TARLETON AND HESKETH BANK
NEWS ARCHIVE - 2012

Reported by: Hubmaker Media

PACT hoping to have an impact Police and Communities Together (PACT) will hold their next open meeting in the coffee shop at Booths Supermarket, Hesketh Bank, on Thursday 3rd May between 1pm and 2pm.

Following a restructure in 2011, the PACT meetings moved from Tarleton to Hesketh Bank Village Centre in the evenings, but public attendance has been poor. In response to that ECSO (Emergency Community Support Officer) Andy Curry reported that Booths had agreed to host the next meeting during the day to try to encourage the local residents to participate.

“The Public Participation meetings are designed to give an open forum for any local resident to have their say, raise concerns and find out first-hand what is happening with policing in the village,” said PC Mark Woolston, who will be at the meeting.

He continued, “We are hoping that moving it to an afternoon and Booths we will be more visible and therefore have more of an impact.”

For more information please contact ECSO Andy Curry on 07912 051955 or Andy.Curry@lancashire.pnn.police.uk

Harry Bentham, the well-known and much loved conductor of the Hesketh Bank Silver Band, has died suddenly at the age of 89. Mr. Bentham suffered a suspected heart attack recently at his home in Eccleston, near Chorley.

A talented and gifted musician, Harry was associated with North West Brass Bands for over 80 years. He began playing with Coppull Band at only 8 years old, and by the age of 14 he was Principal Cornet. In his heyday he played at the top level with various bands, winning the coveted Grand Shield, broadcasting regularly on the B.B.C. and played under the baton of the late Harry Mortimer.

Harry’s conducting career began in 1951, winning many prizes with bands at all levels and was a much-loved teacher and mentor to countless young players, some becoming well-respected professional musicians. Harry took over the baton at Hesketh Bank in 1980 and became a firm favourite with audiences far and wide, presenting a wide selection of music at the band’s concerts.

One of the finest moments in Harry’s career came in 1985 when he conducted Hesketh Bank as they won the 4th Section National Brass Band Finals at London’s Royal Albert Hall. Harry told friends only recently that he had enjoyed the time he spent at Hesketh Bank over the years and he felt that they were like a family to him.

This sad event has left the band looking for a new Musical Director for it’s full program of concerts, walking days and private functions. They are seeking someone with enthusiasm and a dedication to build upon the band’s playing foundation.

The band would also welcome new players of any age and standard and can provide instruments and tuition. Rehearsals are held on Thursdays from 8-10pm at the Bandroom on the Village Hall site at Station Road Hesketh Bank.

All applicants are welcome – please contact Band Secretary Christine Robinson on 01772 812084 or Chairman Peter Watkinson on 01772 812748. You can visit the Band’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/heskethbanksilverband or their website www.heskethbanksilverband.co.uk

Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Join parishioners from Holy Trinity, Tarleton in a gentle six mile sponsored stroll on this year's unique Trinity Bank Holiday Monday (Monday 4th June).

Holy Trinity, Tarleton, church building will be 125 years old next year, 2013. Among the many events that will be taking place to celebrate this important date will be a Flower Festival, and events are already underway to raise the initial funding for this.

Ian Wells, Reader at Holy Trinity said: “When I saw that the late May Bank Holiday had been moved to Trinity Monday (to tie in with the Queen's Jubilee) I thought we must use this one-off opportunity to do a Trinity related event.”

For many years, Ian used to organise walks on Bank Holiday Mondays and couldn't resist doing one on an unrepeatable Bank Holiday. “This will be two 3 mile gentle strolls, making a figure-eight six mile route and involving both village pubs” Ian said.

“We meet from 10.00am for coffee at The Village Inn (park at Mark Square) to leave from 10.30am. We walk through the village then back up the river and canal to get back to the centre of Tarleton for lunch at The Cock & Bottle before heading to Sollom and back along the canal.

The final part of the walk will be symbolically from the Old Church (St Mary, Windgate) back to Holy Trinity.” Ian added: “Then there's the option of a drink at either of the pubs!”

To book a lunch or get a sponsor form ring Ian on 07767 638996. Closing date for ordering lunch is Sunday 27 May.

Click here for many more local events

Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Cuadrilla Resources today welcomed the publication by the Department of Energy & Climate Change of its scientific experts’ review of the seismic events which occurred in April and May 2011 in the Bowland Basin, Lancashire.

The review team included experts from Keele University and the British Geological Survey and was charged with reviewing a series of expert reports submitted to DECC late last year by Cuadrilla Resources.

The DECC expert review published today concludes that it is safe to resume hydraulic fracturing provided the recommended operating procedures as outlined in their report are followed.

Responding to the experts’ review, Cuadrilla’s Chief Executive Mark Miller said: “We are pleased that the experts have come to a clear conclusion that it is safe to allow us to resume hydraulic fracturing, following the procedures outlined in the review. Many of today’s recommendations were contained in the original expert studies we published in November last year, and our supplementary information sent to DECC in January. We have already started to implement a number of the experts’ recommendations in the pursuit of best practice and look forward to the final decision by DECC ministers concerning the resumption of hydraulic fracturing following the six week period for public comment commencing on 17 April.”

However, the of the report has been met with disdain from environmental activists as it concludes that ‘it would not be possible to state categorically that no further earthquakes will be experienced during a similar treatment in a nearby well’.

Activists feel that though seemingly damming, the report actually focuses the minds of the press and public on minor seismic events and claim that "This could be seen as a PR coup for a company whose extraction method of choice has consistently been linked to groundwater contamination, severe methane leakage, air pollution, climate change and radioactive waste".

"Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) is a process used not just to get gas from shale rock, but also to get at gas trapped in un-minable coal seams (Coal Bed Methane). There is also a third form of unconventional gas extraction threatening the UK, known as Underground Coal Gasification (UCG), where un-minable coal is burnt underground and gas is collected at the surface. All three extraction processes involve elements which are highly destructive. However, what is not being addressed is the what it would mean for all three of these processes to be in full production in the UK."

Elsie Walker, a Frack Off activist, said, ‘This report is a seriously dangerous distraction. People need to understand that the wave of unconventional gas development that is threatening the British Isles will bring with it far greater consequences than a number of small earthquakes’.

She continued, ‘The scale of development proposed is being completely ignored. Cuadrilla want to drill 800 wells in Lancashire alone. They are one company going after one type of gas. There are several companies going after several types of unconventional gas in the UK and all potentially on a similar scale to Cuadrilla. If we allow this to happen, we will witness the total industrialisation of the British countryside and the destruction of the ecosystems we rely on for our survival. We cannot allow this to happen’. 'Even within the narrow context of earthquakes, this report misses all the real issues such as sub-surface damage to wells causing them to leak, the much larger earthquakes seen in the US as a result of wide spread shale gas development and the potential effects on sensitive infrastructure like nuclear power stations and railway lines'.

Have your say on the Letters Page

Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Dunscar Garden Centre has started to keep bees in a bid to encourage customers to plant more bee friendly gardens.  Dunscar started a campaign in 2009 to save the honey bee after learning of the decline of Britain’s honey bee population.  Some scientists estimate that as many as 40 to 50% of bees have disappeared or died since 2007 alone.  The concern is that bees not only produce honey, but pollinate many of the plants and vegetation that we all consume.  Indeed it is said that one in three mouthfuls of what we eat has depended on bees for pollination.  Bees are so important for the pollination of crops that Einstein once calculated mankind could only survive 4 years without bees. 

According to Dunscar’s director, Shaun Lewis, gardeners are in a great position to help local bee populations.  “Bees depend on nectar and pollen produced by plants for food and will fly up to 2 miles to feed.  Since 2009 we have thus been encouraging people to introduce into their gardens a range of plants attractive to bees and capable of feeding them during the key feeding months of the Spring and Summer.  To help, we set up a special grouping of some of these plants on our plantarea and a full list of the more widely available plants is available on our website, www.dunscar.com.”

The family owned garden centre is now taking the next step by keeping bees itself.  Shaun states, “For the past couple of years we have enlisted the help of local beekeeping societies to provide talks and demonstrations on site to our customers on how to create a bee friendly garden and even, for the enthusiastic, on how to keep bees.  They advised that it is a very rewarding hobby and also not too time consuming.  The next logical step was to try it for ourselves with our own hives and share our experience with our customers.  I am very grateful to the Preston Beekeepers for all the training and advice they have given us.”

More information on beekeeping can be found at www.prestonbka.org.uk

Reported by: Hubmaker Media

For the last three years Paul Taylor has raised money for Derian House in memory of Alice Hannah Foster, the daughter of friends, who sadly died aged 12 at Derian House Children's Hospice in Chorley on New Year's Eve 2007.

The 'Challenge Paul' for 2012 was set by Clarke and Pulman of Burscough: to drive a brand new £175,000 Fendt 700 Vario out of the factory in Marktoberdorf, Germany to Derian House Children's Hospice in Chorley, Lancashire; a journey of 1437km which must be completed on a single tank of diesel.

As at 9pm last night, Paul Taylor and the support team, James Bond, John Horricks & Peter Ashcroft were just arriving at the German Factory and preparing for the return journey. Good Luck!

For more more information on the event and the many local sponsors, please see Challenge Paul, Just Giving and Derian House.

Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Local gardeners, growers, bakers and crafters can start to plan which categories they are to compete in as the Hesketh Bank Village Show shedule is now available to download.

The show will be held on Saturday 15th September and will include categories for cut flowers, pot plants, floral art, fruit and vegetables, home produce, baking, preserves and arts and crafts.

For more information, a show schedule and entry forms please visit www.heskethbankvillageshow.co.uk

1st April 2012
Higgs Boson Particle found in Hesketh bank
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

The eyes of the scientific world are focused on Hesketh Bank today after the Higgs Boson Particle was found in the builder's yard at Alty’s.

Eric made the discovery whilst emptying his desk in readiness for the move of the building materials section to the Hoole depot when the so called “God Particle” was found at the back of a drawer.

Eric said “At first I thought it was just an old Malteser but then I realised it was in fact the particle responsible for mass, gravity and the universe.”

By chance, a local amateur particle physicist, Richard Newton-Einstein, happened to be returning from the wood yard when Eric made the discovery.

Richard said “The search area for the elusive particle had recently narrowed to the PR4 area and I did suspect that it would not be long before the particle would be found."  "I had hoped to be the one who found it but it is still very exciting to have been present at the actual discovery.”

Richard suffered a serious setback in his own search for the HB particle when his home made 'small hadron collider' malfunctioned and burnt down the conservatory at his Cherry Vale home in 2010.

Scientists at CERN are presently recreating an exact copy of Eric’s desk in a bid to replicate the experiment under laboratory conditions but a spokesmen confirmed there was actually very little doubt that the discovery was genuine. 

“We believe that Eric has recreated the big bang by accidentally smashing a Proton in the drawer when slamming it shut. This has by chance forced the quarks and gluons Eric had roaming around loose in his drawer to collide and create the only known example of the HB particle”.

“Whilst theorists believe the HB particle might give others mass, we don’t believe the proximity of Alty’s weighbridge is relevant to Eric’s discovery but we will be testing this scenaio with our particle accelerators at CERN and at Fermilab."

The Higgs Boson Particle will be on display in the foyer of Booths until mid-day on the 1st April.

29th March 2012
HGV Driver arrested after Tarleton SMASH
Source: Southport Visiter

A WOMAN was airlifted to hospital after being cut out of her car following a horror smash in Tarleton.

A Renault HGV hit an MG ZR, which led to another car and van being shunted at the Liverpool Road junction on Southport New Road at around 5.10pm on Monday.

Emergency services were called to the scene and the driver of the MG was cut out by firefighters.

The woman, from Burscough, was flown to Preston hospital by air ambulance with suspected head injuries.

Following the crash, the 29-year-old driver of the HGV, from Kent, was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving.

He has been summonsed to appear in court at a later date.

Click here for the full Southport Visiter article

21st March 2012
FURNITURE SALE AT WEBSTERS
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

J Webster & Sons of Tarleton are currently making preparations for a massive clearout of the Furniutre and Carpet departments beginning tomorrow.

Jonathan Webster said "We are closing our furniture department to make way for a whole new shopping experience."

Websters will be using the space to expand the clothing and gift sections and there are also exciting plans to create some new departments. More news about this will follow soon!

During all the changes, Whittles Farm restaurant will remain open as usual

21st March 2012
KNOCKOUT PICTURE WINS AWARD
Source: Champion Newspapers

A TALENTED photographer from Hesketh Bank has won a top award for taking the picture which helped unearth a scandal at an Amir Kahn boxing match.

Mark Robinson, of Ashbrook Close, won the award for the Sports News Picture of the Year at the Sports Journalism Awards in London last week, after a picture he took at one of Amir Kahn's matches last year helped back up the boxer's claims that a man was “interfering” with officials at the event.

“Although the photo wasn't part of the original story, when Amir tweeted about the man interfering I went back through the photos and found that image, and it went into all the nationals. It helped to drive the story for at least another ten days, and eventually led to Amir Kahn being granted a rematch.”

Click here to read the complete Champion article

20th March 2012
Hospital chief hosts ‘have your say’ meeting in Tarleton
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Patients and the public in and around Tarleton have the chance next week to find out more about plans for Southport and Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust to become a foundation trust.

Foundation trusts were created to put decision-making about healthcare into the hands of local people. Southport and Ormskirk trust wants to become a foundation trust by April next year.

The third in a series of public meetings will be held next week and hosted by Jonathan Parry, the trust’s chief executive. He said: “Foundation trusts have been around since 2004 and now the Government says all NHS trusts must become one. “It is important we have local people’s support for our plans and this is one of a number of public meetings I am hosting where people can learn more and have their say.”

The meeting will be held on Tuesday 27th March at Our Lady’s Parish Centre, 152 Hesketh Lane, Tarleton, PR4 6AS at 10.30am. Please call 01704 704714 if you have any special requirements the Trust can help with in advance of the meeting.

People can also make their views known by visiting the Trust website at southportandormskirk.nhs.uk

19th March 2012
MP SEEKS SOUTH ASIAN RESTAURANT NOMINATIONS
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Lorraine Fullbrook, Member of Parliament for South Ribble, would like your nominations for the best South Asian restaurant in the South Ribble Constituency.   The annual Tiffin Cup competition celebrates the best of South Asian cuisine in the country.  And Lorraine wants South Ribble residents to help promote their favourite local Indian, Bangladeshi, Maldivian, Iranian, Nepalese, or Sri Lankan place to eat by voting in the competition.   Lorraine will choose the South Asian restaurant in South Ribble, which receives the most votes from local residents, as the nomination for this year’s competition.

The top ten entrants from across the country will be invited to Parliament for a cook-off, and all proceeds will be donated to World Vision, an international relief charity.

Please submit your nomination by 5:00 pm on Friday 30th March 2012. You can vote by emailing info@lorrainefullbrook.com or via Lorraine’s website, www.lorrainefullbrook.com.

Lorraine said: “The Tiffin Cup is a great way to celebrate the best of South Asian Cuisine and support local businesses”

“It would be great to get a finalist cooking in Westminster from South Ribble so please help support local businesses with your vote!”

19th March 2012
Overturned car ON STATION ROAD
Reported by: Hubmaker Media  

Emergency services were called to a collision on Station Road / Rankin Avenue last night which resulted in a Mini overturning and skidding down the road on its roof.

The ambulance service did attend but no serious injuries were reported.

13th March 2012
Northern Parishes Family and Community Network
Reported by: Hubmaker Media  

Following the success of the activity days held during the summer holidays of 2011 in conjunction with the local parents, the Children's Centre and Hesketh Bank Christian Centre, we are looking to develop a community network which will organise and raise funds for holiday activities across our local villages.

Initially the plan is to provide holiday activities for families with primary aged children. These events will be available for families living in Rufford, Holmeswood, Mere Brow Banks, Hesketh Bank and Tarleton and we hope to deliver activities in local venues. We hope to develop this work to provide services for local children and families.

If you are interested in being part of this network then we will be holding an Inaugural General Meeting on Monday 26th March at 10am in the Hesketh Bank Children's Centre, Shore Road Hesketh Bank PR4 6AA

At this event there will be an election by ballot of officers for the post of Chair person Secretary and Treasurer. Nominations forms are available at Hesketh Bank Children's Centre.

If you would like more information then please contact Anne Cookson on 01772 815021 or 01704 896424 or email anne.cookson@lancashire.gov.uk

Click here for more local events and activities

12th March 2012
WLBC CONCERNS Leisure Lakes licensing plans
Source: Formby Times

LICENSING officers at West Lancashire Council believe controversial plans for live entertainment at Leisure Lakes should be refused.

Frederick Jorden, who runs bars at the Mere Brow site, has applied for licence to host live music performances and sell alcohol at them between 11am and midnight. The licence also covers recorded music and dance performances.

Wednesday’s licensing sub-committee meeting will decided whether the licence should be granted.

Click here to read the full Formby Times Article

12th March 2012
PENNY DALE ENTHRALLS CHILDREN AT KIDDIROO BOOK SIGNING
Reported by: Hubmaker Media  

International children’s Author and Illustrator Penny Dale captured children’s imagination on Saturday.  Penny was at the Kiddiroo store in Mark Square, Tarleton to sign books and provide an exclusive preview of her new book Dinosaur Zoom! out on the 2nd August 2012.  

Penny has recently signed an exclusive partnership with Kiddiroo, who are now selling personalised and signed prints from her best selling books.

As well as signing books Penny spent time with each child to talk about her books.  Kirsty, one of the owners of Kiddiroo said "We have had a marvelous turn out and it has been a pleasure to welcome Penny to our store today.  As well as signing books Penny showed children how she creates her initial drawings using her iPad, which she kindly gave children the ability to have a go on."

Anyone who missed the event can still buy a signed book by contacting Kiddiroo on 01772 816343

11th March 2012
Appeal for missing man - Mark Winstanley
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

POLICE are appealing for information about a man who has gone missing from home.

Mark Winstanley who is 36, was last seen at his home address on Great Gill in Walmer Bridge on Wednesday 7th March. Mark is described as white, of medium build and has short, dark brown hair and brown eyes.

When he was last seen, he was wearing blue jeans and a dark coloured fleece jacket. Police are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare and are asking anyone who thinks they may have seen him to get in touch.

Anyone with any information can contact police on 101.

UPDATE 12/3/2012: Mark Winstanley, from Walmer Bridge, was found safe and well at an address in Eccleston this morning.

10th March 2012
BROADBAND UPGRADE SCHEDULED FOR "LATER THIS YEAR"
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

As part of the programme to bring next-generation broadband technology to at least ninety percent of the UK by the year 2015, plans have now been drawn up for the Hesketh Bank exchange to be upgraded later this year.

The new service is already available in Ashton-on-Ribble, Broughton, Chorley, Fulwood, Leyland, Longton, Penwortham, Rossendale, Skelmersdale and Upholland.

9th March 2012
MAYOR NOMINATION FOR HB COUNCILOR
Source: Southport Visiter

HESKETH With Becconsall councillor Iain Ashcroft has been nominated to be the new Deputy Mayor of West Lancashire.

Iain, 68, was formally given the nomination at last week’s full council meeting.

The formal vote on his appointment will be made at May’s Annual General Meeting in May.

He is expected take over as Deputy Mayor when the current holder of that position Cllr Paul Greenall succeeds Cllr Rob Bailey as Mayor.

Click here to read the full Southport Visiter article

5th March 2012
ALTYS - UPDATE FROM THE MD
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

As a Local employer and service provider to Hesketh Bank and the surrounding areas for over 130 years we wanted to inform the local community about the changes happening at Alty’s

We recently made the decision to consolidate the sale of all Building and Timber materials to our site at Much Hoole. We are currently investing in major improvements at Hoole which includes New Warehousing, Timber Storage, Timber machining facilities, Racking, New Sales Office, Plant and extra parking. Work has already started and once it is complete, hopefully sometime in the Summer, the Woodyard and Weighbridge will close and the Staff, Stock, Machinery, Wagons etc will relocate to the new site at Hoole. The new site will offer everything from one location and customers will benefit from better service and improved product range.

The custom we have in this area is extremely important to us and we hope you will come and visit the new store to see the benefits for yourself, it is only 5 minutes from Hesketh Bank. We will also be offering FREE delivery in to the Hesketh Bank, Tarleton and Banks area.

The Horticultural Department is NOT affected by any of these changes and will continue to operate as normal.

The Head Office at Hesketh Bank will also remain OPEN as normal. All telephone numbers, FAX numbers and E-Mail addresses will also remain the same.

We are really excited about the changes and would like to assure ALL our customers we remain committed to serving both the Horticultural and Building Trades for many years to come.

Stephen Gautrey
Joint Managing Director
Henry Alty Ltd

25th February 2012
The Becconsall - Next Chapter
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Photos of the demolition of the Becconsall Hotel

Dear Village Friends,

Today Saturday 25th Feb 2012 it’s over – The Becconsall Hotel no longer exists in this world and is reduced to several piles of rubble now in darkness in Hesketh Bank. This final thing to be go, were the metal shutters nailed to the front of the large bay window in Mums lounge bar. Ironically, “SAVE ME” was the last thing to be seen as the machine lifted them away, high through the air. Very poignant.

Many people turned up this morning before 8am to witness the end of an era for this village, which is now growing into a little town. Today we witnessed local history being destroyed and local history also being created. It is time to turn to a fresh page and the next chapter of Hesketh Banks growth.

Today amongst the dust, the dirt and the sights and sounds of destruction, some amazing things happened too. The team of Demolition men could not have been more kind, helpful, considerate, professional and respectful of the job they were charged to carry out. I witnessed them being very honouring of local feeling and the history of The Becconsall Hotel. For this I am very grateful to them, to Rowlands builders and to Hollins for showing this consideration and respect to the community.

To my own surprise and amazement, I went from feeling a mixture of shocked, upset and sad at the reality, to feeling admiration, gratitude and respect for the skill of these chaps who operated the machines of destruction. Like huge dinosaurs with big gaping jaws, they could  deftly reach into the centre of the building, pick up a piece of something quite delicately, transport it high through the air, then place it onto one of the “neat” piles at the side of the site. Incredible.

What this means to me now is, The Becconsall, this old friend to so many, was razed to the ground with respect, care and dignity. It wasn’t just roughly smashed to smitherines before our sad eyes! Right now I feel both privileged to have witnessed this and grateful to the Demolition Team, especially Alan and Jimmy for being so understanding and supportive of everyone watching in the crowd. They even called to get me this morning before they started their demolition of The Bec – thank you.

When my brother Sean arrived from Derbyshire to bear witness, he was stunned at what he saw!  As he says, he came with the building. Mum was pregnant with Sean when we moved into The Bec years ago. He grew up there for 25 years and lived overlooking The Bec for many more years too. Poor Sean, he was very, very shocked and upset as 25 years since we left, the heart of the building was now wide open to the world when he arrived. Again, both Alun and Jimmy were very kind to him, they gave him a hard hat and yellow jacket too, then patiently listened as he told them his story of The Bec and what it meant to him. Again, thank you both, I am grateful.

Dad was in many peoples thoughts today too as villagers spoke to us on site. Dad and Mum were certainly in mine and Seans hearts and minds as the building came down in front of us. In fact, thank you to everyone who came over to have a chat and speak so fondly of all the family, Mum, Dad, my beautiful sister Fionuala, my late brother Bernard, Sean and myself.

I know that my Dad would have been devastated today to witness the end of The Bec ...he would also have been standing with his friend Peter Watkinson, fascinated and in admiration of the skill and respect shown by the Demolition Team during the process. Though today saw the death, funeral and final resting place of the building which closed The Becconsall Hotel Chapter forever, today has also the opened The New Becconsall Development Chapter. This will be written before our eyes this year by Hollins and Rowlands.

Save The Bec campaign has ongoing involvement in the quality development planned for this site. This now mixed development, also meets some local social needs for local elderly downsizing near to the shops, locals with disability, first time buyers and for family homes. The style pays respect to The Bec. We have also secured some bricks from The Bec to create a raised flowerbed in front of the New Becconsall apartment building. We will give some to the Parish Council for the flowerbed at Booths too if they wish. Together, we can create something special to be proud of on the New Becconsall Site. Time to look to the future...

We wish you all well and cheers!

With warmth and respect on this emotional rollercoaster of a day,

Mrs Mc, Sean, Beryl & Úna McBride

24th February 2012
WORLD BOOK DAY BOOK SIGNING BY PENNY DALE
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Kiddiroo in Mark Square, Tarleton, is holding a special event with International Children’s Author and Illustrator Penny Dale on Saturday 10th March 2012, between 11am and 1pm, to celebrate this year’s World Book Day and mark Kiddiroo’s exclusive partnership with Penny.

Kiddiroo is one of thousands across the UK and Ireland marking the occasion by showing how magical books can be. Special activities on the day include a book signing by Penny along with a special preview of her next book - 'Dinosaur Zoom !' out on 2nd August 2012.

Kirsty, at Kiddiroo said, “We can’t wait to get budding bookworms buzzing about World Book Day. Good reading starts early and children who share books with others are more likely to develop language skills and advanced reading levels. Our event is a fun way to get local children's imaginations fired up and encourage them to become avid readers.”

World Book Day aims to help children explore the pleasure of books and reading by providing them with the opportunity to have a book of their own. To mark the day, all school’s and nurseries will be handing out World Book Day £1 Book Tokens to each child. You will be able to redeem the Book Token against any book costing £2.99 or more at Kiddiroo.

To avaoid any dissapointment, you can pre-order your books by Penny at the shop or call 01772 816343.

Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Dear Village Friends,

It the final countdown for The Bec...

Today I went into the Becconsall building and drew my breath to see it gutted and stripped of all its treasures. The beautiful solid oak, the floorboards, the bars,  the ornate plasterwork of hand painted vines around the ceilings, the leaded glass windows broken and torn. How sad, how very, very sad.

It is the final D Day for The Becconsall on Saturday 25th February 2012 when the actual building will be demolished. The demolition will begin at 8am and it will all be rubble by 2pm. How sad.

I keep meeting people in the village who all say the same thing, “How sad. I remember such good times at The Bec...I remember my first pint there and my youth in The Bec...I remember...I remember...I remember...”

What is lovely for me, is that so many people recount their happy stories of their time spent enjoying a pint at The Bec with Dad and my Mum, who was 95 two weeks ago, though she says she is 59! They remember happy times with our family and with Peter & Jean too. These memories are photographs for the soul.

So, I invite each of you to gather all your happy memories together wherever you may be, and on Friday evening at 8pm please join with us and together let’s raise a glass to The Becconsall as it used to be in its glory days. Let’s say “Thank you and Cheers!” to this old friend for all the happy times and memories. For all the friends you met there, the lovers you courted, the 18ths and 21sts, the engagements, the weddings you celebrated, the babies you christened, the Christmas’s you enjoyed, the New Years Eve Parties, all the fun and all the milestones you marked in your lives, hosted there, at The Becconsall Hotel Hesketh Bank.

Friday night will really be “last orders” for The Bec and “Time Gentlemen Please”.

We wish you well,  let us now create something new to be proud of as a community.

With warmth and respect,

Mrs Mc, Sean, Beryl, Úna and Save the Bec Action Team

23rd February 2012
PUBLIC ACCESS DEFIBRILLATOR AVAILABLE AT BOOTHS
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

From 9th March 2012, there will be a Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) situated in Booths store, Hesketh Bank, for use by any member of the local community.

Funds for the defibrillator were raised by the family and friends of Mr John Thomas Breakell, who passed away 4th November 2011. They would like to thank Sue Rigby and other volunteer Community First Responders who attended John on emergency call outs, for all they have done.

Sue, who is also a volunteer Heartstart Instructor for the British Heart Foundation/North West Ambulance Service, suggested the money go towards an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for the village, which anyone can use in the case of cardiac arrest to help save a life.

Sue is offering FREE two hour training sessions in Emergency Life Saving skills and instruction on how to use an AED. Certificates will be given.

Booths have kindly offered the use of their training room to allow members of the public to be trained in simple life saving skills. Tarleton Bowling Club has also offered the use of their function room for Heartstart sessions.

Sessions are by appointment only and any age group is welcome. To book a session, call 07754 203 701 or email suerigby@btinternet.com.

A presentation will take place at Booths on Friday 9th March 3pm, when the defibrillator and plaque will be officially placed in the store in loving memory of John Breakell.

Sue would like to personally thank John’s family and friends, Booths Manager Matt Welsh and his staff and Gary Rimmer at Tarleton Bowling Club for their support and help in making this venture possible.

22nd February 2012
DEMOLITION DAY
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Hello Everyone,

A very sad update for you.

The demolition of The Becconsall Hotel, sadly, is about to start.

Though we have all known for some time that The Becconsall building would be demolished, the reality is now here. It is D Day for The Bec. Given the sad state of the building, which was neglected for years, has been broken into several times now and is in a sorry state of repair, it is probably better that this happens now, we can say goodbye forever and it is over soon.

The developers, Hollins Strategic Land had to wait for the last piece of paper from the planning department in order to progress their project. They got this just before Christmas and had planned to demolish in the autumn.

It has now been possible for the builders to move things forward earlier than expected.

Hollins Strategic Land have gone into partnership with Rowlands, a local reputable builders to complete The Becconsall project. Hollins have also been approached by big National Building companies to buy the site and develop it. They have refused.

Hollins want to honour their commitment to the Hesketh Bank community via Save The Bec campaign, to deliver a quality development of housing, which also meets some local social needs, pays respect to The Bec architecture and delivers their plans as shown and made available to all the community early in 2011. These plans were passed by the planning committee later last year. Rather than sell out to Nationals, Hollins want to work with local reputable builders. They have partnered with Rowlands of Chorley.

Unfortunately, there has been an error on the part of Rowlands the builders in communicating with Hollins and the community as to the dates set to demolish The Becconsall. Andrew Brown of Rowlands has apologised that he did not communicate the correct dates to Hollins and to the community.

It is as it is.

At present, there is a team of demolition men employed by Rowlands Builders of Chorley who have now started to rip out the once beautiful solid oak interior of The Bec. Even the demolition man was impressed by the quality of the oak bar. This interior removal will continue this week with the building demolition to follow.

The demolition people will give me a schedule for the ongoing stages of what to expect tomorrow and I will update you when I have this information.

I have not been able to stop thinking about my Dad today. I am so glad that he is not alive to witness this destruction and that my Mum is not sitting here now watching this happen either. It is the end of an era for this village and a very sad end to The Becconsall Hotel. This once beautiful building was the beating heart of Hesketh Bank and it is the building the village grew up around. It has hosted a lifetime of so many happy memories for so many local people and beyond. Nothing can demolish our happy memories. Time to move on...

We wish you all well.

Cheers! And... very sad,

Mrs Mc, Sean, Beryl, Úna and Save The Bec  Action Team

Four men have appeared in court charged with an attempted burglary at Booths.

Stephen Bosanko, 31, of Elliott Close, Preston; Jamie Maxwell, 20, of no fixed address; Nicholas Maxwell, 26, of Royal Drive, Fulwood, and John Horn, 20, also of no fixed address, have all been charged with attempted burglary at Booths, in Station Road, Hesketh Bank, near Preston, on Saturday.

They appeared before Ormskirk Magistrates’ Court yesterday where they were remanded in custody.

Click here for the full Lancashire Evening Post Article

14th February 2012
Bank Hall given restoration funding boost
Source: BBC News

The 17th Century Bank Hall is to receive £1.69m for a restoration project.

Bank Hall, in Bretherton, has been awarded the Heritage Lottery Fund money after a 16-year campaign to save it.

The building will be converted for residential use with the entrance hall and Prospect Tower opening up for public exhibitions and tours.

The Grade II-listed country house was built by the Bankes family in 1608 but has been empty since the 1960s.

Bank Hall Action Group Chairwoman Janet Edwards, who has been leading the campaign to save the building, said: "We are thrilled that we have the money and can proceed with the process.

"It is in a pretty perilous state. The external walls are sound but the fabric of the building has collapsed form the top downwards.

"This definitely is our lifeline that is desperately needed."

The hall was a runner up in the North West heat of the BBC Two Restoration programme in 2003, losing out to Victoria Baths in Manchester.

It was vacated in 1962 and has gradually fallen into disrepair. It is now in the highest risk category on English Heritage's Buildings at Risk register.

Hannah Barker from Heritage Lottery Fund in the North West said: "The last time I visited the building was just before Christmas and it really was on its last legs and I said 'this is the last chance for this building'.

"If we hadn't been able to sort something out and start work on the building this year I think it would have just collapsed into rubble.

"Its a beautiful historic building and its really important to the local community."

10th February 2012
MP PULLS PLUG ON ONSHORE WIND POWER SUBSIDY
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Lorraine Fullbrook, Member of Parliament for South Ribble, has joined over 100 Parliamentary colleagues in signing an open letter to the Prime Minister urging a reduction in the amount of subsidy given to onshore wind power.

The joint letter also asks for amendments to be made to the National Planning Policy Framework to help protect the rural landscape and heritage sites across the country.

In the letter, Lorraine along with the other MPs are asking for the Planning Inspectorate to be told that these factors, as well as the views of local residents, are given more weight in planning decisions.

Lorraine recently helped local residents in their successful fight against wind turbines being built on green belt land between Little Hoole and Midge Hall. Lorraine’s efforts with the ‘Protect Little Hoole’ residents group resulted in the planning application being withdrawn.

Lorraine said: “I am delighted to have helped the local residents and to have added my name to this campaign. I’m keen to see the amount of money available in subsidy for onshore wind reduced, and spread equally across other renewable energy types.”

“Recent wind turbine applications in our local area, such as in Little Hoole, have received a very hostile response from local residents and I believe that it is important that the new planning regime ensures that local people’s views are taken fully into account.”

6th February 2012
The KEY TO ELECTRIC IN TARLETON
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

In the unlikely event that you are ever asked 'when did mains electric come to Tarleton?' the answer is 1st November 1930.

Councillor Robert Lathom JP was Chairman of the "Tarleton & Hesketh Electricity Committe" at the time and was presented with this ceremonial key celebrating the Inaugoration of Electricity to the villages.

Great Grandson Peter Lathom is the present keeper of the key and is interested in gathering up any more information people may have about this event or indeed his Great Grandfather (see local history & Genealogy) letters pages).

Please contact Peter (or the editor) if you can contribute.

More Local History

2nd February 2012
PICTURE PROBLEM SOLVED IN SYDNEY
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Executive Recruitment Consultant James Iddon took a break from his job in Sydney, Australia to help with the Taylor's Cottage picture (below).

James wrote in highlighting the following picture of Hesketh Lane taken from the junction of Church Road from the "Old Photos" section of the website:

James concludes that Taylor's Cottage must have been located opposite what is now Tarleton Fire Station. For the record, a photo of the same view was taken this morning....

31st January 2012
TAYLOR'S COTTAGE, Hesketh Lane
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Anne West has written in requesting any information on a painting she has in her possession:

The back of the painting has the notes "Taylor's Cottage, Hesketh Lane, Tarleton Circa 1900's" written on.

If anyone has any information at all about the property; location, occupants, etc please email the editor@heskethbank.com

27th January 2012
PAUL'S CHARITY TRACTOR TREK
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Local Plant Hire & Contractor Paul Taylor has been challenged to drive a new tractor from the Fendt Factory in Germany to Derian House Children's Hospice on a single tank full of diesel.

The challenge was set by Burscough Fendt dealer Clarke & Pulman and it is hoped that the event will raise a massive £7,000 for the Derian House Wish List which is used to buy much needed items that help make a difference to the lives of the children at Derian.

Paul will begin the 1437km tractor trek on the 14th April, leaving Marktoberdorg, Germany on a brand new Fendt 700 Vario Tractor worth £175,000 and will hopefully complete the challenge the following day by arriving at Derian House Children's Hospice, Chorley at around 2.00pm.

Sponsors are urgently required (just £100 will get a sticker on the tractor) and a Just Giving account has been set up to receive donations.

For more information and updates see www.heskethbank.com/home/challengepaul

26th January 2012
TOM TARGETS OLYMPIC BADMINTON GLORY
Source: Southport Visiter

A budding badminton star is setting his sights on future Olympic glory after taking the local game by storm.

Since taking up the sport just 18 months ago Tom Usher has won a series of trophies and represented his county.

With the Olympics looming in the summer the schoolboy will be watching on hoping one day he will be playing on the world’s biggest stage.

At just 11-years-old, the London Olympics will be too early for Tom, but after a whirlwind beginning to his badminton career, the future is looking bright.

Click here to read the complete Southport Visiter article

26th January 2012
VILLAGE HALL AGM
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Hesketh Bank Village Hall will hold its Annual General Meeting on Thursday 23rd February 2012, 8pm in the front hall on Station Road.  All local residents are welcome to attend.

The meeting will see the official adoption of a new name for the village hall to Hesketh with Becconsall Village Centre.  “We feel this new name reflects the parish we are in and the range of facilities available,” said Peter Watkinson, Chair, “For example, we have Happy Days Nursery, Grace Church, Hesketh Bank Silver Band and the Multi Use Games Area, which opened in 2010, plus lots more activities going on throughout the year making this site a key focus for villagers of all ages.”

Details of development work on the site, including the work currently being done on the front garden, driveway and signage in partnership with Hesketh with Becconsall Parish Council, will be available at the meeting.

23rd January 2012
UNA LAUNCHES NORTH WEST PINK SHOE CLUB
Source: Formby Times

Businesswoman Úna McBride will host the first Pink Shoe Club gathering outside of London.

Pink Shoe Club is a dynamic network of high-level women, with Home Secretary Theresa May and Olympic gold medallist Tessa Sanderson CBE as its patrons. With close links to Parliament, Pink Shoe women of all backgrounds and professions regularly meet in exclusive venues to network, exchange ideas and do business together.

Úna said: “I’m delighted Pink Shoe Club has chosen my home city of Liverpool to Launch in the North West."

Click here to read the complete Formby Times article

22nd January 2012
GAS MONITORING DEVICE INSTALLED ON FRACKING SITES
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

Cuadrilla have just installed a network of 21 'GasClams' to monitor their current exploration sites and are the world’s first company to use it as part automated early warning system.

If the instrument detects an increase in gas concentrations it automatically alerts an engineer allowing a rapid response.

The monitoring device will collect background gas levels and compare them between before, during and after our operations, according to Mark Miller, CEO of Cuadrilla.

Mr Miller anticipates that the data from the monitoring equipment will be made available to local communities via the Cuadrilla website.

GasClam was developed by Salamander, a University of Manchester spin out company and is a previous winner of the North West Innovation Environment Technology prize.

Dr Pete Morris, from Ion Science, the global distributor of the technology, said: “As gas occurs naturally from a range of sources, GasClam will provide reliable information to Cuadrilla and the surrounding community to show the level of gas and its origin.”

17th January 2012
LANCASHIRE FIRE & RESCUE "SAFER DAY"
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

In Lancashire, the numbers of house fires and injuries from fires are at their lowest recorded levels ever. Despite this, six people have tragically died in their homes over the last month. As part of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service's response, the Service will hold a high profile Smoke Alarm Fire Education Roadshow (SAFER) at every Fire Station in Lancashire on Saturday 21st January 2012 between 11am and 5pm.

The campaign will see all fire stations open to the public who are invited to come along to collect a free 10 year smoke alarm and fire safety guidance, as well as having the opportunity to book a free Home Fire Safety Check.

Whilst the smoke alarms are being distributed, firefighters and community fire safety will be demonstrating how to install and clean the alarms. The videos will be placed on social networking sites, such as YouTube and the Service's new Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Many fire related deaths are caused by people being overcome by smoke and fumes, not just burns. Therefore, a working smoke alarm is essential. It provides vital early warning and extra time to escape if there is a fire. Every home should have at least one working smoke alarm.

When a smoke alarm has been fitted it is vital that it is regularly tested to ensure it works properly at least once a week using the test button. Every six months, the alarms need to be cleaned by opening the case and gently vacuuming the inside to remove dust from the sensor. If the smoke alarm doesn't open, vacuum through the holes.

Peter Holland, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service's Chief Fire Officer says; "Every single member of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is devastated about the loss of life in recent weeks, especially when it is so needless. We are urging everybody to get a working smoke alarm and test it every week."

"This Saturday every available member of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service will be on the streets making sure everyone gets the message; Get a working smoke alarm and test it."

"If you can not attend any of the fire stations on Saturday and you still wish to get a free smoke alarm, call us on 0800 1691125 or visit the website www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk to book a free Home Fire Safety Check."

11th January 2012
MEN IN COURT OVER TANKER THEFTS
Source: Ellesmere Port Pioneer

TWO men have appeared in court charged with conspiracy to steal three tankers worth more than £300,000 from an Ellesmere Port industrial estate.

Timothy Edwards, 53, of the Marshes, Tarleton, Lancashire, and John Downes, 23, of Moss Lane, Lydiate, Liverpool, appeared before magistrates in Chester on Wednesday, January 4.

The men were arrested last May after three Scania articulated tanker lorries were taken from an industrial unit on North Road, Ellesmere Port.

The vehicles were stolen between 6.15pm on Tuesday, May 3, and 1.45am on Wednesday, May 4. Each was loaded with £45,000 worth of diesel, bound for various locations throughout the UK. Two of the tankers – minus their tractor units – were recovered by police the following morning at Mere Brow, Preston.

Enquiries by officers from Ellesmere Port CID subsequently led to the recovery of the three tractor units and third tanker in Skelmersdale, Warrington and Widnes.

All the vehicles have been returned to their owners.

Edwards and Downes will appear in Chester Crown Court on January 30.

5th January 2012
ARTHRITIS RESEARCH AWARD FOR TARLETON STUDENT
Source: Lancashire Evening Post

A medical student has won a prestigious award for her outstanding knowledge of arthritis.

Jessica Ball, 23, of Blackgate Lane, Tarleton, has been awarded a student prize in rheumatology by medical research charity Arthritis Research UK.

Jessica, a fourth year medical student at the University of Manchester medical school and based at Manchester Royal Infirmary, is among only a handful of medical students in the UK to be awarded the prize.

It was awarded to her for demonstrating “an outstanding aptitude and knowledge” of arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.

She has been awarded an engraved silver medal and certificate and also presented with £250.

Click here to read the complete Lancashire Evening Post article

5th January 2012
LOCAL PLAN OPTIONS CONSULTATION BEGINS
Source: West Lancashire Borough Council

The West Lancashire Local Plan Preferred Options Paper will be available for consultation from Thursday 5th January to Friday 17th February 2012.  

The West Lancashire Local Plan takes over from the Local Development Framework, and will eventually replace the current Replacement Local Plan as the planning framework for the Borough.  This change-over is reflective of national guidance to try and make the planning process easier for people to understand and get involved with.  As well as the planning policies, the Local Plan now also contains information about the specific sites we will allocate for future development, and new policies that will be used to help make decisions on planning applications.  All these policies and proposals are set out in the Local Plan Preferred Options paper.

The Preferred Options Paper sets out the policies that will guide development until 2027 and covers important topics such as housing, employment, transport, local services, Gypsy and Traveller sites and Edge Hill University.  The Local Plan also sets out the preferred option for Green Belt release in Burscough, with some additional Green Belt release in the north of Ormskirk.  Further sites of Green Belt will also be released but safeguarded from development unless a ‘Plan B scenario’ dictates they should be used to help meet Borough targets.

The Preferred Options Paper and accompanying documents will be available from 5th January in local libraries, Post Offices, the Council offices (52 Derby St , Ormskirk and the Contact Centre in the Concourse, Skelmersdale) and on the Council’s website (www.westlancs.gov.uk/2027).  The Champion papers’ cover pages will explain the proposed policies and plans and how to comment on them. Homes in rural areas that do not receive the Champion should receive their information through the post.  We are also holding a number of events including drop-in exhibitions and evening forums to which we would like you to attend.  Details of times and venues for these events are given below.  Places for the evening forums must be booked. You can also receive updates and news on our consultation events by joining our Facebook page – “Your West Lancashire 2027”.

The Borough Council would welcome your comments on the content and nature of the Preferred Options paper.  Comments can be made on the Preferred Options Paper, and accompanying documents such as the Sustainability Appraisal, via the Borough Council website at www.westlancs.gov.uk/2027. Comments must be received by 5pm on Friday 17th February 2012.

10th December 2011
£9.2m bill for 20mph zone PROJECT
Reported by: Hubmaker Media

The Lancashire County Council proposal to implement 20mph schemes in residential areas and outside of all schools in Lancashire is budgeted to cost £9.2 million pounds.

The cost of maintaining the new signage is budgeted to add another £136,000 to the annual highway maintenance costs.

The target date for the completion of the project is 31st December 2013.