FirstSt. Helens Oct 2007 – Jan 2008 St. Helens Council’s Community Magazine

Saints Homecoming special

Cool new recycling campaign

One degree above

St. Helens Youngsters are Contents a degree above leader’s column Inside this issue Oct 2007 – Jan 2008

Welcome to the October 11 24 edition of our award winning St. Helens First which I hope will be of interest with its usual mix of news and features about our Borough. Particular focus has been given to local communities in this edition with news about what is going on in your local neighbourhood. 14 17 Teentalk Once again First celebrates local successes Feature News and all that the Borough has to offer people who P4 Mayor’s diary P15-18 In and around your P12 Reaching for the stars live, work and visit. community P5-8 Saints’ homecoming P13 Help for carers I hope everyone will special P19 ‘City slicker’ living take an interest in the P14 Leading role for Rachel Council’s campaign to P9 Teeing off for sport P20-21 New health P23 Museum milestone increase recycling fi gures developments P10-11 Tasty treat for P28-32 Your What’s on guide and read the informative pupils P24-25 Recycle for two page feature on what St. Helens P33-36 Teen Talk you can do to be greener and help in the fi ght against global warming. Watch out for an exciting Editor: Chris Cahill new announcement about News Editor: Kay Dingsdale Saints’ and the special St. Helens Council, tribute being prepared for Whether it’s to find out how By text: Ask about signing up to Press and Public the club by the Council to recycle your household our new SMS text alert service Relations Office, waste, check what’s on, pay when you call the Contact Centre. Town Hall, St. Helens, befi tting a world class your Council Tax or request a WA10 7DN. specific service, the way you At the library: Call into any club and team. contact the Council is up to you! library in St. Helens to pay To contact your news team with There are also features your Council Tax or contact suggestions for articles about you Online: www.sthelens.gov.uk us via our dedicated Council or your organisation on city slicker living Email: contactcentre@ Access points*. coming to town as well sthelens.gov.uk Tel: 01744 456166/5 St. Helens Council offers a Fax: 01744 456168 as healthy school meals, Telephone: 01744 456789 translation and interpretation Email: [email protected] children’s sporting success (8am – 8pm, Monday – Friday service including foreign St. Helens First is printed on recycled paper. and 10am – 2pm, Saturdays) languages, British Sign Language, and the major developments Braille and Audio Tape. All public Minicom: 01744 671671 areas in the Town Hall have Talking Pages taking place in our Face to Face: Contact Centre, disabled access. This magazine is available hospitals and health centres. Wesley House, Corporation inin talkingtalking bookbook andand BrailleBraille Street, St. Helens (open 9am – *Council Access points in on request by contacting 5pm, Monday – Friday). selected libraries only. 01744 456166/5. Council Leader

Designed and printed by Engage Group www.engagegroup.co.uk Group Engage by Designed and printed Brian Spencer Mayor’s diary page Memorable days for terminally ill people

The Mayor of St. Helens Cllr Sheila Seddon is supporting a relatively new The Mayor Cllr Sheila Seddon is pictured in the Mayor’s charity through her Mayor’s Appeal. Parlour at the Town Hall.

The St. Helens-based own special day, event or improving the quality of life and healthier lifestyles in HoneyRose Foundation weekend away. More than of seriously ill adults aged 16 whatever sport people have was set up almost three years 120 families have already to 40 through the provision of chosen to participate in ago by Lynn Duffy in memory benefi ted from the charity’s special days. regardless of their age or of three of her friends who, work and activities organised The Foundation relies ability. The charity liaises despite suffering terminal for them help to bring a entirely on fund raising closely with communities, illnesses, were determined to degree of normality back into and donations. To fi nd out schools, the voluntary sector achieve personal goals for as their lives at what can be an how you can support it and the Borough’s sporting long as they were able. extremely diffi cult time. The call into the shop in Hall clubs to encourage more The Foundation helps Foundation works closely Street between 10am and people to take part in sport terminally ill adults of all with the MacMillan Nurses 4.30pm from Monday to and to boost standards. ages who fi nd themselves at Willowbrook Hospice and Saturday, call 01744 451919 Clubs that are members of in the same situation to the Willow Foundation – a or visit the website www. the Sports Council can apply achieve and enjoy their very national charity dedicated to honeyrosefoundation.co.uk for grants or loans to enhance The Mayor is also their facilities and equipment. supporting St. Helens The charity also helps District Sports Council – clubs to achieve accredited Big drive for charity an independent body and quality standards both registered charity. It aims to locally and nationally. The Mayor of St. Helens Cllr Sheila Seddon improve quality of life by For further information says a big thank you to everyone who helped providing leadership that about the Sports Council go make her Mayor’s Appeal Golf Championship promotes physical, active to www.sthelensdsc.co.uk such a success raising more than £3,000. Thanks go to everyone who was involved in organising, sponsoring or donating to the tournament which was held at Sherdley Park Golf Club. A special thanks goes to the club for hosting the event. All proceeds go to the Mayor’s Appeal. Cllr Seddon said: “Once again, many thanks to all the companies listed below for making the event so successful.” Brian Ball Butchers, Stan Shuker and Sons Butchers, ASDA, Morrisons, Tesco, Nexus Nightclub, Bullock Construction, Shiels Brothers (Fishmongers), Haydock Park Racecourse, CR Fishwicks and Co, Dowhigh Ltd, Mr Culy Top, Thistle Hotel, Hilton Hotel, Fairfi eld Independent Hospital, Pinder & Sims, NatWest, Dairy Crest Ltd, St. Helens Town Partnership, Burns Jewellers, Prescot Self Drive, Wrenco Contractors Ltd, Halton & St. Helens PCT, Waterfi elds Bakeries, Brakes Groceries, Pilkington plc, A & B Builders, St. Helens Star, St. Helens Reporter, GPW Recruitment, Fosters the Florists, Newton le Willow Blinds, NGF Europe, Jackson Lloyd Building The Mayor greets Saints legend Apollo Perelini on the stage at the Council’s Contractors, St. Helens Chamber of Commerce. special homecoming celebrations. See pages 5-8.

4 www.sthelens.gov.uk Saints’ statue honour St. Helens Council has announced plans to commission a statue to celebrate the unprecedented success of St. Helens Club.

The statue will be placed in a prominent position yet to be offi cially announced. Talks have already begun with a sculptor to discuss the project brief and talks will be on going with the rugby club to progress the details. The statue will refl ect the results of a community competition to name fans greatest ever Saints’ player. The statue announcement was made at the civic reception to celebrate the teams Wembley Victory in the over Catalan Dragons. Council Leader Brian Spencer said: “This tribute is long overdue. The statue will be placed on one of the most prominent gateway sites into the Borough which will fi ttingly be near the site of the proposed new stadium site. “The club have been marvellous ambassadors for our Borough and we thought it was ‘Wello’ wows the crowds with the ‘Wembley silver.’

Team pic with representatives time we chose to honour the from St. Helens Council who held a victory homecoming for the club club for their sporting and community achievements over their long and prestigious history. I am very proud to be making this announcement in recognition of a world class sporting club which is such a vital part of our Borough’s past, present and future.” In 2001 the Council awarded the club Freedom of the Borough status following its record breaking sporting achievements. 3

www.sthelens.gov.uk 5 V for victory is written all over this young fans faces as the tension mounts A trio of young fans wait to and the crowds wait to welcome home welcome home their heroes the Wembley winners

Thousands of fans lined the roads along the victory route off the M6 and into Victoria Square

6 www.sthelens.gov.uk One young fan is held high to get a better look at the players paraded on the stage

Council Chief Executive Carole Hudson with Saints’ Chief Executive Tony Colquitt pictured with the trophy which went on display at the homecoming

Saints’ Chairman Eamon Mcmanus takes to the stage to thank fans for their support at Wembley and during The Mayor with the Lance the season in which he Todd Trophy joint winners hopes to bring home and more trophies

www.sthelens.gov.uk 7 An artist’s impression of the proposed new stadium on the site of the former United Glass works

PPlanninglanning pprocessrocess bbeginsegins A mountain of paperwork has built up in the Council’s Planning Section after three applications ooded in. relating to Saints new stadium fl A mountain of work awaits Council planning officers as they go through the 30 boxes containing the three planning applications

Development Control Manager Stuart Barnes (centre), pictured Since the original date of submission, there has been an with Planning Team Leaders Melanie Hale and John Waddilow, are assessment of the nature and content of the information awash with documents. submitted and continuing dialogue with the agents in relation to Stuart said: “The three applications initially came in 18 boxes the proposals. and then further information came in. In total we have over Once all required information is submitted, offi cers will consult 100 individual documents to wade through. Some are provided with a range of statutory and non-statutory bodies and other in paper copy, others on CD and they range from site location, Council departments and will notify neighbours of the three sites site layout, elevational plans and landscape plans to retail, and other interested parties. The information will be posted on environment, transport, fl ood risk and noise assessments. There the council’s website (www.sthelens.gov.uk) where you can post are also supporting planning and design justifi cation statements.” comments electronically. Planning offi cers will visit the sites and appraise the proposals The applications relate to: against development plan and national policy then disseminate • a stadium and a Tesco on the United Glass site the responses received. Full and detailed reports will then be • Tesco’s existing site at Chalon Way being prepared for Planning Committee and the resolution and full redeveloped for retail details of each application will be referred to the Government • the redevelopment of Saints Offi ce for the North West, to determine whether or not the ground for housing. applications will be called-in for a Public Inquiry.

8 www.sthelens.gov.uk News

Olymkids boosts sporting skills in the run up to the 2012 Olympic Games. Driving ambition The ongoing Olymkids youngsters were given the time that many of them programme, the club has programme has been chance to compete in 10 had held a club – and reduced the joining fee introducing youngsters different sports challenges. received tuition from the from £150 to £30 for to the world of golf. One of these saw 150 club’s PGA professional juniors and Bryan is Part of a national pupils from seven primary Bryan Joelson-Mulhall. visiting schools, offering initiative to increase schools taking part in a In an attempt to support group sessions and courses the number of children popular Tri-Golf festival the extensive schools’ golf for youngsters. taking part in competitive The golfi ng theme events, it is being run continued after Eccleston by the St. Helens School Park Golf Club teamed “The weekend was a fantastic success. Sports Partnership and up with the Sports the Council’s Sports Partnership and organised The golf club is committed to supporting Development team. an open weekend to the development of junior golf and is It involves high schools introduce youngsters aged working closely with the Council to providing sports events for two to 14 to golf. Around ensure a good quality of junior provision primary schools. At a recent 150 of them took part festival at Sutton High in a nine hole Tri-Golf is provided to meet community needs.” Sports College over 1,000 competition – the fi rst General Manager, Mark Jones

www.sthelens.gov.uk 9 Healthy School Meals A treat for the t The tables have been t. Helens is ahead however, entirely new as The national standards of the game and over the past few years a ensure that school meals turned on school has already met quiet culinary revolution provide pupils with meals in St. Helens the Government’s has been taking place as between 33 and 40% S new nutritional Council caterers have of their daily nutritional primary schools standards for primaries tickled the tastebuds with requirements so addressing where healthy, which must be in place a mouth watering range of increasing public concerns by 2008. This healthier options at about children’s diets and freshly prepared is not, school dining rising rates of child obesity. dishes are brimming tables. So what’s happened to with nutrients. transform school meals into more appealing, well balanced

10 www.sthelens.gov.uk Healthy School Meals tastebuds dishes? Deep fried foods are an interesting, healthily roast pork or fi sh crumble, Our menus already conform on the back burner, served cooked selection of foods caulifl ower and broccoli, to the Government’s stringent just twice a week. Turkey ranging from the traditional roast or new potatoes standards and we are proud twizzler type dishes are roast chicken, pork steak, and an orange smoothie of what we are serving up to banished as the new menus fi sh fi ngers and home made or frozen yoghurt. youngsters in St. Helens.” steer clear of reformed or beef burgers to food from In addition, a selection reconstituted foods. Gone further afi eld, including of salads, vegetable sticks, too are sweets and savoury chicken curry, lasagne and bread, fruit and yoghurt snacks along with highly vegetarian pizza to tempt are always available salted condiments. the palates of the more plus skimmed or semi- The new look adventurous young diners. skimmed milk, fruit menus provide The kind of combinations juices and water. offered include bolognaise or Kevin McNicholl, haddock and tuna fi sh cakes, the Council’s peas and carrots, spaghetti or Contracts Manager, jacket wedges and raspberry says the new look smoothie or frozen yoghurt. menus have gone Braised steak accompanied down a treat. by green beans, new potatoes He said: “The or garlic bread and fresh feedback from fruit with jelly and ice cream. parents has been Other choices include battered very positive and cod or beef curry, mushy peas many of them and tomatoes, chips or boiled have been very rice and iced orange cake and complimentary.

www.sthelens.gov.uk 11 News Young ‘graduates’ in brief Former Aelredian becomes cabinet reach for the stars minister Former St. Aelred’s The pre-school class They say you know you’re getting older pupil, Andy Burnham, of 2007 at Four Ways has landed a crucial Children’s Centre proudly when the policemen look younger, but role in Gordon donned their caps and what about when the graduates are as Brown’s Cabinet. gowns, made by staff The former Health member Rebecca Brennan, young as these little ones? Minister was at their ‘graduation’ appointed Chief party. It celebrated four Secretary to the years at the nursery and Treasury and will included a performance play a crucial role in by the youngsters singing shaping government graduation songs including spending plans over Reach for the Stars. the next three years. Andy is a Leigh MP. Diplomas were handed out by Nursery Manager Chris Black who told Dyslexia drop parents: “We are very in meetings proud of the children. They have grown so St. Helens Dyslexia much in confi dence and Association, based are now ready to continue at the Millennium their learning journey Centre in Corporation at primary school. Street, holds regular All staff wish them a meetings at 7pm on the third Tuesday very bright future.” of every month. Four Ways, supported Attendance is free by the Council, is one of and there is no several Children’s Centres need to book. across the Borough For further details providing integrated ring 0870 990 7336. education and day care affordable child care information about facilities. At Four Ways, and funding is available placements contact Chris Childcare tax credit for all three and four on 01744 678064 or email Look out enables families to access year olds. For further [email protected] for… St. Helens freelance rock writer Neil St. Helens First success Daniels has a new book out ‘Defenders St. Helens First, your community magazine, is runner up Of The Faith: The True Story Of Judas for a national award for the third year running. Priest’ is published by Omnibus Press. It was second in the Best The Awards were Public Relations Manager, It includes exclusive Council Publication launched three years ago Chris Cahill and Press and interviews, rare (design) in the Good and St. Helens First was PR Offi cer, Kay Dingsdale, photographs and Communications runner up for best design both former journalists. complete tour dates. Award (GCA) which in 2005 and runner up for St. Helens First has been recognises excellence best journalism last year. cited as one of the most in local government The magazine is written cost effective public sector communications. by the Councils Press and magazines in the country.

12 www.sthelens.gov.uk News

Check out the new Who cares? We do. The Princess Royal Trust mysthelens.org website St. Helens Carers’ Centre offers Driven by community groups, this heritage. To register your community a wide range of help and advice new website showcases the heritage, group, promote an event or fi nd out to local carers. culture and sense of community the about what’s happening on your If you care for someone who Borough offers. doorstep, go to mysthelens.org could not manage without your The guide includes more than 350 Future developments include interactive help and support, then you are community listings ranging from music events pages, a business directory, one of an estimated 21,000 festivals to health walks, from art to discussion forums and much more. unpaid carers in St. Helens. And of that total, just a fraction – 2,100 – are registered with the Princess Royal Trust Greener minibuses St. Helens Carers Centre which provides them with vital support. This ranges from advice and drive into town information to therapy services, emotional and practical support, Cleaner, greener and better training and leisure opportunities. equipped high-tech minibuses are During a recent River Mersey now transporting older people cruise organised by the Carers and vulnerable adults from their Centre, around 200 carers came homes to community venues. together and spoke of the The Council’s Adult Social importance of activities like Care and Health Transport team this which give them a welcome sought the views of service users, break, time to rest and re- carers and its staff, including the charge their batteries, make new essential input of drivers, before friends and escape the pressures investing in new vehicles. Over and tensions that home life can the past three years, 13 of the create. One carer later fl eet of 19 minibuses have commented: “The cruise helped been replaced. me realise that there are other The latest, seen here at people going through what you Windle Pilkington House, are going through as a carer Driver David Ledshan with Linda Casadei, Transport Manager boast pollution reducing and you’re not alone. I have with bus user Janet Quirk high-tech engines, give drivers made some new friends.” good all round visibility but most importantly of all, provide passengers with A date for the diary of carers comfort and safety features. These include a fold out step giving easier access is Friday 7th December when and wider and longer lifts for customised wheechairs. Other accessories which events will be held locally to give passengers a pleasant trip include climate control, window blinds, a CD mark Carers Rights Day, details player and double seat belts. of which will be published in the local press nearer the time. The day aims to ensure that people recognise themselves as carers 10th anniversary for Hospice and that they and their families In this, its 10th anniversary year, heart, lung and motor neurone diseases. are claiming the benefi ts to Willowbrook Hospice continues to raise If you want to support Willowbrook which they are entitled to and essential funds to support the valuable and please call 01744 453798. are aware of their rights. much needed service it provides to patients. Carers who want to know Willowbrook receives just one-third Forthcoming events include: more about the support available of its funding from the Government 1st December – Celebration Dinner, to them should call the Carers and it costs £5,000 a day to run the St. Helens Town Hall Centre on 01744 675615 for hospice. Its staff care for 1,000 patients 10th December – Tree of Lights, confi dential support, advice a year who have life limiting illnesses and Prescot Parish Church and independent information. they are increasingly caring for people 12th December – Tree of Lights, The Centre is open weekdays with diseases other than cancer such as Lowe House, St. Helens between 10am and 4pm.

www.sthelens.gov.uk 13 News Leading role for Brave Rachel Inspirational Rachel Maskell But she rarely misses a day at has overcome the odds to take school, a dance or a singing the leading role in the popular lesson. Her string of achievements musical Annie. includes winning dance and When St. Helens Operatic gymnastic competitions, Society was casting for its performing on stage many times forthcoming production one including the Theatre Royal and little girl stood out for her bubbly Southport Arts Theatre, being personality and sheer talent. chosen as a good citizen in St. What the casting panel did not Helens and Knowsley, appearing know was how much the De La on regional TV as part of a Salle pupil has overcome to get champion children series and where she is today. receiving a Gold Blue Peter badge Cystic Fibrosis sufferer for her determination and courage. Rachel has undergone numerous Annie is being staged at the treatments and hospital visits Theatre Royal from 10th to 13th since being diagnosed with the October and tickets are available disease at the age of seven. from Pat Jones on 01744 758193. What a difference 25 years makes! It’s been 25 years since Frederic Stephan was last in St. Helens to play in a football tourney as a strip of a lad. Now responsible for Town Twinning and International Links in Stuttgart he was amazed at the massive amount of regeneration which has transformed the Borough over the past quarter of a century. Frederic has been in town to discuss next year’s programme of celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of the twinning agreement with Stuttgart. Young people from across the Borough have enjoyed a range of different projects in Stuttgart this year already, including taking part in essay writing contests, sports competitions and the opening of a brand new youth facility in Stuttgart which houses its very own Frederic at the World of Glass St. Helens Room. Frederic said he was very impressed with the town. WAG’s want your support No it’s nothing to do with wives and for the project. So to show your 4. I agree that wildlife is an important girlfriends of celebrities! The St Helens support email stephenlittler@sthelens. part of our heritage Wildlife Advisory Group (WAG) is gov.uk with your YES / NO responses to: For more information contact Rick preparing to make an application to 1. I support the proposed Wild in on 01744 456789. the Heritage Lottery Fund for funding St. Helens project You can gain email access through to celebrate the wildlife of St. Helens. 2. I wish to see wildlife promoted your local library. Alternatively you Local residents are being asked to within St. Helens can send a letter to Stephen Littler, support the application. The group 3. I would be prepared to participate St. Helens Council. Town Hall, needs to demonstrate public support in a ‘Wildlife Garden survey’ St. Helens WA10 1HP.

14 www.sthelens.gov.uk IN AND AROUND YOUR LOCAL St. Helens First presents a four page feature on news and views COMMUNITY in and around where you live. The Generation Game “How does your garden grow Mrs Culley?” asks George as he helps water the plants at the Alder Hey Allotments.

George is one of many youngsters who are learning equipment. It’s such how to plant and cultivate fl owers and vegetables a lovely place where at Central Link Children’s Centre Tots’ Allotments. children’s imaginations Beetroot, tomatoes, carrots, strawberries, sweetcorn, are free to run wild!” caulifl ower, courgettes and pumpkins are among Other activities the produce that Elizabeth Culley and her sister include den, scarecrow Pat Seddon grow and George is keen to follow and kite making and the in their footsteps. children get to grips with The fl ourishing Tots’ Allotment, supported by the recycling – making their own Council, welcomes families and children aged under plant food, turning peelings into fi ve. Family Link Worker Gill Worrall says it is based compost and re-using old wellies, saucepans on a thriving allotment site with a real community spirit. and handbags as plant pots. She said: “The older generation love to watch Tots’ Allotment sessions are held on Tuesday the little ones dig, plant and learn. They offer (1 – 3pm) and Saturday (10 – 12 noon). To fi nd their expertise and generously donate plants and out more call 01744 25868. Allotment site springs back into life

Another allotment project is giving green fi ngered adults the chance to blossom.

A year on, a group of green fi ngered St. Helens Coalition of Disabled hanging baskets are now in their place. adults are celebrating after they People secured £5,000 of funding from The work not only looks good turned a derelict allotment site into the Council’s grants’ programme. After but resulted in the gardeners gaining something of which to be proud. clearing away the debris they got to an NVQ in Horticulture. They are The allotment site, off Alder Hey work, cultivating the site and where pictured during a celebratory event Road, was adopted by the adults weeds once grew, an impressive range at the allotments which marked the who have learning diffi culties after of bedding plants, vegetables and transformation of the site.

www.sthelens.gov.uk 15 Community news Have a heart If you have had treatment for or have suffered cardiac problems, St. Helens Healthy Heart Support Group would like to hear from you.

The group, whose members have all eating, stopping smoking and starting rehabilitation. had heart problems complements exercise programmes. Sponsored Our members are here to existing health services providing by Tyrer’s, it plans social events listen and provide answers another way of accessing help for members and an important and reassurance.” and making its members aware part of its work is supporting The group meets on the of developments in the treatment patients and their families. fourth Tuesday of each month of cardiac related problems. Chair Harry Taylor said: at the Unison Social Club Bishop Affi liated to the British Heart “One of the issues raised is the Road from 7.30pm to 9pm. Foundation, it provides information isolation felt after being diagnosed For more information call Harry on cardiac rehabilitation and and receiving treatment then, after on 01744 813990 or Brian on secondary prevention, healthy treatment, in the period before 0151 426 7091. Transport survey – Funding boost results are in for charity The results of a survey involving Age Concern groups and Senior Voice members, The Deafness Resource Centre, St. Helens has received £262,012 from the Big Lottery to which asked older people continue its successful D/deaf Advocacy Service. about their views on public This means that any one of the estimated transport, are now available. 28,000 people in the Borough who are deaf or The survey asked them Travel team hard of hearing can access one-to-one support, how easy it was to access information forums and other support services leisure, health and fresh food The Neighbourhood Travel over the next fi ve years. opportunities by using public Team provides free advice The Advocacy Service aims to ensure that transport. Over 50% of people and information on travel and deaf people and their families are aware of their found it easy to access these transport in the St. Helens Area. rights, can defend those rights and make informed facilities, however over a quarter It offers help to people who choices on issues that affect their everyday lives. of respondents said that public are over 18 and unemployed For more information please contact Helen on transport services are unreliable. or at risk of redundancies 01744 23887 or email [email protected] A summary showing the with attending an interview, key results is available from beginning a new job or Carolyn Mitchell, Transport attending short accredited Planning, St. Helens Council, local training courses. 01744 456188 or email For more information call [email protected] 01744 21123.

16 www.sthelens.gov.uk Community news

Royal round-up as community celebrates Portico residents teamed up with the Council to organise their very own Community Fun Day at the newly refurbished King George V Playing Fields at Grange Park.

Members of the Portico Neighbourhood and face painting. There were displays £86,500 refurbishment which includes Renewal Fund Community Group from the Police and Fire Service and a re-vamped play area, a new Youth devised an interesting programme the Army brought along its Careers Shelter and a fl oodlit ball court and the which drew in the crowds. Bus. Also present were representatives Council plan even more improvements The entertainment included a circus from NRF projects who gave residents will be in place by March. skills workshop, break dancing, birds information about the ongoing To fi nd out more about the Portico of prey and ferret displays, a brass renewal of the Portico area. NRF Community Group call Melanie band, bouncy castle, sports activities The playing fi elds have undergone a Mulcahy on 01744 621524.

www.sthelens.gov.uk 17 Community news New £375,000 More ward committee facility at Bold projects in the pipeline As the popularity of local to Bankes Park football pitch; The Mayor of St. Helens, two separate offi cials’ ward committees increases a sensory garden for the new Councillor Sheila Seddon, changing rooms, a physio more and more residents are Newton Cottage Hospital; has unveiled a new room and toilet facilities. coming up with ideas and access improvements to £375,000 community This project is the suggestions for environmental Sutton Mill Dam (funding is facility at Bold Miners fi rst of two through improvements in their area. also being sought to replace Neighbourhood Centre. the “Coalfi elds Sports St. Helens Council has the stone wall around the Work included new Facilities Project”. again allocated £500,000 dam which has been cladding to the exterior of The second is due at for local environmental vandalised) plus general tree the building, a new roof Clock Face Miners projects and is inviting planting and landscaping. and the entire internal Recreation Club who people to air their views After October the next structure of the building have also been assisted about how their round of ward committees being remodelled to in securing £550,000 neighbourhoods could be will be on 28th and 29th allow for today’s modern of funding for their changed for the better. January 2008. Such has requirements. There improved sports facilities. Residents are invited along to been the success of ward are now four changing For more information their local Ward Committee committees that the Council rooms, all with showers, call 01744 26741. on 29th and 30th October. has dealt with over 400 issues Watch local press for details raised by the public and had Projects already in the 446 project ideas, 155 of pipeline or at the planning which are either being stage include improvements progressed or evaluated. Centre’s X factor Whether you are looking for a venue for a meeting, training facility, conferencing or a fi tness hall to deliver keep fi t or dance, the Peter Street Centre could be for you. For further details contact 01744 677555 or fax 01744 677556. You can also log on to www.peterstreet.co.uk Your vision will shape the future The Council is seeking the to Government in Summer 2008. Supplementary Planning Document views of local people on future Recent consultation on the is available at www.sthelens. development within the Borough. waste management document for gov.uk and local libraries. Work is continuing on the generated 96 responses. A further four guidance documents preparation of the document that These will now be taken into are being prepared on Transport, will guide development through to consideration in the preparation of Telecommunications, Trees and 2024. The ‘Core Strategy’ sets out the next stage, the preferred options. Householder Developments – the spatial vision for the Borough It is hoped that consultation on these consultation is programmed for together with the preferred options will take place at the end of the year. Autumn and will be publicised in for achieving this vision. Public New design guidance has been local newspapers and libraries. consultation on the preferred options introduced to help raise the For further details contact is planned for October/November quality of new development in Jonathan Noad on 01744 456117 2007 with a fi nal draft being submitted St. Helens. The Design Guidance or [email protected]

18 www.sthelens.gov.uk Development

On the waterfront Town centre living on a canal side setting will breathe a vibrant new lifestyle back into the heart of St. Helens.

Take a closer look at the Shaw Street Meanwhile…. centre work has been completed area of St. Helens and you will be in As the fi nal touches were put to more street seating areas will for a big surprise as ‘city slicker living’ the £6.7 million revamp of the also be put into place. comes to town. town centre, St. Helens Council has The upgrade of the town centre, Close to the new look redeveloped announced more improvement works. which won a prestigious national Central Station in Shaw Street Work has started to upgrade Green Apple award, is also giving and around the corner from the Barrow Street with a new surface, young people the chance to work bus station, two new apartment tree planting and new lighting. on an important project. developments are so popular that The Council says every effort will Mayfi eld, which teamed up with St. the fi rst phase on one sold out be made to maintain access and Helens Council to deliver the town centre within weeks of the sign going up. keep disruption to a minimum. Focal Point project, took on trainees Countryside Properties are building Now that the main town to work as paviors for both schemes. 265 one and two bedroom apartments on the former AC site on Hall Street. An artist’s impression of the new look railway station which sits alongside the HQ comprises a range of stylish new apartment blocks one and two bedroom apartments. Each apartment has been thoughtfully planned and beautifully designed with modern living in mind. The homes are spacious and light, featuring only the high spec. and stylish features. On the adjacent former Arriva site 48 two bedroom apartments are being built by Depol Associates. And with planned improvements to the nearby historic Sankey Canal the stylish town centre living developments are sure to add a touch of style to St. Helens waterfront living.

www.sthelens.gov.uk 19 Health

An artist’s impression of the new St. Helens Hospital opening in 2008 Health boost £338 million spend to improve Whiston and St. Helens Hospitals in major round of health care spending.

The new St. Helens Hospital from the current fi gure of 400 7 Maternity and will occupy a total fl oor area the spaces to 696 spaces, with Gynaecological services; equivalent of fi ve football pitches. dedicated areas provided for staff, 7 Special Care baby Unit; It is being redeveloped, with visitors, disabled and drop off zones. 7 Burns and Plastics facility; the construction of a brand Whiston Hospital is being 7 Paediatric in-patient new Diagnostic and Treatment redeveloped in two phases. services; Centre on land recently purchased The new building will be six 7 Pharmacy; from St. Helens Council. storeys high. The new facilities 7 Crèche facilities. occupy an area equivalent to 15 Facilities will include: football pitches. The existing The second phase of the 7 Out-patient clinics; Accident and Emergency block will development will provide: 7 Diagnostic facilities including be refurbished as a second phase to 7 Pathology Laboratories; Radiology, Pathology and provide alternative accommodation. 7 New mortuary; Cardio-Respiratory; 7 Education and Training Centre; 7 Treatment facilities including Facilities include: 7 Offi ce accommodation. Operating Theatres, Day Case 7 Accident and Emergency; Ward, Ophthalmology, Endoscopy, 7 Intensive / Critical Care Unit; The facilities will open to Dental and Rehabilitation units; 7 General and specialist patients in 2010. The second 7 Cancer Day and Breast out-patient clinics; phase will be completed in Clinic Services; 7 Diagnostic services September 2011. Parking will 7 Intermediate care beds. including Radiology and increase from the current 1, 277 Cardiology services spaces to around 1, 600 spaces, with It will be open for business in 2008. 7 In-patient wards; dedicated areas provided for staff, Car parking provision will increase 7 Operating Theatres; visitors, disabled and drop off zones.

20 www.sthelens.gov.uk Health

Coming Doors open at new health centre

soon to The new Fingerpost Park Garswood Health Centre in Atlas Street is now open. Garswood will soon have The two storey £3.2 a new new £2.6 million million Fingerpost Park Primary Care Centre. Health Centre replaces the It is being developed existing outdated facilities at by Partners4LIFT (P4L) the three surgeries and serves under the Government’s 14,000 local patients. LIFT (Local Improvement The centre, with parking Finance Trust) Initiative for 70 vehicles, has a range and being constructed of health services including by Warrington based a cardiac rehabilitation Galliford Try. It is due to and angina management open in November. suite, minor surgery unit, It will boast a wide smoking cessation, lifestyle range of services, checks, dietetics and weight including retail pharmacy, GP practice and PCT management, primary care services including mental health services, Podiatry, Baby Clinics speech and language and the Health Visitors. therapy, child health and phlebotomy, in addition to the three GP practices.

Newton Cottage Hospital enters a new era The new £10 million Newton Community Hospital in Newton-le-Willows is on track for completion at the end of June 2008. The new buildings are being developed by Partners4LIFT (P4L) under the Government’s LIFT (Local Improvement Finance Trust) Initiative and is being constructed by Warrington based Galliford Try. The new 4,200m2 building will boast a wide range of services, including retail pharmacy, GP practice, gym, 30 in-patient beds, treatment rooms and specialist clinic rooms, minor surgery suite, x-ray and ultrasound and a range of outpatient clinics.

www.sthelens.gov.uk 21 Animal magic

Young visitors Jacob and Grace get close up to one of the popular attractions and its handler New animal attractions are pulling in the crowds

Three calves, Maud, Hilda and Stan are among the latest crowd pullers at the new look Pets’ Corner in Sherdley Park. The popular animal centre is home to a wide variety of species including kuney kuney pigs, ponies, lambs, wallabys, peacocks and a host of furry friends with the wow factor for younger visitors. The calves have been donated by James Heyes and Sons, local farmers at Mossborough Hall Farm Rainford. With recent diffi culties experienced nationally by farmers they have now also diversifi ed into a green waste business. They currently take 50% of the Council’s green waste. They also house caravans for people as part of their new look business. St. Helens Chamber is project managing the work – pictured are Steve Anders; Craig Houlihan; James Fisher; Chris Pagendam and Supervisor/Dave Anders with The Pets’ Corner play area has also been Council Leader Brian Spencer (centre) and Deputy Leader Suzanne Knight refurbished and there’s more to come.

22 www.sthelens.gov.uk News

Unique museum welcomes 6,000th visitor The North West Museum of Road Transport has welcomed its 6,000th visitor.

The museum, in Parade Street, houses refurbishment in September 2006, their community service badges a unique and extensive assortment of the museum has attracted fans of by washing vintage buses! historic vehicles – representing 10% vintage transport and heritage from Aiming to increase the number of the national stock of preserved across the North West and UK, as of visitors even further, the museum buses and coaches. well as from as far away as Australia, has announced a programme of Two new attractions due in are a all over Europe, and America. events for the rest of the year 1965 Guy Arab bus from Chester, The attraction is also popular ahead, including: which is a rich cream and maroon with families and groups of visitors 7 Nocturnal Running Night – colour, and a restored 1943 Austin looking for an entertaining day Sunday 18th November K-Type, used as a canteen for the out. Schools have taken trips to the 7 Santa Special Weekend – Saturday fi re service during the war and museum, as well as rotary clubs and 22nd to Sunday 23rd December. affectionately called ‘Katie’ by Brownie and Beaver groups. Many the museum volunteers. of the Brownies and Beavers return For further details contact Since it reopened after a major to volunteer at the museum, earning 01744 621515.

The IT dream team Car friendly Code of conduct The Council adopted an amended Code Technology gurus at St. Helens St. Helens of Conduct on 5th September. The new Council have scooped a UK fi rst. St. Helens has been ranked requirements were devised by the Government The Council has become the fi rst as the best in the North to clarify a number of issues in the existing local authority in the country West for car-friendliness, code, which was introduced in April 2002 as to achieve an international and number 14 in the UK, part of the new ethical framework. The Code information technology based on independent covers areas of individual behaviour such standard ISO/IEC20000. research looking at the UK’s as councillors not abusing their position, or For the past few years a major towns and cities. misusing the Council’s resources. There are dedicated team of over 60 IT staff Virgin Money Car also rules governing disclosure of interests and have been working towards the Insurance used a range of withdrawal from meetings where councillors IT Service Management Standard criteria, including congestion have a relevant interest. and were so confi dent of levels, petrol prices, the Nick Rushbrooke, the independent achieving the accreditation that abundance and cost of car chairman of the Council’s Standards they invited auditors from Lloyds parking spaces, the number Committee welcomed the new Code saying: to spend a total of six days of speed cameras on main “Confi dence in local democracy can only studying the way the team deliver approach roads, and levels be maintained when elected and co-opted services to 8,000 Council staff. of car crime. Points were members of local authorities are seen to live Following the success then awarded and an up to the high standards that the public has a organisations and councils overall ranking produced right to expect of them. The new Code seeks from across the country for the 64 top cities and to simplify and clarify the rules governing have been knocking on the towns in the country. conduct for the benefi t of councillors and Council’s door to share its public alike.” best practice principles.

www.sthelens.gov.uk 23 Recycle for St. Helens Cool new recycling

24 www.sthelens.gov.uk Recycle for St. Helens campaign REE inside this edition Borough. St. Helens has one sent out this month to 53,000 of St. Helens First is a of the top recycling rates on homes who need their calendar fridge magnet containing Merseyside and is keen to boost updating (the remainder of homes useful information on them by launching a marketing were done last year and are Fwhat and how to recycle. and advertising campaign. still up to date). Contact 01774 It’s part of a massive Watch out for adverts in the 456789 if you don’t have one. campaign by the Council to St. Helens Star, on WISH FM Also on offer are compost boost recycling rates across the radio, billboards and on the bins at a reduced rate of £8, sidess of bin wagons. £10 and £20, great for getting The Council is also about rid of your autumn leaves. to launch a pilot kerbside Delivery is free and you plasticp bottle recycling trial can order your acrossa 5,400 homes in parts bin online ofo Windle, Eccleston and at www. Rainhill.R If successful the recyclenow. schemesc will be rolled out com/compost acrossac the Borough. or call 0845 077 New calendars detailing 0757 quoting collectionco dates have been reference HCA1.

Look out for your free fridge magnet inside this edition of St. Helens First www.sthelens.gov.uk 25 News

Truancy troubleshooter is cracking down on absenteeism

Meet Alan Cogswell the man charged with improving school attendance across St. Helens as it tackles a problem shared by schools nationally.

bsence from regularly. Education Welfare school can talk through agreed visits were arranged. school is for many Service support to families the issue with the Head Both parents took an active different reasons offers parenting contracts to Teacher in their primary part in the boy’s education in a society with agree what parents, schools or the pastoral staff in and his attendance returned Amore complex family issues and the service will do to a high school. Sometimes to normal. than ever before. help improve attendance. the cause of absenteeism Alan stresses “Not all Alan has been brought Alan is uncompromising can be a simple issue, cases are easily resolved but in to manage St. Helens about what will happen quickly resolved. between the school and the Education Welfare Service if parents fail to respond Alan cites one case in education welfare offi cer it and is confi dent that early appropriately: “failure which a 13-year-old boy is possible to tackle the issue intervention and support to exercise parental with a faultless record before it gets to court.” to families is the answer. responsibility and ensure suddenly started playing For further help and He believes that regular children’s attendance will truant. It transpired that his advice you can contact attendance improves young result in legal action.” parents had separated and an Education Welfare people’s future life. Parents or carers who he had lost contact with dad. Offi cer on 01744 678242, Over 240,000 days have problems with their Through Education Welfare or email educationwelfare@ were lost in St. Helens children’s absence from interventions, mutually sthelens.gov.uk this academic year due to absence. Two out of every fi ve were unauthorised. The Council wants to see an improvement with young people enjoying and achieving well at school. Since January the parents of 37 pupils have been taken to court for allowing their child to miss school. Education Welfare Offi cers are taking a more robust approach to enforcing attendance and more parents are likely to be prosecuted if there is no improvement. Says Alan “We have a responsibility to young people in making sure that their parents support regular attendance to improve achievement.” By raising awareness of the support available we hope parents will respond positively and ensure that their children attend

26 www.sthelens.gov.uk News Sharing success Cody Bluck’s reading programme in schools and writing has come on and children’s centres, in leaps and bounds since encourages families to her family took a big learn and have fun together. interest in her education. Vicky, who lives in Parr, So great was the works alongside Cody in contribution from mum the classroom one day each Vicky, dad Andrew and week and then, with the rest brothers Adam and Billy of the family, gets involved that the Bluck family with literacy and numeracy won a national award themed activities with her for their achievements at home. These include in a family learning making collages, cooking programme. They were and games. awarded the SHARE Sue Greaves, the Family of the Year award Council’s SHARE tutor and Cody’s teacher Pauline said: “The Bluck family Jones, from Holy Spirit found that learning with Primary School, won the Cody through SHARE was SHARE Tutor award. fun and they learned a lot SHARE, which is about school life.” provided through the To fi nd out more about Council’s Adult and Family Learning call Community Learning 01744 677314.

Flying Hotpots sing the fl ag it for Shopmobility St. Helens is now fl ying the fl ag in seven of its parks after winning Chalon Way was brought seven national Green to a standstill when local Flag awards which singing/comedy folk recognise and reward band The Lancashire the best green spaces Hotpots paid a visit to in the country. Shopmobility St. Helens. Green Flags at Bankes The popular songsters Park at Billinge, Clinkham have dedicated a tune Wood Local Nature Reserve, off their new CD to Siding Lane Local Nature the scheme based at Reserve at Rainford and Chalon Way multi Mesnes Park at Newton storey car park before have been retained and popping around the a further three have corner to play to a been gained at Taylor sell out audience at Park, The Duckeries at the Citadel. Parr and Downall Croft The group also have Doorstep Green at a new DVD out now. North Ashton.

www.sthelens.gov.uk 27 7 what’s on guide www.sthelens.gov.uk

Oct 2007 – Jan 2008

If you’re organising or taking post them to Marketing Services, part in an event then let us know Wesley House, Corporation Street, about it. Please email details to St. Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1HF [email protected] or or call 01744 671746.

HIGHLIGHTS 2.15pm – 2.45pm SPARK IN THE PARK SANKEY VALLEY the Rangers contact Toni Ramsey/Irene 4th Nov – Sherdley Park – COUNTRY PARK 6th Jan During Oct 2007 “Jungle Haddock 01744 677842 01744 671746 01744 677772 10am – 3pm Party Story Times” for Haydock Library: Spark in the Park is St. Fungal Foray: Seek out the Feed The Birds: How and preschool children will Mon 15th Oct Helens annual Firework’s many different species of what to feed birds during be held at the following 9.30am – 10.00am Display that lights up fungi that can be found in the cold, winter months libraries to celebrate contact Phil Cooper the sky! Attracting more the Park 13th Jan National Bookstart Week: 01744 677801 than 20,000 people in 14th Oct 1.00pm – 3.00pm Newton-Le-Willows Library: 2006 this is an event 10.00am Rainhill Library: Thu 18th Oct not to be missed! Bird Walk: Join the Rangers MESNES PARK Tues 9th Oct 01925 229021 2.15pm – 3.00pm and spot up to 45 different 2.30pm – 3.00pm Fungal Foray: contact Anne Moville / species of bird contact Nora Duckett CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Seek out Peter Sargeant 4th Nov 01744 677822 SWITCH ON the many different 01744 677885 9.00am Billinge Library: 17th Nov – Victoria species of fungi that Photography Event: Wed 10th Oct Square – 01744 671746 can be found in the Park HALLOWEEN Aimed at the amateur, 10.00am – 11.00am The perfect way to 21st Oct FRIGHT NIGHT concentrating on digital contact Janet Smith spread some Christmas 10.30am 30th Oct photography 01744 677535 cheer! Join in with the Guided Walk: Sherdley Park – 18th Nov Peter Street Library Express: fun and entertainment Join the Ranger Service 01744 815586 10.30am Thu 11th Oct as special guests light for this autumn ramble Fright night – a guided Feed The Birds: How and 9.45am – 10.15am up the town for the 28th Oct walk through the haunted what to feed birds during contact Steven Liptrot festive period. 10.30am – 4.00pm Victorian gardens – First the cold, winter months 01744 677896 Conservation Work walk will start 5.45pm. RANGER SERVICE 16th Dec Rainford Library: (tree planting): Disco, competitions for 10.30am – 12.30pm Thu 11th Oct Join the rangers in best lantern and fancy dress Some of the Ranger Bird Walk: Join the Rangers 2.15pm – 2.45pm ‘National Tree Planting for under and over 14’s. Service events have and spot up to 45 different contact Jayne Mills Week’. Old clothing and Booking for the walks limited availability, species of bird 01744 677820 safety footwear is essential. is essential please call please call for more 13th Jan Thatto Heath Library: 11th Nov 01744 815586 to reserve details and to book 9.00am Fri 12th Oct your place. your place. 1.00pm Feed The Birds: How and TAYLOR PARK what to feed birds during 01744 678073 the cold, winter months Exotic Pets: A display of 18th Nov exotic creatures from 1.00pm – 2.00pm around the world Christmas Carols: 14th Oct Join Friends of Mesnes 1.00pm – 4.00pm Park and get into the Autumn Art: Try your festive spirit hand at designing your 13th Dec own picture using autumn 7.00pm – 8.00pm foliage from the park Countryside Ramble: 4th Nov A packed lunch, plenty 1.00pm of fluids and suitable Feed The Birds: attire essential How and what to feed 27th Dec birds during the cold, 11.00am – 3.00pm winter months Christmas Tree Recycling: Don’t ‘tip it’ – ‘chip it’ – 11th Nov Naylors Wood Car Park 1.00pm – 3.00pm 6th Jan Christmas Tree Recycling: 10am – 3.30pm Please leave your tree in the areas marked by 28 www.sthelens.gov.uk Highlights Ranger service Libraries Leisure Walking Sports Arts Heritage Other

SHERDLEY PARK CHESTER LANE 01744 815586 CENTRE AND Halloween Fright Night: LIBRARY Booking essential, please 01744 677081 call to reserve your place Storytime 30th Oct 5.30pm Every Monday Christmas Tree Recycling: 2.30pm – 3.00pm Please leave your tree Tots ‘R’ Us in the areas marked Every Wednesday by the Rangers and Friday 6th Jan 9.30am – 11.30am 10am – 3pm Rhyme Time Fireman Sam MOSS BANK 6.00pm – 7.00pm Every Wednesday 24th Oct LIBRARY Family History Drop-in SIDING LANE and Friday 10.00am – 4.00pm 01744 677988 15th Oct, 19th Nov, 01744 815586 11.20am Reading Group – Thursday Mums and Tots 17th Dec, 21st Jan Toy Library 25th Oct, 29th Nov Every Monday 2.15pm – 4.00pm BANKES PARK Every Thursday 2.00pm – 3.15pm 10.00am – 11.30am Bookstart Bear – Storytime 01744 815586 10.00am – 11.00am Police Surgery – Friday 18th Oct Clinkham Wood BILLINGE LIBRARY 19th Oct, 16th Nov 2.15pm – 3.15pm 01744 815586 RAINHILL LIBRARY 01744 677535 4.30pm – 6.30pm 01744 677822 Reading Group – Tuesday Credit Union PARR LIBRARY VICTORIA PARK Nursery Time – 9th Oct, 13th Nov Every Tuesday 01744 677580 01744 815586 Tuesday 6th Nov 7.00pm – 8.00pm 5.30pm – 7.00pm Wriggle and Rhyme 2.30pm – 3.00pm Bookstart Bear – Positive Directions – Every Tuesday A Celebration of Gay Writing Storytime ASHTON GREEN Tuesday 2nd Oct, 6th Nov 1.15pm – 2.15pm with readings and quizzes 10th Oct OPEN SPACE 10.00am – 12noon Storytime 01744 815586 7th Nov 10.00am – 11.00am Every Friday 2.30pm NEWTON-LE- WILLOW PARK GARSWOOD 1.15pm – 2.30pm WILLOWS LIBRARY Toy Library 01744 815586 ECCLESTON LIBRARY 01744 677885 Every Thursday LIBRARY 01744 677797 Afternoon Tea - Monday 10.00am – 12noon HARESFINCH PARK 01744 677575 Storytime 5th Nov, 3rd Dec, 7th Jan 01744 815586 Wriggle and Rhyme – Every Monday 2.15pm – 3.30pm Monday 5th Nov 1.30pm – 2.30pm Pre-School Storytime PETER STREET DOWNALL 2.00pm – 2.30pm Storytime Every Thursday LIBRARY EXPRESS CROFT GREEN Storytime Every Saturday 2.15pm – 3.00pm 01744 677896 01744 815586 Every Monday 10.30am – 11.30am Reading Group – Peek a Book for the under 5’s Conservation Work 2.00pm – 2.30pm Bookstart Bear – Wednesday 7th Nov Every Thursday (tree planting): Reading Group – Storytime 7.30pm – 9.00pm 9.45am – 11.15am Old clothes and safety Thursday 1st Nov 10th Oct Police Surgery – Thursday footwear is essential 7.00pm – 8.30pm 2.15pm – 3.15pm 4th Oct, 1st Nov THATTO HEATH 25th Nov LIBRARY 1.30pm – 3.00pm 01744 677842 Storytime LIBRARIES Every Tuesday CENTRAL LIBRARY 3.45pm – 4.30pm 01744 456954 Councillor’s Surgery Tot’s Time Every Friday Every Monday 6.00pm – 7.00pm 1.30pm – 2.30pm Reading Group HAYDOCK LIBRARY Wednesday 01744 677801 24th Oct, 21st Nov Bookstart Bear – Storytime 10.30am – 12.30pm 15th Oct 9.30am – 10.30am RAINFORD LIBRARY Bookstart Bear – Storytime 01744 677820 15th Oct Storytime 10.45am –11.45am Every Saturday Storytime – Mondays 10.00am – 10.30am 10.00am –10.30am

www.sthelens.gov.uk 29 7 what’s on guide ...continued

Card making and Crafts WALKING SPORTS Oct – April 15th Dec Wednesdays 2.00pm Start Home 2.00pm – 4.00pm GET YOURSELF HAYDOCK Macclesfield Starting Point Jobclub LIVELY . . . PARK RACES POWERBOAT 22 Dec Thursdays WALKING! 01942 725963 RACING @ CARR Home 4.00pm – 6.00pm 01744 697433 www.haydock-park.co.uk MILL DAM Hull Ionians Reading Group – Get Yourself Lively Walks First race 01744 25494 26th Jan please contact library A series of short-guided North West Masters www.lprc.info Away for dates 2.00pm – 4.00pm walks in parks and open 24th Nov 12.40pm Duckhams Trophy spaces around the Borough Tommy Whittle Chase 27th Oct ST. LEISURE aimed at promoting a 22nd Dec 12.25pm Boxing Day Trophy HELENS RFC SUTTON healthier lifestyle. These The Last Fling Chase 26th Dec 01744 25708 LEISURE CENTRE weekly walks offer a variety 30th Dec12.30pm www.liverpoolsthe 01744 677375 of difficulty levels to suit WEST PARK lensrugby.co.uk Sports Leaders Level 2 everyone and distances ST. HELENS RLFC RUGBY CLUB Morpeth* Award Course – Enrolment range between 1 and 4 0870 7505252 01744 26138 13th Oct details John Tattum miles long. They are open to www.saintsrlfc.com www.westparksthelens.co.uk Away 01744 455448 anyone and new members Harrogate Kendal 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 Oct are always welcome. SHORT MATT 3rd Nov 20th Oct Computer Fair 21st Oct BOWLING CLUB Home Away Dog Show 27th Oct For a full programme of the St. David’s Church Caldy Birkenhead Computer Fair 4th Nov above walks and further Clinkham Wood 10th Nov 27th Oct Judo 11th Nov details contact Neil on Short Mat Bowling – Away Park Home Merseyside Gun Dog Show 01744 697433. Every Monday – £1 Per Adult Leicester Lions Huddersfield 17th Nov 3rd Nov Dog Show 18th Nov Away Judo 2nd Dec Penrith Computer Fair 9th Dec 10th Nov Computer Fair 23rd Dec Home EDF National Trophy RUSKIN LEISURE 17th Nov CENTRE Hull 01744 28866 24th Nov Junior Tennis Away 12th, 19th, 26th Oct 1st Dec 5.00pm - 6.30pm Cleckheaton Junior Tennis Coaching Home 12th, 19th, 26th Oct EDF National Trophy 6.30pm – 7.30pm 8th Dec

30 www.sthelens.gov.uk What’s on Highlights Ranger service Libraries Leisure Walking Sports Arts Heritage Other

ST. HELENS AMATEUR of print. Please log onto the OPERATIC SOCIETY website for updates of the 01744 297770 2007 programme. Annie – St Helens Theatre Royal THEATRE ROYAL 10th – 13th Oct 01744 756000 Penrith Oct for more information Concert with Leyland 7.30pm www.sthelenstheatreroyal. 15th Dec please call 01744 23956 Brass Band: Fundraiser co.uk Away for local charities, Flashback – The Ultimate ARTS ST. HELENS GILBERT Huddersfield Southport Theatre & SULLIVAN SOCIETY Rock, Pop & Soul Show! 5th Jan HAYDOCK MALE 16th Nov 01744 612485 5th Oct Home VOICE CHOIR Christmas Carol Concert: 7.30pm EDF National Trophy 0151 430 6744 The Parish Church, No details available at Vampires Rock 12th Jan www.haydockmvc.com St. Helens time of print. Please call 20th Oct Birkenhead Park Celebrity Concert: featuring 8th Dec for updates of the 2007 7.30pm 19th Jan Mr George Galway, Parish Christmas Carol Concert: programme. Swing ‘N’ Sinatra Away Church, St. Helens Haydock Conservative 25th Oct Kendal 20th Oct Club ST. HELENS 7.30pm 26th Jan Concert: Bethel Baptist 18th Dec ORGAN SOCIETY Essence of Ireland Home Church, Loushers Lane, 01744 22463 26th Oct Latchford, Warrington NADOS www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/ 7.30pm YMCA ST HELENS 27th Oct Newton Amateur Dramatics st.helens.html The Nutcracker St. Helens YMCA Sports Concert: NSPCC Fund Raiser, and Opera Society Clare Greig – West Park 28th Oct & Fitness is hosting an Padgate Community Centre, 01942 724842 Rugby Club, Prescot Road, 5.00pm International Junior Squash Warrington St. Helens The Drifters Event from the 26th–28th 10th Nov ST. HELENS 9th Oct 10th Nov CAMERA CLUB Mike Hall – West Park 7.30pm Oct 8th Nat History comp Rugby Club, Prescot Road, Dreaming of a White 15th Record comp St. Helens Christmas 22nd Changing perspectives 13th Nov 21st Nov 29th L&CPU Print folio Andrew Nix – West Park 1.30pm and 7.30pm Nov 5th People and places Rugby Club, Prescot Road, The Duke of Edinburgh’s 12th Tale of two half’s St. Helens (Ticket Only) Bronze Awards Evening 19th Open competition 11th Dec 22nd and 23rd Nov 26th Lecture 7.30pm Dec 3rd The way we were ST. HELENS A Christmas Carol – 10th Open competition CHORAL SOCIETY Charles Dickens 26th Nov 17th L&CPU Slide folio II 01744 604332 1.30pm Jan 7th Not all that jazz Haydn: ‘Nelsons Mass’ / The Duke of Edinburgh’s 14th Photoshop Vivaldi: ‘Gloria’ – Over 60 Gold & Silver Presentation 21st Portrait comp Voices, St. Helens Parish 25th Jan 28th L&CPU Mono folio Church (New Date) 7.30pm 3rd Nov 7.30pm ST. HELENS Christmas Concert – SINFONIETTA St. Helens Parish Church THE CITADEL 01744 600846 15th Dec 01744 735436 www.sinfonietta.org.uk 7.30pm www.citadel.org.uk Harmoniemusik – Overload Music for Wind Instruments ST. HELENS YOUTH (under 18s punk/nu rock) – United Reformed Church BRASS BAND 12th Oct 7.30pm 17th Nov 01744 755257 Brass Monkey (folk) 7.30pm Carol Concert – featuring VALLEY BRASS 17th Oct 7.30pm the New Cross Singers – 07940 509441 Wishbone Ash (rock) United Reformed Church www.valleybrass.co.uk 1st Nov 22nd Dec No details available at time 7.30pm 7.30pm

www.sthelens.gov.uk 31 What’s on Highlights Ranger service Libraries Leisure Walking Sports Arts Heritage Other

Rubberneck (indie/ 24th Nov Meetings at St. Helens for older people 50+ alternative) (Ends 3.00pm) College at 7.30pm unless Please call for more details. ST. HELENS 3rd Nov Preview evening otherwise stated COUNCIL MEETINGS 8pm 8th Nov Development of the CRAIC 01744 456110 Overload (under 7.00pm – 9.00pm International Slavery Cherish.Revive.Access.Irish. 18s punk/nu rock) Paul Cousins Museum – Culture 9th Nov 30th Nov Richard Benjamin To celebrate our Irish 7.30pm 15th Dec 15th Oct Heritage, join us to The Clone Roses + Preview evening The Act of Union: 1603 – share stories of Irish origins, DJ Clint boon (tribute) 29th Nov Dr Anne Mclaren folklore and memories at 10th Nov 7.00pm - 9.00pm 19th Nov one of our sessions at St. 8pm Co- operative Learning Pre Christmas Gathering @ Patrick’s Church House, The Lancashire Hotpots Art Project The Friends Meeting House Loughrigg Avenue, (comedy folk) 20th – 22nd Dec 10th Dec Carr Mill. Council 1st Dec 3rd – 4th Jan 2008 6.30pm for 7.00pm Contact Margaret 7th Nov, 16th Jan 8pm Preview evening Footprints at Formby or Anne for details Executive Cinderella 19th Dec 2007 (Fank Pope Memorial on 01744 29482 or 605435 10th Oct, 21st Nov, (community panto) 5.30pm – 7.30pm Lecture) – Dr Anne Worsley [email protected] 12th Dec, 9th Jan 5-15th Dec 21st Jan THE WORLD St. Helens writers’ circle – RAINHILL CIVIC Licensing and every Friday OF GLASS BILLINGE HISTORY Environmental 08700 114466 SOCIETY Protection Committee 1.30pm to 3.00pm SOCIETY St. Ann Millennium Centre, www.worldofglass.com www.billinge-history.com View Road, Rainhill Art From The Village – 17th Oct, 14th Nov, MONTHLY NIGHTS Local History Presentations A talk on Rennie Exhibition of Paintings from 5th Dec Please call or visit our First Tuesday of each month Mackintosh by Pat Marsden Willow Art Group website for more details. 7.30pm 6th Nov Planning Committee 18th Sep – 18th Nov Overload – A music night 7.30pm 9th Oct, 6th Nov, 11th Offering From The Nile Dec, 22nd Jan with a mixture of punk, THE NORTH WEST Neil Bonner will talk about – Exhibition of Ancient grunge, nu metal and rock, MUSEUM OF ROAD the Victorian Baths in Egyptian objects Standards Committee this is an under 18’s night TRANSPORT Manchester 27th Nov – 3rd Feb 3rd Dec with a dry bar and www.hallstreetdepot.info 24th Jan live bands. CRAFTS 01744 621518 7.30pm Adult Social Care Words Alive – Open Mic Santa Special Weekend and Health night for poets, writers CREATIVE CRAFTS 15th/16th and TRAINING AND 19th Nov, 14th Jan and musicians with an ASSOCIATION 22nd/23rd Dec opportunity for anyone COURSES Children and Young 01744 750606 Free courses beginning to perform. OTHER People’s Services www.creativecrafts- 14th Jan 2008 – Various 12th Nov, 21st Jan Rubberneck – Going from online.co.uk community based venues strength to strength AGE CONCERN – Craft and Gift Fair – MANSION HOUSE, including: Computer courses Budget and Finance Rubberneck is The Citadel’s 1st Nov, 13th Dec, Haydock Park Racecourse Family First Aid monthly indie/alternative ST. HELENS 10th Jan, 31st Jan 17th and 18th Nov 01744 752644 Learning Through Play night. 10.00am – 4.30pm Age concern run courses Parent Time Call In and Audit Panel ST. HELENS FILM HERITAGE from Mansion House And more… 19th Dec SOCIETY including: Enquiries to Adult and IT classes for older people Community Learning Audit and Governance 01744 817130 ST. HELENS 50+ Arts and Crafts 01744 677312 or your 9th Jan www.bffsn.org.uk HISTORICAL for older people 50+ local Community or St. Helens film society: SOCIETY 01744 23141 Exercise and Dance Children’s Centre. ‘tales of hoffman’ @ Some the citadel 9th Oct information 2.00pm contained St. Helens film society: within this guide ‘mutiny on the bounty’ was collected @ the citadel 13th Nov from sources 2.00pm outside St. Helens Council GODFREY PILKINGTON and therefore ART GALLERY St. Helens 01744 455492 Council accepts Thursday Art Group no responsibility 13th Oct – 27th Oct (Ends 1.00pm) or liability for the accuracy of Multi Activity Point Project the information, (MAPP) – Photographic or content of Project and Competition 30th Oct any outside 3rd Nov organisations Sefton Guild websites. 9th Nov

32 www.sthelens.gov.uk teen 7 ENERGY BUSTING SUCCESS

7 DRAGON BOAT CHALLENGE

7 GET IN THE SWIM al 7 PUPILS IN LINE FOR t k DIANA AWARD

News PAGE 2 Saints star Paul Wellens joined around 150 pupils from seven high schools when they took part in a Shadowing the Carnegie Day News PAGE 2 Helena Housing has funded a pioneering project to deliver free computer and internet access to 250 homes

TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK1 TEEN TALK Teen talk is a magazine aimed at young people. It’s a magazine for you and about you. So if you would like to submit an article contact your teacher or ring St. Helens First on 01744 456166/5.

St. Helens joins the digital challenge

Helena Housing has funded Each have received a computer, Mums, dads, parents and grandparents a pioneering project to deliver keyboard, mouse and monitor – as all have their own user name free computer and internet well as free internet and email access and log in details. access to 250 homes in an area for a year, and use of Microsoft of St. Helens which has a low Offi ce. Helena Housing has provided number of household computers. £60,000 to fund the project. The innovative project is a Access is delivered via a ‘community partnership between Helena Housing, grid portal’ – which local residents which owns and manages St. Helens have helped design. All hardware is 14,500 former council homes, provided free of charge and it’s their’s Liverpool University’s AIMES to keep after the one-year pilot runs centre and St. Helens Chamber. out. After that there will be a small St. Cuthbert’s Catholic Community charge for internet use. College for Business and Enterprise Although the project is being in Parr has provided a list of 250 delivered through St. Cuthbert’s pupils who have no computer or School, Helena hopes all the internet access at home. family will get involved. Saints’ star turns Students Latvia over a new chapter

welcome Saints star Paul Wellens joined around 150 pupils from seven high schools when they took part in a Sutton High Sports College welcomed pupils Shadowing the Carnegie Day at Cowley Language and teachers from Latvia as part of an exercise College which celebrated reading. to share good practice. This is an annual national event which involves Sutton High Sports College has been reading groups reading six books shortlisted by playing host to 17 students and three librarians and then choosing their favourite. teachers from Latvia. Sutton High was partnered with Dobelle State Gymnasium School as part of a nation- wide sports college initiative. It was set up by the Youth Sport Trust to partner schools in economically sound and less economically sound countries to enable them to share good practice and improve teaching practices. The visitors spent six days with their hosts during which time they observed lessons, took part in demonstrations about student sport leadership and worked alongside Sutton pupils. They also enjoyed tours of St. Helens and Liverpool and an evening of light entertainment which included a quiz and sports.

TEEN TALK2 TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK T 6th formers go global Seven 6th formers from Paul Lynch, Peter Schenck, Rainhill Media Arts Adele Cuthell, Rebecca Smith, College took up the Paul Rosson, Gemma Norris and World Challenge when Mark Briordy spent two years they travelled to Sri Lanka raising the £2,200 they each to help refurbish a school needed to fund the trip. They that was decimated in the teamed up with fi ve pupils from 2004 tsunami. a school to spend Many schools in this three weeks in Sri Lanka – two part of the world had at the school where their tasks extremely basic facilities included painting, tidying up before the earthquake and building fences – and one which created the enjoying some well deserved Indian Ocean tsunami. rest and relaxation. They were This, coupled with the joined by Design Technology devastation, means there is teacher Rebecca Winter. plenty of scope for World The trip was organised Challenge teams to make a through World Challenge, a big difference to schools. schools’ expedition company.

Energy buster cuts costs Lock it or Lose it ‘Lock it or lose it’ is the message When a major high school in without anybody using them from Merseyside Police and the St. Helens needed to save on due to the format of lessons. Council in the ongoing campaign its fuel budget and be carbon Working in partnership with to combat bike theft. effi cient at the same time they the College’s IT department An eye-catching campaign to called in St. Helens Council’s and other facilities around the protect against bike theft has been energy buster Steve Lang. country, Steve discovered the shown on cinema screens and buses The demand for electricity solution was in front of them. across St. Helens. had grown to such a point If all schools got involved To try to avoid becoming victims at Cowley Language College then Steve estimates a saving of of theft youngsters are advised (£64,000 a year) that it faced around £150,000. So, if your to ride with friends wherever the prospect of having to spend school would like any support possible, avoid taking short cuts up to £20,000 in order to from the team please call Steve and stay away from dark streets upgrade the electricity network. Lang on 01744 671782. and alleyways. That’s when the They should buy a good bike lock Council’s Energy which can loop through the wheels, Manager, Steve frame or seats and get bikes security Lang and the marked so they can be traced if Building Services stolen. You can record and register Department got your bike on www.immobilise.com. involved. Bikes should not be left unlocked Investigations or unattended and kept in a locked proved there garage or shed. was a constant Crime reduction advice can be electrical load obtained by calling 0151 777 6047 both overnight or 0151 777 6883. and at weekends. If you think you are being offered Cowley has 600 a stolen bike, ring Merseyside computers Police on 0151 709 6010 or and the team Crimestoppers, anonymously, on found that many 0800 555 111. were switched on

TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK TEEN TALK3 TEEN TA Meet the Magnificent Seven Seven pupils from complete charge of the St. Aelred’s Catholic interactive dolls, created Technology College in an IT system that closely Newton-le-Willows were monitors the pupils’ nominated for the Diana performance and given Award for their outstanding them the opportunity to contributions to their become better parents community. later in life. They are15-year-old Karis Brown, 12, Stephanie Marsh who is an has overcome personal outstanding sportswoman health problems to playing in the become an outstanding under-17 squad and for achiever in sport and Everton Ladies. However, ballroom dancing and has Stephanie has also been a supported other pupils support this valuable raised over £1,000 after supportive and constructive with disabilities in helping aspect of college life. taking part in a sponsored friend to others who do them to come to terms 12-year-old Elliott parachute jump for not share her physical gifts with and face their Johnson has befriended Willowbrook Hospice and ensured that they have own diffi culties. and worked with a fellow after making a visit been able to play a fully 17-year-old Samuel pupil recently arrived there and being deeply participating role in the life Grindley has worked from the Asian sub impressed by the work of the college community to improve the college continent, helping him being done. Hannah Ledsom, 16, environment and keep with English, learning The seven pupils have has overcome personal it free from litter. He something of the friend’s been nominated for their disabilities to become has worked to maintain native language and making Awards because of their an outstanding Child and develop the College sure he feels at home. inspirational qualities Development Skills Memorial Garden and Sixth formers, Melanie that are demonstrated Coordinator in her Year has recruited a team of Broughton and Vanessa through their commitment Eleven class. She has taken enthusiastic pupils to Lybert, both 18, have and enthusiasm.

Get in the swim Keen student swimmers scheme as part of the Dragon boat may be interested to appointment process. know that St. Helens The scheme provides racing down under Council has become swim teachers with the fi rst Local Authority a professional status, As Teen Talk went to press, six young people from in the UK to complete gives customers St. Helens were preparing to represent Great Britain a national, professional confi dence about the in the World Dragon Boat Racing Championship in qualifi cation for professional standing Sydney, Australia. swim teachers. of the teachers and the They are part of a 32 strong national squad The National Amateur Council confi dence in the going for gold. The six under 18-year-olds, who Swimming Association quality of teachers being secured funding from the Council’s Strategic Grants Teacher/Coach Licensing employed. Programme and the Youth Opportunities Fund, were Scheme is part of the For more information fully supported by the St. Helens Duke of Edinburgh Government’s plans to please contact Louise Award through the Council’s Youth Service. They are enhance the status and Stephenson, Swimming Josh Edwards, Gemma Griffi ths, Chloe Griffi ths, Sam quality of teachers and and Activities Coordinator Richardson, Glenn Simpson and James McRoberts coaches across all sports. at Parr Swimming Pool, who were supported by 19-year-old mentors Matt The long-term aim is 01744 677465, or email Richardson and Rebecca Griffi ths. to encourage employers louisestephenson@ to use the licensing sthelens.gov.uk

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