a9f1fa2ea91063f9865a14ca49255a4b2de57eab9255cc6.json |
[
"Sophie Arnold"
] | 2016-08-26T13:04:14 | null | 2016-08-26T09:58:15 | Wiganers are bucking a national trend and heading abroad on holiday instead of opting for a staycation. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fwiganers-opt-not-to-shun-the-sun-for-staycation-trend-1-8090232.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8090231.1472202725!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Wiganers opt not to shun the sun for staycation trend | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Wiganers are bucking a national trend and heading abroad on holiday instead of opting for a staycation.
A new report has revealed that the staycation economy is becoming stronger in the UK as holidaymakers spend more time and money on local shores
I don’t think people are deterred from going abroad, they don’t want fear to stop them living their lives and enjoying themselves Angela Lucas
Some 70 per cent of UK adults have been on or are planning a staycation and are spending an average six per cent more per holiday than a year ago, the survey from Barclays Business found.
The study revealed Britons were spending £22.1 billion on UK staycations, with the average amount spent per party increasing from £575 last year to £613.
The seaside was the most popular type of staycation, chosen by 46 per cent of holidaymakers, followed by country breaks (40 per cent), city breaks (36 per cent), holidays with friends and family (25 per cent) and visits to National Trust sites (21 per cent).
When asked why they chose a staycation, 38 per cent said they liked to explore their own country, 34 per cent said they wanted fun experiences in the UK, 27 per cent sought to cut down travel time and 22 per cent said it was cheaper.
A fifth said they were remaining in the UK due to security concerns and terror attacks abroad.
But Wigan travel agent Angela Lucas, director at Holiday Getaway on Hallgate, told the Evening Post earlier this year that she has not seen a drop in the number of her customers booking holidays abroad this summer.
Although trips to places such as Egypt have fallen in popularity for Wigan folk as a result of recent events, Spain has remained a firm favourite for holidays.
She said: “We haven’t really seen a fall in the number of people going abroad, if anything we are busier than last year.
“I don’t think people are deterred from going abroad, they don’t want fear to stop them living their lives and enjoying themselves.
“Less people are going to Egypt but we still have a lot of people going to Spain, Portugal, the Canary Islands as well as people booking cruises and more long haul holidays like the Caribbean. I’d say most people we have seen are going to the Spanish mainland.”
The reports states that small and medium businesses in the UK’s accommodation and food services sectors have seen a 30 per cent increase in turnover since 2012 to £50bn.
Adam Rowse, head of business banking at Barclays, said: “Brits are opting to spend their leisure time on UK shores and in turn it is boosting the takings of business in the tourism sector.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Wiganers opt not to shun the sun for staycation trend Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/wiganers-opt-not-to-shun-the-sun-for-staycation-trend-1-8090232 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/8ca99e088d7ba71166229fce6ef46415ca530e011e88bf3cebd2f9f474347136.json |
[
"Phil Wilkinson"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:37 | null | 2016-08-25T11:47:13 | The top-four looks set, it’s now a case of jostling for positions on the starting grid over the next four games before the semi-finals begin. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Fcolumnists%2Ftalking-rl-will-wembley-distraction-help-warriors-super-league-bid-1-8087470.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8087468.1472114957!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Talking RL: Will Wembley distraction help Warriors’ Super League bid? | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | The top-four looks set, it’s now a case of jostling for positions on the starting grid over the next four games before the semi-finals begin.
Sure, Catalans can theoretically still overhaul St Helens, in fourth.
Realistically, the Dragons have been in free-fall for several weeks and with no Todd Carney, and no Pat Richards, they have little chance of arresting their slide.
And so we have Hull FC (38 points), Warrington (37), Wigan (36) and St Helens (32) left in the Grand Final mix.
The glass-half-empty fans would say Wigan are in the worst run of form and, statistically, they would be right. They have lost more games in recent weeks than their rivals.
But I’m much more optimistic than that, and I think they are looking in great shape for a tilt at both the league leaders’ shield and a fourth straight Grand Final appearance.
They must be in confident mood after their 25-0 win against St Helens last Friday – Saints, remember, were on a seven-game winning streak.
To spill that much ball and still post four tries was encouraging, but the character they showed in defence was the most pleasing aspect.
And with Sean O’Loughlin and Tony Clubb to return to the frame, Shaun Wane will have the genuine, intense competition for places in the middle which he has lacked for most of the year.
Expect Liam Farrell and Anthony Gelling, who have both played twice since returning from injury lay-offs, to improve their combinations with those around them as they settle back into the side.
Of course, a team’s prospects of glory rely heavily of the quality of the opposition, and all three other sides – on their day – can play.
Hull FC have a star-studded squad, but will their inexperience at this stage hurt them?
Warrington’s halfbacks are slick and their pack is formidable, but has their backline got another firepower?
Saints, too, are lacking quality in certain areas – in my view, they have punched above their weight to climb into the top-four.
Following the increase in prize fund to £100,000, and the dramatics of last year’s race between Leeds and Wigan, there is more kudos attached to winning the League Leaders’ Shield than in recent years – even if it still isn’t as revered as much as it should be.
And in terms of finishing the season in the No.1 spot, it wouldn’t be accurate to say the Warriors’ fate is in their own hands – because even if they win all their remaining four matches, Hull FC may edge it due to their superior for-and-against.
But, perhaps crucially, Hull FC and Warrington have the distraction of this weekend’s Challenge Cup final.
And recent history has shown how tough sides have found it to back-up from Wembley.
Six days after the final, Hull FC face a trip to a wounded St Helens side, while Warrington head to Perpignan to play Catalans - they are not ‘gimmes’ by a stretch.
And remember, Hull FC and Warrington play each other on the final day of the season - to point out the bleeding obvious, only one of them can collect the two points!
So even if Wigan win three of their remaining four games, it may be enough to take the top-spot, and head into the play-offs with a home semi against, presumably, St Helens.
There is something else to consider, too.
If Saturday’s Challenge Cup final finishes as a draw, the game will be replayed.
Farcically, every round of the competition goes to golden-points, apart from the final. And if a replay is needed, it would pit the top-two against each other on Wednesday, September 7 – just TWO DAYS before Hull FC face Wigan.
Such a scenario would be ridiculous – I’m staggered the RFL hasn’t addressed this issue – but it would certainly work in Wigan’s favour.
And as I’m torn who to go for – I went to university in Hull but I know more people at Warrington – and as it would help out the Warriors massively, I’ll be hoping for a draw!
And on the topic of the Wembley weekend, good luck to the three Wigan teams taking part in the Champions Schools Finals, including St Peter’s Year Sevens in the Challenge Cup Final curtain-raiser.
Apologies in advance for dragging up the whole John Bateman saga, but I can’t help wonder if he is yet to face further punishment.
Because Bateman has been one of the best players this season, and under normal circumstances, would surely be the frontrunner for the Man of Steel. But he missed a seven-game chunk of the season because of a club-imposed suspension – will that come back to bite him?
I hope not. Because, while I could make a case for Gareth Ellis, Luke Gale and Kurt Gidley, I don’t think any of them deserve the award more than Bateman.
Sadly, Pat Richards has had to hang up his boots early because of a knee injury.
Shaun Wane called the goal-kicking winger one of Wigan’s top-three greatest overseas signings and, “as a man, he’s even higher”.
It’s hard to disagree.
He is a legend of the club who has left us all with so many great memories.
All the best to Pat on a stellar career – and in the next chapter of his life.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Talking RL: Will Wembley distraction help Warriors’ Super League bid? Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/columnists/talking-rl-will-wembley-distraction-help-warriors-super-league-bid-1-8087470 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/4487724b9d3fd032a6e2a897d33cd0a8123ce62cce6e3abee406b4333fa1a97f.json |
[
"Gavin Browne"
] | 2016-08-31T08:52:32 | null | 2016-08-31T09:01:01 | The transfer stories from at home and abroad on deadline day | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fblues-back-in-for-luiz-1-8097162.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8097159.1472630438!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Blues back in for Luiz? | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | The types of cookies we, our ad network and technology partners use are listed below:
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Add This ► Add This provides the social networking widget found in many of our pages. This widget gives you the tools to bookmark our websites, blog, share, tweet and email our content to a friend. | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/blues-back-in-for-luiz-1-8097162 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/af1bce77bfe2390a96493600bc80da4811950a909b0247fa4b85cbb83dde3ead.json |
[
"Michelle Kilner",
"James.Trembath Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-27T06:50:08 | null | 2016-08-27T07:00:33 | When the mercury soars, some gardeners enjoy the peace and calm of a cool, shady haven. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Ffind-solace-in-summer-shade-1-8084713.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8084712.1471969462!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Find solace in summer shade | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | When the mercury soars, some gardeners enjoy the peace and calm of a cool, shady haven.
Yes, we can all crouch under the sun umbrella, but it’s just not very pretty, is it? And I’m afraid I don’t go for canvas gazebos either, even if they are practical, what with all those metal poles and coach bolts.
So how else can you create shade in a sunny spot?
Awnings are another option and can add a splash of colour if you need it. But they have to be situated in the right spot, can be expensive and if your patio is windy, they may be vulnerable.
One idea which can be effective is to train leafy climbers over an arch to create a retreat.
If you have a wooden bench, you could place some sort of arch over it and grow climbers in pots or in the earth on either side, to train up it and provide colour as well as some shade.
A light-roofed structure, such as a pergola, can also provide relief from the sun, as you can train climbers over the crossbeams, providing more hours of shade.
Pergolas are usually made from timber or metal, with a horizontal trellis laid on top.
They are usually built out from the house or a wall, often positioned directly above a patio and, as well as providing shade, they also put paid to nosey neighbours who may want to know what you’re up to. Ideal trailers to use on pergolas include sweet-smelling roses, honeysuckle or clematis.
You can buy kits from DIY stores and big garden centres consisting of timber uprights and cross pieces to put together yourself, or alternatively have a local builder do it.
If plants aren’t creating your shade, you can add colour and texture to a shady spot with hostas and ferns, heucheras and hydrangeas, adding further splashes of colour with shade-tolerant Busy Lizzies, stocks, violas and nicotiana.
Climbers which grow over a freestanding structure in the sun often do better than when planted against a wall or fence because there is no restriction of light.
If the structure - arch or pergola - is big enough, virtually any climber will be suitable, but if the gap is only small, avoid roses with sharp thorns or other bushy plants.
And remember that a combination of climbers which flower at different times will provide colour to your patio for longer and create an attractive mix. For big structures, you could train wisteria, laburnum and a late-flowering clematis.
Trellis is another useful commodity to help create shade in a sunny spot. Panels with curved tops are available to make useful screens to shelter the patio.
Arbours are another option for shade. They are open-sided structures, usually set over a sitting area in an informal part of the garden, and while they may not suit the patio area, you could always move down the garden to sit in an arbour smothered with fragrant climbers.
Remember before you start, though, to experiment with temporary shade before investing in time and money to create permanent shade.
If you have that old sun umbrella, move it around the patio to find out where it is most effective.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Find solace in summer shade Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/find-solace-in-summer-shade-1-8084713 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/5eaca2e557fe0e2e22c4e2f2de16017b0e6538bb2e4d9c68442c83f576aaf78b.json |
[
"Rebecca Hay"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:18 | null | 2016-08-19T09:50:47 | It was the battle of the conservationists. In the red corner English Heritage proudly prepared its frontlines ready for the onslaught of the mighty National Trust limbering up in the purple corner. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Ftravel-review-north-east-of-england-1-8077941.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8077938.1471596904!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Travel review: North East of England | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | It was the battle of the conservationists. In the red corner English Heritage proudly prepared its frontlines ready for the onslaught of the mighty National Trust limbering up in the purple corner.
So who would win this mighty fight? My two little soldiers , Ruaridh (9) and Flora (6) weighed up their options and after due consideration (as they tucked into an afternoon tea of scones and clotted cream), they declared it a draw.
English Heritage's majestic Homesteads Fort
They will no doubt make good politicians in the future, but for now they were concentrating on letting their young minds absorb as much culture and information as their mother (that’s me!) could persuade them to as we enjoyed a trip to see the historical gems on offer in the North East.
As parents we often find it hard to entertain the children during the long summer holidays, but these days there is so much to see and do, you just have to jump on board and have some fun.
And English Heritage and the National Trust have embraced this philosophy and these days their once stuffy (well that’s what we thought as children!) properties are now child friendly and laid out in such a way that the whole family really can have a good time together.
The North East of England has its fair share of places to visit and with such lovely rolling countryside and a short drive from Lancashire, it’s the perfect place to spend a few days exploring.
The National Trust's Wallington. Photo by John Millar
Ruaridh and Flora had enjoyed a taste of English Heritage’s Hadrian’s Wall trail last year and enjoyed it so much, they wanted to go back for more.
This time we headed for Homesteads Roman Fort, perched high on the hills above Haydon Bridge. The fort was built in Roman times as a blueprint for similar forts around the world so that everything would be set out in the same way at each site to make it easier for soldiers when they were sent around the world.
Homesteads is a fine example of a fort and after a short walk up the hill you find yourself in the visitor centre where an exhibition is dedicated to the fort and the items found over the years. Felix the soldier provides information for the youngsters on the same interpretation boards as the adults read. And its fascinating stuff, with Ruaridh and Flora’s minds in overdrive as they looked at the artefacts, such as tools and jewellery left by the soldiers and discovered by archaeologists over the years.
Outside you can look round the remains of the fort which sits proudly infront of Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We had great fun pretending we were standing in the soldiers’ barracks, commander’s living quarters and looking at the hospital and granaries.
From here we took a short hop to Birdoswald, neighbouring Cumbria’s Roman fort and also where the longest section of Hadrian’s Wall can be seen (or walked if you can persuade the children!).
A product of 1,800 years of occupation, this fort is different in that it stands just infront of a mock medieval farmhouse built in 1858. With stunning landscape surrounding it, it really is a lovely spot to visit.
After all that history, we were in need of some fun by the seaside (but with a spot of culture thrown in too) and so we headed to Tynemouth, a great wee spot with old-fashioned entertainment on offer. After a bracing walk on the beach we headed for the imposing priory and castle which dominates the town.
It was once the most fortified place in England and dates back 2,000 years. Its well spread out, so we all got to stretch our limbs as we headed back in history and took in all the fascinating parts from the beautiful and tranquil 13th century chapel to the restored gun battery and cannons. And some fantastic views of the North Sea to boot.
As with all the English Heritage sites over the summer, there are some great activities on offer from clash of the knights contests to kite flying.
And working just as hard as English Heritage to bring our history to life are the people working for The National Trust.
The North East has some great examples of this work and we headed for two of them. Our first stop was Seaton Delaval Hall at Seaton Sluice in Northumberland. This wonderful property was designed by architect Sir John Vanbrugh and home to the party loving Delaval family. It is of Georgian style, but with a mischievious past.
The Delaval’s were known for their high spirited and flamboyant lifestyle and everyone wanted to go to their parties. They loved to play pranks, some guests woke up to find their furniture stuck to the ceiling!
The hall has survived a fire and houses some lovely rooms and furniture for you to look round and the gardens are amazing, literally with a box hedge maze for the children to enjoy as you take in the gorgeous scents of the flowers.
From here we headed for our final stop of our adventure, Wallington, once home to the Trevelyan family.
Just outside Morpeth, this 13,000 acre estate is a joy to visit. Gifted to the National Trust by Sir Charles Philips Trevelyan, a controversial socialist MP, it is a wonderful place.
Another unconventional family, the Trevelyan’s home boasts huge pre-Raphaelite paintings telling the history of Northumberland and beautiful furniture and treasured collections in the rooms.
The house has a remarkable collection of dolls houses and some fabulous old children’s games to have a go at. Outside is a landscape of lawns, lakes, woodlands, parklands and farmland and a magical walled garden where you can relax and let your mind re-live all those adventures you have just enjoyed – long may English Heritage and The National Trust reign!
Fact file:
We are lucky in the Northern part of Great Britain to have so many national treasures on our doorstep. Throughout the summer both English Heritage and The National Trust have special events on to keep all the family entertained as you learn about the nation’s history.
For more information, log onto www.english-heritage.org.uk and www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Travel review: North East of England Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/travel-review-north-east-of-england-1-8077941 | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/e526555d6068ded662b9f5577f5ae51de94bf5aea2b7780b93d924ecaf2f31ab.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T08:50:22 | null | 2016-08-27T09:00:00 | Wigan’s MP Lisa Nandy has criticised the Tory government after the extent of potential cuts to the NHS were revealed. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Ffears-over-plans-to-cut-nhs-services-1-8091363.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8091361.1472222705!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Fears over plans to cut NHS services | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Wigan’s MP Lisa Nandy has criticised the Tory government after the extent of potential cuts to the NHS were revealed.
Campaign group 38 Degrees has released the results of an investigation it conducted into what it calls “secret plans to change our NHS” by reviewing publicly available documents on sustainability and transformation plans (STPs) which have been produced for each area.
The group said its investigation shows a swathe of proposed changes to frontline services, including A&E closures and cuts to hospital beds.
It says that according to an STP about Greater Manchester, made public in 2015, the health authorities needs to make £2b of savings before 2021 and have been given “significant savings targets for frontline services”.
These include plans to centralise mental health, pathology and radiology but it is unclear whether any local services will close.
Earlier this year health leaders around the country were tasked with planning how they will deliver a “sustainable and transformed” health service to improve quality of care and NHS finances. But health experts have warned that this could lead to a “glut” of hospital services being shut down.
Ms Nandy said: “These plans would be a devastating blow to NHS services which are already feeling the strain from six years of mismanagement under the Tories.
“If the Government pushes ahead with these proposals to close hospital wards, reduce bed numbers and downgrade A&E services, it will be a betrayal of the British people.
“It proves once and for all that, despite all of their rhetoric, you simply cannot trust the Tories with the NHS.”
A NHS England spokesman told the BBC that it is not a secret that the NHS is looking to make major efficiencies and that the best way of doing so is for in consultation with local communities.
They also emphasised that the proposals are at a draft stage and no changes to the services people currently receive would be made without local engagement.
The report also suggests changes could be made to the care provided by GPs but Dr Tim Dalton, Local GP and Chair of NHS Wigan Borough CCG, said they have been working on making changes since 2013.
He said: “Currently, we have a lot of GP practices offering high quality care, but the system is unsustainable as there aren’t enough doctors and nurses. We are working with our practices to develop new ways of delivering traditional GP services.
“We are encouraging practices to work more closely together to make services more efficient and to enable them to offer more services.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Fears over plans to cut NHS services Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/fears-over-plans-to-cut-nhs-services-1-8091363 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/4bdd80ed8beed897656d89e02097fadcbe1bcd36e9d6d144df5beb7f6883a70c.json |
[
"Paul Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-27T08:50:34 | null | 2016-08-27T08:00:00 | Yanic Wildschut admits Wigan Athletic have triple reason to see off QPR at the DW Stadium this afternoon. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Fno-need-to-panic-with-yanic-1-8091689.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8091688.1472228236!/image/image.jpg | en | null | No need to panic with Yanic | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Yanic Wildschut admits Wigan Athletic have triple reason to see off QPR at the DW Stadium this afternoon.
Firstly, they’re desperate to get back to winning ways after last weekend’s agonising 4-3 defeat at Nottingham Forest.
Secondly, they’re hoping to continue their unbeaten record at the DW Stadium.
Thirdly, they don’t want to sign off for the international break on a downer...and have to wait a fortnight to put things right.
“When I was at Middlesbrough, we always won before the international break,” Wildshut told the Evening Post.
“It’s true what they say about it being a long time to wait to make things right if you’ve lost.
“The vibe in the club is much easier for that fortnight if you’ve won.
“You obviously want to win every game – but especially at home, and even more so before the international break.
“If we can play like we have in recent weeks, but do our defensive job a bit better, we will be okay.
“QPR have a really strong team, but I have faith in our quality, especially at home.
“You want to be picking up most of your points at home, and then picking up a few on the road.
“We did very well last season at home, and we’ve also started this season in the same way, so we need to keep that going.”
Like many of his team-mates, Wildschut is still coming to terms with how Latics came away from the City Ground with nothing despite giving as good as they’d got for the duration.
“Yes, those the worst feelings you have after a game,” he acknowledged.
“When Adam (Bogdan) saved the penalty at 2-1, I thought we were going to win the game.
“We kept coming back, and we had to kill the game at that point.
“It was a hard one to take to lose it in stoppage-time.
“But we have shown we can score goals at this level.
“It’s just a case of keeping them out at the other end.
“And we know defence starts at the other end, with Will (Grigg) and the other attackers.
“It’s a team thing, you can’t just blame the defence.
“But we are conceding too many goals at the moment, and goals that are not necessary to concede.
“In the four games we’ve played, we’ve been the better side in them all.
“We only have four points to show for that, but it does give us hope for the future that we can compete at this level.
“We knew it would be hard, but we know we can play and we need to keep it going.”
The Forest game saw Wildschut employed in a new role, with boss Gary Caldwell selecting him at right-wing back after youngster Luke Burke – who’d started all the previous league games – picked up a knock in the week.
It meant the Dutchman having added defensive responsibilities, which obviously curtailed his efforts to get involved at the right end of the pitch.
“I play wherever the gaffer needs me to play,” Wildschut admitted.
“It’s a nice position when we have the ball, because you can just attack down the right-hand side.
“The defending part, for me, was kind of hard.
“You have to drop back and help – and especially when you’ve committed to a run forward, you have to immediately run all the way back.
“Having played there, I have so much admiration for the players who regularly play out there like Stevie (Warnock), Don (Daniels) or Burkey.
“They make it look a lot easier than it actually is.
“It’s an okay position to play, and it’s good to be able to play in more than one position.
“But I have to admit I would prefer to play out wide on the left, because I have always played there and I know what to do.
“But if I can help the team in any way, I will try and do that.”
Last weekend aside, Wildschut has enjoyed an explosive start to the campaign, although he feels there is always room for improvement.
“I didn’t really have the best feeling after the Birmingham game, because I thought I should have done a little more,” he added.
“It was just one of those games where the opposition sits back and makes it hard for you.
“On the whole I think I’ve done okay.
“I’m just happy to be able to play every game, even at this level.
“Both myself and the team are showing we can do it at this level, and I just hope we can continue to do that.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story No need to panic with Yanic Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/no-need-to-panic-with-yanic-1-8091689 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/39239adb18e51157aa7304ddecb1da9339d9367a53c9cfc6a1c844d5b2841c12.json |
[] | 2016-08-31T08:52:01 | null | 2016-08-31T09:00:00 | An opposition councillor has thrown his support behind residents who are opposing a plan to remove a traffic control barrier. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fboost-for-campaign-to-stop-barrier-s-axing-1-8096553.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096552.1472574761!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Boost for campaign to stop barrier’s axing | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | An opposition councillor has thrown his support behind residents who are opposing a plan to remove a traffic control barrier.
Orrell ward Coun Michael Winstanley is supporting residents who oppose a proposal being considered by town hall bosses to remove the barrier on Walthew House Lane in Kitt Green to allow traffic to travel directly from Spring Road through to Martland Mill Lane and Scot Lane.
I am in full support of the residents who do not want this barrier on Walthew House Lane removed Coun Michael Winstanley
Wigan Council hopes removing the barrier will ease the flow of traffic and improve road safety by diverting vehicles away from the residential areas of Kitt Green.
But concerns have been raised by residents at a meeting that the plan would increase the amount of traffic and the number of HGVs coming from the M6 through Orrell and down Spring Road.
Coun Winstanley said following the meeting: “It is clear how unpopular this proposal is. It is a long time since I have seen such united opposition to a proposal like this.
“I am in full support of the residents who do not want this barrier on Walthew House Lane removed.
“I have been inundated by residents from Spring Road and Gathurst Road who are totally opposed to this proposal that is being put forward by the council.
“The proposal from the Council will lead to Orrell being swamped with HGVs and cars.
“Orrell is already gridlocked and this will make a bad situation worse. It is outrageous that the residents of Orrell are once again going to suffer from a decision being taken by Wigan Council.
“The council say that this will help ease the traffic situation in the area.
“I can assure them that this will lead to traffic congestion, noise and pollution in the Orrell area.
“I am fully backing the residents in their opposition to this proposal and I would urge all residents to object to these proposals and ensure that their voice is heard loud and clear.”
In a letter sent out to residents in the Walthew House Lane area, the council lays out how residents living on the unadopted section have expressed concerns regarding HGV traffic attempting to access Martland Mill Business Park.
Due to the control barrier, HGV drivers have been observed reversing on this section of road and using the streets coming off it as a turning point after accidently heading down the blocked section of the street.
This is despite their being numerous signs warning drivers that there is no through road.
Mark Tilley, assistant director for infrastructure, said: “We’re responding to the concerns from residents about the high number of HGVs that are driven through the area and them having to reverse down residential streets.
“We have been working with Heinz and with local residents to find a solution to this and to help ease traffic flow in the area. We are committed to working with them to help resolve the concerns they have and would encourage them to comment on the plans.”
Any comments on the scheme should be made before September 9 and addressed to Assistant Director Legal, Wigan Town Hall, Library Street quoting reference RD/LS/RD/LS/JOH/CL 48/204.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Boost for campaign to stop barrier’s axing Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/boost-for-campaign-to-stop-barrier-s-axing-1-8096553 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/9206bc135565c25abff444af6f2cd5993d8cf3110cfba3f8e52a5e8e4447725d.json |
[
"Phil Wilkinson"
] | 2016-08-29T06:51:46 | null | 2016-08-29T06:00:25 | Shaun Wane has warned his players he will adapt a more “ruthless” approach to team selection. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-warriors%2Fi-ll-be-more-ruthless-with-my-team-selection-wane-1-8093462.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8093460.1472402838!/image/image.jpg | en | null | I’ll be more ruthless with my team selection - Wane | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Shaun Wane has warned his players he will adapt a more “ruthless” approach to team selection.
He is desperate to keep Wigan on course for a fourth successive Grand Final appearance.
Third in the Super League ladder, they have just four games left to try and overhaul Challenge Cup finalists Hull FC and Warrington. Wane, and chairman Ian Lenagan, have made no secret of the fact they regard the league leaders’ shield highly – even if it isn’t as widely coveted as the Challenge Cup and Super League trophies.
A place in the top-two would also give them a home semi-final.
Wane has always had a firm, and transparent, stance when picking his sides.
And, with a maximum of six games remaining, he has vowed he will taken an even harder stance.
He said: “At this time of year, my mindset is I’m ruthless. It’s really simple – if someone is not doing what I want them to do, I’ll put someone else in.
“There have been times this year we’ve not had the opportunity to do that because of player availability.
“And there are other times you give someone a bit of leeway for an off-day.
“But the stakes are higher now and I want a performance every week. No slips, no dips.
“There’s no sentiment, there’s no ‘I’ll give you a week to get over it’. They need perform.” Wane’s track record has plenty of examples where he has picked young players ahead of more experienced stars, if he has felt their form has warranted it.
Despite missing Joel Tomkins, Micky McIlorum and Dom Manfredi, he has a strong squad to pick from for their remaining match – starting with Thursday’s visit of Widnes.
The competition is fiercest in the pack, particularly with Tony Clubb and Sean O’Loughlin returning this week from injury lay-offs.
And with middles such as Lee Mossop, Ben Flower, Dom Crosby, Taulima Tautai, Willie Isa, Frank-Paul Nuuausala and Ryan Sutton, Wane will inevitably need to leave some frontline players out.
He has the option of using Sutton and Isa in the second-row, as cover for Liam Farrell and John Bateman.
“We’ve got some flexibility in the squad, but ideally I want everyone in their best position,” he said.
In the backs, Oliver Gildart and Lewis Tierney are contesting the one wing spot vacated by Manfredi’s cruel knee injury.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story I’ll be more ruthless with my team selection – Wane Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-warriors/i-ll-be-more-ruthless-with-my-team-selection-wane-1-8093462 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/e135f6b8da904cb189371491d85bd31a4776507cd663d6bce2a85cc3786b5b56.json |
[
"Michelle Kilner",
"James.Trembath Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-27T06:50:04 | null | 2016-08-23T17:14:27 | “We cook on so many levels, not just to feed ourselves,” says Georgie Hayden, taking a sip of tea. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Frecipe-for-a-calmer-life-georgie-hayden-tells-kate-whiting-about-the-emotional-journey-behind-her-new-recipe-book-1-8084702.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8084701.1471968963!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Recipe for a calmer life - Georgie Hayden tells Kate Whiting about the emotional journey behind her new recipe book | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | “We cook on so many levels, not just to feed ourselves,” says Georgie Hayden, taking a sip of tea.
As part of Jamie Oliver’s ‘Food Team’, the bubbly brown-eyed Londoner cooks for a living, dreaming up and styling recipes for Oliver’s books, magazine and TV shows. But she also cooked her way through a traumatic maternity leave, after her son Archie died just before birth two years ago.
“I can’t remember what happened for the first few months. I think we must have lived off food from nice people. I don’t think I cooked for a while. I really scared myself. I thought, ‘I just don’t care, I actually don’t care about food or anything’,” she recalls. “You feel really vulnerable and I didn’t want to go out... Then it sort of went full circle.”
Fearing she’d lost her love of food, Hayden gathered all her cookbooks together - including Honey & Co’s book, the Middle Eastern cafe where we meet today - and started thinking about food for her and husband Pete.
“After a few months of calming down, I thought, ‘Let’s start again... You’re going to sit down and start making a weekly meal plan’. Then I would drive myself to the supermarket and do the shop, and that’s actually what got me out again - having a purpose got me back into doing something and being a bit more confident.”
The familiarity and routine of cooking was like therapy and slowly eased Hayden, 34, through her bereavement.
What started out as a simple project has been gently nurtured into Hayden’s first cookbook, Stirring Slowly: Recipes To Restore + Revive. With chapter titles such as ‘A Sunny Start To
The Day’, ‘Bowl Food’, and ‘Bake Yourself Better’, it’s a book to turn to when you’ve had a long, tough day - full of warming, comforting and revitalising recipes.
In his foreword, Jamie Oliver says he loves Hayden ‘like a sister’, and she is equally full of praise for her mentor, with whom she’s travelled the world for work.
“After my maternity leave, I went back part-time, because I needed to sort my life out a bit. He said, ‘Whatever you need to do, we’ll make it work’. He’s phenomenal and he really cares.
It sounds cheesy, but the Food Team is family and it’s the most inspiring place to be.”
Hayden’s real family has had a huge impact on her love of food, too. Born to Greek Cypriot parents, her childhood memories are of Saturday pilgrimages from their home above her grandparents’ Greek restaurant to the ‘smelly shop’ - an Italian deli packed with hanging salami - around the corner.
Her dad worked in the family restaurant while her mum stayed home, teaching Hayden and her sister to bake. It sparked a lifelong passion - and she remembers shadowing both her grannies, determined to learn all the traditional Cypriot family recipes before they were lost.
“I still cook with my granny,” she says. “She’s amazing. She’s had such an influence on me.”
Hayden’s already planning her next cookbook - full of Cypriot food - but for now, she’s pleased to have created a legacy for Archie with her first one.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Recipe for a calmer life - Georgie Hayden tells Kate Whiting about the emotional journey behind her new recipe book Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/recipe-for-a-calmer-life-georgie-hayden-tells-kate-whiting-about-the-emotional-journey-behind-her-new-recipe-book-1-8084702 | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/7f3f6accba42c91ff32842464e5916ef8c5ca851fa2790de59f684b56c4172c5.json |
[
"Pam Norfolk",
"Pamnorfolk Tiscali.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-31T12:52:20 | null | 2016-08-31T10:00:00 | Trapped in a marriage to an abusive, violent police officer, battered wife Joanna West has no one to turn to… until a stranger offering help walks into her life. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fbook-review-the-hummingbird-s-cage-by-tamara-dietrich-1-8087000.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8086999.1472067404!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Book review: The Hummingbird’s Cage by Tamara Dietrich | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Trapped in a marriage to an abusive, violent police officer, battered wife Joanna West has no one to turn to… until a stranger offering help walks into her life.
For the first time in years, Joanna and her young daughter have the chance to flee, but can you ever really escape from a brutal, vengeful husband?
Moved and inspired by the testaments of abused wives, former journalist Tamara Dietrich tackles the scourge of domestic violence head on in a highly original and powerfully imagined debut novel which melds menace with paranormal magic.
The Hummingbird’s Cage, a hard-hitting, page-turning thriller with an intriguingly soft middle, almost defies genre as Dietrich weaves seamlessly between gut-wrenching cruelty and spiritual sublimity in a tale of hope, despair and redemption.
Everyone in Wheeler, New Mexico, thinks that Joanna West leads the perfect life. She is married to Jim, the dashing deputy sheriff of McGill County, and has a beautiful seven-year-old daughter, Laurel.
But the truth is that Joanna is married to a monster who regularly beats her, subjects her to verbal and mental abuse and has isolated her from the people who live around her. Once upon a time she would have challenged him but now every time Joanna cries, ‘more of me washes away.’
Ten years ago, Joanna was swept off her feet by handsome Jim, her head turned by his uniform and ‘bad-boy grin’ but now she is trapped in a violent marriage and, with a young child to care for, escape seems impossible.
But then Bernadette, Jim’s feisty biker chick ex-girlfriend, turns up with an escape route. On the run, Joanna and Laurel stumble upon Morro, a charming and magical village that seems to exist out of time and place.
Farmer Olin Farnsworth and his wife Jessie offer her sanctuary and soon, between the comfort of her new home and blossoming friendships, Joanna’s soul begins to heal, easing the wounds of a decade of abuse.
But her past – and her husband – aren’t so easy to escape. Unwilling to live in fear any longer, Joanna must summon a strength she never knew she had to fight back and forge a new life for her daughter and herself....
Dietrich delivers a clever and compelling first novel, conjuring up a mysterious but idyllic town suspended somewhere between reality and fantasy, and juxtaposing this haven of peace with the terrifying threats that lie behind and beyond.
To read The Hummingbird’s Cage is to experience high emotion and high drama and to understand the visceral realities of domestic violence, but there is also the opportunity to marvel at the power of love and hope, and to rejoice at the human capacity to reach out and find redemption.
A heartbreaking tale written with insight, beauty and honesty…
(Orion, paperback, £7.99) | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/book-review-the-hummingbird-s-cage-by-tamara-dietrich-1-8087000 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/cd878bba879857fbbf586f0e9f6d8fb34c1d0cc2b0c734e23d391ace540e6ee3.json |
[
"Sophie Arnold"
] | 2016-08-26T13:11:36 | null | 2016-08-25T15:59:25 | A primary school in Wigan could be getting a £2.5 million extension to help deal with an increase in demand for places in the area. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fanger-at-latest-school-places-plan-1-8089121.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8089120.1472137148!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Anger at latest school places plan | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A primary school in Wigan could be getting a £2.5 million extension to help deal with an increase in demand for places in the area.
Wigan Council’s cabinet is set to consider a report on whether Marsh Green Primary School on Kitt Green Road should be expanded to provide an extra 30 places needed in Wigan West.
Marsh Green is a suitable school in the area where we can provide an additional form of entry
The report explains that as well as a rise in the birth rate in the area in 2008, there has been an increase in the number of parents wanting to send their children to school in the local area, leaving a shortage of places.
Additional places have so far been provided through bulge classes in nearby schools including Orrell Lamberhead Green, Westfield and Marsh Green. St Cuthbert’s has also increased their admission number to 60.
But projections show that the demand for places is set to continue and 30 extra places are needed in order to meet it.
The report suggests that if the plan is approved, £2.5 million of capital will be used to build at least an extra classroom onto the school.
The report reads: “Marsh Green is a suitable school in the area where we can provide an additional form of entry.
“It is a popular school and is judged as good by Ofsted.
“The school site has capacity to extend the buildings by an additional one form of entry therefore there would be no additional cost for land to expand the school.”
It goes on to say that expanding other schools in the area would require the council to purchase extra land, pushing up the cost.
It also states that doing nothing would mean the council would have to offer pupils places at a school more than two walking miles from where they live.
The plan is likely to cause some controversy though as the results of another consultation are currently being considered on whether to close one of three primary schools in Shevington.
This proposal aims to tackle a surplus of places in the village but it was met with a huge amount of opposition from parents when it was announced earlier this year and who have set up a campaign and a petition to save all three schools.
Coun Paul Collins, who supports the campaign, said: “My colleagues Councillors Mike Crosby, Damian Edwardson and I have been working closely with our local campaign groups, parents and senior council officers encouraging as many local people as possible contribute to the consultation.
“We will be making sure that every effort is put in to protecting all of our local schools.
“We will be meeting with council officers again after allowing sufficient time to review the large volume of feedback received during the consultation period after receiving approaching 700 survey responses and almost 2,000 signatures on a petition.
“This clearly emphasises the intense level of passion and commitment of local people from across the ward to protect our schools.
“With regard to school places shortages in schools within surrounding areas.
“This is one of the many issues we will be discussing with officers at the meeting to explore options once in possession of all relevant facts and figures.
“If there should be other local schools that may have reached capacity resulting in a shortage of places then it clearly would make perfect sense to direct parents and children towards our outstanding schools, which are within a reasonable commutable distance”
Amy Cummings, vice secretary of the Save Shevington Federation Committee said they were aware of the proposal.
She said: “Questions around this agenda topic have been submitted as part of the consultation process and will be part of the discussions we have planned in person with council representatives over the course of the next two to three weeks.”
The cabinet will consider the plans at its meeting on Thursday. If approved a consultation will be launched to gauge public opinion.
The report also includes plans to increase the number of places at Newbridge Learning Community in Platt Bridge to 88 from 80.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Anger at latest school places plan Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/anger-at-latest-school-places-plan-1-8089121 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/2d7fc849655f519b93b9cb3a9062e8913cde4a0e63d5aa3a9318be87720e46f2.json |
[
"Pam Norfolk",
"Pamnorfolk Tiscali.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T13:04:35 | null | 2016-08-17T12:07:14 | It’s almost a year since eight-year-old Abbey Gleason disappeared in woodland one sunny, summer afternoon, and the police inquiry has gone cold. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fbook-review-ink-and-bone-by-lisa-unger-1-8068210.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8068209.1471172971!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Book review: Ink and Bone by Lisa Unger | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | It’s almost a year since eight-year-old Abbey Gleason disappeared in woodland one sunny, summer afternoon, and the police inquiry has gone cold.
Only one young woman can help to solve the mystery… but is she willing to use the psychic powers that she knows are destroying her own life?
Welcome to back to The Hollows, a sinister little town in New York State where strange things happen to unsuspecting visitors, where the line between reality and the paranormal becomes blurred, and where death and tragedy are only ever a heartbeat away.
It’s easy to see why American author Lisa Unger has become the thriller queen of psychological suspense. With more than 1.7 million books sold in more than thirty countries, and a string of atmospheric, high-tension stories brimming with menace, mystery and spine-tingling supernatural, there is so much to savour.
And Unger is on top form in Ink and Bone, delivering a clever, complex story, an intriguing new heroine with a troubled past and present, and an atmosphere brimming with tension.
Twenty-year-old Finley Montgomery has always been different. She sees the world differently and has never been able to control the sights and sounds that haunt her everyday life – not even the pain of a new tattoo or the roar of her motorcycle can drown out the chaos.
Finley, bone thin and addicted to ‘ink,’ did not grow up in The Hollows in upstate New York but the rather creepy little place still has its tendrils firmly wrapped around her head. Her grandmother Eloise is the town’s psychic and Finley, who has inherited her gifts, is moving into her house in the hope of making a fresh start.
Every day is a battle for Finley to stay in her own body and her own life because she is haunted by the souls of the dead and, recently, a mysterious ‘squeak-clink’ noise that constantly invades her days and nights.
When local private investigator Jones Cooper turns up at the house, he tells Finley he knows about her psychic talents and wants her help. Abbey Gleason has been missing since her parents rented a cabin in the nearby woods last summer and her mother is desperate to unearth the truth.
But time is running out and Finley must first come to terms with the powers that she fears are wrecking her life. Can she find answers before it’s too late?
Unger’s haunting new mystery, packed with gut-wrenching emotion and small town drama, is a gripping page-turner. Mesmerising storytelling skills combined with a breathless race-against-time plot and dark, seductive paranormal overtones make this a thrilling reading journey for fans both new and old.
(Simon & Schuster, paperback, £7.99)
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Book review: Ink and Bone by Lisa Unger Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/book-review-ink-and-bone-by-lisa-unger-1-8068210 | en | 2016-08-17T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/6e86060c6d3bf57ac45642d1b4fed11fca342555551d22ed8da5cb0b08f25e08.json |
[
"Andrew Nowell"
] | 2016-08-26T13:10:13 | null | 2016-08-25T11:33:04 | Graves in Wigan Parish Church’s yard have been sat on, left strewn with litter and even been daubed with a swastika by callous youths. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fswastika-daubed-on-grave-1-8087859.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8087857.1472121166!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Swastika daubed on grave | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Graves in Wigan Parish Church’s yard have been sat on, left strewn with litter and even been daubed with a swastika by callous youths.
Residents have spoken of their disgust at the disrespectful way groups of people have been using a couple of large tombs as somewhere to sit and leaving food wrappers, empty bottles and other rubbish on them.
This is just sickening behaviour, the people responsible clearly have no respect for the dead. They need to be caught and made to clean up the mess they have left behind Steve Heaton
Pictures of the graves show clearly that one of them has been adorned with the offensive symbol and also scrawled a written message upon it.
Groups of youths also turned the area around the historic place of worship into a battleground last weekend, with police having to be called to stop the fighting, and people have also been spotted using skateboards in the graveyard.
The church has admitted the ongoing problem with anti-social behaviour in the area and graves have been damaged by people sitting on them.
Residents have condemned the way the churchyard is being used, describing some of the recent behaviour seen there as disgraceful.
Steve Heaton, who took the pictures, said: “Someone has drawn a swastika on the edge of the grave and also a message of some kind.
“This is just sickening behaviour, the people responsible clearly have no respect for the dead. They need to be caught and made to clean up the mess they have left behind.
“The graves date from the 1800s and they look as though they are family graves. I have seen groups of young people lying on them in the warm weather.
“They sit on them smoking drinking and eating and when they do leave the area there is a lot of litter that they have behind.
“I think their behaviour is just totally out of order, they very obviously have no respect for the people who are buried there.
“This needs to be stopped immediately. There are benches nearby where they could sit and have their lunch, there is simply no need for them to use someone’s grave in this disgusting manner.”
Wigan Parish Church admitted there have been issues with people not respecting the churchyard over several months.
A spokesman said: “There are two old tombs and they are being used as seats and also for skateboarding.
“At the moment we are having trouble with youths sitting around smoking, shouting and bawling. It seems last Saturday we also had a gang fight between two separate groups.
“We’ve had problems in the churchyard for maybe three or four months and people messing about have damaged the tombs. It’s a bit of a mess.”
The church stressed the area is cleaned daily and the employees responsible do an excellent job of getting rid of litter, while Mr Heaton said he had only noticed a problem in one particular corner.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said officers were called to Crawford Street at around 2.50pm on Saturday August 6 and dispersed the group of youths involved in the fight. There were no injuries.
Wigan Council said it carries out maintenance in the yard but the land remains owned by the church and the headstones belong to the families who originally had them installed.
Paul Barton, the town hall’s assistant director for environmental services, said: “We have a duty of care to ensure that the area remains safe for all visitors and will be asking the grounds maintenance team to check the site on their next planned visit.
“The area is a well-used green space in the centre of town and during spells of good weather town centre workers utilise the green space for lunch and breaks.
“Sometimes people are unaware of the relevance or the history of the site and their use can be construed as disrespectful without them realising.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Swastika daubed on grave Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/swastika-daubed-on-grave-1-8087859 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/53abb5752506848d8548a83d8dbedad546e1e97f711838c7a86d5b77180f9d0d.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T20:50:34 | null | 2016-08-26T14:18:07 | A Wigan band has suffered its own Olympic disqualification. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Flancashire-hotpots-in-trouble-with-international-olympics-committee-1-8091060.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8091059.1472218132!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Lancashire Hotpots in trouble with International Olympics Committee | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A Wigan band has suffered its own Olympic disqualification.
As well as dealing with doping scandals and worry over Paralympic funding, the International Olympics Committee (IOC) has been scrutinising the 2008 song The Beer Olympics, by The Lancashire Hotpots.
Members of the comedy band, who hail from Wigan and Haydock, say they have been issued a ‘cease and desist’ notice by the IOC, claiming they have infringed copyright on the Olympic name.
A statement released on the band’s website said: “It’s nice to see them finally catch up with a song that we first released in 2008, I’m guessing the Olympic breakfast at the Little Chef is next, get one while you can.
“So, not wishing to get into any massive legal trouble (we can’t pay for that and the ale) we have decided to re-title the song to see if that gets the legal bigwigs off our backs.”
The new title has been announced as The Beer International Non-Profit Non-Governmental Sporting Quad Yearly Event.
“It’s a strange thing that they’re coming after an entity as small and daft as ours,” said Dickie Ticker the percussionist who wrote the song.
“Under something called Article 40, it seems that you can’t use the word Olympics in any capacity. People would probably use a lot of words to describe our band, but business wouldn’t be one of them.”
He added: “The re-titling has made the song funnier than it was and I hope it’s enough to put them off.
“But we still sing the word in the song, so are we going to have to change that too?
“We’re testing the waters to see if that pleases the Olympic Gods, but if not, we’ll have to erase it from our catalogues.”
The band draw much of the inspiration for their comic songs from the borough.
The Wigan Evening Post approached the IOC for comment, but have not had a response.
Previously, The British Sugarcraft Guild was told it could face court proceedings if Olympic logos including the five rings were reproduced on cakes at an international show.
Weymouth butcher Dennis Spurr also incurred the wrath of the marketing police when, before the London games in 2012, he put a sign outside his shop featuring the five Olympic rings made of sausages.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Lancashire Hotpots in trouble with International Olympics Committee Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/lancashire-hotpots-in-trouble-with-international-olympics-committee-1-8091060 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/f611cb4282a7e948bc5ccd7ceddde2c33bb716efa7792d7e58bc70496f948bf7.json |
[
"Adam Sherwin"
] | 2016-08-26T13:06:00 | null | 2016-08-16T12:18:29 | A pastor and a Rolls-Royce aerospace engineer are among the 12 hopefuls competing to win the 2016 series of The Great British Bake Off. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Foffbeat%2Fgreat-british-bake-off-contestants-rolls-royce-engineer-and-pastor-join-2016-lineup-1-8071589.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8071588.1471346313!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Great British Bake Off contestants: Rolls-Royce engineer and pastor join 2016 lineup | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A pastor and a Rolls-Royce aerospace engineer are among the 12 hopefuls competing to win the 2016 series of The Great British Bake Off.
The amateur bakers, competing to follow in the footsteps of last year’s champion Nadiya Hussain, will again seek the approval of judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood.
However the seventh series could be the last on the BBC. Its three-year deal with producers Love Productions expires at the end of this run and ITV is bidding to poach the format.
Ms Berry, 81, hinted at tensions behind the scenes between the new batch of contestants donning their aprons. She said: “They know the standard that it is, which is now pretty high. And I think they were slower to bond this year than they were in the past.”
The bakers include Andrew, 25, originally from Northern Ireland, he now lives in Derby and works as an aerospace engineer for Rolls-Royce. A Cambridge University graduate, Andrew has set his heart on designing a baguette concorde.
The oldest contestant in this year’s lineup will be Lee, a 67-year-old who has worked in various pastoral ministries for the past 30 years – most recently as the pastor of his local church in Bolton. A former builder, he had a complete change of direction in the mid 1980s, when he turned to theology and took up baking.
The youngest baker is Michael, a 20-year-old from London who is studying politics and economics in Durham. He enjoys making “big grand cakes” and making Greek pastries inspired by his Cypriot heritage.
Teaching Assistant, Benjamina, 23, who started baking aged 14 just for fun, recently graduated with a 1st in Economics & lives in south London.
The contestants also include 66-year-old former primary school head teacher Val, and 31-year-old secondary school PE teacher Candice. Mother of two Kate, 37, is a farmer’s daughter from Norfolk, is a qualified nurse and works on an acute respiratory ward. Candice, 31, from Bedfordshire, was taught to bake by her beloved Nan, and strives to emulate her bakes aiming to be “even half the lady she was.”
Hollywood said Nadiya’s success – she is judging a junior version of the series and is presenting a documentary on her culinary inspirations – had raised the bar for this year’s batch.
“Nadiya went to a whole new level, and because of that I think it put the pressure on them more, and I think we felt that in the tents as well,” the judge said. “But actually they came out tops.
They started quite nervously but once they settled down they got into it. Then the baking started to flow and the standard got really really good.”
The Great British Bake Off launches on August 24 on BBC One at 8pm. | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/offbeat/great-british-bake-off-contestants-rolls-royce-engineer-and-pastor-join-2016-lineup-1-8071589 | en | 2016-08-16T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/677e465db7739f9605006d50d52b00a10d840bf7af1632e26e9faf8d8a5cbec0.json |
[
"Gavin Browne"
] | 2016-08-30T08:52:02 | null | 2016-08-30T08:29:59 | Tuesday’s transfer stories from the newspapers and web | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fis-wenger-gunner-splash-the-cash-1-8095178.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8095177.1472542178!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Is Wenger Gunner splash the cash? | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | The types of cookies we, our ad network and technology partners use are listed below:
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[
"Phil Wilkinson"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:46 | null | 2016-08-25T17:28:17 | Mid-season recruit Frank-Paul Nuuausala admits he has found one big difference between Super League and the NRL – the standard of refereeing. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-warriors%2Fnuuausala-has-been-frustrated-by-refereeing-standard-1-8089467.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8089465.1472142479!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Nuuausala has been ‘frustrated’ by refereeing standard | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Mid-season recruit Frank-Paul Nuuausala admits he has found one big difference between Super League and the NRL – the standard of refereeing.
The former New Zealand Test prop has played five games for Wigan since signing a three-and-a-half year deal.
He says there are subtle differences with the style of play in Super League, such as the speed and physicality. But the biggest adjustment has been the quality and consistency of the refereeing, which he says is way below what he was used to at Canberra and the Sydney Roosters.
Nuuausala said: “It’s a bit different here, the game is maybe a bit slower here but more physical.
“The refereeing is different - they’re not as consistent as they should be. It has been poor.”
The NRL is controlled by two referees, but Nuuausala continued: “I don’t think that has anything to do with it. It’s the calls, and how they manage the game... I think that’s English rugby league and I’m getting used to it.
“I’ve been a bit frustrated by that, but all-in-all I’m enjoying my time here.”
Nuuausala – nicknamed ‘The Wrecking Ball’ – had not played for three months when he was given his Wigan debut by Shaun Wane.
His run of games was interrupted by a one-match ban, but he has shown signs of improvement.
“I feel each week I’m improving, finding my groove, and learning how to play in Super League,” he said. Away from the pitch, he and his family have quickly settled into their new home.
“Things are becoming natural, I’m finding my way around Wigan now,” added the 29-year-old.
“The weather has been good – the boys complain it’s too hot, but for me it’s just right!
“I had two weeks over on my own, which was tough, but my wife and baby are over now and they’ve definitely settled in.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Nuuausala has been ‘frustrated’ by refereeing standard Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-warriors/nuuausala-has-been-frustrated-by-refereeing-standard-1-8089467 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/e145a77f72315061c3f2c8e0159559230b5ad66c0695732a59e7288672d9cef5.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T14:52:05 | null | 2016-08-30T14:47:50 | As the race to Old Trafford heats up, four of our 18th man columnists answer five key question... | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Fcolumnists%2F18th-man-column-grand-final-will-be-between-wigan-and-saints-1-8096084.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096082.1472564790!/image/image.jpg | en | null | 18th man column: ‘Grand Final will be between Wigan and Saints’ | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | As the race to Old Trafford heats up, four of our 18th man columnists answer five key question...
How many of Wigan’s remaining four games will they win?
Should Sam Powell be in the frame for Man of Steel?
Bilko: We should be beating both Widnes and Catalan and I expect Hull will struggle to get back up for a big game against us so soon after their Wembley triumph. Warrington I think have the previous Wembley experience to deal with coming out of a cup final better but it’ll be interesting how much energy they will have also. If we don’t win at least three of the four I think that will be mightily disappointing but I actually think we’ll win the lot.
David Bailey: With just 4 rounds left and the top 4 (well 3 really) jostling for the league leaders shield and a home semi-final I decided to take a look at Wigan’s recent form in these fixtures (same team at the same stadium over the last 5 seasons).
Before looking at the form guide though, in my head I thought that Wigan would win 3 out of the 4 fixtures and the stats appear to back me up. The Warriors have shown good form against Widnes and Catalans at home winning 4/5 and 5/6 of the previous meetings and I would expect Wigan to win these two games comfortably. Warrington appear to be the bogey team with Wigan only winning 2 of the previous 6 at the Halliwell Jones. The stats against Hull did surprise me though with Wigan winning all 5 of the last 5 games at the KC Stadium. That being said though. Hull appear to be a different animal this season although they only managed to scrape past a below par Wigan side in the cup semi final and I feel Wigan will be targeting this game more than the others.
Darren Wrudd: I think that if we keep our game head on, as we did last time out, we could easily win the last four games. If we switch off, we will be lucky to win two out of four.
Joe Charnock: First up is Widnes on Thursday and on form this has to be a banker. Although our away games are tough there is no reason now we are near full strength we cannot beat both Wires and Hull. Wembley takes a lot out of teams and then we have Catalans at home to round off the Super League season. So for me it’s got to be four out of four. Wigan’s aim has got to be Grand Final success after not reaching Wembley.
Do you think Wigan will win the Grand Final, and why?
Bilko: I don’t think Wigan’s attacking level of performance so far this year would be good enough and we certainly can’t afford to be wasteful with territory like we’ve been so often this season. The positive of the poor attack though is that we’ve had to come out on top in a lot of tight battles this year and that could be a big mental help for the play-offs because it is in that regard that I felt Wigan failed last season at Old Trafford. It’s not too late for the attack to fire and it’s clear that if we do find some form that we have a great chance, because defence has been excellent. Also injuries during the year work out as a positive now as we have a pretty fresh squad. Overall, I feel a lot of faith has been shown in certain individuals and now is the time to rise and deliver. The prospect of a third trophy-less season would be unthinkable.
DB: I do think that Wigan will win the Grand final this season, and to be honest if they don’t questions will be asked about why we can’t get over the line in recent seasons falling short in the last two Grand Finals. I feel that the players will be desperate for success and they will want to send the likes of Sarginson and Charnley off with an Old Trafford victory, plus the younger players like Williams, Gildart, Sutton and even Bateman have that little bit more experience under their belt.
DW: Wigan historically are used to being in big games and the recent years have seen some losses which we should have learned from. We have however a huge point to prove to ourselves if we manage to get to Old Trafford as the last couple of years have been unkind for all sorts of reasons (remember Sinfield’s knock on which won them the treble?) But if we do get there, I honestly think that we have the beating of most sides in the competition if we decide that we want it the most, so yes, I think if we do get there, we will win.
JC: I think we can go all the way this year as the defeats of previous seasons will be a big advantage. Hopefully it will be Hull in the final as this would be a cracking game and we owe them big style. So I am going for a Wigan Grand Final win.
Team-wise is there any changes you’d like to see Shaun Wane make?
Bilko: I look at the pack that played Saints and, in noting Tony Clubb is due to return, I genuinely ask myself where does Sean O’Loughlin fit in that? I imagine the captain will play but I’m really struggling to see who for. Perhaps him being the alternate hooker may be the best bet because I like the back row of Bateman, Isa and Sutton and I think Clubb, Tautai and Big Frank off the bench is impact enough. It’s great to finally be a position where we have options of who to leave out in the pack but it also leaves some tough calls for coach Shaun Wane.
DB: I think the squad is quite well balanced at the moment. Obviously Wigan would be a stronger outfit with the likes of Manfredi and McIlorum in the side but that will have to wait until next season. I would like to see a more mobile bench though, I feel Wigan’s plan A of size and power has been found out by some of the top sides this season and without a plan B we just aren’t expansive enough particularly from range. We used to have great success when Joe Burgess was about pinging the ball to the left wing and him finding a yard to beat the first line of defence and setting up the likes of Farrell inside for a simple but brilliant score. Maybe that will return when Budgie flies back to the nest.
DW: I suppose I find it difficult to look for changes in our squad for next year because I have such fondness for the team that I would feel disloyal, but perhaps Sarginson will see some better fortune Down Under and as for any other changes, it would be to put double sided tape on Gelling and Tautai’s fingers to try and stop those ridiculous offloads. This squad has all that it takes to win trophies, we just need consistency. Much has been said about Matty Smith leaving at the end of the year, I hope not but if he does we would need to replace him with a quality player like a Gidley or a Sandow who can organise an attacking line.
JC: There needs to be no changes to the team in personnel as the local kids continue to churn off the production line. The only change I would like to see is young Jake Shorrocks given a run at seven. The lad has class written all over him and can kick goals. I think him and Williams would thrive on each others’ skills with ball in hand.
But they need to be given the freedom to show the natural talent both lads have. Waney should be given a long-term contract as he epitomises what Wigan Warriors is all about. Hopefully the introduction of Tommy Leuluai will result in someone to replace Deacon as backs coach. We seem this season at times to have lacked ideas in open play. I would like to see young Liam Marshall given a chance for the injured Manfredi as the kid has pace to burn. He is scoring tries for fun at Swinton where he is learning his trade.
Who is Wigan’s biggest threat to the Grand Final trophy?
Bilko: I honestly feel it’s between Wigan and Saints. You can’t write Hull off totally but I think they’ll struggle to find energy again after the emotion of winning at Wembley for the first time and who has the most energy is a big factor in the play offs. I thought Warrington were actually quite disappointing in the final and the way they seemingly flagged for fitness late on was an alarm bell ringer. The Top 4 being sorted does give a chance for them to reset though but I’d question them both wasting energy chasing League Leaders Shield.
DB: Although Hull have been everyone’s form team this season and it’s a sin to write the Saints off, I believe that Warrington will pose the biggest threat to Wigan winning the Grand Final. They may not have won the Grand Final before coming up short on a couple of occasions, but I think they have an impressive pack led by Chris Hill and Ashton Sims, plus the outstanding Ben Currie, have a great hooker in Daryl Clark, and the half back combination of Gidley and Sandow really complement each other, although their back line isn’t the strongest they still have a fair bit of firepower and like Hull were desperate to end their Wembley hoodoo I feel the Wolves are the same with regards to the Grand Final and the cup final defeat will spur them on further.
DW: Its no surprise though that our biggest threat must be Hull FC. The size of the team is the biggest hill to climb but game management would see us through as big men tire quicker. We would need to turn them around and keep the ball in play and they would not be able to keep up with us.
JC: Our biggest threat to the Grand Final could be any of Wires, Saints or Hull. Personally I think it has to be Hull, they are so strong all over the park. They have a top ball leader in Danny Houghton who is dangerous to any side. But Wigan can beat them on their day.
Who would be your Man of Steel?
Bilko: If John Bateman hadn’t had his two months off then I think he’d have been in with a shout because I’d argue without him this year we’d probably be 4th or 5th right now. With that in mind my pick would be Gareth Ellis.
He’s been a Jamie Peacock type for Hull this year in the sense that I think his presence on the field is dragging a lot of the rest up at Hull and you notice a significant drop in intensity when he is spelled on the sideline. They’ll miss him massively if he retires at the end of the season.
DB: I have two trains of thought on this. With my Cherry and White glasses on I’d have to go for John Bateman, despite him missing eight weeks due to “that” incident. I just feel he has grown in stature this season and his efforts have won us several games almost single-handedly.
He’s played in numerous positions in the back row and centres, his attack and defence have been outstanding and alongside Williams has been our best attacking threat when taking on the line. That being said I don’t think he will get the plaudits because of his misdemeanour so I’d have to go for Danny Houghton. His form this year has been a different class and having been in the shadows to the likes of Roby, McIlorum and Clark in recent times he’s been one of the main factors in Hull FC’s renaissance and his challenge cup match winning tackle just sums him up. Comfortable at taking the line on or getting the ball out swiftly for the likes of Sneyd or Abdull he’s impressed me greatly.
DW: If it were from a Wigan squad I would have no hesitation but to choose Sam Powell.
He has been absolutely fabulous this year and has come of age. But if the vote was open for all teams, then another hooker who has caught my eye all year has been Danny Houghton from Hull FC.
Year on year Danny ends up as top tackler in his club but his spirit for the game has been second to none in 2016. In my opinion he should have won the Lance Todd Trophy last weekend but I would like to see him lift the Man of Steel in 2016.
JC: My Man of Steel will probably shock a few fans but it would have to be Sam Powell. The lad has stood up and been counted in the absence of Micky Mac.
He has regularly played all the 80 minutes and topped the tackle count. This season has certainly been the making of him as Super League’s tackle count shows. He has come of age or as a hooker this year often out playing the likes of Roby, Clark and Houghton.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story 18th man column: ‘Grand Final will be between Wigan and Saints’ Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/columnists/18th-man-column-grand-final-will-be-between-wigan-and-saints-1-8096084 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/c61b5b766481ae29c6b844954d609c92f8974008a02d03444b37e4a9a7146971.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T12:51:32 | null | 2016-08-29T11:12:28 | Volunteers who keep a railway halt in immaculate shape hope they are on track for national honours. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fstation-in-line-for-prizes-1-8094152.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8094151.1472465528!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Station in line for prizes | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Volunteers who keep a railway halt in immaculate shape hope they are on track for national honours.
The Friends of Hindley Station are in the running for two categories in the prize-giving run by the Association of Community Rail Partnerships (ACoRP), with local groups working in partnership with them eligible for two more.
The group, whose spectacular floral displays have long drawn the admiration of passengers heading through the borough, are in the It’s Your Station category and could win an award for an afternoon tea and picnic they ran for the Queen’s birthday.
In addition, pupils from Hindley High School and local business Pye Studios are both in contention for separate awards for art projects they have done at the station.
The volunteers recently welcomed a judging delegation, including a green-fingered expert from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), to the station to look around the flowerbeds, art pieces and sculptures on the platforms and in the public buildings.
The group has previously entered the ACoRP awards and hopes to add to the prize it won in 2014 at the awards ceremony in Southport next month.
Friends secretary Sheila Davidson said: “We’ve been shortlisted in four categories this year.
“The high school is also up for its artwork and Pye Studios did some art on the Manchester-bound side and in the ticket hall.
“There are three boards which they put replaceable artwork on. They did a piece in tribute to the Somme and another one for the Queen’s birthday. The judges seemed suitably impressed.
“This is about more than just gardens, it’s being involved in the community.
“We’re pleased to be in for the awards although we didn’t set out to do competitions. One of the station managers put us in for the first one and it’s gone from there.
“We’ve had a lot of success.”
The group has also recently introduced a number of new features to the station including a train which was recycled from a primary school which did not want it any more and re-decorated with gold livery to mark Her Majesty’s birthday.
The ACoRP awards winners will be announced in Southport on September 29.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Station in line for prizes Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/station-in-line-for-prizes-1-8094152 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/804a192f923649ac4a7604374de1ae7ec58a816a678626a21ccda3521718e941.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T08:51:23 | null | 2016-08-29T09:00:00 | A vital service which has helped Wigan resident for decades is closing. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fbiggest-loss-for-town-as-advice-centre-is-closed-1-8093579.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8093578.1472407908!/image/image.jpg | en | null | ‘Biggest loss’ for town as advice centre is closed | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | A vital service which has helped Wigan resident for decades is closing.
Wigan Independent Advice Centre (WIAC) has been operating in the borough since the early 1990s, offering a welfare rights service to residents as well as invaluable and free advice on casework including benefits applications and changes, but will close its doors on Wednesday.
The centre has been involved in a number of campaigns over the years to help residents avoid debt and was also instrumental in helping people deal with the changes to benefits brought in by the Tory government in the past few years.
This included the huge change from Disability Living Allowance to Personal Independence Payments (PIP) in 2013.
The service was set up in 1993 with funding from the City Challenge, to provide expert advice surgeries and representing residents at benefit appeal tribunals.
But when funding from the challenge dried up, Wigan Council came to the rescue to cover a £30,000 shortfall in 1998.
Since then the service has continued to operate and moved into Wigan Life Centre North when it opened in 2012 so it could work in partnership with Wigan Council and alongside the Citizens Advice Bureau.
As well as running surgeries three times a week at the Life Centre, the staff also ran an advice line and surgeries in each area across the borough.
Coun Ann Rampling, a trustee of the charity, said: “I am totally gutted that the service is shutting. I think it is going to be more than greatly missed.
“We need something of this calibre and the work they have done is absolutely phenomenal. We can never thank them enough.
“There have been just three people running it and to such a high standard. It is Wigan’s biggest loss.
“It wasn’t just about people coming to them for advice but they also supported people them throughout appeals.
“They also held surgeries across the borough.
“The staff are amazing and I want to thank them for the work they have done.
“They have helped a lot of people.
“There is no where else to turn to. It is a real loss.”
As well holding drop in sessions at the Life Centre, the service held surgeries in Leigh, Golborne, Scholes, Marsh Green, Worsley Mesnes, Ashton in Makerfield and Platt Bridge throughout the week.
The advice line will be open on Tuesday for the last time before the service closes on Wednesday.
One resident, who used the service, said: “I would like to thank the Wigan Independent Advice Centre for all their help and advice.
“It will be missed by the old, people needing advice and forms filling in. They are very kind and understanding. A very sad day for all.”
The Evening Post was unable to contact anyone at the centre for comment.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story ‘Biggest loss’ for town as advice centre is closed Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/biggest-loss-for-town-as-advice-centre-is-closed-1-8093579 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/3d544744efa6335ffaa27237392a7929f8c2dbf88c1f50beb564c4149efa7abd.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T12:50:30 | null | 2016-08-27T13:00:00 | One of the borough’s biggest landlords is offering to help tenants make their money go further and calling on its residents to make use of its free and confidential money advice service. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Flandlord-offers-free-benefit-help-1-8091462.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8091460.1472224516!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Landlord offers free benefit help | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | One of the borough’s biggest landlords is offering to help tenants make their money go further and calling on its residents to make use of its free and confidential money advice service.
Adactus housing association says its trained staff can help people access benefits they may not be claiming, with successful claims for unclaimed benefits running into several thousands of pounds.
Their service also offers budgeting advice, can access trust funds and assist people in making their income go further.
Adactus money adviser Christine Wigham said: “The benefits system is not easy to navigate and people are not always given the full facts about what they can claim.
“The number of forms that need completing can put people off, especially if they are disabled or elderly and need to appeal against a decision.
“I’ve recently dealt with a case concerning a gentleman in Atherton who suffers from a very rare disabling condition. We applied for personal independence payments on his behalf back in January of last year but the application was refused. We then went on to appeal this decision at a tribunal, and I’m pleased to say that the appeal was successful, meaning he was awarded almost £4,000 in backdated benefits.”
Adactus stresses the service is both free and confidential for any of its thousands of borough tenants.
Government estimates are that, nationally, £13bn of benefit entitlement goes unclaimed.
The Adactus and CCH money advice service can be contacted on 0300 111 1133.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Landlord offers free benefit help Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/landlord-offers-free-benefit-help-1-8091462 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/cc96f53c60fc46dd86c0305dc16d0adabb37869ffc1808d2d580c55382250485.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T14:50:31 | null | 2016-08-27T15:00:00 | Tributes have been paid to a Haydock man who was found dead near a seaside resort hotel while on a weekend away with his girlfriend. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fpopular-rugby-ace-found-dead-at-hotel-1-8091502.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8091501.1472225364!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Popular rugby ace found dead at hotel | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Tributes have been paid to a Haydock man who was found dead near a seaside resort hotel while on a weekend away with his girlfriend.
Ralph Leyland, 36, was found outside the Grand Hotel in Scarborough suffering from various injuries and later died.
Three men were later arrested in connection with the dad-of-one’s death but have since been released on police bail.
Mr Leyland, a residential care worker, was a popular figure in amateur rugby union circles and played for Ruskin Park for several years before an eye injury forced him to hang up his boots.
The former Haydock High pupil was also a keen cyclist.
A club spokesman said: “Ralph was an ever present personality in the late 90s, and part of the now legendary undefeated Terry Price third team, through to the mid 00s; unfortunately an eye injury and real life halted his first team rugby.
“Ralph was a consistent, passionate supporter of the club and attended many a game, went on many a tour and end of season presentation!
“Most recently, Ralph had dusted off his boots and played in several charity games.
“This basically summed him up!
“Ruskin Park was a massive part of his life and his memory will live on in every future game played, we will do you proud!”
Others took to social media to pay their own, personal tribute.
Mark Crellin wrote: “Ralph, you were more than a friend to me, you were like a brother. I will never forget you and I miss you every second of the day, you were the life and soul of the party, a funny, caring guy with a massive heart of gold.”
Simon Taylor Ralph added: “We were fortunate to become friends over 20 years ago and had some great times. I am still in deep shock and will miss you every day. You were like a little brother.”
Rachel Heyes said: “What a funny, lovely, likeable person; always a laugh to be had with Ralph.”
Geoff Parr added: “Spent a lot of time with Ralph and his family down at Ruskin as a kid and he was a wonderful lad.
“My thoughts are with his family and close friends. RIP Ralf. A true gent
Mr Leyland leaves his six-year-old son Charlie.
His funeral took place at St Helens Crematorium, while an inquest has been opened and adjourned in the North Yorkshire town.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Popular rugby ace found dead at hotel Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/popular-rugby-ace-found-dead-at-hotel-1-8091502 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/57202920250b88181c54166c96ec5da500deaffd710a81ae80542b11f5199896.json |
[
"Pam Norfolk",
"Pamnorfolk Tiscali.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-30T10:51:33 | null | 2016-08-30T10:00:00 | Hardship in the fells of 1930s County Durham and intrigue at a Second World War munitions factory are just two compelling new books from Quercus this September. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fbook-reviews-cosy-up-with-two-family-sagas-from-quercus-books-1-8086996.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8086995.1472067291!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Book reviews: Cosy up with two family sagas from Quercus Books | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Hardship in the fells of 1930s County Durham and intrigue at a Second World War munitions factory are just two compelling new books from Quercus this September.
Nobody’s Child by Elizabeth Gill
Two traveller sisters from the wild countryside of County Durham face hardship, hunger and an uncertain future when they lose their parents and their home.
Consumed with grief and surrounded by hostility, can the teenagers survive the tough times ahead in 1930s England and hold tight to the family ties that bind them together?
Elizabeth Gill, author of over 30 books set in and around her native Tyneside, works her storytelling magic in a moving and gritty family saga of adversity and hope and love and loyalty that will delight her army of devoted fans.
On Christmas Day in 1930, Kath and Ella Watson are living with their parents in an empty house close to Castle Bank Colliery on snow-covered Durham Fell tops. They have been forced to take shelter there from their travellers’ wagon because their mother is gravely ill.
Kath is seventeen and her father believes she should have married long ago, particularly as she has been courted by the likes of rich traveller Will Hern. But Kath has seen the chaotic life of traveller women with babies, forced to raise their youngsters inside a cramped wagon.
Their mother Rose wants a better life for her two daughters but when she dies on Christmas Day morning, their father is overcome by grief and sets fire to the family’s wooden wagon, reducing it to a heap of ashes.
When the police arrive to tell them that not only has their father died in an accident after riding off on his horse but also that they must leave the house where they have been sheltering, the two sisters are left bereft and virtually penniless.
With winter closing in around them, and facing the hostility of locals who are suspicious of Gypsies, the girls strike out to find their way in a harsh landscape which sets them on a collision course with the wealthy Banks family of nearby Golden Hill Hall, local farmer Jake Sutherland and Will Hern, the man who would still have Kath as his wife.
Using her trademark warmth, experience and wisdom, Gill captures the essence of the hardy folk of the north-east in a story brimming with drama, romance, rich period detail and vivid characters.
Written from the heart and with a seductive sense of time and place, Nobody’s Child is the perfect read for autumn nights…
(Quercus, hardback, £19.99)
The Factory Girls by Rosie Archer
Friends in need, flying bombs and explosive revelations… it’s time to head back to the adventures and misadventures of Gosport’s ‘canary girls.’
The real-life munitions workers at Priddy’s Hard, the Royal Navy Armament Depot in Hampshire, who helped to arm the Allies’ D-Day invasion fleet, are the inspiration behind this compelling series from Gosport author Rosie Archer.
In the follow-up to The Munitions Girls and The Canary Girls, Archer sweeps us away again to England in 1944 and into the hearts and minds of the women who packed shells and bullets with sulphurous chemicals that made their skin and hair turn yellow.
Archer pays tribute to the dangerous and dirty work undertaken by the 2,500 women at the factory during the Second World War in stories that prove no matter how hard the times, despite bombing, short rations, cruel men and unwanted pregnancy, friendship will pull you through.
In autumn of 1944, V-1 flying bombs, known as doodlebugs, are the latest threat to war-battered Gosport. And at Priddy’s Hard munitions factory, Em Earle is about to suffer a threat to her livelihood that comes from much nearer home.
Meanwhile, local crook and black marketeer Samuel Golden is back and up to his old tricks as he tries to find ways to exploit the hardships of local people for his own gain.
As well as Samuel’s unwanted attentions, Em has to deal with some huge revelations from within her own family. Her daughter Lizzie is pregnant, and a strange woman has turned up on Em’s doorstep claiming to be her sister.
Em is excited but cannot help feeling wary. Could this woman be too good to be true? Once again it will be up to the girls from the bomb factory to rally round and support one of their own.
The triumphs and disasters of this entertaining, close-knit group of friends spring to life in a nostalgic story packed with drama, tension, passion and the grim realities of life in wartime England.
Archer has her finger firmly on the pulse of the munitions workers… their hardships, their struggles and the determination to win wars in both their personal lives and on the bigger stage.
Romance with a gritty edge…
(Quercus, paperback, £6.99) | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/book-reviews-cosy-up-with-two-family-sagas-from-quercus-books-1-8086996 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/1015a62eafd0e15a20a586ff172d6f0ae8bfa686e5789735595da4c8ee3618c1.json |
[
"Paul Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:42 | null | 2016-08-22T16:45:27 | Wigan Athletic have taken the revolutionary step of withdrawing their Development Squad from league action this term. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Flatics-youngsters-withdrawn-from-league-combat-1-8082731.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8082730.1471881756!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Latics youngsters withdrawn from league combat | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Wigan Athletic have taken the revolutionary step of withdrawing their Development Squad from league action this term.
Peter Atherton’s charges enjoyed huge success last season in winning the Youth Alliance League, finishing second in the Final Third Development League, and reaching the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup for the first time.
But the decision has been made to focus only on cup combat as well as some carefully-selected ‘glamour’ friendlies against clubs with a similar or higher academy status.
“The ultimate aim of any academy is to get players through the system and contributing to the first team,” said Gregor Rioch, head of the Wigan Athletic Academy.
“That is what we are all here for. We want to provide a clear structure whereby a young player can see a pathway through to the first team.
“Myself, Peter Atherton, the manager, the chairman and the chief executive sat down in the summer and agreed that what we need is a challenging games programme for the development of our young players, alongside the cup competitions we take part in.
“Effectively, we’re designing our own season, where we are in control, we decide who we play, and when this happens.
“We are certainly not alone in adopting such a policy – several other clubs operate on a similar basis at Under-21 level for all different kinds of reasons.
“And in fact we had occasions last season when we were offered fixtures against higher-ranked academy sides, which we had to turn down to fulfil league fixtures.
“It is not a decision taken lightly, but it is one we feel is in the best long-term interests of developing our young players.”
The Latics youngsters, who have played eight times already this season as opposed to only three at this stage last year, are in action on Tuesday afternoon when they face AFC Wimbledon in the Premier League Cup qualifying round.
Atherton’s men are also scheduled to participate in the Lancashire Senior FA Cup and the Central League Cup.
The production line at Christopher Park has proved particularly fruitful in the last couple of years under Rioch’s watchful eye.
Tim Chow and Jordan Flores established themselves in the first-team squad last term, while 18-year-old Luke Burke has become a regular at right wing-back this season.
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[] | 2016-08-30T14:51:47 | null | 2016-08-30T14:45:26 | Wigan borough’s constituency Labour parties will find out next month if they are facing boundary changes ahead of the 2020 general election. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fboundary-proposals-set-to-be-unveiled-1-8096018.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096017.1472563275!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Boundary proposals set to be unveiled | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Wigan borough’s constituency Labour parties will find out next month if they are facing boundary changes ahead of the 2020 general election.
Review proposals are set to be released in September but analysis of the likely impact has found a vast majority of Labour seats will be affected in some way.
This could mean up to 30 Labour seats disappearing altogether, according to a review by Tory peer Lord Hayward.
The changes, pushed through by former Prime Minister David Cameron, propose a cut the number of MPs by 50 to 600 to create seats with similar numbers of constituents.
More Labour seats are thought to be under threat with the review suggesting the party is currently over-represented.
This has led to claims of “gerrymandering” from those within Jeremy Corbyn’s party.
Previous boundary change proposals in 2010 would have seen the Leigh constituency carved up along with neighbouring Salford and Eccles.
Those plans were ditched but speculation remains that Leigh could be significantly impacted in the current plans.
Lord Hayward’s figures suggest that of the 50 seats that disappear, the Conservatives will lose between 10 to 15, which is 4.5 per cent of their total but Labour is on track to lose between 25 and 30, some 13 per cent of their current representation.
Some constituencies could turn from safe Labour seats to marginal ones, it adds.
The impact on Labour could be especially painful, as critics of Jeremy Corbyn face the prospect of reselection processes for the revised constituencies.
Labour’s work on the boundary review has been led by Dame Rosie Winterton, the chief whip, and her spokesman said the analysis was fresh evidence the policy was a “partisan” move to benefit the Tories.
The Opposition urged Prime Minister Theresa May to abandon the plan, arguing that the imminent loss of 73 MEPs as a result of Brexit would heap extra work on MPs.
Labour also highlighted the surge in numbers on the electoral roll as a result of the EU referendum, resulting in an extra two million registered voters who were not factored in to the boundary review.
A spokesperson for Dame Rosie said: “The Tories’ plan to arbitrarily reduce the number of elected Members of Parliament by 50 had always been under the guise of reducing the cost of politics, even whilst they continued to cram the Lords at taxpayers’ expense.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Boundary proposals set to be unveiled Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/boundary-proposals-set-to-be-unveiled-1-8096018 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/ba2b122351a22b44e6e424c7f8e027e940b8db2270aa56392156d7cfa3182821.json |
[
"Diane King",
"Diane.King Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T13:09:18 | null | 2016-08-17T10:34:31 | Pokemon GO players who are found to be cheating will have a permanent ban slapped on them, it has been announced. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Foffbeat%2Fwarning-to-pokemon-go-cheats-1-8073386.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8073385.1471431904!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Warning to Pokemon GO cheats | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Pokemon GO players who are found to be cheating will have a permanent ban slapped on them, it has been announced.
The game’s developer, Niantic, has altered the terms and conditions to include the condition that a life ban will ensue for anyone caught using trickery to bag Pokemon.
The new clause prohibits: "Falsifying your location, using emulators, modified or unofficial software and/or accessing Pokemon GO clients or backends in an unauthorized manner including through the use of third party software."
It has been reported that some users have managed to fool the app into thinking they were at a different location. Some Pokemon are region-specific, although taken to extremes, a player could play the game without leaving their home.
"Our goal is to provide a fair, fun and legitimate game experience for everyone,” Niantic said:
"We will continue to work with all of you to improve the quality of the gameplay, including ongoing optimization and fine tuning of our anti-cheat system."
Anyone believing that have been unfairly banned can access an appeals system.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Warning to Pokemon GO cheats Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/offbeat/warning-to-pokemon-go-cheats-1-8073386 | en | 2016-08-17T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/801802a4a0516189d4ce56d84564861b2062897696e9759091522cd67efd88a8.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:10:32 | null | 2016-08-25T09:26:28 | Greater Manchester Police failed to record a massive 38,000 reported crimes last year, a damning new report claims. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fpolice-blasted-for-failing-to-record-38-000-crimes-1-8087383.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8087382.1472113571!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Police blasted for failing to record 38,000 crimes | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Greater Manchester Police failed to record a massive 38,000 reported crimes last year, a damning new report claims.
And while Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabularies says that the force, which covers the Wigan borough, has made improvements since its last inspection, there is still much room for improvement.
The watchdog’s latest Crime Data Integrity Inspection judges the force “inadequate” saying that it is particularly under-recording too many reports of rape, other sexual offences and violence.
The inspectors say the force needs to “act promptly to improve the accuracy of its recording of these reports and to provide all victims with the service to which they are entitled and deserve.”
Numbered among the shortcomings are reports of crime reported directly to public protection investigation units are not always being recorded; and the force is incorrectly cancelling some recorded sexual offences (excluding rape), and offences of robbery and violence.
The report reads: “Some of these failings are a consequence of officers and staff not understanding their responsibilities for crime-recording, including the cancellation of recorded crime records. They are, in addition, underpinned by limited supervision by the force to support officers and staff in making good and prompt crime-recording decisions.”
The 38,000 unrecorded crimes, the report says, represents a rate of 85.49 per cent. The 14.51 percent of reported crimes that go unrecorded include serious crimes such as sexual offences and rape.
It says that the recording rate for violent crime is a particular cause of concern at only 75.36 per cent, meaning “that on too many occasions the force is failing victims of crime.”
But it does acknowledge that the force has implemented improvements on the back of the last inspection in 2014.
Deputy Chief Constable Ian Pilling said: “In the past two years we have made significant improvements in recording crime with an increase in accuracy from 68 per cent to 85 per cent. This means that in well over eight out of 10 cases, crime is accurately being recorded.
“Although we have made significant progress, we recognise that there is still more work to do to ensure that we are where we want to be. One of the key developments will be the introduction of a new IT system that will allow officers to record crime at the first contact. So when the victim rings us to report a crime, it will automatically be recorded.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Police blasted for failing to record 38,000 crimes Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/police-blasted-for-failing-to-record-38-000-crimes-1-8087383 | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/334653c125ba70b35a554c4c160db32f58919e9a420eb31602ee701314a49237.json |
[
"Pam Norfolk",
"Pamnorfolk Tiscali.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:54 | null | 2016-08-18T10:00:00 | Reading isn’t boring this summer with an exciting collection of children’s books to suit every age and every taste. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fbook-review-wartime-drama-a-gunpowder-plot-and-a-trainee-witch-1-8074234.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8074232.1471443535!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Book review: Wartime drama, a gunpowder plot and a trainee witch | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Reading isn’t boring this summer with an exciting collection of children’s books to suit every age and every taste.
Age 10 plus:
Rose in the Blitz by Rebecca Stevens
London in the midst of the terrifying Blitz bombing raids must be an unimaginable place for a generation of children so removed from the war years.
But in a moving, atmospheric and heartbreaking story, set in the war-ravaged capital, acclaimed author Rebecca Stevens sweeps youngsters away to the sights, sounds and ever-present dangers of life in 1940s England.
Rose in the Blitz stars the same time-travelling teenager whose First World War adventures in Stevens’ novel Valentine Joe won the hearts and minds of readers and critics last year. In this engrossing sequel, inspired by the author’s own family history, Rose faces fresh perils and a desperate race against time to save a precious life.In present day London, it’s the night
before Rose’s mum re-marries. Rose can’t sleep for worrying and nor can her confused and elderly great-aunt Rosemary, known to one and all as Aunt Cosy. Rose sees the old lady leaving the house still in her dressing-gown and follows her through the darkness to the London Underground and on to an old, musty-smelling empty train.
Their train stops at her home station, Clapham South, but this isn’t the world as Rosie knows it, it’s the world as Aunty Cosy knew it… war-torn London in 1940, full of strangers and broken by the Blitz. Catapulted down Aunt Cosy’s memory lane and into the past, Rose witnesses a great romance and a heartfelt sacrifice, but a terrible tragedy is about to unfold… unless she can change what happens next.
Exciting, poignant, rich in colour and period detail, Rose in the Blitz combines a thrilling, fast-paced time-slip story with a thought-provoking exploration of family, the power of love and the importance of shared memories.
(Chicken House, paperback, £6.99)
Young Adult:
Eden Summer by Liz Flanagan
Prepare to shed tears as Liz Flanagan plays a blinder in this stunning debut novel set amidst the rolling hills and valleys of Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire.
Inspired by her own experiences of loss, Flanagan weaves a beautiful, heart-rending tale about a teenage girl whose friend goes missing, forcing her to look back over the events, secrets and traumas that have brought her to this hard place.
‘My mind will not accept the possibility that Eden could be dead, now or ever. The end. Nothing. No. My best friend is too alive. Too everything. She can’t just disappear… What the hell happens to me, without her?’
It starts like any other day for Goth girl Jess… get up, plaster on black eyeliner, cover up tattoos and head to school. But soon it’s clear this is going to be no ordinary day because Jess’s best friend, the beautiful, popular Eden, isn’t at school. Eden has gone missing.
Jess knows she has to do everything in her power to try to find Eden before the unthinkable happens. So she starts to retrace their steps, looking back over the summer she and Eden have just spent together. She starts to notice new things. She starts to question hidden truths and everything she thought Eden’s summer had been about...
The rugged, awe-inspiring countryside of West Yorkshire plays a starring role in this tense, highly-charged journey through adolescent friendship, loss, betrayal, bullying, tragedy and self-discovery.
A powerful, gripping debut from a talented new author…
(David Fickling Books, hardback, £10.99)
Age 10 plus:
Black Powder by Ally Sherrick
Guy Fawkes, a country awash with religious strife, a plot to assassinate King James I of England… no youngster will be able to resist this rip-roaring adventure, packed full of explosive action, real history, and barrels of gunpowder!
Debut author Ally Sherrick blends fact and fiction to brilliant effect in an enthralling tale which delivers an edge-of-the seat thriller as well as recreating real events leading up to the infamous 17th century Gunpowder Plot, still remembered every year on Bonfire Night.
It’s England in 1605 and 12-year-old Catholic boy Tom Garnett must use all his wits and his courage to save his father from hanging. He falls in with a mysterious stranger, known as the Falcon, who promises to help him in exchange for his service. But on the long journey to London, Tom discovers the Falcon’s true mission… a plot to blow up Parliament with barrels of black powder. Tom faces a terrible decision. Should he secure his father’s release, or stop the assassination of the king?
Sherrick’s exciting novel provides a fascinating English history lesson while exploring important themes like faith, family, loyalty and trust in times of persecution and suffering.
A brilliant adventure guaranteed to set alight young imaginations…
(Chicken House, paperback, £6.99)
Age 10 plus:
The Secret Cooking Club by Laurel Remington
What do you get when you mix three cups of friendship, a spoonful of toe-curling mum and a sprinkle of first love? A deliciously warm and appetising debut novel cooked up by lawyer-cum-author Laurel Remington!
Tickle your taste buds for the new TV series of The Great British Bake Off, starting on August 24, with a very modern and very satisfying tale of a one girl’s journey to find happiness.
Twelve-year-old Scarlett is the star and victim of her mum’s popular blog and as the butt of many school jokes, she is always eager to stay firmly out of the spotlight. But one evening, she finds a gorgeous kitchen in the house next door, left empty by an elderly neighbour who has had to go into hospital.
As Scarlett bakes behind the kitchen’s closed door, she starts to transform her life, discovering new friends and forming the Secret Cooking Club. But can she fix her family problems, seal her friendships and find the mysterious secret ingredient?
Brimming with warmth, humanity and the magic ingredient of love, this is a beautiful and sensitively written novel, perfect for aspiring young cooks and readers from the internet generation.
(Chicken House, paperback, £6.99)
Age 8 plus:
The Apprentice Witch by James Nicol
There’s magic aplenty in this sparkling novel featuring a trainee witch whose failed ‘spelling’ tests leave her lost for words… and without the bright silver star of a successful apprentice.
Packed with warmth and humanity, and starring a bewitching young witch called Arianwyn, James Nicol’s fantasy adventure is a joy to read and perfect for all Harry Potter fans.
When 15-year-old trainee witch Arianwyn fluffs her final assessment, she is awarded only the dull bronze disc of an apprentice… to the glee of her arch-rival Gimma. Informed by the Civil Witchcraft Authority that she has not yet reached the full maturity of her powers, Arianwyn is sent to protect the remote, dreary town of Lull. But her new life proves far from boring.
It turns out that Gimma is the pompous mayor’s favourite niece and, worse, she opens a magical rift in the nearby forest. As Arianwyn struggles with her spells and a mysterious darkness starts to cast a shadow, it’s soon clear there is much more than her pride at stake... it’s up to Arianwyn to save the town!
Nicol handles serious themes like low self-esteem and discovering self-belief with the lightest of touches in a clever, wise and timeless tale which speaks loudly to children of all ages.
(Chicken House, paperback, £6.99)
Age 7-11:
It’s Not Fine to Sit on a Porcupine by Neal Zetter
‘Here comes a man
With a pen in his hand
Rhythms and rhymes at his command
To build a sandcastle
You need sand
But who’d you need to write a poem?
Mister Poetry Man’
Enjoy the rhythm and the rhyme with ‘Mister Poetry Man’ Neal Zetter in this wacky, wonderful collection of funny, quirky poems.
London-based comedy performance poet Zetter is well known for using poetry writing and performance to develop literacy, confidence, self-expression, creativity and presentation skills in three to 103-year-olds, regularly entertaining audiences in schools, comedy clubs, theatres, pubs and music venues.
And he certainly works his rappy, happy poetic magic here with nearly fifty comical poems, all designed to be read aloud and shared, and brought to life by Rory Walker’s hilarious black and white cartoons.
Youngsters will be joining in to the mood music as they meet everything from robot teachers, aliens, shoelaces and orangutans to a bungee-jumping grandad, a killer dog, soap and even the zany letter Z.
Take pity on a bored superhero, take off with an angry shopping trolley, marvel at a mammoth on the underground and crack out laughing at the world’s worst toilet.
Perfect for entertaining school classes or to be enjoyed by all the family at home…
(Troika Books, paperback, £6.99)
Age 5 plus:
Furry Friends: Sophie’s Squeaky Surprise by Holly Webb
Young readers will be dancing for joy when they meet the cutest, cuddliest ballet dancer on the block… a tutu-wearing guinea pig!
Madcap little Josephine is the shining star of Furry Friends, a gorgeous, warm-hearted new series from the animal magician of children’s books, Holly Webb, and talented illustrator Clare Elsom.
Poor Sophie isn’t happy about moving to a strange new country and starting at a new school where she can’t seem to make any real friends. She’s lonely in Paris and missing her cat
Oscar who has been left behind with Grandma. But then she meets Josephine, a macaroon-eating, tutu-wearing guinea pig who lives with her furry friends and family underneath the city’s famous Sacré Coeur church.
Their existence is a big secret and one that Sophie must keep as she discovers that Josephine is the best friend she has been looking for. Soon Josephine is showing Sophie that living in a new place is exciting and being friends with a guinea pig is the best adventure of all.
Comical, reassuring and packed with high-energy fun and action, Sophie and Josephine’s extravagant exploits look set to run and run…
(Scholastic, paperback, £4.99)
Age 3 plus:
Bocchi & Pocchi’s Big Surprise by Noriko Matsubara
Bocchi and Pocchi, two close-knit sock friends, have become a shoo-in success for inventive picture book author and illustrator Noriko Matsubara.
This is the third outing for the woolly playmates whose footloose adventures were inspired by Matsubara’s childhood in Japan when she would sit and watch her grandmother darn socks and make up stories.
Here we find Bocchi and Pocchi more than a little surprised to find a caterpillar on their table one morning… and enjoying a cabbage for breakfast! They try to persuade Caterpillar that sandwiches or ice cream would be far tastier but he assures them he’s happy to eat cabbage for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Very soon the three of them are firm friends so when Caterpillar disappears one morning Bocchi and Pocchi are very worried. Grandma Mouse reassures them that all will be well and sure enough Caterpillar reappears with yet another surprise for his friends… he’s a butterfly!
Matsubara’s delightful story, packed with her colourful, eye-catching illustrations, includes a charming little musical sing-along celebration of Twirly Socks at the end of the book.
You can bet your boots that this lovable pair of socks will be back…
(Troika Books, paperback, £6.99)
Age 2 plus:
How to Find a Friend by Maria S. Costa
Friendship is all mapped out in this enchanting debut picture book story which shows two ways of looking at the world.
Little ones will delight in author and illustrator Maria S. Costa’s ingenious visual dual narrative which features two woodland animals looking for a new friend… in all the wrong places.
When Rabbit moves into his new burrow and Squirrel moves into her new treehouse, they would both love to bump into a friend. But will that ever happen when they are too busy to notice what is just above or beneath them? Are they destined to keep on missing each other by a whisker?
Children can follow Rabbit and Squirrel’s hit-and-miss search for friendship on a special story map at the front and back of the book and along the way enjoy all the excitement of those ‘it’s behind you’ pantomime moments as they head off on a comical crash course with the help of two little bugs.
Costa’s funny, tender story features her distinctive linocut illustrations which use a limited palette of bright Mediterranean colours and mix digital and traditional techniques.
Fun, friendship… and a first lesson in irony!
(Oxford University Press, paperback, £6.99)
Age 2 plus:
The Way to Outer Space by Jay Eunji Lee
Young imaginations can take flight in this inspirational and creative picture book from author and illustrator Jay Eunji Lee.
Committed to producing books which include activities to inspire creative play, Lee’s quirky space travel extravaganza provides lots of ideas, illustrations and templates to build a model rocket, draw alien friends and make beautiful origami stars.
Feeling bored at home one evening, Em receives a mysterious parcel with instructions for building her very own space rocket. By harnessing the power of her imagination (and with the help of two loo rolls and some sticky-back plastic), she builds a magnificent rocket. After climbing aboard with her pet cat as her trusty sidekick, Em zooms off through the solar system to a mysterious faraway planet where the inhabitants desperately need her help to survive.
The Way to Outer Space, with its exciting story and simple craft activities, is the perfect way to inspire your child’s imagination and send their creative powers into orbit.
The sky’s the limit for your budding artists and aspiring little space travellers!
(Oxford University Press, paperback, £6.99)
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Book review: Wartime drama, a gunpowder plot and a trainee witch Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/what-s-on/book-review-wartime-drama-a-gunpowder-plot-and-a-trainee-witch-1-8074234 | en | 2016-08-18T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/640409271631224581c9a525b3c30aea82d1f6a7242eb260a2d9fd52859657ab.json |
[
"Andrew Nowell",
"Andrew.Nowell Jpress.Co.Uk"
] | 2016-08-30T12:51:46 | null | 2016-08-30T11:42:41 | Drinkers at a pub have been helping one of the biggest charities in the borough by quite literally spending a penny for a good cause. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fpub-s-toilet-donation-scheme-raises-hundreds-for-hospice-1-8095591.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8095590.1472554635!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Pub’s toilet donation scheme raises hundreds for hospice | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Drinkers at a pub have been helping one of the biggest charities in the borough by quite literally spending a penny for a good cause.
The Ellesmere Inn at Hindley has raised more than £900 for Wigan and Leigh Hospice (WLH) by asking visitors to make a donation each time they visit the facilities.
“We used to send donations up to the hospice every two to three months when the tin was full but now it’s more like every two to three weeks.” Andy Sharrock
Landlord Andy Sharrock started the unusual charity fund-raiser after a couple of customers came up with the idea and put posters up in the gents and ladies asking regulars to give some money to the hospice each time they visited.
Drinkers at the Lancaster Road pub ensured their intentions to help the Hindley-based hospice were not flushed away, coming up with an impressive total of £902.16 in six months.
Andy, 54, said: “One of my customers, Mark Boardman, suggested it and another customer, Barry Halliwell, takes the donations up to the hospice.
“Mark just came up with it one night and I thought it was a brilliant idea. We used to have one collecting tin on the bar but now that donations are coming in from the ladies and gents as well we’re getting a lot more.
“We used to send donations up to the hospice every two to three months when the tin was full but now it’s more like every two to three weeks.
“We’ll definitely be continuing to do it and I think it would be great if other pubs did the same.”
Donations of spare change were left in small boxes on the windowsills in the toilets, with all the proceeds going to WLH to help provide state-of-the-art palliative care to Wiganers in their own homes and at its Kildare Street headquarters.
WLH community fund-raiser Christine Edwardson said: “Andy has come up with a unique wayof fund-raising and it’s certainly proving very effective. It’s surprise how those coppers and coins can quickly mount up.
“We’re very grateful to Andy and those pub-goers whob are paying a penny - or even more - every time they spend a penny.”
The Ellesmere Inn is a regular supporter of the hospice and boosted its fund-raising efforts for this year further by hosting a fun day on Bank Holiday Monday.
Activities included a bouncy castle, games and stalls and refreshments, while cue experts battled it out for honours in an elimination pool tournament.
For more information about the charity and how to get involved with fund-raising, visit www.wlh.org.uk
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Pub’s toilet donation scheme raises hundreds for hospice Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/pub-s-toilet-donation-scheme-raises-hundreds-for-hospice-1-8095591 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/625a7f77f35226c50f4332c556a66290f46eca48a28f56b68817cac797d21454.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T16:52:05 | null | 2016-08-30T17:06:45 | Latics have captured West Ham United defender Reece Burke on a season-long loan deal. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-athletic%2Flatics-news%2Fburke-completes-latics-loan-switch-1-8096494.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096493.1472573667!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Burke completes Latics loan switch | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Latics have captured West Ham United defender Reece Burke on a season-long loan deal.
Burke, who turns 20 on Friday, has been on manager Gary Caldwell’s wishlist, and spent last season on loan with Sky Bet League One side Bradford City.
The fact West Ham have signed him up to a four-year-deal tells you how highly they rate him Gary Caldwell
Caldwell said: “As soon as we were made aware of Reece’s availability, we worked hard to get him here as we knew there was interest from a number of Championship clubs.
“He’s about to turn 20 and the experience he has already is impressive, having played in the Premier League for West Ham and also his successful spell with Bradford last season.
“The fact West Ham have signed him up to a four-year-deal tells you how highly they rate him and we are pleased that they believe the best place for him to develop now is with us here at Wigan Athletic.
“He brings good quality on the ball, but most importantly he’s a solid defender who can deal with big crowds and the league environment, as he proved at Bradford.”
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Burke completes Latics loan switch Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-athletic/latics-news/burke-completes-latics-loan-switch-1-8096494 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/17e7c5c02287fc80b8b27dbde2ca46e84f385070f3ade525b55407016b12972a.json |
[
"Phil Wilkinson"
] | 2016-08-30T16:52:07 | null | 2016-08-30T16:54:13 | Shaun Wane has expressed his frustration at not being able to ease Tony Clubb back into action. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wigantoday.net%2Fsport%2Fwigan-warriors%2Fwane-curses-reserve-schedule-as-clubb-forced-to-wait-1-8096275.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.wigantoday.net/webimage/1.8096274.1472568867!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Wane curses reserve schedule as Clubb forced to wait | null | null | www.wigantoday.net | Shaun Wane has expressed his frustration at not being able to ease Tony Clubb back into action.
The nine-game reserve campaign finished earlier this month, leaving nowhere for players like Clubb to play – other than in Super League.
Wane had hoped the prop would be fit for Thursday’s home clash against Widnes.
But after an absence of three-months, during which time he underwent major neck surgery, Wane decided to leave him out of his 19-man squad.
And he said: “We’ve not been able to get enough work into Clubby.
“There’s no setback or anything, he should be fit to play next week (at Hull FC).
“It’d be a big ask to put him in, in such a big game, but unfortunately there’s no reserve games to ease him back in.
“We talk about player welfare, yet I’ve got a player coming back from a big injury and I’ve nowhere to play him.
“I wish the reserve fixtures were still going in. They showed me a lot about players – and it gave me somewhere for players who need game-time, like Clubby, to play.”
Sean O’Loughlin has also been left out of the 19-man squad after failing to overcome a hamstring injury.
Wane says he should be fit within the next two weeks.
He has stuck with the same provisional squad which beat St Helens 25-0 in their last outing.
A victory on Thursday night, in front of the Sky Sports cameras, would send them level with leaders Hull FC on points ahead of their trip to fourth-placed St Helens.
Greg Burke, who left Wigan in mid-season, is one of six ex-Warriors in the Widnes squad.
Tickets start from £22 for adults and £15 concessions and juniors.
Wigan’s 19-man squad: John Bateman, Joe Bretherton, Josh Charnley, Dom Crosby, Liam Farrell, Ben Flower, Anthony Gelling, Oliver Gildart, Willie Isa, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Sam Powell, Dan Sarginson, Jake Shorrocks, Matty Smith, Ryan Sutton, Taulima Tautai, Lewis Tierney, Sam Tomkins, George Williams.
Widnes’ 19-man squad: Kevin Brown, Greg Burke, Jack Buchanan, Hep Cahill, Jay Chapelhow, Chris Dean, Gil Dudscon, Connor Farrell, Tom Gilmore, Rhys Hanbury, Aaron Heremaia, Chris Houston, Macgraff Leuluai, Stefan Marsh, Joe Mellor, Charly Runciman, Corey Thompson, Lloyd White, Matt Whitley.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Wane curses reserve schedule as Clubb forced to wait Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-warriors/wane-curses-reserve-schedule-as-clubb-forced-to-wait-1-8096275 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.wigantoday.net/43386b948358210a6df1153b03b63506497d51bfa0fe766312d79f934992dae1.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T16:48:36 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fhutchinson-co-4-h-holds-sign-event-tuesday-evening-borgers-johnson-park-youth-center.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Hutchinson Co. 4-H holds sign up event Tuesday evening at Borger's Johnson Park Youth Center | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | Students from Kindergarten age to grade 12 are invited to learn about and join the Hutchinson County 4-H Club. The 4-H event is Tuesday, August 30 at Borger's Johnson Park Youth Center. The sign up event starts at 5:30 p.m. and continues to 7:30 p.m. The youth center is located at 1201 Bulldog Blvd.
For more information or questions, please call (806) 878-4026. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/hutchinson-co-4-h-holds-sign-event-tuesday-evening-borgers-johnson-park-youth-center | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/b4fa0099a62add562037125a4f80afb65bf38d71b1a3a286c8d5a7027b5ec735.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:52:27 | null | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fback-school-coloring-contest-featured-thursday-friday-bnh.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Back-to-School coloring contest featured in Thursday & Friday BNH | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | Our younger readers have a chance to win a $25 Walmart gift card by entering the Borger News-Herald's (BNH) Back-to-School Coloring Contest. The Thursday, August 25 and Friday, August 26 editions feature the coloring contest open to children ages 3-11. Entries are divided into two age groups, 3-6 and 7-11. The contest is sponsored by the Borger Elks Lodge #1581.
Entry is limited to one per child. Entries can be dropped off at the BHN office located at 207 N. Main St. between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Winning entries will be laminated and each winner receives a $25 Walmart gift card. For more information call (806) 273-5611. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/back-school-coloring-contest-featured-thursday-friday-bnh | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/ce2da3795a5100c8b6e006f692347b211bbe91111bdca4ed25be751854013461.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T00:48:15 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Factor-gene-wilder-star-willy-wonka-has-died.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Actor Gene Wilder, star of "Willy Wonka," has died | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | Gene Wilder, 83, the actor who starred in a series of memorable and iconic comedy roles in the 1970s and 1980s, has died according to his lawyer, Eric Weissmann. Wilder died early Monday morning at his home in Stamford, Conn. due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. Wilder chose not to disclose his illness, according to a family statement. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/actor-gene-wilder-star-willy-wonka-has-died | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/c4b0539f25817d691c9e65c9fc45e344fc899b9de432fc55d36ae9a8061e44f2.json |
[] | 2016-08-28T22:47:39 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fcowboys-tony-romo-out-indefinitely-broken-bone-back.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Cowboys Tony Romo out indefinitely with broken bone in back | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett confirmed quarterback Tony Romo, 36, suffered a broken bone in his back during Thursday night's preseason game against the Seahawks. Romo was sacked by defensive end Cliff Avril landing awkwardly. He left the game under his own power but was unable to return. An MRI later revealed the fracture.
The injury is not season-ending and there is no timetable for his return. Romo played in just four games last season, and the Cowboys finished 4-12, last in the NFC East.
Rookie quarterback Dak Prescott, selected in the fourth round out of Mississippi State, will need to step up quickly to replace the oft injured Romo if the Cowboys are to make a playoff run this year. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/cowboys-tony-romo-out-indefinitely-broken-bone-back | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/f054d9bafc3195fe2326445521075fcab9ac6393b7517f2f8fda2d5cfd719ba2.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:55:34 | null | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fhowdy-neighbor-day.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Howdy Neighbor Day | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | null | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/howdy-neighbor-day | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/c86bcf95c3a9c44b1a880947736320ffae2266497142c3c92bbf782f1cf8885d.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:55:06 | null | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fadobe-walls-tsm-brings-flea-market-borger-0.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Adobe Walls TSM brings Flea Market to Borger | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | The Adobe Walls TSM is helping the American Legion raise funds for a new air conditioner unit by bringing a flea market to town.
Once a month out of state vendors will bring their items to Borger to sell. Located at the American Legion (across the parking lot from the Dome), the flea market starts this Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Homemade goods, crafts, and knick knacks can all be expected.
TSM will provide concessions for the occasion. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/adobe-walls-tsm-brings-flea-market-borger-0 | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/a252343b0b6cf973cdd07909c129d8a69d5c1301bb94d767e021000392dad176.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:52:57 | null | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Feagles-travel-spearman-kick-2016-season-friday.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Eagles travel to Spearman to kick off 2016 season Friday | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | The Sanford-Fritch Eagles will begin their season Friday night as they travel to Spearman for a showdown with the Lynx. Kick off is set for 7:30 p.m. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/eagles-travel-spearman-kick-2016-season-friday | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/d753ab605f2079c23cf79959be7a627f9ff5182a66949f2ffdeba5a6665363c5.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:56:01 | null | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fadobe-walls-tsm-brings-flea-market-borger.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Adobe Walls TSM brings Flea Market to Borger | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | The Adobe Walls TSM is helping the American Legion raise funds for a new air conditioner unit by bringing a flea market to town.
Once a month out of state vendors will bring their items to Borger to sell. Located at the American Legion (across the parking lot from the Dome), the flea market starts this Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Homemade goods, crafts, and knick knacks can all be expected.
TSM will provide concessions for the occasion. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/adobe-walls-tsm-brings-flea-market-borger | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/092db1db4e9bd1cbb34dd3670d15c72046a5f83987ef2225d4572ef8bca4a8eb.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T14:47:56 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fcharles-osgood-host-cbs-news-sunday-morning-announces-retirement.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Charles Osgood, host of CBS News' "Sunday Morning" announces retirement | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | Charles Osgood, the popular and award winning host of the CBS Show 'Sunday Morning,' announced Sunday he is leaving the show after 22 years. His farewell broadcast will be on Sept. 25.
Osgood, 83, has spent nearly 50 years at CBS. His distinct voice and dapper broadcasting style made the Sunday show a weekly ritual for viewers. He took over "Sunday Morning" from Charles Kuralt in 1994. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/charles-osgood-host-cbs-news-sunday-morning-announces-retirement | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/8b252971bbdee0f6ff58efcdd98ce56f0756fadbe0552ce8440398b3beb95348.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:49:34 | null | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Flady-bulldogs-fall-dumas-3-0.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Lady Bulldogs fall to Dumas 3-0 | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | The Borger Lady Bulldog volleyball team lost in three games to the Dumas Demonettes Tuesday night here in Borger. See full results in Wednesday's sports section of the Borger News-Herald. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/lady-bulldogs-fall-dumas-3-0 | en | 2016-08-23T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/40ecd7ef4c3dbe12cf8a5170f651d02a18f91d563f52366a467d3933523f9f2a.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T18:46:51 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fdemolition.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | The Borger News-Herald | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | null | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/demolition | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/7abff0da769968f2b935b01b5ac15c51587855ae8aeb21af09a3e1b30372bc88.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:51:26 | null | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fcunningham-peaches.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Cunningham Peaches | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | null | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/cunningham-peaches | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/9da20613c67af8cbef3f690c9314cfdda251da393213f635b5d9bd45d422b5c0.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:51:56 | null | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fwest-texas-begins-2016-season-gruver-friday-night.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | West Texas begins 2016 season in Gruver Friday night | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | The West Texas Comanches will get their 2016 season underway with a trip to Gruver Friday night. Kick off is set for 7:30 p.m. See Friday's sports section of the Borger News-Herald for more information about the game. | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/west-texas-begins-2016-season-gruver-friday-night | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/5aaeed2873475a693afb4fb95ff9ef8550a709fa8ff8a9d8fd90e16848993150.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T20:46:18 | null | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Farea-legislators.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Area Legislators | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | null | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/area-legislators | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/f6b248cd9919c167e7808f54cdd00e7fbf6b83fc2b9b81702ad6468ca86e4570.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:49:06 | null | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.borgernewsherald.com%2Fcontent%2Fcunninghams-colorado-peaches-available-wildcatters-parking-lot-friday-afternoon.json | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/misc/favicon.ico | en | null | Cunningham's Colorado Peaches available at Wildcatters parking lot Friday afternoon | null | null | www.borgernewsherald.com | The good folks at Cunningham Family Orchard are back in Borger Friday, August 26 selling the sweetest, ripest peaches around. The peaches are freshly picked and sent by refrigerated truck straight to the public. The peaches go on sale at Wildcatter's Bowling Alley parking lot Friday afternoon from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Get there early before their all gone! | http://www.borgernewsherald.com/content/cunninghams-colorado-peaches-available-wildcatters-parking-lot-friday-afternoon | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.borgernewsherald.com/167cd36aa449489bc15f060f7747906b90fa78447273a1fb4b062a43eb37d191.json |
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