Garstang.net

MIDSUMMER �POEMS IN THE PARK� - FRIDAY 21st JUNE 7PM - 8PM

2013-05-21 12:45:00

At Kepple Lane Park Amphitheatre on Friday 21st June at 7pm � 8pm

Hear local poets Norman Hadley and Rachel McGladdery at this new open air venue in Garstang.

See link below for poster details.

http://writeoutloud.net/profiles/rachelmcgladdery

http://www.normanhadley.com/

To see Rachel in action view here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmJt7CiLAKg&list=PL4CF70451C897AA52

For more details on how to book your own �open air� event at this open air venue - contact Gordon Harter. 01995606404

GARSTANG IS "IN IT TO WIN IT" AGAIN! RHS NATIONAL FINALS

2013-05-17 15:36:00

Extract from a letter to Garstang in Bloom.

Welcome by Roger Burnett

Chairman, RHS Britain in Bloom UK Judging Panel

On behalf of the RHS Britain in Bloom UK Judging Panel, I would like to congratulate you on your great achievement of representing your Region/ Nation in the 2013 Britain in Bloom UK Finals.

Being an RHS Britain in Bloom finalist identifies you as one of the best cared for communities in the UK and presents you with a fantastic opportunity to promote your work. You deserve great commendation for your efforts, whatever the medal you achieve at the end of this year.

For a list of all of this year�s finalists please visit the RHS website:

http://www.rhs.org.uk/britaininbloom

During the next few months, the RHS will be organising this summer�s full UK judging tour, as well as the highlight of the year, the annual RHS Britain in Bloom UK Finals Awards Ceremony, which takes place in Cleethorpes on 12 October 2013. At the awards ceremony your community will be presented with an award reflecting your achievements, providing a benchmark for you to build upon year-upon-year.

IF YOU CAN HELP THE BLOOM TEAM DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS - PLEASE RING NORAH HOYLES ON 01995 602841

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE HERE?

2013-05-17 15:25:00

If you have a community group event that you would like to advertise here free of charge, please email lynnharter1@aol.co.uk with details of your event. What it is, where it is being held, date, times etc etc.

If you can supply a landscape orientated picture too that would help, but not always necessary.

Come on - get yourselves heard and seen!

CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL TIME AGAIN - MONDAY 27th MAY

2013-05-17 15:11:00

We wish everyone a fantastic day...well done to all the hardworking committee members and parents, but most of all - well done to all the children who will take part in the proceedings.

If you have never seen Garstang's Children's Festival, make 2013 the year you do. We will guarantee you will want to return!

All we need is fine weather...please?

A NOTE FROM THE FESTIVAL SECRETARY DAVID GARDNER:

ON FESTIVAL DAY

For the organisers of the event the day starts at 6 a.m. with tasks such as the decorating of
the market cross and the preparation of sandwiches for the children in visiting bands.

The crowning of the 2013 Festival Queen, Laura Addison from Garstang, will take place at the Market Cross at 11 a.m. Laura will be crowned by the Retiring Queen, Natassja Hodgson.

Their letters can be seen here as a pdf link.

Following the crowning of the Festival Queen the morning procession will proceed through the streets led by the Morris Dancers, the festival and retiring queens, plus many other queens from surrounding villages and churches.

One of the highlights of the day must be the brightly decorated children�s tableaux.
Parents have been very busy these past few weeks putting the floats together, and I�m sure that the usual large crowds will appear to marvel at the quality of the tableaux and to show their appreciation.

There will be seven bands in attendance on the day: Pilling brass band, Brindle brass band, Red Rose brass band, The Hyndeburn Comets Majorette Troupe, Bolton Caledonian Pipe Band, Lancaster City Brass Band and St Peters Brigade Band from Preston.

Also taking part in the procession will be the Garstang School of Gymnasium and members from the Scouts and Guides.

On completion of the morning procession, attention will switch to the Moss Lane playing
fields where activities will start at 1.10 pm with a display�s from the Garstang School of Gymnasium. and the Hyndeburn Comets Majorette Troupe.

Attention will then switch to the ever popular children�s sports which will commence at
approximately 2.00 pm, these will be followed by the football semi finals.

Throughout the afternoon there are many attractions for the younger children including
the presence of a professional face painter, children�s rides, bouncy castles and Punch
& Judy shows.

All activities are free of charge so bring the little ones down for a great
family day out.

Refreshments are available throughout the afternoon.

The evening procession starts at 6 p.m. at Moss Lane playing fields. This will include the
fancy dress parade in which there are many prizes to be won. The fancy dress parade is open to anyone. Entries are accepted from 5.15pm on Moss Lane playing fields, with judging taking place between 5.30pm and 6.00pm. and along the procession route.

So why not try your luck and have great fun at the same time?

The day concludes with the final of the football competition at 7.30pm.

David Gardner
Festival Secretary.

WHAT'S ON AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE JUNE 2013

2013-05-17 11:19:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre June 2013
Our next Art Exhibition in the School Room will be open from 1st to 29th June, and is of the work of the Penwortham Art Group. This popular small club of 25 members (with a waiting list) hold their own annual exhibition at the over 60's club in Priory Lane, Penwortham on 12 and 13 October 2013.

The Beginners' Bridge Class will continue meeting in the Music Room on Tuesday afternoon from 1.30 to 4.30 pm on June 4th, 11th, and 25th, and from 10 am to noon on the morning of the third Tuesday, the18th. We are a friendly group with mixed levels of skill and ability, and would be very pleased if you would like to join us, whether to have a go at Contract Bridge for the first time, or brush up your skills from years ago. More details from Pat Hansell on 01995 600397 or Mary Thornber on 01995 605210

Our latest Craft and Collectors Fair is on Saturday June 15th from 10.30am to 3.30pm. We have great bargains in small antiques, vintage clocks, books, handmade jewellery and crafts, cards, photographs, painted eggs, delicious cakes and for children we have face painting! We serve refreshments all day and hot food at lunchtime. Come and browse and then relax with a cup of tea and a homemade cake.

Tuesday 18th June The June meeting of the Garstang Floral Art Group is to be a visit to the gardens at Hill House, May Lane, Claughton on Brock. Members will meet at Hill House at 2-00pm. Parking is limited so we will be car sharing. Numbers are needed for refreshments and to arrange transport so please give your names to Mary Thornber on 01995 605210 by June 11th

We have an extra Poetry Appreciation meeting this month on Thursday June 27th from 2pm to 4pm . Bernard Lord, retired GP and poet, will read his poetry and talk about his life in France . The session should be both enjoyable and entertaining . Entry is by a small donation to the Arts Centre .

The regular monthly meeting of the Poetry Appreciation group is on Friday June 28th from 2pm to 4pm . We have great pleasure in inviting local poet Rachel McGladery to read her poems for us. Those who have heard Rachel speak before will know her poetry covers a whole range of subjects from tender and lyrical to very amusing. We are a very friendly group and everyone is welcome.
For more information please contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

Pat Hansell 01995 600397

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - EVENTS COMING IN MAY.

2013-04-22 09:27:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre in May 2013

The Songbirds are a informal group of nearly forty ladies who meet every Monday from 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm and sing just for pleasure. They are not a choir, there are no auditions, the members just enjoy singing and meeting up for a natter and a
cuppa. A warm welcome is guaranteed, just come along and have a good sing.

The Beginners' Bridge Club meets in the Music Room every Tuesday to learn, and play, Contract Bridge. We now have more than 20 members and are taught by experienced Bridge player Eddie Zielinski. Our levels of skill and knowledge vary tremendously, but it is all informal and very good fun. We meet every Tuesday afternoon from 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm (7, 14 and 28 May) except for the third Tuesday (21 May) when we meet from 10 am to 12 noon. We are delighted to welcome anyone interested in learning or relearning Bridge. For more details phone Pat Hansell on 01995 600397 or Mary Thornber on 01995 605210

The May meeting of the Garstang Floral Art Group will be a Workshop led by Delia Hoyles on Tuesday May 21st from 2 pm to 4 pm. Delia will show members how to create a Traditional Triangular Design using either fresh material or silks. After members have created their own arrangement under Delia�s guidance, she will demonstrate another arrangement, this time a Vertical Design in an unusual container. This demonstration will be followed by a tea and biscuits. Visitors are always very welcome. For details on what to bring ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210 or June Gornall on 01995 602505.

The Poetry Appreciation group's next meeting will take place on Friday May 24th from 2pm until 4pm and is entitled
� When I was a child �. Poems and readings about childhood will be led by Margaret Mardsden. You are invited to come and listen, and, if you would like to, join in with our session on childhood. We are a very informal group and everyone is welcome. For further information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605 or mj.whalley@btinternet.com

The Primary Schools Art Exhibition opens on Monday June 3rd. This popular children�s art exhibition will be on view for four weeks. The Arts Centre is open to the public each Tuesday and Thursday until 4pm and on Saturday from 10am until 12.30pm. Come and see the wonderful artwork by local Primary School children

Pat Hansell (01995 600397)

Scorton Bikes & Barrows Festival 2013

2013-04-18 14:09:00

Scorton Bikes & Barrows Festival is coming this May Day bank holiday weekend. Tell family and friends to come to Scorton and look out for the decorated bicycles and wheelbarrows all around the village. The weekend features live music nights, a dog show, sheep racing, food & craft fairs, children�s games, treasure trails, Sheriff 10k run, family cycle rides, Rose Queen day, wheelbarrow racing, cream teas, church tours and an Enchanted Wood.

Scorton Bikes and Barrows Festival � May 4th � 6th 2013

Website: https://www.bikesandbarrows.co.uk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bikesandbarrows

Twitter: @scortonvillage

GARSTANG MUSICAL PRODUCTIONS PRESENT "PopRock Classics"

2013-03-15 10:28:00

For their 2013 spring concert, Garstang Musical Productions will be performing a selection of well-known pop and rock songs. The concert is entitled �PopRock Classics� and features extracts from �We Will Rock You�, the musical based on the songs of Queen, �Mamma Mia�, �Jesus Christ Superstar� plus a selection of numbers made famous by the Beach Boys. The show will give the group an opportunity to present some great harmony singing together with exciting choreography, again provided by Zac Yates.

The show will take place at Garstang Community Academy (formerly Garstang High School) from 1st to 4th May.

All performances start at 7.30pm and tickets, which cost £8.00 (£5.00 for 16 year-olds and under on Saturday 4th May), will be available from 18th March at Car Care in Garstang or by contacting Alan Armstrong on 01995 606603.

"WHAT'S ON" AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - APRIL

2013-03-15 10:19:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre in April 2013

The Garstang and District Arts Society which runs the Garstang Arts Centre is urgently looking for a new Vice Chairman. We have been without one since last year, and although the position is not onerous, we need to have the position filled as we come up to our new financial year. Please consider supporting the invaluable work of the Arts Centre by volunteering for this key position. For details please contact our Chairman, Mary Thornber on 01995 605210

The Beginners' Bridge Club is going from strength to strength, and will be meeting on April 2, 9,16, 23 and 30. Our venue is the Music Room every Tuesday afternoon from 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm, except for the 3rd Tuesday of the month (in April, this will be 16th) when we meet from 10 am to 12 noon. We are a new group with very mixed abilities and experience and welcome anyone interested in learning Contract Bridge from our experienced tutor. New members are joining us every week, so don't be nervous about coming along and giving bridge a go. For more details phone Pat Hansell on 01995 600397 or Mary Thornber on 01995 605210

The Life of Harry (Talking with my friends) at 2-00pm on Thursday April 4. David Greenwood talks with Harry Kenyon, Owner and Founder of �Harry�s Music Box� Garstang, about Harry�s eventful, adventurous and remarkable life and career. An afternoon of stories, smiles, poems, reminiscences & inspirations. Tickets: £2 including refreshments, obtainable from Harry Kenyon @ 01524 792418 or pay at the door.
Proceeds in aid of Garstang Arts Centre.

The Painting Group have organized a special Ladies Afternoon at 2.30pm on Saturday 13 April. Local dress shop Izzy Pink will provide a Fashion Show, with our models showcasing the new season's clothes for a wide range of ages and sizes. Amongst the speciality stalls will be jewellery and decorated eggs. Tea/coffee and cakes and a raffle will be included in the admission price of £6.50.

The April meeting of the Garstang Floral Art Group will be a Workshop led by Brenda Newhouse on Tuesday 16 April at 2-00pm in the Arts Centre. Members will be creating their own arrangement based on the Hogarth Curve demonstrated by Brenda at the meeting in February. The demonstration will be followed by tea and biscuits. Visitors are always very welcome. For more details ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210 or June Gornall on 01995 602505
The Garstang and District Arts Society's AGM will take place on Tuesday 16 April at 7.30pm in the Schoolroom at the Arts Centre. The Arts Society is the organisation which runs the Arts Centre, holding the lease from the Garstang Town Trust, on behalf of the various Activity Groups and their members. Everyone is welcome at the AGM.

Craft and Collectors Fair on Saturday 20 April from 10-30am until 3.30pm . This month's Fair has a lovely collection of handmade jewellery, knitware, painted eggs, photographs, paintings, silk scarves and cards. Plus small antiques, books, clocks, curios and lovely cakes. For children, we also have face painting. Refreshments are served all day including hot food at lunchtime.

Poetry Appreciation on Friday 26 April from 2pm until 4pm is called Something understood. David Greenwood will read a selection of religious poetry. David�s talks are both profound and enjoyable, and really open your mind. Come along - you can sit and listen or join in and read if you prefer. All are welcome. For more information please contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

Pat Hansell (01995 600397)

GARSTANG COUNTRY MARKET RE-OPENS

2013-03-06 12:50:00

This market will be opening its doors again for the summer on Thursday March 7th and will be held in the usual venue: St Thomas's Church Hall on Church Street.

Every Thursday, from 10am - 12 noon, the Country Market (formerly known as the WI market) will be offering a wide range of fresh homemade produce. Adult & children's clothing, and hand crafted products such as cards, pictures etc will be on sale alongside jams, cakes, flowers and plants.

You have to get there early to buy the delicious cakes, as they soon "sell out"!

Local people such as Ben Andrews sell their produce too ,and Ben says "We are very well aware that, small as it is, the market proves a steady extra attraction to the town, with some regulars coming quite a long way to sample its wares."

MARCH AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE

2013-02-17 17:39:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre in March 2013

The Beginners' Bridge Class is going from strength to strength, and will be meeting on March 5, 12, 19 and 26. Our venue is the Music Room every Tuesday afternoon from 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm, except for the 3rd Tuesday of the month (in March, this will be 19th) when we meet from 10 am to 12 noon. We are a new group with very mixed abilities and experience and welcome anyone interested in learning Contract Bridge from our experienced tutor. New members are joining us every week, so don't be nervous about coming along and giving bridge a go. For more details phone Pat Hansell on 01995 600397 or Mary Thornber on 01995 605210

The Floral Art Group will meet at 2-00pm on Tuesday March 19th when Janet Bretherton from Goosnargh will be the speaker with �A Year to Remember� as the title of her demonstration. Janet�s floral designs will be based on events that took place in 2012. The demonstration will be followed by tea and biscuits. Visitors are very welcome. For more details ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210 or June Gornall on 01995 602505.

The Poetry Appreciation group will meet 2pm - 4pm on Friday March 22 to look at Personal Poems with Liz Hewitson and friend - poems that mean something to you or to the poets who wrote them or a poem that you yourself may have written. Whatever the case, come along to the Music Room and listen and join in if you feel you would like to. Everyone welcome . For more information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

Members of the Arts Centre, in teams of four, are invited to take part in the Spring Quiz on Saturday 23 March at 7.30 pm. The first draw for the 200 Club will take place during the evening, so a gentle reminder to all 200 Club members that their subscriptions are now due. The 200 club is a fundraising scheme run by the Arts Centre, in which each of the 200 numbers stands the chance twice a year to win cash prizes totalling £700 (top prize £400). The scheme is not limited to members of the Arts Centre and Hilary, the Curator, would be pleased to hear from anyone who wishes to support us. A number costs £13 per year. Anyone interested please ring Hilary on 01995603524 or call in at the Arts Centre.

Pat Hansell (01995 600397)

COFFEE MORNING IN AID OF GARSTANG ARTS FESTIVAL

2013-02-17 17:32:00

COFFEE MORNING FOR GARSTANG ARTS FESTIVAL.

A coffee morning is to be held in Th�Owd Tithebarn, Garstang, on Thursday 21st March 2013 to raise funds for this year�s Garstang & District Festival of Arts & Music.
Coffee and biscuits will be served from 10-00am until noon. Tickets are available from committee members at £2 each or you can pay on the door.
Do come along to enjoy a good cup of coffee in pleasant surroundings and show your support for the Festival.
Further details from Gillian Lamb. Telephone 01995 605490.

GEARING UP FOR FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT IN GARSTANG

2013-02-04 10:25:00

Market Stall

On 2nd March we will be holding a stall on Garstang High Street, outside the Market Hall selling items donated by supporters to fund our local work. If you have unwanted items to donate such as books, bric-a-brac, CDs, DVDs etc please contact John Corkish john.corkish1@virginmedia.com or Stuart McPhillips stuartmcphillips@gmail.com to arrange to deliver your items before the 2nd March.

We will also be raffling a hamper of Fairtrade items at the stall.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT PLEASE CLICK ON PDF LINK.

FRIENDS OF THE MILLENNIUM GREEN PRESENT:

2013-02-03 14:02:00

MEET THE BREWER.

Wednesday 6th March 7-30 pm
United Reformed Church Hall,
Croston Road, Garstang
Admission £3 including Tea/Coffee & Biscuits
Any profit will go towards the upkeep of the Millennium Green
(Registered Charity Number: 1079032)

Click on link for poster detail.

AN EVENING WITH THE HIGH SHERIFF OF LANCASHIRE

2013-02-01 12:33:00

Cancer Help presents:-

AN EVENING WITH
THE HIGH SHERIFF OF LANCASHIRE

Wednesday 27th February
@ the Double Tree Restaurant
325 Garstang Road, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 9UP
From 7-7:30pm

Tickets: £20 per person
Tables of 4 and 6

�The office of the High Sheriff of Lancashire can be traced back to 1154. There has been a High Sheriff of Lancashire every year for 859 years despite war, plague, revolution and the fall of royal houses. In the middle-ages the High Sheriff was responsible for law and order in the county, wielding great power over the people of Lancashire. Today the role is mainly ceremonial but the High Sheriff remains the monarch�s representative in the county.�
So why not have an enjoyable meal with friends at a great restaurant, find out more about this part of Lancashire�s history and support a worthwhile local charity?

Menu

Popadoms and condiments

Mixed grill starter

A choice of four signature main dishes
Side of vegetables
Selection of rice and naan bread
After dinner �Question Time� with Jeremy Gorick, The High Sheriff of Lancashire, and
Question Master Bill Cross

Raffle

POSTER ATTACHED - SEE LINK.

To book a table or for more information please contact

 Jonathan Gorick: 01772 704677 or jdg@stonehouseorion.co.uk
 Maureen Cross: 01772 690699 or 07900 430 900
All profits will go to Cancer Help (Preston) Ltd
Charity No. 1032828

FEBRUARY EVENTS AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE

2013-01-22 15:42:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre in February 2013

The Beginners' Bridge Class is going from strength to strength, and will be meeting on February 5, 12, 19 and 26. Our venue is the Music Room every Tuesday afternoon from 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm, except for the 3rd Tuesday of the month (in February, this will be 19th) when we meet from 10 am to 12 noon. We are a new group with very mixed abilities and experience and welcome anyone interested in learning Contract Bridge from our experienced tutor. New members are joining us every week, so don't be nervous about coming along and giving bridge a go. For more details phone Pat Hansell on 01995 600397 or Mary Thornber on 01995 605210

Craft and Collectors Fair from 10.30am - 3.30pm on Saturday February 16 is our first Fair of the year and we have our usual collection of beautiful handcrafted jewellery, knitwear, toys, silk scarves, painted eggs, china and cards etc plus photographs, small antiques and collectables and great homemade cakes. We serve refreshments throughout the day including hot food at lunchtime. Come along, relax and browse. We have four Fairs a year between February and August. If you would like a have a stall please phone Marie Whalley on 01995 603605.

The Floral Art Group will meet at 2-00pm on Tuesday February 19th when Brenda Newhouse will lead members in a workshop where we will be making a buttonhole. After the workshop Brenda will demonstrate how to make a floral arrangement designed on the Hogarth Curve. This will be in preparation for the workshop to be held in April. The demonstration will be followed by tea and biscuits. Visitors are very welcome. You can, if you wish to, just come along and watch but if you want to make either a ladies or a gentleman�s buttonhole please ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210 or June Gornall on 01995 602505 to find out what you need to bring.
The Poetry Appreciation group meets 2pm - 4pm on Friday February 22. This months meeting, led by Harry Batty, features the life and poetry of Ivor Gurney. Harry is well know for his well researched and entertaining sessions. Although the poet may be new to you, the afternoon is certain to be interesting and enjoyable. We are a very welcoming group, come along and listen and join in if you feel inclined. For more information please contact Marie Whalley on 01995 603605

Our first fundraiser of the year will be a concert by the Blackpool Ladies Choir on Saturday 23 February at 7.30pm. The Choir has been established in Blackpool for many years and is well-regarded along the Fylde Coast and further afield for the quality of its music making. Tickets are just £5 and include tea and cake at the interval. Call in at the Arts Centre or ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210

Pat Hansell (01995 600397)

FRIENDS OF GARSTANG WALKING FESTIVAL - pre festival walks!

2013-01-10 11:47:00

Garstang Walking Festival
Friday May 10th to Sunday May 19th
Celebrating the River Wyre and its Tributaries
The Rivers Grizedale, Calder and Brock

A stimulating programme of walks and events both before and during the Walking Festival.

Pre-Festival Programme of Walks 2013
Sunday 27th January. Frosty Fellside: Nicky Nook and the Grizedale
Saturday 23rd February. Wyre Way Walk: Scorton and the Wyre
Sunday 24th March. Calderside Walk: Kirkland area and the Calder
Sunday 28th April. Brockside Bridges Walk: along the Brock from the picnic site car park
Walks start at 10am and are about 3 hours long.

Bookable at the Visit Garstang Centre � 01995 602125

Social Event
A meal in the New Year for members of The Friends and their partners. Venue and date to be confirmed.

Contacts: colinsills@btinternet.com
lesfragle@gmail.com

BOOK SALE in AID OF THE RAINBOW LEGACY HOUSE

2013-01-08 12:02:00

Book Stall

Friday 11th January-Sunday 13th January 2013

Sainsbury�s Garstang, Park Hill Road, Garstang

50p per book

All proceeds to: The Legacy Rainbow House, Charity Number: 1127498

HEDGELAYING COMPETITION ON THE MILLENNIUM GREEN

2012-12-18 11:05:00

Many of the boundary hedges on the Green were planted about 12 years ago. Although they have grown well, to ensure that a good, dense, animal proof hedge is maintained, it is good practice to layer hedges approximately every ten years.

For many years, Wyre Council And Myerscough College have organised an annual competition to showcase the skills of experts in the ancient rural craft of hedgelaying and provide an opportunity for others to learn the skills from professionals.

The Millennium Green Trust is delighted to announce that, after examining the hedges on the Green, the organisers have decided that they are ideal specimens for layering and therefore the 2013 competition will be held on the Green.See the attached poster for further details.

We hope that you will be able to come along and watch the experts at work or even join in the beginners workshop [booking for workshop is essential].

Best wishes for Christmas and the New Year

Tustees and Management Team
Garstang Millennium Green.

WHAT'S ON AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - JANUARY 2013

2012-12-18 11:02:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre in January 2013

Garstang and District Open Art Exhibition Start your year with a piece of original art! This year's exhibition opens on Tuesday January 8th and has attracted local artists from all over the North-west. It is open during normal Arts Centre opening hours (Tuesday 10am - 12.30pm and 2 pm - 4 pm, Thursday 10 am - 4 pm, Saturday 10 am - 12.30 pm) and closes on Saturday February 9. For more details, telephone 01995 606648.

The Beginners' Bridge Class reconvenes on Tuesday January 8th at 2 pm in the Music Room. We would welcome anyone interested in learning Contract Bridge from our very experienced tutor. We are a brand new group and our current level of knowledge and accomplishment is pretty low, so don't be scared to join us! At the moment we meet 3 Tuesday afternoons a month, but anything could happen in the future.....for more details phone Pat Hansell on 01995 600397 or Mary Thornber on 01995 605210

The Floral Art Group's first meeting in the New Year will be on Tuesday, 15th January when there will be an audio-visual presentation by Jeff Ashworth starting at 2pm. Jeff, who lives in Garstang, is a member of both the Gardening Club and the Camera Club. He will show a selection of recent photographs taken in gardens visited by Gardening Club members in NW England and Scotland. New members and visitors are welcome to join our existing members at this meeting. For more details on the Floral Art Group ring Mary Thornber 01995 605210

Poetry Appreciation. Welcome to our first meeting of 2013 on Friday January 25th when our topic is Songs of the Seasons. Winter can be a lovely time but we can also look forward to the seasons to come. Led by Marie Whalley, the poems will take us on a journey though the seasons. Bring along your favourite poem and join us. New members are welcome. Read if you want to or just sit and listen. We are a very friendly group and meet on the fourth Friday of each month from 2pm until 4pm. We look forward to meeting you .For more information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

200 Club It is January again and we need to remind 200 Club members that the subscriptions for this year are now due. Cash or cheques made out to Garstang Arts Centre 200 Club can be posted or dropped in at the Centre. Dates of the two draws will be announced a.s.a.p. and we hope that this is your lucky year. The 200 Club is an important fund raiser for the Arts Centre and we are very appreciative of all those who support us. Good luck and best wishes for 2013. Hilary, 200 Club Treasurer.

Pat Hansell (01995 600397)

SIGNATURE DISHES

2012-11-30 08:46:00

Signature Dishes

To help raise money for the charity of the year The Legacy Rainbow House, Debbie Hewitt at Sainsbury�s Garstang, has collated favourite colleague recipes and printed a book called Signature Dishes. This is £3.50 or minimum donation of £2.00 with all monies being donated to the charity

WHAT'S ON AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - DECEMBER

2012-11-26 12:56:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre in December 2012

Garstang Victorian Evenings On Monday 10th December, the Arts Centre will be open from 6 pm for refreshments with corned beef hash, tea and coffee for sale, and free mince pies. Garstang Musical Productions will lead the carol singing. On Tuesday 11th December, the Centre opens again at 6 pm offering home-made soup, tea and coffee and free mince pies. The Arts Centre's own Songbirds will sing for us on this evening. Admission is free but donations would be welcome.

The Floral Art Group will meet on Tuesday 11th December at 2pm when members will make their own Christmas Table Arrangements. This will be followed by a Jacob�s Join and social time when next year�s programme will be discussed. Visitors are welcome. Details from Mary Thornber on 01995 605210.

The Poetry Appreciation group will meet on Friday December 14 from 2pm to 4pm, earlier in the month than our normal Poetry Appreciation meeting because of Christmas. The title is 'A Christmas Anthology'. Bring along your favourite poem or Christmas prose and join our Christmas get together. As usual we will have a Jacobs Join and a merry time! The Season's Greetings and a Happy New Year to all our readers. Marie Whalley 01995 603605

This month's Exhibition is by Mill Barn Artists who are a group of serious painters, sculptors, printmakers, textile artists and ceramicists who meet every Monday afternoon at the scenic and well equipped studios of Mill Barn in Samlesbury Bottoms. The group was formed fourteen years ago when ten artists gathered to talk about and make art. Of those original 10, 7 are still members. The group now numbers 14, but not all the above mentioned disciplines are represented in this exhibition, which closes on 15th December

Garstang and District Open Art Exhibition January 2013 Artists are invited to enter this popular exhibition, for which the closing date is 15th December 2012. Entries must be accompanied by a form which is available from the Arts Centre during normal opening hours - Tuesday 10-12.30 and 2-4; Thursday 10-4; Saturday 10-12.30. Telephone 01995 606648.
Pat Hansell (01995 600397)

SCORTON CHRISTMAS FOOD AND GIFT FAIR

2012-11-26 12:46:00

Scorton Christmas Food & Gift Fair
Scorton will be hosting a fabulous Christmas Gift & Food Fair on Sunday 2nd December at the village hall.
The event will feature over 20 stalls selling a variety of local handmade foods and gifts. Come along and see artisans and work and bead-making for children. The stalls include jewellery, wood carvings, homeware, textiles, Christmas gifts, glassware, puddings, pies, soaps, cheeses, preserves, toys, cards and much more. Come along and stock up for Christmas!
The hall will also be serving delicious hot soup, drinks and mince pies. Monies raised will go to Scorton Village Hall.

Please come along to Scorton Christmas Fair and have a browse. Entry is free and the Gift Fair will be open from 10.30am-4pm.

MAKING HISTORY - GARSTANG'S FIRST YOUTH COUNCIL

2012-10-28 11:20:00

Local Democracy Week in Garstang was very special this year. The very first meeting of Garstang's new Youth Council saw the election of student Rory Mower as young mayor of the town.

Town mayor Cllr Mrs Sandra Perkins said: "The launch of this initiative is a very proud moment for Garstang - we are seeing history in the making..."

For the full story click on:

http://www.garstangcourier.co.uk/news/local

Meet the whole team: picture courtesy of the Garstang Courier.

GARSTANG HAS DONE IT AGAIN!

2012-10-28 10:57:00

Garstang has won more accolades in the Royal Horticultural Society North West in Bloom competition.
Best Small Town 2012 - Gold and group winner. This means that Garstang will represent the North West region in next year's Britain in Bloom finals.
The town also won a discretional "clean sweep award", and Norah Hoyles MBE won an award for Outstanding Achievement.
Best Western Garstang Country Hotel and Golf Centre won a Silver Gilt for "Best Large Accommodation.
Little Stubbins B&B Claughton won Gold, and were group winners in the Best Small Accommodation/business catagory.
In the Neighbourhood awards Stransdale Close Community, The Boating Community & Walmsley Close all won "Thriving (L4)" status.

WELL DONE TO ALL INVOLVED, AND HERE'S TO MORE SUCCESS IN 2013!

NOVEMBER AT THE ARTS CENTRE

2012-10-23 09:42:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre
November 2012

Until 17th November An Exhibition of Personal Artwork by Joan Eastham is our current Schoolroom exhibition. Joan lives at Forton and paints in oils and other medias. Being a keen gardener, she is inspired to paint the flora and fauna through the seasons. Still Life and local landscapes are her other favourites. She has had several exhibitions in England and France she spends some time in summer, and had a painting accepted for The Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in 2006.

Until 29th November Our famous Christmas Craft Fair is currently on in the Music Room and will run until 4pm on Thursday 29th. November. We are always interested in receiving items from new exhibitors, because we like to have as much variety as we can. This is a golden opportunity to display and sell your crafts; the Arts Centre takes 20% commission with the rest going to the person making the items. Anyone interested in bringing items for sale at the Craft Fair please contact the Curator or Pat Manley at the Arts Centre. 01995 606648 during normal opening hours. The Craft Fair is open during normal opening hours :- Tuesdays 10am to 12.30pm, and 2pm to 4pm, Thursdays 10am to 4pm and Saturdays 10am to 12.30pm. There will be a wide variety of hand
made items, just the place to find something a little bit different. Don�t forget to come and buy!

Tuesday November 20th The Floral Art Group will meet at 2pm when Michelle and Claire from Morgans Florists of Garstang will lead members in a workshop showing us how to make either a Christmas Door Wreath or Swag. The workshop will be followed by tea and biscuits and time to ask questions. Visitors are welcome. You can, if you wish to, just come along and watch but if you want to make either or both of these Festive Arrangements please ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210 to find out what you need to bring.

Friday November 23rd Poetry Appreciation. As November is the time when we remember the world wars our subject this month is War and Peace . This gives us an opportunity to remember those who gave their lives in the past . We also celebrate the lives of the people who survived and whose spirit carried them through. Peace too is something we all value and will celebrate. Come along and join us and bring your favourite poems or just sit and enjoy the meeting . Everyone welcome. For further information contact Marie Whalley on 01995 603605

Pat Hansell 01995 600397

GARSTANG LIGHTS SWITCH ON AND VICTORIAN FESTIVAL: DATES 2012

2012-09-24 10:43:00

This year Garstang lights will be switched on at 4.40pm Monday November 26th.

The "blessing of the crib" will follow.

Come along early to hear local schoolchildren singing carols around the tree, and see Santa's elves perform their last official duties before being confined to Santa's toyshop.

The annual Victorian Festival will be held on Monday and Tuesday 10th & 11th December.

For further details about the Victorian evenings check out their website:

http://www.garstangchristmas.co.uk/

BONFIRE NIGHT 2012

2012-09-24 10:19:00

This year�s Garstang Bonfire and Firework Display will take place on Saturday the 3rd of November. The Bonfire will be lit at 7.00pm with the Firework Display starting at 7.30pm. The entrance price has been kept the same as last year at £3 per person with under fives being admitted for free. Refreshments will be available.

The Bonfire is built on the day and quite onerous safety requirements must be in place in terms of what materials are used. Because of this it is not possible to accept any firewood from the general public. As in recent years all the firewood used is donated by local businesses.

Ideally the Firework Display will be moved back to its traditional location across the river from the Bonfire. Bad weather and poor ground conditions have made it impossible to get the display in this position in recent years however a new access off Castle Lane is planned.

Parking will be difficult due to the crowds and also the new bollards so drivers are asked to try and park away from the event to ease congestion and maintain a safe environment. Disabled parking facilities will be available for �Blue Badge� holders.

A new feature is planned for this year � a Guy Fawkes competition. Open to school children and there will be prizes given for the best three entries - £30 for 1st; £20 for 2nd; £10 for 3rd. Judging will take place at 1.00pm on the Saturday afternoon. Anyone wishing to enter can bring their Guy along at 12.30pm. Anyone wanting more info can contact the Lions on the number below.

David Lewis
Garstang and District Lions
t: 01995 605146
f: 0808 280 1624
m: 07739 429174
e: david.lewis01@tiscali.co.uk

"WHAT'S ON?" OCTOBER ATGARSTANG ARTS CENTRE

2012-09-19 10:11:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre
October 2012

Monday 1st October, and every Monday Songbirds meet
every Monday 1.30p.m. - 3.30p.m. at the Art Centre and sing simply for pleasure, no auditions; we are not a choir, we just enjoy singing and having a cuppa and social chat. You would be made most welcome. Contact 01995 602904.

Saturday October 5th 200 Club Autumn Draw The 200 Club Autumn Draw will be accompanied as usual by Harry�s now very famous Fun Quiz with Mr Titus in supporting role. This promises to be an excellent evening and tickets are now available in the Arts Centre. As usual nibbles will be provided but bring your own bottle. The 200 club is a major fund raiser for the Arts Centre and a big thanks is due to those people who continue to support it. If you are not yet involved and would like to join us you can buy a number (or numbers) at the centre for a mere £6.50 for the half year. Prizes total £700 per draw with a top prize of £400. We have some numbers still available so please consider helping the Arts Centre. You can�t win if you don�t have a number!! For further info or to purchase a number contact Hilary at the Arts Centre or on 603524.

Tuesday October 16th The Floral Art Group will meet in the Arts Centre on Tuesday October 16th when Joan Hardwick returns to lead a workshop with the title of �Bring a Bunch� - the bunch being a bunch of flowers from either your own garden or any florist shop or supermarket. Joan will show us how to create a lovely arrangement from our own choice of flowers and using our own choice of container. The meeting begins at 2-00pm and will be followed by tea and biscuits. Visitors are always welcome. For more details ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210.

Friday October 26th Poetry Appreciation. This month's poetry is about Halloween and will be led by Marie Whalley. The poems and readings will cover the origins of Halloween as well as the current interpretation of the date. Come along and join the fun! Everyone welcome. For further information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

Saturday October 27th The Arts Centre Christmas Craft Fair 2012 will open at 10am on Saturday 27th October and run for five weeks closing at 4pm on Thursday 29th. November. We are always interested in receiving items from new exhibitors, because we like to have as much variety as we can. This is a golden opportunity to display and sell your crafts; the Arts Centre takes 20% commission with the rest going to the person making the items. Anyone interested in bringing items for sale at the Craft Fair please contact the Curator or Pat Manley at the Arts Centre. 01995 606648 during normal opening hours. The Craft Fair is open during normal opening hours :- Tuesdays 10am to 12.30pm, and 2pm to 4pm, Thursdays 10am to 4pm and Saturdays 10am to 12.30pm. There will be a wide variety of hand made items, just the place to find something a little bit different. Don�t forget to come and buy!

Pat Hansell 01995 600397

SAINSBURY'S GARSTANG NEW FOOD DONATION PARTNERSHIP

2012-09-13 11:19:00

Sainsbury's Garstang are pleased to announce a new food donation partnership with the local charity Leonard Cheshire Disability, based on Dimples Lane. Leonard Cheshire Disability, Oaklands Care Home, has recently been refurbished and provides care and support for adults who are disabled and have learning disabilities.

The donated food is surplus food that is still healthy, nutritious and within it use-by dates such as fruit, vegetables, bread and cheeses. The food donation scheme is aimed at charities and organisation that could really benefit from receiving surplus fresh food products that would otherwise go to waste. Store Manager Salvatore Cau said "We hate wasting food and really believe that old saying 'Waste not; want not' We are really happy that local charities, within our community, can benefit from our food donations scheme

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE PRESENTS:

2012-08-29 15:21:00

An Exhibition of Personal Artwork
By
Thelma Holt

August 25th � September 22nd

See attached poster for details.

THE GARSTANG RAINBOW RAMBLE

2012-08-17 09:20:00

THE GARSTANG RAINBOW RAMBLE

The Legacy Rainbow House and Sainsbury�s Garstang would like you to join us for The Garstang Rainbow Ramble. This is a sponsored 10 mile run/walk around Garstang starting and finishing at Sainsbury�s Garstang on Saturday 29th September 2012. Entry is £10 for Adults and £5 for Children with all proceeds going to The Legacy. Closing date for entries is: Monday 24th September 2012.

For an application form please come into Sainsbury�s Garstang or for further details please call: 01704 823276.

100 THOUSAND POETS FOR CHANGE:

2012-08-15 15:38:00

100 Thousand Poets for Change: an evening of poetry and music.

Prize-winning poets Carole Coates, Mike Barlow, Jane Routh, Ron Scowcroft and Rachel McGladdery are reading in Garstang to raise funds for Water Aid and Saint John�s Hospice, Lancaster.

Widely published and nationally established, their work can be found in individual collections, in literary magazines and anthologies. Signed copies of their books will be available on the night. They are joined by fellow writers Terry Quinn, Carla Scarano and Martin Domleo. Jane Brunning, founder member of Lancashire Writing Hub is compere and Lancaster�s �Low Countries� will be providing the music.

The Garstang event is one of over six hundred readings taking place around the globe on Saturday 29th September.

There will be a raffle of Fair Trade products with a top prize of a restaurant meal for two.

Venue: Garstang Arts Centre, Saturday 29th September, 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Entry by donation to charity.

THE SEARCH IS ON FOR GARSTANG'S OUTSTANDING YOUNG PEOPLE!

2012-08-14 10:20:00

GARSTANG �YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR� AND �JUNIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR� AWARDS 2012

An initiative of Garstang Town Council � we are looking for 2 inspiring young local people. One aged between 4 and 11 years old, and the other between 12 and 18 years old.

Do you know someone who deserves to hold the title �Citizen of the Year�?

It could be a personal achievement or selfless act....sporting, caring, fundraising, helping others, or achieving something against all the odds. Who do you think deserves this accolade?

Trophies have been donated by Cllr Lady Atkins and Carrs Jewellers, and there will be prizes for the runners up.

The entrants will be judged by a panel of local people, and the winner will be notified soon after the closing date on September 28th. The prizes will be presented at a ceremony during Local Democracy week in October. This ceremony will also see the inaugural meeting of Garstang�s first ever youth council and the office of �young mayor� will be bestowed upon one elected young councillor.

For more information please contact me - Cllr Lynn Harter on 01995 606404 or complete the attached form.

Concert by members of the Haffner Orchestra

2012-08-10 08:30:00

Concert with players from the Haffner Orchestra from Lancaster Well known in the Lancaster area for their concerts in The Great Hall at the University, this is the Haffner Orchestra�s second visit to Garstang.

On Thursday 23rd August small instrumental groups will play chamber music by Handel, Vivaldi, Telemann, Torelli, Beethoven, Mozart and d�Indy. String players will be joined by oboes, trumpet and French horn.

Venue: Garstang Arts Centre Time: 7-30pm. Raffle Cost £5 including tea and cakes

Tickets available from The Arts Centre, tel. 01995 606648, or ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210. Can also pay on the door if seats available

GARSTANG ARTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

2012-08-01 12:39:00

Download your brochure by clicking on the link, or collect it from the Visit Garstang Centre. Lots of events for all the family from Saturday August 18th until Monday 27th August.
Remember the Town Crier's competition will be held on the bank holiday Monday.
For further information ring: 01995 605210 or 602125.

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre - AUGUST

2012-07-10 14:05:00

July 28th - August 25th
An Exhibition by the Winners of 2012 Open Exhibition. Marcia Purcell: � I prefer water colours and try to paint what I see as accurately as I can.� Pam Potter�s work shows development of the landscape using experimental techniques of mixed media and a vibrant use of colours. Marie Donaldson from Blackpool works in pen and watercolour.
Beryl McLaren finds much pleasure in painting the local natural environment.
Mary Waddilove is a local artist who works in pastels.

Saturday 18th August
Craft and Collector Fair 10am � 3pm. This is the last of our fundraising Fairs for this year. It�s also your last chance to buy some wonderful bargains in handmade crafts, jewellery, cards, scarves, photographs, paintings, small antiques and lots more. Not to mentions super cakes and hot food, including our famous corned beef hash at lunchtime. Come along and enjoy yourself. Entrance charge 30p
Saturday 18th August
Concert with Tony Hindle & The Gadabouts Time 7-30pm. Come along and be entertained by this talented group of local people, who will be singing songs from the shows, reciting humorous monologues etc. Bring your own drinks. Nibbles provided. Raffle. Cost £5 Tickets from Garstang Arts Centre, 01995 606648, Anne Humphreys on 01995 602633 or pay on the door.

Sunday 19th August
Musical Recital with the Kendal Musicians. Tracie Penwarden- Soprano, David Edmonds- Flute, Charles Edmonson Piano. Time 2-30pm to 4pm. Light Refreshments available Cost £3 pay on the door Charles is well known to audiences of the Summer Lunchtime concerts

Monday 20th August Card Design with Brenda Brown
Time 10am to 12 noon
Cost £10 All materials provided to create at least 2 greeting cards. Booking essential Telephone Brenda on 01995 670519

Monday 20th August Painting Class with Terry O�Toole Time 10am to 12 noon and 1pm to 3pm. Full tuition and all materials provided to paint your own picture. Booking essential For details of cost and to book a place, ring Terry on 07969177369

Monday 20th August Songbirds Call in and join in the singing or just sit and listen to this friendly group of ladies who love to sing. Time 1-30pm to 3-30pm. Light refreshments available Cost £1

Tuesday 21st August Floral Art Demonstration with
Justine Lang
Time 2pm to 4pm. The lovely arrangements will be raffled at the close of the demonstration. Cost £4 including light refreshments.

Tuesday 21st August The Inaugural Garstang Lecture A new feature this year with Garstang Historian, Paul G. Smith as the guest speaker. Paul will be giving an illustrated lecture with the title, �People like Us� Using period photos he will look back at the Garstonians of yesteryear, their families & lives. Followed by cheese & wine. Cheese kindly donated by Dewlay. Time 7-30pm. Cost £5

Wednesday 22nd August Montmartre with Local Artists Sit and relax with members of Garstang Painting Group as they paint outside in the Arts Centre courtyard with musical accompaniment and refreshments available. Time 2pm to 4pm.

Wednesday 22nd August Film Evening �Around Garstang .� Local photographers Jeff Ashworth and Peter Thornber show some of the events which have taken place over the past year including last year�s Arts Festival, Children�s Festival etc Time 7-30pm. Cost £3 including light refreshments Children Free Raffle

Thursday 23rd August Palm Court Concert with June Baker and Friends Enjoy an hour of peace amongst the bustle of Market Day Time 1pm to 2pm. Cost Donations Refreshments available

Friday 24th August �The Art of Mime�- A Workshop with Professor James Dodding.
There is no Poetry Appreciation this month. Instead Professor James Dodding our Patron and instigator of the Poetry Appreciation Group will hold a workshop on the � The Art of Mime � from 1pm until 4pm as part of Garstang Arts Festival. Professor Dodding has immense experience of mime having studied with Rose Burford, Marcel Marceau and Ladislav Fialka in Prague. He has taught mime in many countries including Canada and the USA and has written several textbooks on the subject .It is an experience not to be missed. Tickets are £3 each including light refreshments available from Anne Humphreys 01995 602633. Booking is essential - book early to avoid disappointment.

Saturday 25th August Indian Dance Demonstration & Workshop Back by popular demand. Time 7pm. Come along to see the delightful dances performed in beautiful Indian Dresses then try to do them yourself. Entrance by ticket only as numbers are restricted, available at The Arts Centre or ring 01995 605210. Cost £5 includes nibbles and soft drinks.

Monday 27th August Craft Demonstrations Includes decorating eggs, designing cards, painting, jewellery making, needlework, woodturning etc. Refreshments served all day Time 11am to 3pm. Free entry

Pat Hansell 01995 600397

An Exhibition by the Winners of 2012 Open Exhibition

2012-07-09 11:29:00

Garstang Arts Centre Presents:

An Exhibition by the Winners of 2012 Open Exhibition
July 28th to August 5th

See PDF link for more details.

Garstang Arts Centre Opening Times:

TUESDAY 10-12.30 & 2- 4 PM
THURSDAY 10- 4 PM
SATURDAY 10-12.30 PM

Free admission
Refreshments available

North West National Fishing & Play Day Event

2012-06-26 11:43:00

A fun filled day for the whole family.

Demonstrations by Neil Smith, Nash Tackle and a surprise guest. There will be bait rolling demonstrations, Morecambe & District Junior Angling Club will be in attendance, Myerscough Collage will be available to advise of careers in fishery management, game keeping & much more, Something Fishy Angling Centre will be available to give tackle advice and Registered angling coach Jimmy Coffey will be on hand and giving lessons & demonstrations throughout the day. Trade stands and food available all day. Junior adventure play day running from 10am until 4pm

Click on PDF link for full details

WHAT'S ON - GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - JULY

2012-06-21 11:11:00

Tuesday 17th July The Floral Art Group will meet in the Arts Centre on Tuesday July 17th when Joanne Hayhurst from The Barn at Scorton will be demonstrating her flower arranging skills. The finished designs will be raffled at the end of the demonstration, followed by tea and biscuits. The meeting begins at 2-00pm and visitors are welcome. For further details please phone Mary Thornber on 01995 605210.

Friday July 27th Poetry Appreciation.
2pm � 4pm. This months session is entitled Olympiad � Challenges of Sport and Life. From running the 100 metres to running the race of life itself, its all there. The session is led by Harry Batty so it will be well worth listening to. We are a friendly informal group and welcome visitors come along and try us out. For more information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

OUR FARMING FAMILY:
NOT A HARD LUCK STORY
photographs by Jan Burrow, Stephen Burrow, George Coupe and Helen Burrow

June 30th � July 28th

Jan and Stephen are farmers at Cinder Hill, Dolphinholme and have photographed their everyday lives from dawn to dusk.
George left his job as a graphic artist at Rembrandt Engravers, Crown Wall Coverings, to become a professional photographer. Helen was a community psychiatric nurse and after she retired enjoyed herself very much taking a photography degree at the Bolton Institute.
This exhibition has been made as a tribute to John Burrow who died in 2009.

Garstang Arts Centre
Opening Times:
TUESDAY 10-12.30 & 2- 4 PM
THURSDAY 10- 4 PM
SATURDAY 10-12.30 PM

Free admission
Refreshments available

OUR FARMING FAMILY - NOT A HARD LUCK STORY

2012-06-21 10:23:00

OUR FARMING FAMILY:
NOT A HARD LUCK STORY
photographs by Jan Burrow, Stephen Burrow, George Coupe and Helen Burrow

June 30th � July 28th

Jan and Stephen are farmers at Cinder Hill, Dolphinholme and have photographed their everyday lives from dawn to dusk.
George left his job as a graphic artist at Rembrandt Engravers, Crown Wall Coverings, to become a professional photographer. Helen was a community psychiatric nurse and after she retired enjoyed herself very much taking a photography degree at the Bolton Institute.
This exhibition has been made as a tribute to John Burrow who died in 2009.

Garstang Arts Centre
Opening Times:
TUESDAY 10-12.30 & 2- 4 PM
THURSDAY 10- 4 PM
SATURDAY 10-12.30 PM

Free admission
Refreshments available

RACE NIGHTS AT THE BELLFLOWER

2012-06-21 10:10:00

Marston's are very kndly hosting several "race nights" to help local charities or community groups in Garstang.

So far - cheques have been presented to the trustees of Kepple Lane Park, and Garstang Youth Panel.

The recent night for Garstang in Bloom raised a total of £240 - grateful thanks to Stephen and his team for a great evening!

Funds raised for Croston House will appear here shortly

Remember to support the next race which will be for Kepple Lane Park Trust.

SATURDAY 25th AUGUST
Contact Stephen Quinn for more details: Tel: 01995 238207

SAINSBURY'S IN THE COMMUNITY

2012-06-21 10:00:00

SAINSBURY�S GARSTANG DONATE £3000 TO CROSTON HOUSE

Sainsbury�s Garstang have raised £3000 to donate to Croston House over the last year. Croston House had a partnership with Sainsbury�s as their charity of the year and helped to raise the profile of the Cancer Care charity by completing in store tombolas, cake stalls, bag packs and collection boxes. We would like to thank Croston House for a fantastic partnership and will continue to maintain links and support the charity in the future.

JUBILEE COLOURING COMPETITION RESULTS

Over the Jubilee weekend, Sainsbury's Garstang ran an in store colouring competition for children up to 12 years. We had 3 age categories: Under 5's, 5-7 and 8-12. Our winners were: Elana (Under 5), Taylor (5-7) and Kayla (8-12). All children won a 2012 Jubilee teddy bear and a box of Jubilee crown chocolates. Congratulations to all our winners, from all at Sainsbury's Garstang!

THE JUNE BAKER SINGERS

2012-06-21 09:55:00

An evening with
The June Baker Singers
At
St Peter�s Church, Scorton, PR3 1AY
Friday 6th July 2012 at 7.30 p.m.

See pdf link for further details

RACE NIGHT AT THE BELLFLOWER - SATURDAY 30th JUNE

2012-06-06 13:21:00

In aid of GARSTANG IN BLOOM

At the Bellflower
Sat 30th June 8.30pm

Watch out for the posters around town or click on pdf link here.

Please call Stephen on 01995 238207 or call in for more information

Don�t Forget to Book Your Table

JUBILEE COLOURING COMPETITION AND JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

2012-06-01 14:37:00

Sainsbury�s Garstang are running a children�s colouring competition instore to celebrate the Queen�s Diamond Jubilee.
There are 3 age ranges: Under 5, 5-7 and 8-12 for the chance to win some Jubilee goodies!!

Please pop into store to collect a colouring sheet. The deadline for entries is Friday 8th June 2012. Good luck!

Also in store over the Bank Holiday weekend we are holding a charity cake sale, so please come to buy some cakes!

COMMUNITY SPIRIT AT BRIDGE HOUSE OPEN DAY

2012-05-22 12:11:00

Bridge House Marina Open Day
Saturday 19th May 2012.
Garstang Fairtrade Steering Group took the opportunity kindly offered by Bridge House for a free pitch at this event. We were very fortunate to have the use of a small marquee courtesy of Garstang Lions for shelter on a chilly but dry day. We met many visitors and locals to talk about the purpose of Fairtrade and its role in the lives of people across the globe. Garstang�s special position as the world�s first Fairtrade town is widely recognised. Fairtrade chocolate and drinks were on hand for people to try for themselves and taste the range and quality of products available. We hope visitors set sail for home with the Fairtrade message in their hearts, determined to support Fairtrade whenever possible.
Mary Cammack

CRY raise the roof at Sainsbury�s Garstang

2012-05-22 11:52:00

CRY (Cardiac Arrest in the Young) bag packers raised a fabulous £1797.78 through bag packing over a busy bank holiday weekend in May. CRY is a fabulous charity, which raises money to fund screenings of the hearts of young people and provides counselling for families who have lost relatives through Sudden Death Syndrome. The bag pack was completed with the support of local lad Matt Hesmondhalgh�s friends and family, who died suddenly from a sudden cardiac arrest. We would like to thank all our customers for their fantastic support for this cause.

GARSTANG & DISTRICT CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL 2012

2012-05-15 10:55:00

THE FOLLOWING ARE EXTRACTS FROM THE OFFICIAL BOOKLET WHICH CAN BE FOUND IN MOST SHOPS AROUND THE TOWN:

Hello and welcome to this year's festival booklet. 2012 is a very special year as there are so many exciting things going on! What with the Titanic celebrations, the Queen's Jubilee, the Olympics and the Preston Guild it is going to be extremely busy.

The biggest change for the festival committee is that the date has moved due to the change in the bank holiday for the Queen's jubilee celebrations. It is going to be a great celebratory weekend and we are delighted that the festival is going to be a part of the weekend's celebrations.

The meeting for the tableaux has already been held and I am delighted to report that you will not be disappointed with the array of different choices that the tableaux organisers have come up. What�s more, this year we have no duplication which is fabulous.

So make it a date and join us for a day of fun and entertainment for all on 4th June! Check out our website for details and photographs from our previous festivals.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Best wishes

Julie Bell (for further details ring 01995 603301)
Chairman

ON FESTIVAL DAY

For the organisers of the event the day starts at 6 a.m. with tasks such as the decorating of
the market cross and the preparation of sandwiches for the children in visiting bands.

The crowning of the 2012 Festival Queen, Natassja Hodgson from Garstang, will take place at the Market Cross at 11 a.m. Natassja will be crowned by the Retiring Queen, Paige Hurst. Following the crowning of the Festival Queen the morning procession will proceed through the streets led by the Morris Dancers, the festival and retiring queens, plus many other queens from surrounding villages and churches.

One of the highlights of the day must be the brightly decorated children�s tableaux.

Parents have been very busy these past few weeks putting the floats together, and I�m sure that the usual large crowds will appear to marvel at the quality of the tableaux and to show their appreciation.

There will be seven bands in attendance on the day: Pilling brass band, Brindle brass band, Red Rose brass band, The Hyndeburn Comets Majorette Troupe, Bolton Scottish Pipe Band, Lancaster City Brass Band and St Peters Brigade Band from Preston.

Also taking part in the procession will be the Garstang School of Gymnasium and members from the scouts and guides.

On completion of the morning procession, attention will switch to the Moss Lane playing
fields where activities will start at 1.10 pm with a display�s from the Garstang School of Gymnasium. and the Hyndeburn Comets Majorette Troupe.

Attention will then switch to the ever popular children�s sports which will commence at
approximately 2.00 pm, these will be followed by the football semi finals.

Throughout the afternoon there are many attractions for the younger children including
the presence of a professional face painter, children�s rides, bouncy castles and Punch
& Judy shows. All activities are free of charge so bring the little ones down for a great family day out.

Refreshments are available throughout the afternoon.

The evening procession starts at 6 p.m. at Moss Lane playing fields. This will include the
fancy dress parade in which there are many prizes to be won. The fancy dress parade is open to anyone. Entries are accepted from 5.15pm on Moss Lane playing fields, with judging taking place between 5.30pm and 6.00pm.and along the procession route.
So why not try your luck and have great fun at the same time?

The day concludes with the final of the football competition at 7.30pm.

David Gardner
Festival Secretary.

Timetable of Events

Monday 14th May 2012
Junior Football Competition 8-9 years old.
St. Thomas' C.E. Primary School 4.15 p.m. start.

Monday 21st May 2012
Junior Football Competition 10-11 years old
St. Thomas' C.E. Primary School 4.15 p.m. start.

Friday 25th May 2012
Netball Competition at St. Thomas' C.E. Primary School
(Teams will be notified of times).

Monday 04th June 2012

6. 00 a.m. Sandwich Making at St. Thomas' Parish Hall.

Decorating the Market Cross.
10.00 a.m. Procession starts to assemble.
11.00 a.m. Crowning of the Festival Queen.
11.05 a.m. Procession moves off, led by Morris Dancers.

Moss Lane Playing Fields
1.10 p.m. Garstang School Of Gymnasium Display.
1.40 p.m. Hyndburn Comets Display
2.00 p.m. Children's Sports (see page 12).
3.00 p.m. Football (7 a side) semi finals
5.15 p.m. Fancy Dress Entrants gather on playing field.
5.30 p.m. Fancy Dress judging.
5.45 p.m. Presentation of Tableaux prizes.
6.00 p.m. Evening Procession moves off, led by Morris Dancers.
7.00 p.m. Presentation of Fancy Dress Prizes.
7.30 p.m. Football (7 a side) Final.

1.00 p.m. - 5.00 p.m. Free for younger children - Martin Scott Price - Punch & Judy Shows, Cases Faces - Children�s Face Painting, Bouncy Castle, Bouncy Slide, Children's Roundabouts.

Refreshments available all afternoon.

START THE DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS WITH A WALK!

2012-05-11 09:49:00

Jubilee Walks in Garstang
Friday 1st June 2012

To start the celebrations in our Town this is an opportunity to see how the residents of Garstang have entered into the spirit of our Queen�s Diamond Jubilee by decorating their gardens.
These walks will be suitable for all on foot, in push chairs or wheel chairs and will be led by volunteer countryside rangers.
FRIDAY 1ST JUNE AT 4.30 p.m. Meet outside the Garstang Visitor Centre, Cherestanc Square, Garstang.

ROUTE:
High Street � Church Street (past St. Thomas�s Church, Abbeyfield,
St. Thomas�s School) � Grizedale Avenue (past Stransdale Centre)
Hazelhurst Drive � Moss Lane � Windsor Road � Derby Road -
Dorchester Road (past home of current Mayor of Garstang) -
Worcester Avenue � Sussex Drive � Windsor Road -
back to Garstang Visitor Centre.
Approx time of the walk: 1 hour � 1.5 hours

FRIDAY 1ST JUNE AT 7.00 p.m. Meet outside the Garstang Visitor Centre, Cherestanc Square, Garstang.
ROUTE:
Parkhill Road (past Nicksons & United Reformed Church) � Croston Road
(past Westwards Home) - Hawthorne Avenue � Sycamore Avenue - Croston Road � Oak Road (past Community Centre, Community
School & Swimming Pool) � Maple Road � Lancaster Road (past home of previous Mayor of Garstang) � Green Lane East � Manor Road � Wyre Lane � Willow Drive � Rivermead Drive � Lancaster Road(past Sandbriggs Court) � Fell View � Station Way - Devonshire Road -Dorchester Road � Windsor Road � back to Garstang Visitor Centre.
Approx time of walk 1 hour � 1.5 hours

QUEEN'S JUBILEE BIG LUNCH IN GARSTANG

2012-05-09 10:59:00

Bring your lunch to our lunch!

On Sunday 3rd June 2012, 12 noon- 2 p.m., Garstang Fairtrade Steering Group are holding a Big Lunch in Cherestanc Square to celebrate the Queen�s Diamond Jubilee.

There will be live music from Magwitch and free samples of Fairtrade goodies.

Please bring your friends and families along with your lunches and relax in the open air to prove what a friendly place Garstang is. We are proud to be the World�s First Fairtrade Town, and are keen to keep emphasising the importance of a fair price round the world for goods which are produced for our enjoyment and consumption. Let�s enjoy our picnics, joining other Big Lunchers across the UK in one big party!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Picture Credit: Alex Haw

10.000 Active Kids Vouchers for school

2012-05-09 10:49:00

In February St John�s Cross CE Primary School, Bilsbarrow had an arson attack which burnt all of the sports equipment and toys of the school.
A parent came into Sainsbury�s Garstang and informed the store of the attack, in addition to this being featured in the Garstang Courier.
We rang up head office and asked them whether they would be able to help. Head Office sent Garstang store 10,000 Active Kids Vouchers for the School. The Manager Stuart Butters, Deputy Manager Elizabeth Long and myself Hayley Woolley visited the school in an assembly to give the school the vouchers.
The school are excited about the vouchers and plan to replace all of the sports equipment and have enough vouchers to get more exciting toys for the children.

Wyre Senior Challenge 2012

2012-05-08 11:46:00

April 2012

The Wyre Senior Forum invites all Wyre schools to join us in celebrating UK Older Peoples Day on Monday the 1st of October, 2012 coinciding with the UN International Day of Older Persons. This will be the sixth year the day has been celebrated in the UK and the second of the Wyre Senior Challenge.
The main aim for the day is to be a national celebration of the achievements and contributions that older people make to our society and to the economy and through this start to tackle negative attitudes and outdated stereotypes.
There are no better examples for celebration than projects or activities that span the generations. We are sure that you currently have examples of both and if not would welcome an opportunity to undertake a project involving pupils, older relatives and friends from the community.
We are pleased to report that St John's Primary in Poulton and Millfield High School have already agreed to join the Challenge.
In the week leading up to 1stof October, 2011 seven Wyre schools focussed on current schemes or held special events to engage with older people.
During the course of this week around 300 pupils and 150 older residents took part in joint activities together.
They demonstrated how older volunteers regularly contribute to primary school life by helping with reading, cooking, gardening, personal history, model making, knitting, embroidery and sports.
Many schools hold regular annual lunches, coffee mornings and afternoon teas for older volunteers and grandparents with their children.
In two projects, groups of school children visit older residents in sheltered accommodation. There they provide entertainment, play games, serve food and generally get to know each other.
You can read about some of them here.
The forum are again offering to donate prizes totalling £400 to the schools judged to be the best in celebrating this day. This can be done by staging a special event associated with a current project or developing a special intergenerational activity to coincide with Older Peoples Day.
We appreciate that both staff and pupils have a very busy timetable; there will be scope for the event to be held any time during the week leading up to and after Monday the 1stof October.
If you are a parent or a governer please ask your school if they have heard of the Challenge and what they are planning to do. Last year showed how effective the Challenge was in helping grand parents and older residents to meet and spend time with pupils.
We hope that together we can recognise and publicise the valuable intergenerational work being carried out in the schools of Wyre.
For more information on the Challenge please contact Tony Ward on 01253 855966 or tonykrysiaward@hotmail.co.uk.

ANNUAL JEAN GRANGE AWARD EXHIBITION - ARTS CENTRE

2012-05-08 11:35:00

The Annual Jean Grange Award Exhibition 2012

Dates: 5th May 2012 to 2nd June 2012

This exhibition is for members of the Wednesday Art Club to show some of their current works. There is a real mixture of images and textures on show from local and foreign landscapes to fantasy, humour, abstract and some 3D textural work.

There truly is something for everyone.

All the art works are displayed anonymously and the public are encouraged to come and view the pieces then to vote for their favourite work. The winning artist will win an award.

Maybe you can pick up a unique piece to give as a gift or to enjoy for personal pleasure.

So, please come along, support local artists and enjoy our wonderful exhibition

ST. GEORGES DAY ON THE GARSTANG MILLENNIUM GREEN

2012-04-24 14:54:00

The Big Lottery Fund asked that Garstang Millennium Green closed last year�s account with them and that we celebrated this with a community event that they would finance.

We did just this on St George�s Day; at the second attempt after being flooded out in September. We feared we might have had a similar outcome again. Not so. We prepared for rain as the forecasts predicted but it stayed fine and sunny. It was a great day.

The vice chair of Trustees Michael Halford introduced our guest opener Eddy Topping. Eddy is a regular user of the Green and Barton Grange is a prominent supporter. He praised the community commitment and the progress that had been made last year particularly. Eddy said that Garstang must be proud of this wonderful resource.

About 250 guests and visitors attended and over 200 people enjoyed a free meal wonderfully prepared by the Coffee Pot who specially prepared hot pea and ham soup for the day. The Treasure Hunt kept people busy searching for clues across the Green and the Jazz band entertained us wonderfully. Key attractions were the Corio raptors with their owls being the focus of attention, the RSPB enlisted new members as did the Friends of The Millennium Green. We learned to love the chocolate from the Free Trade stall who handed out free tasters of many of their products. The Garstang library service,

Garstang Soroptomists, the Heart foundation, Garstang Lions and the Library Service all added to the flavour of this Community event. Garstang Show allowed us free parking that was supervised by Garstang Lions. New volunteers joined in to help with real gusto.

There are lots of people to thank and the managers of The Green are indebted to so many more people for their support that made it such a great day out.

GARDENER'S QUESTION TIME EVENT IN SCORTON - SUNDAY 6th MAY

2012-04-24 09:07:00

In Scorton (6th May), there will be special 'Gardeners Question Time' for novices and experts alike. It's all part of a busy bank holiday weekend in Scorton.
Everyone is welcome to come along to the village hall and enjoy helpful advice from a panel of local gardening gurus (including Ben Andrews and Harold Jepson) followed by a hanging basket demonstration by staff at the local garden centre, The Barn.
It starts at 2.30pm and there will also be a plant stall and cakes on sale. Entry is £5 and this includes a delicious cream tea. Plant donations welcome, please phone Helen Hesketh 01524 793339.

ARE THE BLUEBELLS TOO EARLY FOR GARSTANG'S WALKING FESTIVAL?

2012-04-18 09:52:00

Hopefully not! Here is some up to date news from "Pat's Blog"

Garstang Walking Festival 11 � 20 May 2012

Shock and horror in March the un-seasonally hot weather has triggered off the Bluebells to start flowering, when really they should be at their best in May � hence why we choose the 2nd week in May for our Walking Festival.

Well � fear not all you Bluebell lovers � the unseasonably low temperatures and frosty nights of mid-April are holding the flowering back � so all should be well!

Bluebells are one of the magnets that draw people to the Wyre area during the festival. As we know- the weather plays a big part in outdoor events and happenings.

This weekend doing a recce for a fell walk in Wyresdale, a local farmer told us that the Wheatears had arrived in the top field. It�s a bird of the Thrush family with a striking white rump, dove grey back and black cheeks and wings. He said � they are 2 weeks later than last year and 3 weeks later than the year before. Their arrival has been held up by strong northerly winds on their flight from North Africa. Swallows too are late arriving for the same reason. It`s good to be reminded that we can`t dictate to the elements or rule the weather. We can say though that the Garstang Walking Festival will start on the 11 May, but we could do without a strong northerly wind!

See you out and about.

Pat Ascroft

Volunteer Countryside Ranger

rom Pat Ascroft:

COFFEE MORNING IN AID OF CROSTON HOUSE

2012-04-16 11:44:00

YOU ARE INVITED...to a coffee morning on FRIDAY 20TH APRIL

VENUE: STRANSDALE CENTRE, PARLICK ROAD.

STARTING AT: 10 AM

REFRESHMENTS, TOMBOLA, RAFFLE, & TABLE TOP SALES.

TICKETS £1 - ALL PROCEEDS TO GO TO

CROSTON HOUSE.

(Pictured: Croston House volunteer helpers)

MAY EVENTS AT THE ARTS CENTRE

2012-04-16 11:35:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre

Thursday 10th May If you enjoy all types of arts and craft why not pop down to the Arts Centre at 6 o clock on Thursday 10th May and give the Experimental Textiles class a try out. There will be a taster class on this day free of charge from 6pm to 8pm . Bring your own machine if you have one, all other materials will be provided. If you would like to get more information and discuss the session, ring Marilyn on 01995 606439 or 07809633870

Tuesday 15th May The next meeting of the Floral Art Group takes place in the Arts Centre on Tuesday 15th May, when we are pleased to welcome back Joan Hardwick from Southport. Joan came to our group last year and entertained us with her interesting and amusing stories whilst creating stunning floral arrangements to depict these stories. The meeting starts at 2pm. Light refreshments will be served and the arrangements raffled at the end of the demonstration. We are a friendly group and are always pleased to welcome new members and visitors. For more details ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210.

The Spring Draw of the Garstang Arts Centre's 200 Club was held in March, accompanied by the Charles Flatt Memorial Quiz, which was this year set by the Centre's Floral Art Group and won by the Wine Circle. There was a top prize of £400, and the names of the 11 lucky winners are on display in the Centre. The 200 Club has a prize fund of £1400 and raises funds for the Arts Centre with twice yearly draws (spring and autumn) accompanied by excellent social events. At the moment, a few of the 200 numbers are untaken, and anyone wishing to support the Arts Centre is invited to join at £13 for the full year or £6.50 for the Autumn Draw. Please call into the Arts Centre or ring Hilary on 01995 603524.

Pat Hansell
pat.hansell@live.co.uk
(01995) 600397

FRIENDS OF GARSTANG WALKING FESTIVAL

2012-04-03 09:28:00

�The Friends� Footprints�- First Steps

Welcome to the first update of the �Friends of Garstang Walking Festival�.

As you can imagine a great deal of effort has been going into the organisation of the 2012 event. Many of you will have seen the new programme. (available as a download on this page - see news)

We hope you like the new format which is more economical to produce and has enabled a greater number to be printed and increased the scope of distribution. This includes a national events distributor.

Alternatively, if you go to http://www.wyre.gov.uk you can download the programme or order a brochure. Another option is to collect from Visit Garstang Centre, Cherestanc Square, Garstang, PR3 1EF.

Many of the popular walks are being repeated and some new ones are being introduced. Walk the Wyre Way is being undertaken From Saturday 12 May to Tuesday 15 May for the hardy ones amongst us and more gentle ones like Bluebell Teas Stroll are available. New ones include Cheese and Churches on Wednesday 16 May and the 3 �B�- Bilsborrow, Brock and Beacon Fell on Thursday 17 May. On the same day there is an example of a revised route for River, Reservoirs and Watery Revelations thanks to United Utilities.

The new Executive Committee of the Friends has started to get underway.

The first event will be a Coffee Morning on Thursday 12 April- please see below. On 21 April we will be represented at the Millennium Green�s Celebration starting at 1pm where we have been given the opportunity to publicise the Walking Festival. Unfortunately, Cherry Childes who agreed to become Chair has had to relinquish the post for personal reasons. I was asked and have accepted the role in her stead. She will still be a member of the Committee. I can be contacted by email at colinsills@btinternet.com and my phone number is 01995 603270.

So these are very early days for the Friends as we work with Duncan Byrne and our walk leaders and partners on this year�s event. We hope to make more Footprints in the coming months and that will need much support.

Thanks for your interest,

Colin Sills

Dates for your Diary

Friends of Garstang Walking Festival Coffee Morning � Thursday 12th April 2012 � 10.00am to 12 noon- United Reformed Church Hall, Croston Road, Garstang (Entry £1 to include refreshments)

Friends of Millennium Green- Celebration of the Upgrade- Saturday 21st April - 1.00pm to 4.00pm on Millennium Green, Garstang (Subject to weather and flooding)

Launch of Garstang Walking Festival � Friday

11th May 2012 2.30pm Cherestanc Square, Off Park Hill Road, Garstang, PR3 1EF

Garstang Walking Festival 2012 Friday 11th May to Sunday 20th May Brochure available as noted

Friends of Garstang Walking Festival Meeting & Festival Evaluation � Tuesday 12th June 2012 Venue to be advised

Committee

The following people were elected as committee members until the next AGM- Les Fagle (Treasurer), Pat Ascroft, Rowena Wilson(Secretary), Gwyn McFadyon, Cherry Childes, Rhona Giles, Hazel Westwell and Colin Sills.

AROUND THE WORLD IN TWENTY SHOWS!

2012-03-30 09:41:00

For their 2012 spring concert, Garstang Musical Productions will be performing a wide selection of songs from popular West End musicals. The concert is entitled �Around the World in Twenty Shows� and features extracts from musicals set in different parts of the world including �Oliver�, �Les Misérables�, The Sound of Music�, �Sister Act�, and �The Rocky Horror Picture Show�. The show is again being choreographed by Pam Sullivan, and the group is delighted to welcome Alex Phillips as its new Musical Director.

The show will take place at Garstang Community Academy (formerly Garstang High School) from 2nd to 5th May.

All performances start at 7.30pm and tickets, which cost £8.00, are now available at Car Care in Garstang or by contacting Alan Armstrong on 01995 606603.

RECESSION BUSTING AUCTION!

2012-03-29 12:19:00

Scorton Bikes & Barrows Auction Scorton is hosting a Recession Buster Auction this Saturday night (31 March, 7pm)to help support groups and events around the village. The Auction is part of the Scorton Bikes and Barrows Festival which will run in over May Bank Holiday weekend and promises to be an entertaining weekend full of family fun. Up for auction is a delicious home cooked 4 course meal for up to 10 people; 2 hours ironing, luxury hamper, family ticket to Camelot, a day�s plastering, one lucky bidder will even walk away with a one-week stay in a holiday home in north Wales, home to William & Kate! The evening is being run by a professional auctioneer and it will be a great evening out. The auction will be held at Scorton Village Hall at 7.00pm on Saturday 31st March. Entry to the auction will be £1.00 and there will be a licensed bar throughout. The full auction list is on www.scortonvillage.co.uk The gifts and promises have been very kindly donated from various villagers and local businesses

OLYMPIC TORCH ROUTE

2012-03-19 09:08:00

Proposed start times of when and where the Olympic Flame will travel across Britain have been released, although the details of the final two days of its journey have been kept secret until the beginning of the relay at Land's End on May 19.

London 2012 chairman Lord Coe declared "today we bring the Olympic Torch Relay to life" as organisers hope the 8,000-mile relay involving 8,000 torchbearers will be the point when enthusiasm for the Games ignites across the country.

Around 7,000 people, many of whom are members of the public who have shown community spirit, courage and sporting determination, have been named as torchbearers.

One of Garstang's nominees is 13year old Laura Addison (pictured).

Laura has been ill for the past two years with various debilitating symptoms, but this has not stopped her from raising money for other people by doing sponsored "famines" and walks. Her mother Carla nominated her via the "Coca Cola Future Flames."

Pop star Eliza Doolittle picked out Laura's nomination and said it was "amazing to see someone battling an illness herself and still finding time to help others". She is presently raising money for a new adolescent room in Lancaster hospital after having a recent long stay in there and finding there was no dedicated "space" for teenagers.

Her interests are Garstang Explorers, RAF cadets at LRGS, Garstang Theatre Group, Wicked Theatre school. This year she is the incoming St Thomas' Rose Queen, and is a member of the newly formed Garstang Youth Panel.

Laura attends Lancaster Girls' Grammar school.

Cick on the pdf link for details of the route throughout the Northwest.

GARDNEING CLUB SPRING SHOW WINNERS

2012-03-17 10:09:00

Spring is definitely in the air for members of Garstang Gardening Club.
The club's annual spring show at St Thomas's hall attracted scores of members, many who took the opportunity to enter the daffodils and spring flowers competitions.
Prizes were announced by show organiser Don Worsnop, and presented by president Ben Andrews.
Winners:
Class 1, three bulbs in a 7inch pot: 1 Rosemary Stokes, 2 Stuart McPhilips, 3 Elizabeth Noble.
Class 2, mini daffodils in a pot: 1 Lorraine Gibbs
Class 3, any bulbs (not daffs): 1 Ruth Cowell, 2 Richard Kellett, 3 Ray Pearson
Class 4, three standard daffodils, cut stems in vase: 1. Richard Kellett, 2 Maureen Stuart, 3 Ray Pearson.
Class 5, three mini daffodils, cut stems in vase: 1 Maureen Stuart, 2 Christina Sutcliffe, 3 Pat Collins
Class 6, spring arrangement, flowers and foiliage: 1 and 2 Ben Andrews, 3 Joyce Meiring
Class 7, Helibore blooms, floating in water: 1 Ben Andrews, 2 Gillian Southwood, 3 Hilary Hine.
Following the prizegiving Mr Andrews thanked Don and Margaret Worsnop for setting up the show, and also thanked June Gornall and Peter Burrell for their assistance.
Earlier the club's annual meeting took place.
Chairman Ray Pearson surveyed the successes of the previous 12 months, which included two shows, several lectures and several garden visits, including one to Prince Charles' garden at Highgrove House.
Mr Pearson revealed the club was considering moving venues because of the uncertainty over the future of the ageing St Thomas Hall, where the kitchen was now out of use (though refreshments continue to be available through a loaned urn!).
He also called for members to consider volunteering for the post of secretary, which is to be vacated by Sue McDade in March 2013.
Treasurer Roger Broadbelt reported a slight decline in membership but a healthy bank balance, which meant no increase in subs next year.
Officials elected were: Chairman, Ray Pearson; Vice-chairman, Hilary Hine; Treasurer, Roger Broadbelt; Secretary, Susan McDade; programme secretary Ruth Cowell; Press secretary, Anthony Coppin. Committee: Nancy Cowell, Pat Pickford, Don Worsnop and Bob Sutcliffe.
* The group's next meeting is at St Thomas's hall on Monday, April 2, 2012, at 7.30pm when Ken Green of Hornby will talk on 'Gardening for wildlife.
* For more information about the Garstang Gardening Club visit

https://sites.google.com/site/garstangdistrictgardeningclub/home

Picture: Flower and foliage display runner-up: Joyce Meiring

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - WHAT'S ON IN APRIL?

2012-03-14 11:56:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre
April 2012

Tuesday April 17th at 2 pm. The next meeting of the Floral Art Group takes place in the Garstang Arts Centre on Tuesday 17th April, from 2-00pm. Maureen Garstang returns to lead the members in a practical workshop. Maureen gives step by step guidance with tips and advice to produce a lovely floral arrangement. We are a friendly group and are always pleased to welcome new members and visitors. For details on what you need to bring please ring Mary Thornber.- 01995 605210.

Saturday April 21st Craft and Collectors' Fair 10am � 3pm. There are lovely handmade items such as jewellery, cards, scarves and children�s clothes, collectables, small antiques, delicious cakes and hot food. Refreshments are available all day . Come and browse! For more information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

Friday April 27th . Poetry Appreciation 2pm - 4pm . This month Ann Humphreys will lead on the British Obsession � the weather! We are a very friendly group so whether it�s rain, its hail or sunshine come along and join in or just sit and listen. For more information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

Pat Hansell
pat.hansell@live.co.uk
(01995) 600397

HOT POT SUPPER AT TH'OWD TITHEBARN

2012-03-06 11:05:00

Garstang Mayor�s Hotpot Supper!

At Th�Owd Tithebarn
Church Street.

Friday 27 April
7.30pm

For more details:

Tel: 01995 602225
Email: dulciemary@hotmail.com

UNITED REFORMED CHURCH TALK

2012-03-06 09:48:00

Hot Pot Supper and talk

by Revd.Yolande Burns

Where do URC Ministers come from?
in the Garstang URC Church Hall

on

Friday, 23rd March 2012 at 7.30pm

Tickets, £5, available from the Secretary
on 01524 791292 or email

secretary.garstangurc@gmail.com

IN AID OF WESTMINSTER COLLEGE

GARSTANG SOROPTIMISTS

2012-03-04 11:41:00

LOCAL / /INTERNATIONAL NEWS
8th March is International Women's Day and soroptimists throughout the North West Region will be marking this week in a variety of ways by highlighting women's issues.

INFORMATION DAY

Your Garstang Soroptimists are holding an Ovarian Cancer Awareness day on Saturday March 10th at Sainsbury�s Supermarket in Garstang. 10.00am. to 2.00pm

What do you know about Ovarian Cancer?

What are the symptoms?

*Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain:

*Increased abdominal size/persistent bloating that comes and goes:

*Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly,

DID YOU KNOW?

6,500 women a year are diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer: Cervical screening test will not help to detect ovarian cancer: Most cases of ovarian cancer are diagnosed in women who have gone through the menopause, but younger women can also get ovarian cancer.

Early diagnosis is essential - survival can be up to 70% for women diagnosed with early ovarian cancer in the UK.

Garstang Soroptimists will �man� an information stall offering Target Ovarian Cancer leaflets to shoppers, please stop by and pick up a leaflet, it could make a difference to someone you know.

If you would like to meet us and join us in our Programme Action work in the fight against improving the lives of women I would like to speak to you and invite you to one of our meetings either social (its not all work!) or business.

Muriel Burnham-Airey.

Membership Officer 01995 606604 OR President Leslie 01253 790886

GARSTANG WALKING FESTIVAL 2012

2012-02-29 16:21:00

If you�ve ever been to the annual Walking Festival in beautiful Garstang and its surrounding district, you�ll know it�s a great team of friendly faces that make the event so great and keep people coming back year after year. If you�re new to the festival we�d love to meet you!

The Garstang Walking Festival is known for its friendly welcome and helpful leaders whose job it is to show you the best of our great outdoors. Situated in the red rose county of Lancashire, the festival takes in Garstang, Rural Wyre, the Lancaster Canal and the Forest of Bowland - an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Download this year's programme of events here...and if you are interested in becoming a "Friend" of the Walking festival look at the Around Garstang tab on this website and click on Walking Festival.

GARSTANG COUNTRY MARKET RE-OPENS!

2012-02-29 15:59:00

Garstang Country Market will re-open its doors Thursday 1st March for the summer season.

10am St Thomas� Church Hall, Church Street. Garstang.

Lots of local grown produce, vegetables, jams, pastries, cakes, various craft items and indoor/outdoor plants for sale.

Don�t miss us out when you are in town on a Thursday!

FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT IN GARSTANG

2012-02-22 12:59:00

Fairtrade Fortnight runs from Monday 27th February to Sunday March 11th. Events in Garstang, the World�s First Fairtrade Town, are planned as follows:

From Tuesday, 28th February, local schools� pupils �Fairtrade Footprints� will be displayed in the windows of Garstang shops and businesses.

Wednesday 29th, in the morning, Malian cotton co-operative manager Massatoma Mounkoro will visit Myerscough College, and Ugandan Fairtrade coffee farmer Jenipher Wetkama, vice chairperson of Gumotondo Co-operative Directors Board, visits St Thomas� Primary School.

At approximately midday, the visitors will meet Coun Lady Dulcie Atkins, Mayor of Garstang, and any members of the public wishing to attend, for refreshments at the FIG Tree Fairtrade Visitors� Centre in Garstang High Street. (Please note that there will be no set lunch and therefore booking in advance will not be necessary, but refreshments will still be available).

The timetable for the rest of the visit is, approximately:
12.45: Presentations to those assembled by the African visitors, plus time for questions.
2.00 approx: African visitors leave.

Saturday, March 3rd, 9.30: Royal Oak, Garstang Cycle Club eat Fairtrade Bananas for energy before their bike ride.

Sunday, MARCH 4th: 3pm, FIG Tree: Ethiopian visitors will talk about the founding of the Oromo Coffee Company, and will demonstrate �coffee-cupping� techniques.

Wednesday, March 7th,: 9.30-4.30 Garstang Fairtrade Steering Group exhibition stand at International Women�s Day Conference by Soroptimist International of Fylde at Hilton Hotel, Blackpool.

Saturday, March 10th: 10am � 12noon Fair Trade Cake Stall at Wesleys, Garstang Methodist Church/

Also, schools intend to hold assemblies themed around Fairtrade during the Fortnight.

For further details, please contact Ruth Bruce on 01995 602784, email brucemr@btinternet.com

"CREATING OUR DREAM" - A talk by GUY TOPPING

2012-02-20 09:12:00

Garstang Millennium Green Trust [Reg. Charity 1079032]

The Friends of the Green present, �Creating Our Dream�, a talk by Guy Topping, Managing Director of Barton Grange Garden Centres, that will tell the story of the years of planning, followed by whirlwind construction, culminating in the opening of the new centre at Brock in 2008.

Wednesday 7th March 2012, commencing 7-30 pm.

United Reformed Church Hall, Croston Rd., Garstang

Admission £2-00 including Tea/ Coffee and biscuits.

Raffle
All profits will go towards upkeep of the Millennium Green

HURRY TO GET YOUR TICKETS!

2012-02-17 10:17:00

Garstang Sports and Social Club have organised a fundraising event at the Garstang Best Western Country Hotel
featuring International Cabaret Star Stephen Bayliss.

Friday 23rd March 2012

Tickets are £20 each including a Butty and Chip Supper.
Tickets - 07825 508692 - 01995 606204

CROSTON HOUSE NEWS

2012-02-09 10:32:00

Croston House had a tombola and craft stall in Sainsbury's store on Friday 27 January and they raised £142.25 - they would like to thank everybody involved for supporting them.

Garstang Arts Centre are proud to present...

2012-02-02 16:34:00

An exhibition of artwork
By the
Arnside Art Group
February 14th � March 10th

Arnside Art Group presents a cornucopia of paintings in varied media and styles both traditional and modern. We meet weekly, as the group has done for over 40 years. Some current members have been for over 25years whilst for others this is their first year. We value tradition but introduce and embrace new techniques and media during each winter programme. We have brought together an eclectic mix of our work to display in Garstang which we very much hope you will enjoy.

TUESDAY 10-12.30 & 2- 4 PM
THURSDAY 10- 4 PM
SATURDAY 10-12.30 PM

Free admission
Refreshments available

THE QUEEN�S DIAMOND JUBILEE IN GARSTANG. Outline programme of events

2012-01-30 12:27:00

1ST � 5TH JUNE, 2012
Friday, 1st June JUBILEE WALKS IN GARSTANG (See news item on this webpage)
Afternoon and evening walks around Garstang to look at planted and decorated gardens

Saturday, 2nd June
The Subscription Bowling Club Diamond Jubilee Competition and The Crown Bowling Club Diamond Jubilee Competition � contact Roy Stuart 07813 665758
Garstang Tennis Club Diamond Jubilee Competition & "Fun Doubles"

Sunday, 3rd June
Various cricket matches
The Big Lunch � Fairtrade � Street Party (See separate news item on this page)

Monday 4th June
Garstang Children�s Festival
(See item and download programme on the community pages of this website)
Lighting of the bonfire - 10.30pm High St Car Park

Tuesday, 5th June
Celebration Church Service in the afternoon - St Thomas' Church 2pm
Strawberry Tea 2pm - 4pm in The Arts Centre

A FULL DOWNLOADABLE PROGRAMME WILL BE AVAILABLE HERE SOON.

For further details please contact Lady Dulcie Atkins on 01995 602225 or email: dulciemary@hotmail.com

PROGRAMME FOR GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - MARCH

2012-01-24 10:35:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre
March 2012?

Saturday 17th March at 7.30pm. A Concert of light music performed by the Valley Singers. A welcome return visit by this choir, who were so impressed by the Garstang audience at their first Arts Centre concert last spring that they volunteered to come back to sing for us during the Victorian evening at Christmas. Tickets £5 including tea and cakes available from the Arts Centre or ring Mary Thornber on (01995) 605210.

Tuesday March 20th at 2 pm. The next meeting of the Floral Art Group
will be a workshop with an Easter Theme will be led by Brenda Newhouse. The meeting begins at 2-00pm. We are a friendly group and are always pleased to welcome new members and visitors. For details on what you need to bring please ring Mary Thornber on (01995) 605210.

Friday March 23rd at 2 pm.This month's Poetry Appreciation group features Humorous Poems led by John Whalley. Come along and bring your favourite humorous poems; we should have a very entertaining afternoon! Our meetings are from 2pm until 4pm, we are a very friendly group and everyone is welcome. You can just sit and listen or join in if you wish. For further details, contact Marie Whalley on (01995) 603605

Saturday March 24th at 7.30 pm. Arts Centre Activity Groups are invited to enter teams of 4 players for the Charles Flatt Memorial quiz which will start at 7.30pm. Tthere is no limit to the number of teams a Group can enter - the more the merrier. Nibbles will be provided but please bring your own drink. The quiz will be set by last years winners, the Floral Art Group, and will be followed by the 200 Club Spring Draw so we look forward to a very enjoyable evening. Please send the Curator, Hilary, a note of the teams as soon as possible.

Saturday March 31st at 7.30. Opera - The Drama, The Passion, the Melodies, the Magic! This year is the 20th anniversary of the Encore Opera Group, talented singers who specialise in performing popular opera throughout the North West of England. The group�s enthusiasm and commitment to opera is always evident in their singing and under the inspirational leadership of their Musical Director (David Chapman of Casterton School) they continue to produce spellbinding concerts. Tickets £6 including refreshments available from the Arts Centre.

Pat Hansell
pat.hansell@live.co.uk
(01995) 600397

QUEEN'S AWARD NOMINATION FOR CROSTON HOUSE!

2012-01-21 09:48:00

Croston House has been nominated for the Queen�s Award for Voluntary Service, They have been assessed and now we have to wait patiently until the summer to see if they have won an award.

Lead nurse Kath Boit said "To have been nominated is reward enough but to actually win an award would be absolutely fantastic".

Pictured: Cheque for £687 raised by Sainsbury's "in store Christmas raffle"

ARE YOU, OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW SUFFERING FROM CANCER?

2012-01-18 16:14:00

HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT CROSTON HOUSE?

Cancer Help has been in Preston at Vine House for over 20 years and is now well established here on Croston Road in Garstang, but just how much do you know about Croston House and how supportive it can be for you, or someone you know who may need some extra help during a very difficult time?

If you are affected in any way by cancer then Cancer Help at Croston House is there for you.

Through the door of Croston House you will find the caring support you need whether it be just a sympathetic ear, relaxing groups and hobbies or help from counsellors who are trained to cover all aspects of your concerns. Or even if you just want a cup of tea!!

Croston House is close to the A6 junction on Croston Road with plenty of car parking spaces to the rear. You are always welcome to call, without appointment, for a confidential chat or if you prefer just telephone - 01995 606469 between 9.0 to 5.0 p.m Monday to Friday.

FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT : 27 FEBRUARY � 11 MARCH 2012

2012-01-18 12:45:00

�Taking small steps for Fairtrade�, Garstang Fairtrade Steering Group is asking schools, churches, Guides and Scouts, etcetera, to draw round their foot on to a piece of card or paper and to decorate the footmark to show how they intend to support Fairtrade in 2012. The steps will be displayed in Garstang Town Centre during Fairtrade Fortnight to draw attention to the importance of Fairtrade in the World�s First Fairtrade Town.

Taking a giant leap for Leap Year, on Wednesday February 29th, a Ugandan coffee farmer and a Malian cotton producer will visit Garstang. Fairtrade coffee-farmer Jenipher Wetkama visits St Thomas� Primary School and Fairtrade cotton producer Massatoma Mounkoro will visit Myerscough College. They will join members of the Garstang Fairtrade Steering Group at the FIG Tree for an informal lunch and a chance for Garstonians to meet them.

Jenipher , vice-chairperson of Gumutondo Co-operative directors board � an organisation of women coffee-growers - is a Fairtrade farmer. She says, �Being a certified Fairtrade producer, I get a good advance price for my quality coffee. This has enabled me to have my children in school and provide for all basic needs in our home. Fairtrade premiums, which we also receive, are used for community projects , which include training in good farm and agronomy practices, governance, planning, and farming as a business, as well as in gender issues. For instance, we have a drama group which aims to mobilise women as coffee farmers, raise men�s and women�s awareness of family benefits of women being members of society, counselling and orphan care for those affected by HIV/AIDS and promote adult literacy � as well as the benefits of producing good quality coffee!�

Massatoma is manager of Mobiom Organic Cotton Co-operative�s Centre of Competence in Mali. His role is to ensure compliance with Fairtrade standards, facilitate Fairtrade and organic inspections and audits, and to monitor Fairtrade premium-funded projects. World market prices for cotton have been declining for some time, and African, Latin American and Asian producers, competing with subsidised cotton from the USA, China and the EU, are losing out on foreign exchange earnings, vital to health, education and other social development projects. Among other things, Mobiom aims to improve farmers� incomes, promote Fairtrade and organic cotton production and reduce the harmful effects of conventional cotton production on community health and the environment.

During the Feb 29th visit, the FIG Tree will be open from noon til 2pm, serving a lunch of soup, sandwiches and other refreshments for £6.50. Please come along and meet these two outstanding growers who have achieved so much for their communities. If you intend to do so, please contact Garstang Fairtrade Steering Group Chairperson Ruth Bruce on 01995 602784, email brucemr@btinternet.com for catering purposes.

OPEN EXHIBITION FROM LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA ARTISTS

2012-01-08 11:13:00

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE
Schoolroom and Music Room Exhibition
January 10th � February 11th
The Garstang Arts Centre Open Exhibition, held in both rooms, will be open to the public from Tuesday January 10th to February 11th. Artists from all over Lancashire and South Cumbria have been invited to exhibit their work, so there will be a variety of work in a different styles and media on display. The Exhibition will be judged by Elizabeth Smithies and Chris Tindall from Cockerham. The exhibition will be well worth visiting and most of the paintings will be for sale.
Opening times for exhibition:
Tuesdays 10-12.30 and 2-4
Thursdays 10-4
Saturdays 10-12.30
Free admission. Refreshments available.

POETRY LOVERS ARE IN FOR A TREAT IN 2012

2012-01-08 00:49:00

POETRY lovers in Garstang are in for a treat during 2012.

The town's poetry appreciation society has just issued its yearly programme, which will see a poetry meeting once a month at the Garstang Arts Centre.

Formed in 2009 following a suggestion by Garstang resident James Dodding who led a poetry reading session during that year's Garstang Arts Festival, the society has continued to flourish.

Previous topics have included war poems, dialect poetry, humourous verse, American poets and the work of poets as varied as Carol Anne Duffy and Pam Ayres

The 2012 sessions are just as varied with sessions being led by local members including former town mayor Anne Humphreys, retired Garstang United Reformed Church minister Rev David Greenwood, and Arts Centre activists Kath Jackson and Mary Thornber.

Topics are sometimes chosen to link up with themes in the month - for example the October session will be on a halloween theme. The November meeting, with its proximity to Remembrancetide, will be on 'Thoughts on war and peace.'

This year's two special celebrations, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in June, and the Olympics in July, will be mirrored with relevant poems in those two months.

Currently the majority of the membership is composed of women, with a sprinkling of men, which perhaps suggests why the May session will be 'Poems by or about Women' which will be led by Kath Jackson and Mary Thornber.

The September session will be led by Salford-based poet Robin Graham, no stranger to Garstang with his links with the town's Fairtrade movement. Robin has previously done performance poetry at several Garstang venues.
The format is simple with a member leading each session and other members joining in, if they wish, in discussion, comment or reading their chosen poem relevant to the topic, or just sitting, listening, and enjoying the session.

Poetry society spokeswoman Marie Whalley said: "The group isn�t precious, arty or highbrow. It�s very enjoyable, interesting and fun. You don�t have to read a poem if you don�t want to. You can just listen. Come along and try it out you may be surprised! We are a very friendly group. "

* For further information please contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605.

* Venue details: sessions held each month at Garstang Arts Centre, The Old Grammar School, Croston Road, Garstang. From 2pm to 4pm. Refreshments and chat follow all the sessions.
Garstang Poetry Appreciation Society - 2012 programme:
January 27: A Winter�s Tale, poems for wintertime led by Harry Batty
February 24: William Blake the poet and his poetry, led by David Greenwood
March 23: Humorous Poems, led by John Whalley
April 27: The British Obsession - the weather led by Anne Humphreys
May 25: Poems by or about women led by Kath Jackson and Mary Thornber
June 22: Jubilation! Poems for the Diamond Jubilee
July 27: Olympiad - Challenges in Sport and Life led by Harry Batty
August 24: Garstang Arts Festival - details to be announced
September 28 Speaker: poet and writer Robin Graham
October 26: Poetry for Halloween, led by Marie Whalley
November 23: War and Peace. Thoughts for November
December 14: An Anthology of Christmas

WHAT'S ON AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - FEBRUARY 2012

2012-01-06 10:18:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre
February 2012

Saturday February 18th The first Craft and Collectors Fair of 2012 runs from 10am until 2pm. It�s our usual mix of beautiful handmade objects, small antiques and books, jewellery and pictures as well as lovely cakes and hot lunches. Come to relax and browse for a while. Further details from Marie Whalley on (01995) 603605
Tuesday February 21st at 2 pm.The Floral Art Group continue their programme with an interesting demonstration by Brenda Newhouse, who is a member of the group. Brenda has been asked to show some table arrangements for a wedding reception, one using a candelabra. These will be followed by an arrangement with an Easter theme, which will form the basis for March's workshop. This friendly group is always pleased to welcome visitors and new members. For more details please ring Mary Thornber on (01995) 605210
Friday February 24th Poetry Appreciation between 2pm � 4pm. This month�s topic is William Blake - the poet and his poetry. The session is led by David Greenwood who will read from and discuss the poetry of William Blake. The Group is very friendly; members join in the discussions or read the poetry or they can just sit and listen if they prefer. Come and join us, everyone is welcomed. For more information please contact Marie Whalley on (01995) 603605

SAINSBURY'S SUPPORTING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

2011-12-22 09:57:00

Sainsburys Garstang gets it in the bag and support their local community.

Sainsburys Garstang has presented its local Kepple Trust Park Trust with a community grant for £500.00

This will help support towards the cost of play equipment and a sensory garden.

The Sainsburys Community Grant scheme, helping charitable groups in the local community, is funded by sales of �Bags for life�. So for customers at Garstang buying a bag for life. Means thay are not only doing great things for the environment, but are also making a contribution to the local community.

The store manager, Stuart Butters said, Our store is at the heart of the local community and it is important that we can do as much as possible to support it, When we heard about the Kepple Trust Park Trust we were really happy to help out.

Last year alone the Community Grants scheme provided £159.000 worth of donations, nominated by store managers and colleagues from stores nation wide.

Picture: Deputy manager Elizabeth Long, awarding the cheque to Garden Harter from the Kepple Park trust

SAINSBURY'S CHRISTMAS RAFFLE FOR CROSTON HOUSE

2011-12-22 09:55:00

Christmas present raffle in aid of Croston House

Sainsburys Garstang have raised a grand total of £687.00 by holding a Christmas present raffle, to help boost funds at Croston house.
The raffle was drawn on Saturday 10th December, and Patricia Tattersall from Croston house came to oversee the draw with our deputy store manager Elizabeth Long.

Our Colleagues, Sophie Jarvis and Andrew McGowan have persuaded local businesses and traders to donate the prizes, and over 30 prizes were given away.

Many thanks to everyone, customers, colleagues and local businesses who took part.

In the attached photo are some of the prizes, and from left to right Elizabeth Long deputy manager, Sophie Jarvis, Adam Stopford, and Patricia Tattersall from Croston House.

Other news
Floral Donation
We have donated flowers to Abbeyfied residential home, for a recent visit they had, and to other residential homes in the area.

Poppy appeal
We helped to raise over £300 for the British Legion poppy appeal in November

DO YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SHOUT ABOUT?

2011-12-19 15:41:00

Do you or your community group have an event that you would like "showcased" on this website?

Please email lynnharter1@aol.co.uk with the event details and it will be shown on this page.

LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEW YEAR AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE

2011-12-14 09:39:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre

January 2012

The Floral Art Group start their new programme on Tuesday 17th January with an Audio Visual Presentation by Peter Thornber. Peter will be showing some of the interesting gardens he has visited in this country and this will be followed by light refreshments. The meeting begins at 2-00pm. We are always pleased to welcome new members and visitors. For more details ring Mary Thornber.- 01995 605210.

Poetry Appreciation Friday January 27th 2pm � 4pm A Winter�s Tale poems for wintertime led by Harry Batty .The group meets in the Arts Centre on the fourth Friday of the month. The session is usually led by a member and everyone is invited to contribute or you can just sit and listen .Everyone is welcome . Programmes are available from the Arts Centre, the Library and on the Garstang Website www.Garstang.net
For more information please contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

Craft and Collectors Fairs
Looking for lovely handmade handicrafts, small antiques, books or super cakes ? Try our popular Craft and Collectors Fairs held every two months on the third Saturday of the month from 10am until 3pm .We are open on the following Saturdays: February 18th, April 21st, June 16th and a special one on August 25th. If you would like to book a stall please contact Marie Whalley on 01995 603605

Pat Hansell 01995 600397

SANTA'S ARRIVAL BY BARGE - SATURDAY 17th DECEMBER

2011-12-14 09:36:00

Santa will be making an early appearance for all boys and girls at Th'Owd Tithebarn in Garstang on Saturday 17th December.

The fun will start at 2pm with Tombolas, raffles and festive cheer!

Santa will be arriving by barge later on in the afternoon.

All proceeds go to Garstang & District Children's Festival fund.

For further detail: ring 01995 604486

ROTARY - WATCH OUT FOR SANTA'S SLEIGH COMING SOON!

2011-12-09 10:47:00

Santa's sleigh will be in Cherestanc Square from 10.00am to 3.30pm on Saturday 17th December & Thursday 22nd December

Santa will also be out an about - watch out for him in these areas on the 19th and 20th December.

ROUTES FOR SANTA�S SLEIGH

MONDAY 19TH DECEMBER

START AT PICKERINGS HOTEL 4-30 pm
JOE LANE
WOBURN AVENUE & ASHFILD RISE
NEWHAVEN DRIVE
BOYES AVENUE & BAYLTON DRIVE
COCK ROBIN LANE FULL LENGTH
DANIEL FOLD & RETUTTN ALONG COCK ROBIN LANE
HAMERS WOOD DRIVE
CALDER DRIVE
BACK TO MAIN ROAD
DUCKWORTTH DRIVE
BACK TO MAIN ROAD
CATTERALL GATES LANE
PARKLANDS
KEEPERS WOOD WAY
NIGHTINGALE
GREENWAY DRIVE
MEADOWCROFT AVENUE
BACK TO MAIN ROAD
BOWGREAVE DRIVE & SHEPHERDS AVENUE 7 DEW FORREST
BACK TO MAIN ROAD
TOPIARY GARDENS
BACK TO PICKERINGS HOTEL END 7-00 pm

TUESDAY 20th DECEMBER

START COMMUNITY CENTRE PARK 4-30 pm
HIGH STREET
CHURCH STREET
KEPPLE LANE
GRIZEDALE AVENUE
PARLICK ROAD
HAZELHURST DRIVE
MOSS LANE
WINDSOR ROAD
WINDSOR GARDENS
GREGORY MEADOW
DORCHESTER ROAD
HEREFORD AVENUE
HAWTHORNE AVENUE
CROSTON ROAD
OAK ROAD
BIRCH ROAD
MAPLE ROAD
HILL VIEW
LANCASTER ROAD
CALLA DRIVE
WYRE LANE
MANOR ROAD
HAWTHORNS
CARR HOLME GARDENS
BROOM HILL
BOWLAND ROAD
NORTON ROAD
GRAHAM ROAD
MEADOW PARK END 7-00 pm

CHRISTMAS SERVICE TIMES AT FORTON & GARSTANG UNITED REFORMED CHURCHES

2011-12-08 10:32:00

Christmas 2011
at Garstang and Forton United Reformed Churches

We look forward to welcoming all members,
friends and visitors to our
Christmas celebrations...

Garstang URC, Croston Road, Garstang PR3 1FL

Sunday 11 December at 10.45 am:
Junior Church Nativity Service

Wednesday 21 December at 7.30 pm:
A service of Carols & Readings

Saturday 24 December at 6.00 pm:
Family Christingle Service

Sunday 25 December at 10.45 am:
Christmas Day Family Service

Sunday 1st January at 10.45 am:
A short informal meditational service
for New Year�s Day.

Forton URC, School Lane, Forton PR3 0AS

Sunday 11 December at 9.15 am: Favourite Carols and Verses

Sunday 18 December at 3.00 pm:
Carols by Candle-light

GARSTANG CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL - 12TH & 13TH DECEMBER 2011

2011-11-21 12:12:00

GARSTANG CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
MONDAY 12TH AND TUESDAY 13TH DECEMBER 2011
The festival starts at 6pm with a procession through the town, bringing Santa to his Grotto in style!
Calvos (stunning white stilt walkers) a real favourite at the festival will be here for both evenings.
On Monday The Red Rose Jazz Band, then Tuesday the fantastic Batala Drum Band will lead the procession, then play on throughout the evening.
They will be joined by some old favourites: - Brass Bands, Morris Men, Punch and Judy , Dance groups and Choirs.
New for this year are the Juggling Jesters, David Alexandar, Spots and Stripes and an �Old Time Fairground�.
All this takes place around all areas of the town, but especially on the High Street. which will be lined with a huge variety of stalls.
Shops will be open to provide a warm welcome and a huge array of gifts for Christmas. There is always something for everyone in this town of independent traders.
Cafes, restaurants and pubs will also be open as usual for some much needed refreshments
This Award winning Festival is well worth a visit, it captures a real Christmas atmosphere � see many local people and dignitaries dressed in Victorian attire.
So why not join us on one or both evenings? ...and enjoy a little bit of Christmas... and it is all for free!

GARSTANG COUNTRY MARKET - GEARING UP FOR CHRISTMAS!

2011-11-21 11:56:00

THE army of craftswomen (and a handful of craftsmen) who regularly stand the stalls at Garstang Country Market are gearing up for their Christmas markets in the run-up to the festive season.

There will be three markets at the usual Thursday venue, St Thomas's hall, during December, on December 1, 8 and 15 (all 10am to noon) and an additional market as part of Garstang's Victorian Festival at the community centre basement, off High Street car park, on December 12 at 6pm.

Market organiser Mrs Margaret Halford said there would be a Christmas theme at all the markets in December, with crafts, plants as well as food items geared to the Christmas season.

Mrs Halford, a former mayoress of Garstang, said: "We look forward to welcoming customers old and new and sharing a bit of our Christmas spirit with them. Everyone is welcome."

After the December 12 trading session Garstang Country market takes a break, but will re-open at St Thomas's parish hall on Thursday, March 1, 2012 (from 10am to noon).

WHAT'S ON AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE IN DECEMBER?

2011-11-21 11:50:00

What's on at Garstang Arts Centre in December?

� Garstang Victorian Evenings
o On Monday 12th December, the Arts Centre will be open from 6 pm for refreshments with corned beef hash, tea and coffee and free mince pies. Garstang Musical Productions will lead carol singing in the Hall.
o On Tuesday 13th December, the Centre opens again at 6 pm offering home-made soup, tea and coffee and free mince pies. The Valley Singers from Longridge loved the Arts Centre audience so much on their first visit in March that they will return for a Christmas Concert at 7.30 pm. Admission is free but donations would be welcomed.
� The Garstang Floral Art Group will meet on Tuesday 13th December at 2-00pm when members will make their own Christmas Table Arrangements. This will be followed by a Jacob�s Join and social time when next year�s programme will be discussed. Visitors welcome. Details from Mary Thornber on 01995 605210.
� Poetry Appreciation Friday December 16th from 2pm-4pm. This month our theme is Christmas Spirit Poems and readings about Christmas . Bring along your favourite poems or Christmas prose and enjoy our celebration Everyone welcome . For more information contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605

Pat Hansell
Hon sec
01995 600397

QUIZ NIGHT AT WYREBANK - MONDAY 21st NOVEMBER - IN AID OF THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

2011-11-16 16:06:00

Christmas Lights Fundraising! PLEASE HELP TO KEEP THE LIGHTS ON!!!!

THIS YEAR - GARSTANG LIGHTS SWITCH ON IS AT 4.45PM ON MONDAY 28th NOVEMBER

Thanks to Graham and Sue at the Wheatsheaf; buy a pint of �Pride of Garstang� by Hawkshead Brewery and 10p goes to the fund!

The next QUIZ NIGHT is on MONDAY 21st NOVEMBER, Wyre Bank, Garstang. All welcome - please come along and support the Lights and the Victorian Festival funds.

Contact

Sharon at Garstang Cars 01995 607777 for tickets and details.

If you are able to donate a raffle prize, please could you pop it in to Jill at Iced on Bridge Street.

GARSTANG THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS - SNOW WHITE

2011-11-16 09:58:00

GARSTANG THEATRE GROUP

presents

SNOW WHITE

A Traditional Family Pantomime

At

GARSTANG COMMUNITY ACADEMY
(Formerly Garstang High School)

30th Nov - 3rd Dec 2011
Nightly at 7.30pm

Tickets £8.00

Tel (01995) 603551
Or from
Mace Store, Croston Road, Garstang
Market Place News, Garstang

SILVERDALE ART GROUP - EXHIBITION OF MIXED MEDIA ARTWORK

2011-11-09 09:27:00

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE
Schoolroom Exhibition
November 22nd � December 17th

An Exhibition of Mixed Media Artwork
By The Silverdale Art Group

Silverdale Art Group has been in existence for over 40 years to cater for those in the local community who are interested in drawing, painting and other artistic pursuits. Our objectives are to foster and promote all aspects of the visual arts in the community and to facilitate personal improvement, art education and recreation of members. We are delighted to be associated with Garstang Arts Centre. You will find a large exhibition featuring the work of our many members in the Schoolroom in the Arts Centre!

Opening times for exhibition:
Tuesdays 10-12.30 and 2-4
Thursdays 10-4
Saturdays 10-12.30
Free admission. Refreshments available.

LUNE VALLEY VINTAGE JAZZ BAND CONCERT

2011-11-01 09:22:00

Lune Valley Vintage Jazz Band will be performing in a special concert as a fundraiser for Scorton Village Hall on Friday 18th November. The Lune Valley Vintage Jazz Band two sets of an hour each. Doors open at 7.30pm, music starts at 8pm and a bar will be available.

Some of the numbers will be skiffle music. Some jazz fans like skiffle as it was popular in the late 50�s early 60�s along with the jazz revival of the time (if you are wondering what skiffle sounds like think �Lonnie Donnegan�). Tickets are priced at £6 each and are available from the Spar shop in Scorton. For more information and to reserve a ticket please call Joanne on 01524 791818.

OYEZ! OYEZ! OYEZ!

2011-10-25 09:32:00

The Lancashire Day Proclamation will be read out in Garstang on Saturday 26th November at 11.00 am by the Market Cross.

Lancashire Day is 27th November.

Further details http://www.forl.co.uk

EXHIBITION BY COLIN BINNS - GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE

2011-10-21 12:19:00

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE
Schoolroom Exhibition
October 25th � November 19th

FROM ANOTHER PLACE
An exhibition of mixed media artwork by
Colin Binns

The Garstang Arts Centre is mounting an exhibition of paintings this month showing the vibrant
and colourful work of Colin Binns, an artist who, 10 years ago, left the world of architecture
behind to concentrate on his work as an artist. Colin Binns makes mixed media paintings through examining his memories of places and events, and exploring the personal experiences that get attached to them. His imagery is drawn from intensive research at locations that hold significance for him, influenced also by his studies of Eastern ideas of landscape and place. This exhibition brings together an extensive range of his work, showing unique responses to experiences of place through vigorous and colourful combinations of paint, print, photography and collage.

Opening times for exhibition:

Tuesdays 10-12.30 and 2-4

Thursdays 10-4

Saturdays 10-12.30

Free admission. Refreshments available

LANCASHIRE FOOD AND GIFT FAIR AT SCORTON VILLAGE HALL

2011-10-21 12:00:00

Scorton Village Hall will be hosting a Lancashire Food & Gift Fair

ON Sunday 30 October.

The event will feature stalls selling a variety of Lancashire goods including jewellery, ceramics, homeware, textiles, gifts, cards, glassware, local food and much more. The hall will also be serving hot drinks plus cream teas and tray bakes and all monies raised will help the hall fund a new facelift planned for later in the year.

Please come along, have a browse and stock up early for Christmas!

Entry is free and the gift fair will be open from 10.30am-4pm.

As part of the fundraising effort, the village hall is also hosting a Lune Valley Vintage Jazz Band concert on 18th November and a Festive Craft Fair on 11th December.

Please keep an eye on the village website for updates: http://www.scortonvillage.co.uk

GARSTANG UNITED REFORMED CHURCH - WINTER FAIR

2011-10-17 11:06:00

WINTER FAIR

Saturday, 19thNovember

Garstang United Reformed Church Hall,

10am � 2pm.

Stalls include Homemade cakes, Fairtrade raffle, Candy, Candles and Crystals, Chocolate and Bottle tombolas and many others. Refreshments:- Homemade soups, Christmas pudding, mince pies, tea and coffee.

Entry free.

TIME TO THINK ABOUT CHRISTMAS? - WHAT'S ON - ARTS CENTRE - NOVEMBER

2011-10-13 12:41:00

� Buy your Christmas presents at the Arts Centre's famous Christmas Fair which runs during normal opening hours on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays until 1st December. Choose from work by members of the Arts Society and a fine selection of woodwork, silverware, glassware, cards, knitware, pottery and much more.

� The Floral Art Group's next meeting is on Tuesday 15th November at 2 pm when the speaker will be Claire from Morgans Flowers on Garstang High Street. Claire will demonstrate how to gift wrap flowers, plants and wine for Christmas and other important occasions. Visitors are always welcome so come along and bring your own gifts to wrap under Claire�s guidance. Light refreshments will be available.

� Kirkland Village Hall will host an Evening with the John Towers Big Band on Friday 18th November at 7.30 pm in aid of Arts Centre funds. Bring your own drinks. Tickets cost £7.50, including a cold buffet table. They are available from the Arts Centre or by phoning 01995 605210.

� The Poetry Appreciation Group meet on the fourth Friday of the month from 2 pm to 4 pm and are a very friendly group. The next meeting is on 25th of November when David Greenwood will lead readings and poems on the Second World War. If you are interested, you will be made very welcome if you just come along. Please contact Marie Whalley on 01995 603605 for more details

Pat Hansell 01995 600397

LIONS - GARSTANG BONFIRE & FIREWORK DISPLAY

2011-10-10 12:49:00

Bonfire Night

This year�s Garstang Bonfire and Firework Display will take place on Saturday the 5th of November (surprise, surprise!). The Bonfire will be lit at 7.00pm with the Firework Display starting at 7.30pm. The entrance price has been kept the same as last year at £3 per person with under fives being admitted for free. Refreshments will be available.

For more details contact:

David Lewis
Garstang and District Lions
Tel: 01995 605146
Email: garstanglions@hotmail.co.uk

AN EVENING WITH THE JOHN TOWERS BAND - TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

2011-10-07 10:51:00

GARSTANG & DISTRICT ARTS SOCIETY
PRESENT AN EVENING WITH
THE JOHN TOWERS BIG BAND
ON
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 18th 2011 at7-30pm.

IN KIRKLAND VILLAGE HALL

TICKETS £7-50 INCLUDING A COLD BUFFET TABLE.
Available from Arts Centre
Or ring 01995 605210
Bring your own drinks.
Proceeds for Garstang Arts Centre

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE "VISIT GARSTANG" CENTRE TEAM!

2011-09-27 11:39:00

The team collected their award for best "Visitor Information Provider" from Jodie Prenger, and will now be put forward to represent Lancashire and Blackpool in the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2012 competition.

For the full story and other Lancashire winners visit http://www.visitlancashire.com

NEAR AND AFAR - EXHIBITION BY ERNEST WILLIAM THOMPSON

2011-09-27 10:27:00

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE
Schoolroom Exhibition

September 27th � October 22nd

NEAR AND AFAR

An exhibition of acrylic artwork by Ernest William Thompson

I first started to paint in 2006 at the age of 66, when my wife and I bought a house in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands. I was totally inspired by this beautiful island. I am completely self taught and being retired we decided to spend part of the year at our caravan park "Six Arches" Scorton. So now we enjoy the best of both lovely places. I usually paint from photographs I take or from my imagination. A number of my paintings are exhibited and sold in restaurants and bars around Caleta De Fuste - hence "Ernesto T" which our Spanish neighbours find easier to pronounce.

FREE ENTRY AND REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE

FIG TREE FUNDS

2011-09-27 10:20:00

Bruce Crowther, Garstang Fair Trade Group, receiving cheque for £500 from Stuart Butters and colleagues from Sainsbury's.

The money was sent by Justin King,the company's chief executive officer, after he had heard about the plans to create a Fair Trade café: The Fig Tree.

INTERNATIONAL WORLD BLIND DAY/WORLD SIGHT DAY - PLEASE HELP

2011-09-23 11:51:00

Saturday 15th October

INTERNATIONAL WORLD BLIND DAY/WORLD SIGHT DAY

Help save sight. Do you have any old glasses? If so please bring them to the Soroptimist stand/display just inside Booths Supermarket between 10.00am and 2.00pm on Saturday 15th Oct: All glasses collected will be sent to Visionaid Worldwide via Clare and Howard Opticians on Garstang High Street.

"WHATS ON" - THE ARTS CENTRE IN OCTOBER

2011-09-19 09:26:00

Friday October 28th. Poetry Appreciation 2pm - 4pm.

This month�s session is called Lancashire Life. Led by Mary Thornber and Anthony Coppin, who will be reading poems by Lancashire poets. Some well known , some who may be new to you. Sounds like a reet good do. Come along and sit thi down!

Saturday October 29th Christmas Craft Fair
This year�s Craft Fair will run for 5 weeks, opening at 10am on Saturday 29th October 2011, and closing at 4pm on Thursday 1st December. Goods for display should be taken to the Arts Centre, during normal opening hours, on Tuesday 25th and Thursday 27th October 2011, so they can be displayed in the Music Room.
We are always interested in receiving items from new exhibitors. This is a golden opportunity to display and sell your crafts Anyone interested in bringing items for sale at the Craft Fair please contact the Curator or Pat Manley at the Arts Centre.

The Craft Fair is open during the Arts Centre's normal opening hours on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday mornings for five weeks from 29th October. There will be a wide variety of hand made items, just the place to find something a little bit different. Don�t forget to come and buy!!

For further information please ring: Mary Thornber 01995 605210

GARSTANG MUSICAL PRODUCTIONS PRESENT: "HOT MIKADO"

2011-09-10 11:11:00

As part of their 25th anniversary celebrations, Garstang Musical Productions will be performing �Hot Mikado" from 19th to 22nd October at Garstang High School.

�Hot Mikado� is a 1940′s era adaptation of Gilbert and Sullivan�s popular 1885 operetta
�The Mikado�. The score uses much of Sullivan's original music which has been reorchestrated using a wide range of styles, including jazz, hot gospel, blues, rock and swing. High energy and fun is guaranteed in this energetic, funny, toe-tapping musical comedy.

The leading roles will be played by the following members:

Nanki Poo: Karl Roe
Yum Yum: Hannah Kearney
Pooh Bah: Peter Cooney
Ko Ko: Paul Jones
Katisha: Ceri O�Neill
Pitti Sing: Alice Dent
Peep Bo: Lucy Burdett
Pish Tush: Steven Bryant
The Mikado: Andrew Burdett

All performances start at 7.30pm and tickets, which cost £8.00, can be purchased at Car Care in Garstang or by contacting 01995 606603.

NEW DIPPER ARRIVES ON THE MILLENNIUM GREEN

2011-09-02 11:04:00

The new carving replaces the old Dipper that had rotted away over the last few years.

It has been carved by James Shelliker

The wood used is elm and the artwork stands on steel feet and is set into large Yorkshire stone (donated by Stone UK) on Wyre Lane Garstang.

The project has been sponsored by the Green Partnership.

James created this Dipper from a large piece of Elm, and he said it was quite a challenge to get the lines correct - the hardest part being the bird's breast. He uses a combination of different chain saws and hand tools to create his sculptures.

James will be present at the re-opening of the Green on September 10th. and he will be demonstrating his craft.

Entry on that day is free of charge and James is just one of many interesting exhibitors � see the other news story for full details.

Picture shows James with some regular Millennium Green walkers.

CONGRATULATIONS TO BIDDULPH!

2011-08-30 12:50:00

A great big thankyou and well done to the organisers of this year's Arts Festival.

Another successful year, and a lot of hard work goes into making it such.

Special thanks must go to our Town Crier Hilary McGrath who organised a spectacular Town Crier Competition finale which was held in Cherestanc Square yesterday (Bank Holiday Monday)

Rain did not dampen the spirits of many town criers who came from all over the Northwest:-

Frank Barton - Carnforth
Mike Chapman � Proud Preston
Roland Hailwood - Clitheroe
Ken Knowles - Litchfield
Richard Mathews - Kendal
Eliza Mowe - Barnoldswick
John Parsons - Crier to lord of the manor of Rode (Staffs)
John Robinson - Biddulph
Terry Stubbins - Gainsborough
Vic Watson - Huddersfield
Brenda Willison - Bakewell

Professor James Dodding and was judging sustained volume and clarity. The overall winner was John Robinson from Biddulph who entertain the crowd with his amusing "cries". Runner up was Eliza Mowe from Barnoldswick, Best dressed escort was Trish Stubbings wife of Terry Stubbings Gainsborough town crier who was placed 3rd,and best dressed couple were Richard and Barbara Mathews of Kendal. Mike Chapman crier of Proud Preston won Best Content of afternoon cry on Fairtrade. John Robinson also won the "best dressed" crier catagory.

Other judges were:-

Sue Hubbard- Diction and inflection, James Douglas - Confidence and bearing, Diana Douglas - accuracy, & Sandra Perkins - Best Dressed
Sue, Diana and Sandra are all members of Garstang Ladies speakers club and James Douglas is a member of Blackburn castle speakers club.

The criers had started the day by walking around the town...stopping along the way to ring their bells in unison. We were lucky to at least see sunshine for the morning's procedures. In the afternoon, children were invited to "have a go" - ringing the bell, wearing the hat and shouting OYEZ! OYEZ! as loud as they could. All participants won a goodie bag!

It would be excellent if this event became a regular feature of the Arts Festival and thanks again to all those involved.

(Picture shows Winner John Robinson from Biddulph with Garstang Deputy Mayor Cllr Sandra Perkins, and Garstang Town Crier Hilary McGrath)

MILLENNIUM GREEN - GRAND RE-OPENING DAY & FUN RUN

2011-08-27 14:07:00

GRAND RE-OPENING By
Eddie Topping of Barton Grange
Saturday 10 September 2011, 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m.
following extensive refurbishment and upgrading of the
paths and access routes on the Green.

Treasure Hunt, Family Fun Run, Jazz band (Lune Valley Hot
Quartet), Raptor display, many stalls, raffle etc.

Come along and see the new all-weather hard surface paths
which will allow all wheelchair and pram/pushchair users
improved access to the Green

For fun run entry contact Mike Hall on 01995 600778 or mikehalluk@hotmail.com

For Treasure Hunt details contact Michael Halford on 01995 603240 or
Michael.halford@homecall.co.uk

To have a stall or to help contact Ron Freeland on 01995 606384 or
ronfreeland@talktalk.net

FREE ENTRY AND FREE PARKING AT WYRE LANE ENTRANCE

APOLOGIES TO ALL INVOLVED BUT -

IT IS WITH GREAT REGRET THAT THIS EVENT HAS TO BE CANCELLED DUE TO FLOODING.

GAVIN KELLY - EXHIBITION AT THE ARTS CENTRE

2011-08-27 13:59:00

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE
Schoolroom Exhibition

August 30th � September 24th
LOCAL INFLUENCES
An exhibition of watercolour and mixed media artwork by
Gavin Kelly
Gavin started drawing at a very early age winning several competitions while still at school. As an adult he continued drawing and found people were asking him to do drawings for them. He had several commissions for portraits while living in Essex, even one that finished up in the U.S.A. When he moved to Lancashire he joined the Garstang Art Club and began painting watercolours and started to sell them. He was commissioned to paint many of the local scenes. Since moving to Scotland he is pleased to say his pencil drawings and watercolours are selling well at local exhibitions.

COME ALONG AND TRY SOMETHING NEW THIS AUTUMN!

2011-08-24 09:33:00

What�s on at Garstang Arts Centre?
September 2011
Some of our 15 Activity groups at the Arts Centre in the Old Grammar School in the centre of Garstang take a break over the summer. September sees their return to their regular meeting times and a fresh opportunity for you to take advantage of the many and varied activities available. You will be made most welcome:
Calligraphy Wednesdays 10 am - 12 & 1 pm - 3.30
Camera Club First 3 Wednesdays per month at 7.30 pm
Card Design 4th Monday in the month 10 am - 12
Floral Art 3rd Tuesday in the month 2 pm
Folk Dancers Tuesday at 7.30 pm
Garstang Musical Productions Thursday at 7.30 pm
John Towers Big Band Friday at 7.30 pm
Painting Group Wednesday 1 pm - 4
Patchwork and Needlework Wednesday 10 am - 12
Poetry Appreciation 4th Friday in the month 2 pm - 4
Recorded Music Society 1st Monday in the month 7.30 pm
Scrabble 4th Monday in the month 7.30 pm
Songbirds Monday 1.30 pm - 3.30
Terry O'Toole Painting class Monday 10 am-12 & 1.00 pm - 3
Wine Circle 3rd Monday in the month 7.30 pm

Saturday September 3rd Our annual fund raising Bric a Brac stall will be outside the Market Hall from 9am until early afternoon . Look out for some fantastic bargains in books , household goods , jigsaws , children�s toys , jewellery , CDs DVDs etc . If you would like to donate items or volunteer for an hour please contact Marie Whalley 01995 603605
Tuesday 20th September The next meeting of the Floral Art Group will be held at 7-30pm in the Schoolroom at the Arts Centre. This is the first time we have held the meeting in the evening and the speakers will be Sam and Vicky from Simply Flowers based at Scotforth, who will be giving a demonstration of their floral arrangements. Light refreshments will be served as usual. More details from Mary Thornber. 01995 605210.
Friday September 23rd Poetry Appreciation from 2pm � 4pm this month is entitled �Home thoughts � led by Harry Batty. From Home Sweet Home to Rupert Brook and all points between . Come and enjoy - join in or just sit and listen .

GARSTANG & DISTRICT ANNUAL FLORAL SHOW

2011-08-24 09:06:00

GREEN-fingered residents in Garstang and surrounding villages, are gearing up for their annual floral treat.

Saturday, September 3, will see St Thomas's parish hall, Church Street, burst into bloom for the annual show organised by Garstang and District Gardening Club.

Organisers are expecting a bumper crop, not only of flowers, but also exhibits of fruit and vegetables, floral craft and homecraft.

Previous years have seen some of the best examples of fruit and veg displayed in local garden produce shows, impressing judges who have commented on the high standard of Garstang growers' entries.

Judging will take place during the morning before the show is opened up to the public at 1pm. The hall will remain open until about 4pm, with prizes being presented at about 3.30pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend, not just club members.

* For more information about the show on Saturday, September 3, contact Don Worsnop on 01772 715850 or Ruth Cowell on 01995 602234.

* Garstang and District Gardening Club meets for monthly lectures and gardening advice sessions from September to April.

The first session of the autumn/winter series begins on September 12 with a talk on Victorian Gardens by Colin Dickinson. The venue is St Thomas's parish hall. Time: 7.30pm. Again, all welcome.

* Picture shows Andrew Thompson, one of the award winners at last year's summer show.

GARSTANG FESTIVAL OF ARTS 2011

2011-08-11 09:51:00

The festival starts on Saturday 20th and runs every day until the Grand Finale of the inaugural Town Crier Competition on the 29th August.

A downloadable programme of events can be found on the link with this item.

10 days of spectacular and varied events for all the family - many free or donation only.

Bring the children to decorate a muffin, follow an arts trail, make cards and see Mr Titus - the amazing children's entertainer.

Street entertainers will be around the town - Creeping Bentgrass, and John Gilmore with his soprano saxaphone.

Recitals, big bands, songsters, artists, poets are all awaiting for your enjoyment of the week.

More information - online here - or ring the Visit Garstang Centre 01995602125 or the Arts Centre on 01995 606648.

HURRY - MANY EVENTS ARE TICKET ONLY - BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!

COFFEE MORNING IN AID OF THE MILLENNIUM GREEN

2011-08-05 09:44:00

Garstang Millennium Green Trust [Charity No. 1079032]

The Friends of the Green are holding their popular Coffee Morning and Summer Fair on Thursday 25th August at the United Reformed Church Hall, Croston Rd., Garstang between 10-00am and Noon.

� Coffee and Shortbread will be available
� Raffle
� There will be a Flower Power Quiz, a Find the Treasure Game and a Count the Sweets competition.
� Bric a Brac & Books stall
� Bottle stall
� Plant stall

There will also be an opportunity to join the Friends of the Green or renew your membership for 2011 / 2012

All profits from this event will go towards the upkeep of the Millennium Green.
For further information, contact Joan Williams [01995 605202]

MP BEN WALLACE IMPRESSED WITH SAINSBURY'S COMMUNITY LINKS

2011-08-01 13:07:00

Local MP visits Sainsbury�s Garstang

Ben Wallace, MP, was impressed with the community links the store has created

since it arrived in Garstang just over 2 years ago. He was told about the contributions

the company has made to the life of the town including the Local Charity of the Year

scheme ,and the grants awarded to the Christmas Lights/ Garstang in Bloom and

Garstang High School�s Intergenerational Club.

He heard about Sainsbury�s support for local events such as the Children�s Festival,

the Victorian Festival and the Arts Festival to name but a few.

"WHAT'S ON" AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - AUGUST

2011-07-24 11:37:00

What�s on at Garstang Arts Centre?
August 2011

Tuesday August 16th Floral Art. The next meeting takes place at 2 pm on Tuesday August 16th when members will welcome the return of Maureen Garstang to lead us in a Workshop with the theme of � Flowers for Decorating a Celebration Cake� This theme was requested by a member and will be something different to our usual workshops. Visitors are always welcome; for more details ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210.
Garstang Festival of Arts at the Arts Centre
Saturday August 20th Craft and Collectors Fair from 10am until 3pm.This is the last of this year�s Saturday Fairs and is your last chance to find some wonderful bargains in our range of beautiful hand made crafts , small antiques, collectables and lovely cakes, not forgetting our delicious Corned Beef Hash for lunch
Sunday August 21st Violin Recital with Patricia Donnelly & Alan Free. From 2.30 to 3.30 pm and light refreshments will be available. Patricia returns to Garstang for her final visit, touching on many aspects of her long career in music both with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and freelance. This short recital, with colleague and talented pianist, Alan Free, will be a selection of her favourite pieces. Entry by donation.
Tuesday August 23rd Origami Demonstration and Workshop. Come and learn the art of paper folding with Leah and Brenda from 2pm to 4pm. Try some new designs this year. Suitable for adults and children. Cost £1. Refreshments available.
Tuesday August 23rd �Around Garstang � Film Evening starts at 7.30 pm. Garstang Camera Club members Jeff Ashworth and Peter Thornber show some of the events which have taken place over the past year including exclusive coverage of the erection of the Dewlay Wind Turbine. Cost £3 including light refreshments, children's entry free. Raffle.
Wednesday August 24th Montmartre. Come along and watch the Painting Group painting in the Arts Centre Courtyard - Montmartre style, between 2pm and 4pm. Refreshments will be available.
Thursday August 25th Palm Court Concert with June Baker & Friends Enjoy an hour of peace between 1pm and 2pm amongst the bustle of Market Day in Garstang. Entry by donation. Refreshments will be available.
Thursday August 25th Concert with Sylvan Sounds Ladies Choir. This is the first time this versatile Ladies Choir from Fleetwood have performed at the Garstang Arts Festival. Created in 1997 by Musical Director, Sylvia Swan, Sylvan Sounds has performed throughout the North West and further afield. They are known for programmes which are rich in songs based on the Folk Music of the British Isles & Europe but also include some modern compositions. David Chadwick is their valued accompanist on the piano. The concert starts at 7-30pm. and there will be a Raffle. Tickets, cost £5 including tea and cakes, available from The Arts Centre or ring 01995 605210. If seats are still available, you will also be able to pay on the door, but early booking is recommended.
Friday August 26th Garstang Arts Festival Poetry Workshop. �A Passion for Poetry � with James Dodding will take place between 2pm � 5pm. This event will be very popular and booking is essential . Tickets, cost £3, are available from Ann Humphreys 01995 602633
Monday August 29th Craft Displays and Demonstrations. Includes decorating eggs, designing cards, painting, jewellery making, needlework, woodturning etc. Refreshments served all day. Free entry between 11am and 3pm.

Pat Hansell (Hon Sec)

Patricia Hansell, 32 Daniel Fold Lane, Catterall PR3 0JZ
01995 600397

GEARING UP FOR GARSTANG SHOW

2011-07-19 09:59:00

Date: Garstang Show 1st Saturday in August
Garstang Family Fun Day and Music Festival Sunday following Garstang Show.

Garstang Show � First Saturday in August
Reputedly one of the Best One Day Shows in the North West, the Annual Garstang Show promises to be another spectacular event in the local Annual Calendar. From 8.00 am until 6.00 pm there are very many different attractions catering for all comers including:

12 different breeds of cattle including Jersey
15 breeds of sheep including rare breeds
Shire Horses including brewery and private turnouts pulling old style brewery wagons
Light Horses including several National Qualifiers for the Horse of the Year Show
Show Jumping
Rabbits ~ Pigeons ~ Poultry ~ Budgerigars ~ Dog Show ~ Pygmy Goats
Horticultural and Floral Arts Marquee including Children�s Classes, Domestic Science, Photography, Handicraft and Honey Sections
Craft Tent
Craft Tent
Food Hall with tasters for the public
Local Chamber of Trade and Commerce
WI Tent
Young Farmer's Club Display
Display of modern and vintage tractors and machinery
Bird of Prey Display
Over 100 trade stands and shops
Bar and Catering/Luncheon Tent
Children's activities
NOT TO BE MISSED - The event attracts in the region of 15,000 spectators making it a superb day out for all the family and with FREE car parking and adults just £10, children are free.

Garstang Family Fun Day and Music Festival � Sunday following Garstang Show
2010 saw the first Family Fun Day and Music Festival. This was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended, listening to the bands playing throughout the afternoon and visiting the many marquees with displays and items for sale including.

Music marquee with bands playing throughout the afternoon
Lancashire Militia - The Lancashire Militia is a 17th Century re-enactment group depicting living history and military displays including artillery.
Vintage Vehicle Rally
Motorcycle Stunt Display
Food Hall
Craft Tent
Bird of Prey demonstration and display
Companion Dog Show
Pony Club Gymkhana
WI Marquee with displays and interactive items throughout the day
Vale of Lune Harriers
Gun Dog Display
Football Goal Competition
Remote Control Model Track
Sunday Market
Numerous trade stands and shops
Bar and Catering/Luncheon Tent
Children's rides and entertainment.....and much more
Adults £5, Children 10 � 16 £3, Children under 10 FREE, Car Parking FREE

For further information contact the Secretary:
Sue White Tel: 01253 799119 or log onto www.garstangshow.org

COME ALONG to our COMMUNITY SAFETY DAY at GUYS THATCHED HAMLET!

2011-07-05 11:59:00

Community safety Day - ALL WELCOME.

Saturday 30th July 2011
10AM - 4PM

FREE Admission

Guys Thatched Hamlet, Bilsborrow, Nr Garstang
For more information email:

garstang.cfr@gmail.com or call 07712103105

SAINSBURY'S CHOSEN CHARITY RAISE FUNDS IN HOUSE

2011-07-04 17:24:00

Sale of Croston House crafts in store.

There was a lot of interest in the items on sale, and the event helped to raise public awareness of the services offered by Cancer Help both at Croston House here in Garstang and at Vine House in Preston.

If you missed out on buying an item, or need further information on how Croston House can help you or anyone you know who may be suffering from cancer - please phone:

Croston House: Tel: 01995 606469

Garstang Arts Centre Schoolroom Exhibition - BERT STENNING

2011-07-04 17:13:00

Bert Stenning
July 5th � July 30th
MAINLY RAIL and SAIL
An exhibition of watercolour and gouache artwork
With a life on the ocean wave long behind him, and a second career as a Lancashire policeman a memory, Bert is staging his next Arts Centre exhibition of his much-acclaimed work. He is known for his paintings of steam trains surging through the Lancashire countryside and Lancashire scenes
almost all of them done in gouache and watercolour. The show will include paintings of sailing craft and warships as a nod to his naval past.

Free admission. Refreshments available.

COUNTRY MARKET STALLHOLDERS AND CUSTOMERS - DAY TRIP

2011-06-23 09:39:00

ABOUT 40 stallholders and customers of Garstang Country Market enjoyed a day trip to the Lake District recently.

They called in a Appleby, the Rheged Centre, sailed on the Ullswater ferry from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding before travelling via the Kirkstone Pass to Windermere and on to Preston Patrick near Kendal, for a tea prepared by the ladies of Preston Patrick Women's Institute.

The trip was organised by Mrs Jo Higham who was thanked for her efforts by Garstang Country Market organiser Mrs Margaret Halford. The coach was provided by Pineways of St Michael's.

* The country market is held at St Thomas's parish hall, Garstang, every Thursday from 10am onwards.

SAINSBURY'S FIRST CHARITY EVENTS FOR CROSTON HOUSE - DATES CONFIRMED.

2011-06-17 10:17:00

CROSTON HOUSE UNVEILED AS SAINSBURY�S NEW LOCAL CHARITY PARTNER IN GARSTANG

Croston House has been chosen as Sainsbury�s Garstang new local charity partner for 2011/2012. The announcement comes after the store asked its customers which local charity they should support. Customers were able to vote for their favourite local charity between 4th and 25th May.

Croston House works to support all those affected by cancer by offering free, confidential help and advice to patients, carers, friends and family. It was chosen as the store�s charity after nominations poured in from customers keen to support a local good cause. Over the next 12 months, the charity will benefit from money donated through fundraising as well as volunteering.

Kath Boit, the lead nurse at Croston House, said: �We�re really excited to be partnering with Sainsbury�s Garstang over the next 12 months and would like to thank everyone in the community who voted for us. We will be planning fundraising activities with the store colleagues in the coming weeks and we hope that customers will support the store�s fundraising efforts in the coming months�.

The store plan to launch the partnership with Croston House by hosting a sale of handicrafts produced by service users and volunteers. The event will take place on Friday 1st July from 10oclock onwards.

Stuart Butters, our store manager, added: �Croston House is such a worthy local cause and we�re pleased and proud to be supporting it over the next 12 months. We�ll be letting our customers know of our fundraising plans and we hope they can join our colleagues in helping to support them�.

29/6/11 FUNDRAISING EVENTS CONFIRMED:-

Friday 1st July: Sale of handicrafts by Croston House at Sainsbury�s Garstang Store from 10.00am onwards. Please support this worthwhile cause.

Sunday 24th July: Sponsored walk by Sainsbury�s colleagues and supporters of Croston/Vine House from Garstang to Longridge Store starting at 1.00pm. Participants and sponsors welcome!! Sponsorship forms and further details from Chris Ryden (PR Ambassador)- Tel No 01995 686200

GARSTANG & DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL SHOW

2011-06-14 09:17:00

Date: Garstang Show is always held on the 1st Saturday in August & the Garstang Family Fun Day and Music Festival on the Sunday following Garstang Show.

This year the show will be August 6th and 7th respectively.

Garstang Show is reputedly one of the Best One Day Shows in the North West, the Annual Garstang Show promises to be another spectacular event in the local Annual Calendar.

Please support this wonderful event...now even more fun as the show has FAMILY DAY on the Sunday.

For more details contact the show secretary:

Sue White 01253 799119

or go to the ABOUT GARSTANG tab on this website.

or visit http://www.garstangshow.org

Arts Centre Schoolroom - Art Exhibition - A CHANGE OF DIRECTION

2011-06-06 11:07:00

by Janice McGloine

June 7th � July 2nd

A CHANGE OF DIRECTION
An exhibition of print and mixed media artwork
Janice sees things differently!
Painting in a style all of her own, she gives local places a distinctly �quirky� feel. Her love of architecture shines through. Buildings take on human qualities as she creates idyllic countryside and seaside images. Using pastels or acrylic in a more conventional style, Janice�s love of nature and the coastline is apparent in her beach and floral studies. She now works from a studio at Wolf House Gallery in Silverdale which is a most beautiful part of the country. The scenery inspires her greatly, from the coastline to the woodlands which are constantly changing.

For further details telephone:
Mary Thornber 01995 605210

"WHATS ON" AT GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - JULY

2011-05-07 09:33:00

What�s on at Garstang Arts Centre?

July 2011
� Tuesday July 19th Floral Art. The meeting, to be held in the Arts Centre from 2 pm to 4 pm, will be a workshop with Garstang Show in mind. Brenda Newhouse and Michelle from Morgans will demonstrate how to follow a theme and then advise members as they do their own interpretation. As always with Brenda and Michelle this should be FUN as well as a chance to learn how to arrange those winning entries. Tea and biscuits will be served and visitors are welcome. If you don�t wish to do your own arrangement just come along to watch. This is a friendly, relaxed group who enjoy all things floral. For list of what to bring or any more information ring Mary Thornber on 01995 605210.

� Friday July 22nd Poetry Appreciation 2pm � 4pm . Memories of Summer led by Hilary McGrath . From poets of long ago to recent childhood memories . Come and join us in celebrating that lovely season . Sit and listen and join in if you like - everyone is welcome . For more information contact Marie Whalley 0199560365

� Thursday July 28th Lunchtime Concert in the Music Room at 1 pm. June Baker begins her ever-popular series of Summer Lunchtime Concerts by presenting Eileen Guppy and Sue Parrish playing Jazz and Blues.

Pat Hansell (Hon Sec)

Patricia Hansell, 32 Daniel Fold Lane, Catterall PR3 0JZ
01995 600397

GARSTANG TRADERS LADIES EVENING AT WYREBANK

2011-05-04 13:24:00

The Wyrebank
Garstang
On
Thursday 9th June
7- 7.30pm
Glass of Bubbly on arrival

Demonstrations from
Conway Cards - Balloon Modelling
Carr of Garstang - Jewellery Talk
Iced of Garstang - Cake Decoration
Le Tete - Hat Display
Stands from the above, plus
Chic Lingerie, Artroom Gallery, Rainbows End,
Crimpers, Beautify, Wyrebank and
Jenny Billington Beauty.

Proceeds raised on the evening go to the
Garstang Victorian Festival and The Vine House

Tickets £6.50 each
Available from all businesses involved
Or
Gill at Chic 01995 600342 or
Jill at Iced 01995 604901

THE WIZARD OF OZ is here!!!

2011-04-26 10:20:00

GARSTANG THEATRE GROUP

PRESENTS

THE WIZARD OF OZ

BASED ON THE MGM MUSICAL FILM
WITH ALL THE SONGS YOU KNOW & LOVE

AT THE GARSTANG HIGH SCHOOL

10TH TO 14TH MAY 2011
NIGHTLY 7.30PM

TICKETS £7.50 TEL: 01995 603551

OR FROM

MACE CROSTON ROAD STORE GARSTANG
MARKET PLACE NEWS GARSTANG

MILLENNIUM GREEN FUNDRAISING BRIC A BRAC STALL - HELP!!

2011-04-13 08:44:00

The Friends of Garstang Millennium Green
[Charity No. 1079032]

Bric a Brac Sale

Saturday 7th May 2011

Outside The Market Hall, Garstang High Street

All Profit from this event will go towards the upkeep of the Millennium Green

We would welcome donation of Bric a Brac items such as books, toys, games, pottery, handbags, clothes, shoes etc [sorry, but we can�t accept any mains electrical items].

Please contact Joan Williams [01995 605202] or deliver items to the stall early on the sale day.

GARDENING CLUB PROGRAMME OF EVENTS

2011-04-13 08:39:00

Garstang and District Gardening Club has announced its latest programme of lectures due to begin this autumn.
The details were circulated by programme secretary Ruth Cowell (pictured) at the final session of the current series of meetings at St Thomas's Parish Hall, Garstang, where guest speaker John Henshaw gave a talk on cacti and succulents to about 100 members. He was introduced by chairman Ray Pearson and thanked by committee member Bob Sutcliffe.
2011/2012 programme:
September 12, 2011: Victorian Gardens by Colin Dickinson
October 10, 2011: Alpines by Peter Bland
November 14, 2011: A Rainbow of Dahlias by Jack Gott
December 12, 2011: Carnivorous Plants by Alan Leyland
January 9, 2012: Christmas meal
February 13, 2012: Growing Vegetables for Showing by Bill Stables
March 13, 2012: annual meeting and Spring Show
April 2, 2012: Gardening for wildlife by Ken Green
* The venue will either be St Thomas's parish hall or the new St Thomas's parish/community hall, depending when the latter opens.
Meetings start at 7.30pm. Visitors welcome. For further information see the community groups section of this website or ring Ruth Cowell on 01995 602234.
+++
* The club's summer show will be held in the parish hall on Saturday, September 3 (more details will appear on this site nearer the time).

"ACRYLIC AND WIRE" Contemporary Art Exhibition by Linda Hull

2011-04-11 09:11:00

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE
Schoolroom Exhibition
April 9th � May 7th

ACRYLIC and WIRE - An exhibition of contemporary and abstract artwork
By Linda Hull

I always knew I would paint again one day. As a child, my passion was drawing and painting, so it was no surprise I studied art at degree level. A brief spell as a shoe designer in industry and a longer spell teaching art followed. This fuelled my desire to pick up a paintbrush again. On leaving education, however, I started a creative craft business calling it �Wacky Wire�. A good ten years later, I�ve finally found time to paint. So here you have it - paintings made to express a feeling, a moment, some imaginative and some recycling of images.

GARSTANG GARDENING CLUB - WINNING DAFFODILS

2011-04-04 10:20:00

Report of the annual meeting and Spring show of Garstang Gardening Club

GARSTANG Gardening club has had a blooming good year, members heard at the group's recent annual meeting.
Chairman Ray Pearson reported a successful year with popular lectures, garden visits locally and nationally and the holding of two local shows.
Around 100 people attended the meeting at St Thomas's parish hall, Garstang, where they heard about plans for the current year, which includes more lectures, shows and visits.
The 2011 garden visits include a three day trip to the gardens of Oxfordshire from July 5 to 7 (open to all, for more details contact June Gornall on 01995 602505).
Officials elected were: Chairman Ray Pearson, vice-chairman Hilary Hine, Treasurer Roger Broadbelt, Secretary Susan McDade, Programme Secretary Ruth Cowell, Press Secretary Anthony Coppin. Committee: Nancy Cowell, Pat Pickford, Don Worsnop and Bob Sutcliffe.
After the formal meeting the results were announced of the Spring show judging, held earlier in the evening.
Judges praised the efforts of the plantsmen and women. Prizes were presented by club president Ben Andrews and chairman Ray Pearson.
Winners:
Class 1. Three club daffodil bulbs: 1 Ben Andrews, 2 Dorothy Huxley, 3 Joyce Meiring.
Class 2. Miniature daffodils in a pot: 1 and 2 Peter Wiseman, 3 Bob Sutcliffe.
Class 3. Any other spring bulbs: 1 Richard Kellett, 2 Ben Andrews.
Class 4. Three standard daffodils/cut stems in vase: 1 Chris Sutcliffe, 2 Bob Sutcliffe, 3 Margaret Worsnop.
Class 5. Three miniature daffodils/cut stems in a vase: 1 Gladys Bradshaw, 2 Pat Collins, 3 Nancy Cowell
Class 6. Spring arrangement / flowers and foliage: 1 Ben Andrews, 2. Karen Ogden, 3 Peter Wiseman
Class 7. Helibore cut bloom / flower head: 1 Nancy Cowell, 2 and 3 Janet Sharp.
* The next meeting of Garstang Gardening Club takes place at St Thomas's Hall on Monday, April 11, at 7.30pm when John Henshaw will give a talk on cacti and succulents.
* The summer show will be held on Saturday, September 3 (more details will appear on this site nearer the time).
* The first meeting of the 2011/12 season will be on September 12 when Colin Dickinson will speak on Victorian Gardens (venue, the new St Thomas's hall, if completed. Otherwise the old hall).
* For further information about the club see www.garstang.org/ggc/ or the community groups page of www.garstang.net

EASTER SERVICES AT UNITED REFORMED CHURCHES

2011-03-29 09:12:00

Garstang and Forton
United Reformed Churches
Easter Services

At Garstang URC, Croston Road, Garstang:

Sunday, 17th April at 10.45 am
Palm Sunday Service with Revd David Greenwood

Friday 22nd April at 8.00 pm
Tenebrae Service for Good Friday

Easter Sunday, 24th April at 10.45 am
Family Service with All-age Communion.

There will be an Agape supper followed by Holy
Communion at Garstang Methodist Church on
Maundy Thursday 21 April at 7.00 pm.

At Forton URC, School Lane, Forton:
Sunday, 17th April at 9.15 am
Palm Sunday Service with Revd David Greenwood

Friday, 22nd April at 3.00 pm
Good Friday Service with guest preacher
Revd James Whately.

All welcome

ST THOMAS' PTFA FUNDRAISING EVENTS - PLEASE SUPPORT US!

2011-03-12 10:43:00

St Thomas' PTFA are holding 2 community events

FASHION SHOW AT M&CO GARSTANG,
FRIDAY 1ST APRIL FROM 6.30 PM

£3 A TICKET (TO INCLUDE REFRESHMENTS AND DEMONSTRATIONS FROM LOCAL GROUPS) CHILDREN FREE

10% OFF ALL PURCHASES ON THE EVENING!

TICKETS AVAILABLE IN M&CO OR ST THOMAS' SCHOOL

also

AN EASTER EGG HUNT AROUND GARSTANG STARTING AND FINISHING AT ST THOMAS SCHOOL WITH EASTER FUN ACTIVITIES AND A BAR B QUE,

12-4 ON SATURDAY 16th APRIL,

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM ST THOMAS' SCHOOL TICKETS ARE FREE WE JUST NEED TO HAVE AN IDEA OF NUMBERS FOR PRIZES - SO PLEASE CALL IN.

GARSTANG MUSICAL PRODUCTIONS 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

2011-03-12 10:27:00

Garstang Musical Productions is 25 years old!
This year the group (formally known as Garstang Light Opera Group) celebrate its 25th year together. To celebrate this milestone they are performing six special concerts which will highlight the very best of songs and choruses that the group has enjoyed over the years. There will be songs from Calamity Jane, Me & My Girl, The King & I, Carousel as well as many other favourites. In addition there will also be a special Gilbert & Sullivan section.

The concerts will take place at The Arts Centre in Garstang on the following dates; Thursday 31st March, Friday 1st April, Saturday 2rd April, Thursday 7th April and Saturday 9th April all at 7.30pm. There will also be a matinee on Sunday 10th April at 4pm.
These will be really special events � not to be missed!

Tickets are priced £6 to include refreshments and are available from Car Care Garstang or by contacting Joanne Ingham on 0787 3230965.

INSPIRATION - AN EXHIBITION OF CONTEMPORARY ART.

2011-03-10 09:02:00

Garstang Arts Centre Schoolroom Exhibition
presents:

Delcia McNeil
March 12th to April 9th

Inspiration - An exhibition of contemporary and abstract artwork

As well as being an artist, Delcia is also a psychotherapist and subtle energy healer. Her paintings are inspired by metaphysical and human themes, such as healing, spirituality, communication, relationships, �parallel universes�, and the unconscious mind. Her work can be used as a focus for meditation, or help access the unconscious mind. She wants people to be free to make their own interpretations of the images. Her work is described as �very inspirational, powerful and original�.
The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes� Marcel Proust

Free admission. Refreshments available.

WIN A PANDORA CHARM FROM CARRS!

2011-03-04 18:27:00

Carrs Jewellers in Garstang have launched a monthly free prize draw!

Win a Pandora charm to the value of £30 by simply visiting their store on the High Street and filling out a form and join their Facebook community! Good Luck!

S Carr & Son Ltd
High Street, Garstang
Preston, PR3 1FA

t: 01995 602148
f: 01995 601149
e: sales@carrsjewellers.co.uk
w: http://www.carrsjewellers.co.uk

�A WALK IN THE PARK� - Friends of the Millennium Green

2011-02-25 13:19:00

Friends of Garstang Millennium Green are pleased to present:

A talk and visual presentation by Mark Billington, Green Spaces Manager, Wyre Borough Council.
Mark will provide an overview of the Green Spaces Services of WBC, including the areas and types of facilities maintained.

Wednesday 16th March at 7-30 pm
United Reformed Church Hall, Croston Rd., Garstang.

Admission £2 including Tea / Coffee & Biscuits

Raffle

All profits will go towards upkeep of the Millennium Green.

FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT TO SET NEW WORLD RECORD

2011-02-25 09:26:00

PRESS RELEASE

February 21st 2011

Fairtrade Fortnight starts on Monday February 28th. This year�s theme is to get Loud and Proud and �Show Off Your Label�. The focus is on cotton, including an attempt by groups from Garstang (the World�s first Fairtrade Town), together with Preston and South Ribble, Lancaster and Morecambe District and Myerscough College to help produce Fairtrade-themed bunting of record length. Confirmation will be assessed by judges from the Guinness Book of Records.

Local schools and other groups in the area will decorate cotton bunting, supplied by the Fairtrade Foundation, with Fairtrade-related illustrations on the theme What Fairtrade means to me. This bunting will then be assembled for displaying from 10am to 3pm at Th�Old Tithe Barn, Garstang, on Saturday, March 5th. Additional support will be provided by the Margaret Kane, a Kensington Foundation canal boat. The event will be attended by the Mayor of Garstang, Coun. Gillian Lamb, and the Mayoress, Coun. Sandra Perkins, also by the Mayor and Mayoress of Wyre Borough, and by the Rt Hon Sir Robert Atkins MEP and his wife, Coun Lady Dulcie Atkins. Later, the boat will take the bunting to Lancaster for display at the Ashton Memorial in Williamson�s Park before being taken to contribute to the Fairtrade Foundation�s record attempt in London.

Other Fairtrade events during the fortnight will include a fair trade cookery demonstration at 7.30pm on Monday March 7th by Ian Piper of Pipers Restaurant, Garstang, as well as several activities by local organisations. Look out for announcements!

Fairtrade Fortnight is the annual awareness raising campaign of the Fairtrade Foundation when Fairtrade stakeholders and supporters aim to communicate the benefit of products certified by the Fairtrade Foundation to empower producers in developing countries.

For more information please contact Ruth Bruce, Chairman, Garstang Fairtrade Steering Group, email brucemr@btinternet.com tel: 01995 602784, or the Fairtrade Foundation at http://www.fairtrade.org.uk

SCOTTISH LIGHT - AN EXHIBITION OF MONOCHROME PHOTOGRAPHY

2011-02-13 12:03:00

Garstang Arts Centre Schoolroom Exhibition
by John Barton
February 12th � March 12th
Scottish Light - An exhibition of monochrome photography

My main interest is in photographing the natural landscape and smaller natural objects. I am drawn to the wilder landscape and the less populated areas. These areas can sometimes appear to have little natural attraction, but closer inspection often shows that even the most unpromising subject can reveal an unexpected power and beauty. The light plays a major part in this revelation and the light in the Scottish Highlands and Islands can be outstanding. It is this light which I have set out to depict in this exhibition.
Free Admission - Refreshments available
More information & opening times please ring Ann McKay 01995 603058

JON GOMM - GUITARIST - Playing at the GOLDEN BALL PILLING

2011-02-10 09:48:00

ONE of Britain's most highly respected and talented guitarists is performing at the Golden Ball, School Lane, Pilling, on Saturday, March 5 at 8pm.

Jon first laid his hands on a guitar at the age of two, started taking classical guitar lessons, wrote his first song at six, and at twelve he was accompanying his father, a music critic, to blues gigs in his hometown of Blackpool.

Touring musicians would often stay at the Gomm household on the understanding Jon would get a guitar lesson, meaning he had one-to-one instruction from such legends as Walter Trout, Bob Brozman, Sherman Robertson and Norman Beaker (Jack Bruce band).

On leaving school Jon turned down a place at Oxford University to attend The Guitar Institute in London. While there he paid his way through college playing jazz in café-bars, recording as a session guitarist, and even playing Country & Western in working mens clubs for line-dancers.

Eventually he heard the call of the north and moved to Leeds, where he is now based, to study on the Jazz degree course at the music college there. He decided to try his hand at performing solo, and discovered all kinds of new sounds he could make with an acoustic guitar � hitting the surface of it to make snare drum, bass drum and bongo sounds, re-tuning the strings to get bass sounds, and teasing high harmonics from the guitar for synthesizer-like effects.

He worked all these techniques into his own songs, and put his years of singing blues into use.

Jon grew up in Great Eccleston and Blackpool.

These days he travels around Britain and Europe, with performances in the UK, Germany, the Netherlands and Italy.

The past two years have seen him in his 'home territory' with performances at Little Eccleston, Catterall, Poulton and Blackpool.

* Jon Gomm performs at The Golden Ball, Pilling, on Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 8pm. For ticket details contact 07984 380 955.

Jon can be contacted at http://info@jongomm.com or via his website http://www.jongomm.com

SIGN2SING WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT!

2011-02-08 20:24:00

9th February 2011 @ 2.45pm

Staff and children at Garstang St Thomas CE Primary School are amongst the 70,000 people who have registered to take part in sign2sing, an attempt to break the World Record for the most people singing and signing a song at the same time on 9th February 2011 at 2.45pm.

Head teacher Helen Ife says, � We are lucky enough here in school to have Miss Harper, a teaching assistant who is fluent in British Sign Language. Miss Harper is keen to teach the children to sign and runs a signing club during the children�s lunch break. She came to me with the idea to join in with this record breaking attempt and we are only too happy to be taking part and raising awareness of British Sign Language. The children have been signing hymns and songs for a while and seem to pick up this new language very quickly. This has been fantastic for our hearing impaired pupil who now has another way in which to communicate with friends.�

Rather aptly, the children will be singing and signing �The New Seekers� 1970′s hit single �I�d like to Teach the World to Sing.� For more information about the record attempt please visit the sign2sing website:

http://www.sign2sing.org.uk

Pictured are from left to right Abbey Shore signing "Apple tree" Lauren Gowlding signing "honey bees" and Ellie Consadine signing "snow white turtle dove".

GARSTANG POETRY APPRECIATION SOCIETY

2011-01-31 09:50:00

Venue: Garstang Arts Cente.
We have regular meetings where you can bring along your favourite poem, or one that you have written yourself. All welcome, including potential new members. Donation for refreshments. For more info and date of the next meeting please contact: Marie Whalley on 01995 603605.

Picture courtesy Anthony Coppin & Garstang Courier

GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE - DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

2011-01-18 12:25:00

FORTHCOMING EVENTS;
CRAFT AND COLLECTORS FAIRS
in
GARSTANG ARTS CENTRE.
10-00am to 3-00pm.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 19th 2011
SATURDAY APRIL 16th 2011
SATURDAY JUNE 18th 2011
SATURDAY AUGUST 20th 2011
Refreshments served all day.

GARSTANG & DISTRICT ARTS SOCIETY
Present a Concert featuring
THE VALLEY SINGERS
On Saturday March 12th 2011 at 7-30pm.
In Garstang Arts Centre.
For tickets or more information on the above please contact Mary Thornber 01995 605210

GARSTANG WALKING FESTIVAL PROGRAMME NOW AVAILABLE!

2011-01-09 13:34:00

2011 Garstang Walking Festival

The dates for the fabulous 2011 Garstang
Walking Festival are Friday 6th until Sunday 15th May 2011

For information about this year's programme of walks and events please download the new brochure - see pdf link below.

Or if you need further information or want to view some photos from previous years visit http://www.wyrebc.gov.uk and enter "Garstang Walking Festival" into the search box.

You can also contact by post or email:

Garstang Walking Festival
Leisure and Cultural Services
FREEPOST BHJ2770
Poulton-le-Fylde
Lancashire
FY6 7PU

Tel: 01995 602125
E-mail: countryside@wyrebc.gov.uk

Book early to avoid disappointment! Many walks are extremely popular and booking is essential!

GARSTANG GARDENING CLUB

2011-01-04 12:53:00

Elaine Taylor of Bolton will give a talk to members of Garstang Gardening Club on "English gardens through the ages" at St. Thomas Parish Hall on Monday, February 14, 2011. The meeting starts at 7.30pm.
Anyone interested in gardening is welcome to attend.

More info: Ray Pearson on 01772 782798

YES - GARSTANG HAS ACHIEVED THE HAT TRICK!!!

2010-12-20 12:05:00

GARSTANG HAS ATTAINED A TOP RATING OF 5 IN THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITIES IN BLOOM COMPETITION!

A phone call from Norah Hoyles MBE confirmed that GARSTANG really is a global champion!! The highest score of 5 was gained and a special mention was given for our "Youth Engagement in Environmental Issues". Norah said they were "absolutely delighted" with the news, and added the Canadian contingency of bloomers have had a wonderful time in Quebec.

Bloomers at home were also quietly(!)celebrating in Th'Owd Tithebarn and the Wheatsheaf pubs...both of whom have given so much support to the Garstang in Bloom team. The news came via the Wheatsheaf telephone just after 11pm last night (29th October)

You can see all the results here: http://www.communitiesinbloom.ca

At the time of writing Radio Lancashire was also covering the story - hoping to have a live interview with bloomers in Quebec, and those at home. You will be able to "listen again" on the BBC Radio Lancashire website. Stephen Lowe's Sunday morning show "Lancashire Outdoors"

Well done to all concerned, and a great big thankyou to everyone who helped during all visits by the Judges - Regional, National and International!

Thanks to Garstang's community too!

Previous News:
NORTH WEST IN BLOOM
Garstang has picked up another GOLD in the RHS North West in Bloom award ceremony held in Southport on 20th October. Amongst other winners were residents of Stransdale, Walmesley Close, and the boating community at the Tithebarn basin. They all picked up an award at the "Neighbourhood" award ceremony on Wednesday. WELL DONE TO ALL AGAIN!

NATIONAL BRITAIN IN BLOOM
A previous award ceremony was held in St Andrews on 25th September, and Garstang achieved yet another Gold award in the National RHS Britain in Bloom competition - being only just pipped to the post by Cricklade for overall Champion of Champions. Although they didn't win the catagory - Garstang local businesses were nominated for a special discretionary award - a major accolade to be nominated...and well deserved!

For full results and all listings including the discretionary award winners please log on to the RHS website at: http://www.rhs.org.uk

BACKGROUND TO JUDGES VISITS
Garstang in Bloom has had a very busy year.

Three lots of judges through July & August - Northwest in Bloom & the National Champion of Champions from the Royal Horticultural Society, and the International Judges from "Communities in Bloom" based in Canada.

The town was sparkling as usual - and we managed one sunny day for the North West in Bloom Judges in July. However the National and International judges had to face our inclement August weather. With true "blooming" spirit - we entertained the Judges and showed off our flowers, our pocket gardens, our schools and of course our wonderful "community".

Alex and Berta, the judges from Ohio & Alberta (respectively) could not have failed to be impress with the town as a whole. Bertha was heard to say that we "had ticked every box!"

The first result will be the RHS "Champion of Champions" which will be announced in St Andrews Scotland on Sunday 25th September, followed by the North West in Bloom which will be announced at Southport on Thursday 20th October. The final result for the International Challenge will be heard in Quebec on Saturday 29th October. Those bloomers not going to Canada will hopefully be celebrating in the Wheatsheaf on the Saturday evening where they expect to hear the result at around 11pm (6pm Quebec time)

Our grateful thanks go to all those who helped to make August 8th very special - the boating community & Carole and Robert at Th'Owd Tithebarn, the schools & Children's Centre, Bridgehouse Marina and Jungle Queen, The Millennium Green Team, Fairtrade reps & Soroptomists, Wyre Rangers, Garstang Cycling Club, Visit Wyre Centre, businesses, pubs, residents and of course "bloomers"! Watch this space for the results! (Photo courtesy of Garstang Courier)

To see this year's portfolio click on:

http://www.wyrebc.gov.uk/media/Garstang_in_Bloom_Portfolio.pdf (copyright Lynn Harter)

Of course the summer was marred greatly by the sad and sudden loss of Henry Hoyles. He played such a massive but silent part in helping keep Garstang looking as good as it does. He will be sadly missed by us all.

The bloomer's work goes on throughout the year, not just for judgement days, and we are always glad of any extra help.

PLEASE HELP US IF YOU CAN - EVEN IF YOU JUST CONTINUE TO WEED AND LITTERPICK OUTSIDE YOUR OWN FRONT DOOR.

IF YOU CAN OFFER MORE HELP - PLEASE CONTACT NORAH HOYLES ON 01995 602841

ROTARY SANTA SLEIGH VISITS GARSTANG & CATTERALL

2010-12-08 12:19:00

The Rotary Santa Sleigh will be in Cherestanc Square on Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th December from 10-30am to 4-00pm.
Please give generously - they will be rattling collection boxes. Their major charities are Brian House and Sue Ryder plus several other charities.
Santa will be handing out sweets to the
children.
The Santa Sleigh will follow the following routes after 4.30pm on both days:-

Monday 20th December

Start At Pickerings Hotel 4.30.Pm.
Joe Lane
Woburn Avenue & Ashfield Rise
Newhaven Drive
Boyes Avenue & Baylton Drive
Cock Robin Lane Full Length
Daniel Fold & Return Along Cock Robin Lane
Hamers Wood Drive
Calder Drive
Back To Main Road
Duckworth Drive
Back To Main Road
Catterall Gates Lane
Parklands
Keepers Wood Way
Nightingale
Greenway Drive
Meadowcroft Avenue
Back To Main Road
Bowgreave Drive & Shepherds Avenue & Dew Forrest
Back To Main Road
Topiary Gardens
Back To Pickerings Hotel

Tuesday 21st December

Start At Community Centre Car Park 4.30 Pm
High Street
Church Street
Kepple Lane
Grizedale Avenue
Parlick Road
Hazelhurst Drive
Moss Lane
Windsor Road
Windsor Gardens
Gregory Meadow
Dorchester Road
Hereford Avenue
Hawthorne Avenue
Croston Road
Oak Road
Birch Road
Maple Road
Hill View
Lancaster Road
Calla Drive
Wyre Lane
Manor Road
Hawthorns
Carr Holme Gardens
Broom Hill
Bowland Road
Norton Road
Graham Road
Meadow Park

SANTA BY BARGE at TH'OWD TITHEBARN

2010-11-30 13:57:00

Saturday 18th December

(in aid of the Garstang & District Children's Festival.)

The fun starts at 1pm - Kids entertainment, children's disco, karaoke, fun, games and prizes.

Tombola, raffle & stalls.

Come along and enjoy the atmosphere in the Tithebarn as the children await Santa's arrival.

Father Christmas will arrive by boat at 5pm with "goodie bags" for all the children.

For further details Tel: 01995 604486

GARSTANG VICTORIAN FESTIVAL 2010

2010-11-23 11:41:00

This year's festival will be held on Monday 13th and Tuesday 14th December from 6.00pm.

The High Street is closed to traffic and the High Street will be have a variety of stalls, shops will be open for late night shopping, Father Christmas and his Gnomes will arrive in style, and a fantastic entertainment programme which will include:

The �Batala� samba drum band, the Red Rose Band, the Pilling Band, the Longridge Band, Calvos (a must to be seen!), Punch and Judy, the balloon man, Food wise there will be the usual hog roast, German sausages, olives, chestnuts, mulled wine, doughnuts, and much more. Mince pies and mulled wine will be offered by many shopkeepers too!

Garstang's own Town Crier will escort Santa to his grotto so he can meet the children.

Come along and mingle with the many visitors on the night. Why not wear Victorian costume? - you won't be on your own - as many of the town dignitories, stall holders, residents and shop-keepers dress up in their Victorian finery to help bring the spirit of Christmas to the town.

The festival is a community event co-ordinated by Garstang Chamber of Trade, and is supported and organised by all Garstang's local organisations.

The event is FREE too!

For more information please contact Kim on 01995 605400

or Mike & Jo Coleran on 01995 606682
email: garstangxmas@gmail.com

GARSTANG THEATRE GROUP presents...SLEEPING BEAUTY

2010-11-15 15:51:00

A TRADITIONAL FAMILY PANTOMIME

at

GARSTANG HIGH SCHOOL

on

1st � 4th December

Commencing at 7.30pm

Tickets £7.50

Available from

Market Place News

Croston RoadStores

(formerly Wareings)

or Telephone (01995) 603551

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON!

2010-11-11 10:00:00

MONDAY 29TH NOVEMBER at 4.45PM

Join us for carol singing around the tree

with

Garstang High School Band & local schoolchildren

Help us with the countdown to the �switch on�

Followed by:

The �Blessing� of the Crib

Watch out for Santa�s little helpers and guests

Why not come in fancy dress?

(PHOTO: Courtesy Mike Coleran)

THE MILLENNIUM GREEN TEAM HAVE DONE IT!!!!!!!

2010-11-01 21:58:00

Today the Millennium Green Team received news that we have got a total grant of £80,000 made up of £30,000 from the Lancashire Environment Fund and £50,000 from the Lottery. This together with the work in kind will create a nearly £100,000 project.

The Garstang Millennium Green Improvement Project.

Ron Freeland Chair of the Management Team thanked everyone who over the last 3 or 4 years have helped us get into the position to apply successfully.

'Really it is the whole community that has supported us. C&C Supplies, Garstang Lions, Barton Grange, Wyre Borough Strategic Partnership, LCC Green Partnership, all the Friends of the Green, Garstang Courier, the local schools and many more. Above all the hard work of the volunteers, the Management Team and the Trustees has been rewarded.This for resurfacing paths, new tapping board/ fence drainage, moving path away from eroded banks, re-inforced outer path, fencing etc. all in line with the consultation exercise we held with the community.

We know we still need the money for the middle field but we have ideas and plans. We also still need the support of the Friends of the Green as non of this money helps with the day to day maintenance costs. We have begun getting the tender documents together today and hope to start work in Spring 2011 and we will make sure that we get great value for money completing as much work as possible.'

Lady Dulcie Atkins the Chair of the Trustees commented.
"I am delighted as this will ensure that the Millennium Green is used even more and that pathways will be safe when the Green is flooded. Congratulations to everyone who has worked so hard to achieve this superb result."

FOCUS ON THE CROCUS!!!

2010-10-29 12:48:00

The Rotary Club of Garstang and Over Wyre

You may have heard of FOCUS
ON THE CROCUS � but what�s it about?

Rotarians look to celebrate106 years since its foundation on Rotary Day on 23rd February
2011, in a healthy, fun, community based and environmental friendly way by planting in
everyone.s mind, the opportunity of being part of a historic worldwide campaign, spearheaded
by Rotary International, to finally eradicate Polio across the world.

They plan to do this by planting, throughout the UK and Ireland, the Ruby Giant �purple.
crocus. Purple reflects the dye dabbed on children.s little �pinkie. finger to indicate they have
been immunised against polio in the few remaining parts of the globe since Rotary
International commenced its campaign in 1985.

Working in partnership with The Eden Project, the International Flower Bulb Centre (IBC), the
National Trust, Learning Through Landscape and others, over 2000 of the Rotary Clubs in
Britain and Ireland (RIBI) have bought more than 5,000,000 crocuses and plan to engage
thousands of volunteers to join in the Big Bulb Plant by planting millions of purple crocus
bulbs in the autumn: With a headline publicity event in Trafalgar Square and the opportunity
for all sites around Great Britain and Ireland to break the Guinness World Record on 2nd
October, Focus on the Crocus is building communities, bridging continents.

The Rotary Club of Garstang and Over Wyre last year ran a very successful Purple Pinkie
�Thanks for Life� campaign in local primary schools highlighting the need to eradicate polio in
the 4 remaining countries where it is endemic. This year we have bought 5000 of the Ruby
Giant crocuses and are donating these to schools and communities around Garstang and
over Wyre for planting in October. Come February next year we should have colourful purple
displays across the area as a further reminder of the need to eradicate Polio.

The Ruby Giant �purple. in public places and your local Rotary Club is planting bulbs in Saint
Michaels, Inskip and Garstang.

This week an enthusiastic team of local volunteers assisted members of Rotary to plant over
one thousand bulbs in Garstang including a major display on the verge outside Sainsburys.

Rotary meets each Wednesday at 7-30 pm at the Pickerings Country House Hotel Catterall.

For further information please contact:

Don Goodier 01995 603720 Public Relations

Roger Mason 01995603447 Event Organizer

SPECTACULAR BONFIRE & FIREWORKS SET TO MUSIC

2010-10-29 10:50:00

GARSTANG AND DISTRICT LIONS PROUDLY PRESENT THEIR ANNUAL TOWN BONFIRE

Community Centre (High Street) Car Park
GARSTANG

Saturday 6th of November 2010

BONFIRE - 7pm FIREWORKS - 7.30 pm

ENTRANCE FEE ONLY £3 per person (small children free)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE

Garstang & District Lions are not liable for any injury, accident, or loss which occur, whatever the cause either directly or indirectly at or by this event
First Aid personnel will be in attendance
FOR SAFETY REASONS
NO BONFIRE MATERIAL TO BE DEPOSITED ON THE SITE
BY ORDER OF WYRE BOROUGH COUNCIL & THE HEALTH & SAFETY EXECUTIVE

VIDEO SURVEILLANCE IN OPERATION

OFFENDERS WILL BE PROSECUTED

NO UNOFFICIAL FIREWORKS OR SPARKLERS ALLOWED

Please note:

This event is paid for by fees collected on the night and has no other means of financial support.
Please feel free to make a further donation towards the cost of this event

BRIDGE STREET SHOPS AND SERVICES GOES PINK!!!

2010-10-22 14:53:00

From 25th -31st October.

Help us once again raise money for BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

We have lot of activities, raffles and a window competition throughout the week

COME ALONG A JOIN IN THE FUN

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND AN ENTRY FORM

Please call GILL at CHIC on 01995 600342

GARSTANG GAINS YET ANOTHER GOLD AWARD!!

2010-10-19 18:04:00

Well done to Norah Hoyles, her team of "bloomers", residents, schools and community groups who have helped Garstang to win yet another prestigious Gold Award from the RHS Northwest in Bloom.

A team of bloomers accompanied Norah and the mayor & mayoress of Wyre as they travelled to Southport to hear the news.

The Royal Oak also won an award for "Best small accommodation" which was collected on their behalf by Andrew Thompson

Garstang was recently presented with a top Gold Award at the Nationals, winning its category in the RHS Britain in Bloom campaign, one of the largest horticultural campaigns in Europe. Norah Hoyles won an individual "community champion" award for her untiring work with Garstang in Bloom.

Stransdale residents also collected an award in the "Neighbourhood Awards" which were given out the day before - Wednesday 20th. This was for the "improving" project taken on by PCSO Lisa Dennett and a team of volunteers from the Princes Trust scheme.

500 FAIRTRADE TOWNS IN THE UK. - CELEBRATORY BIKE RIDE!

2010-10-18 15:16:00

A 500 MILE BIKE RIDE TO CELEBRATE!

�Garstang should be proud that they started this incredibly successful, internationally recognised movement�.

These were the words of Ruth Bruce, Chairwoman of Garstang Fairtrade Steering Group, on being told of the planned event. Garstang as the first Fairtrade Town in the World was a town not to be missed on the route. The cycling Fairtrade supporters from Kendal will arrive in Garstang on Wednesday afternoon, October 27th; their destination the Discovery Centre (to be greeted by Garstang Fairtrade supporters and members of the Town Council) Fairtrade representatives from Garstang Cycling Club, Pip Riley and Phil Durrigan will continue the ride on Thursday morning, leaving Garstang at 8.30 am for Chester.

The ride will start in Aberfeldy, the joint first Scottish Fairtrade Town, calling at Kendal Cumbria�s first Fairtrade Town) before reaching Garstang en route to the (world�s first Fairtrade City), Chester and finally Cardiff (world�s first capital city) . A commemorative parchment will be signed by all the participating cyclists at each stage.

For further information on Garstang Fairtrade Steering Group, please contact: Ruth Bruce email: brucemr@btinternet.com tel: 01995 602784.

Photo - Garstang Cycling Club courtesy Mike Coleran.

GARSTANG MUSICAL PRODUCTIONS PRESENT:

2010-10-06 12:13:00

The Little Shop of Horrors

Composed by Alan Menkin and written by Howard Ashman shows an insight into the life of Seymour Krelborn. He leads a fairly humdrum life in Skidrow until, during a total eclipse of the sun, he stumbles upon an exotic and mysterious new plant and his life will never be the same as all havoc breaks loose...!

Paul Jones and Lucy Burdett play the principal characters Seymour and Audrey.

Also on stage are Peter Cooney who plays Mr Mushnik (the flower shop owner). The glamorous street urchins are played by Sheena Orchin, Laura Gardner, Beth Winstanley, Marion Gaughan, Louise Coupe & Hannah Walker.
The Director is Daniel Crossley, and the Musical Director is Dave Kennedy.

Book your tickets now for this enjoyable and entertaining musical production.

Garstang High School
Wednesday 20th October to Friday 23rd October
Tickets £7.50 available from Car Care, High Street, Garstang or by contacting Joanne Ingham 01995 601050 or emailing garstangmusicalproductions@hotmail.co.uk

GARSTANG HOPES FOR GOLD AGAIN!

2010-10-03 14:52:00

Good Luck to Norah Hoyles, her team of "bloomers", residents, schools and community groups who are awaiting the results of the RHS Northwest in Bloom this coming Thursday 21st in Southport

Garstang has already been presented with a Gold Award at the Nationals, winning its category in the RHS Britain in Bloom campaign, one of the largest horticultural campaigns in Europe. We are hoping for equal success in the North West competition.

Strandsdale residents will also be awaiting their result as the "Neighbourhood Awards" are given out the day before - Wednesday 20th.

"ALL SETT FOR BADGERS"

2010-09-20 10:40:00

Friends of Garstang's Millennium Green Trust are proud to present a talk by Ranger Paul Shoreman about the natural history of badgers and the problems they encounter today.

It will be held on Friday 8th October at 7.30pm in Garstang's United Reformed Church Hall, Croston Road, Garstang.

Admission will be £2 and that will include refreshments.

All welcome, and there will be a raffle and an opportunity to enrol as a Friend of the Green.

ART EXHIBITION at the ARTS CENTRE GARSTANG

2010-08-29 14:08:00

An exhibition of work by artist and art tutor Terry O'Toole goes on show at Garstang Arts Centre, Croston Road, this week.
Terry's work includes pieces in watercolour, pastels and charcoal.
The exhibition will run from Tuesday August 31st - Saturday September 25th.
The centre is open Tuesdays 10am - 12.30pm and 2pm - 4pm, Thursdays 10am - 4pm and Saturdays from 10am - 12.30pm.

ACTIVE WYRE - Garstang Dates for your Diary - September

2010-08-29 12:03:00

Garstang Monday Walk 6th September 10am - 1pm from the Visit Garstang Centre. Price £3/£2
The regular Garstang Walk takes a different route each month to visit the edge of Bowland. This is the penultimate walk. (The last one being Monday 4th October which will be a longer walk and aims to take in the Autumn colours of the Grizedale Valley and views from the top of Nicky Nook -weather permitting)

Thursday 16th September. 11am - 3.30pm
Garstang/Calder Vale Super 8 Walk and Ride.
Catch the Super 8 bus from Garstang and ramble back from Calder Vale taking in Barnacre Church and Greenhalgh Castle.
Booking Essential please ring 01995 602125

Sunday 19th September - Garstang Half Marathon.
See "featured event" panel for details

HAVE YOU EVER WANTED TO DO THE MORECAMBE BAY WALK?

2010-08-22 12:07:00

Well now is your chance...and you can help Croston & Vine House whilst you are doing it!

A walk has been planned from Arnside to Kents Bank on SUNDAY 5th September 2010.

The Queens Appointed Guide, Mr Cedric Robinson has been leading walks across Morecambe Sands for well over 45 years and is renowned across the country as having led thousands upon thousands of people safely across the once dangerous crossing. Even today serious problems can occur if the Queens Guide is not present.

The eight mile walk is one the country's most popular and scenic starting from the pretty and picturesque promenade of Arnside at 3pm taking around three hours to complete, affording plenty of panoramic views of the surrounding Lakeland Hills, and those of Lancashire and Yorkshire.

For registration document & sponsor forms etc please contact Margaret O'Donaghue on 01772 793344. Hurry! Places will go fast for this popular walk.

PRESTON FM - Community Radio comes to Garstang!

2010-08-13 09:58:00

Garstang - 23 Aug - 4 Sep

We'll be in Garstang for two full weeks, and we'll be broadcasting our regular programmes live as well as running special workshops, training sessions and drop-ins for anyone who fancies coming in and having a go at radio.

We'd love to hear from you if you live in any of the communities we'll be visiting - especially if you've got a story to tell or are involved in a local event or activity that we could help you to promote whilst we're out and about. Keep reading for full details about where we're going to be, and how you can get involved in Preston FM when we visit you this summer

We'll be camping out in the Discovery Centre on the High Street in Garstang (in the old Tourist Information centre) for this fortnight, and bringing you all the latest from the Garstang Arts and Music Festival as well as meeting people and organisations from the world's first Fair Trade Town. Pop in and see us (during the opening hours below) or book in to one of the workshops we'll be running whilst we're in town by calling 01772 880791:

Wednesday 25th August, 2-4pm
Wednesday 25th August, 6-8pm
Thursday 26th August, 2-4pm
Monday 30th August (Bank Holiday), 12-2pm and 4-6pm
Saturday 4th September, 12-2pm

GARSTANG ARTS FESTIVAL - Sat 21st August - Monday 30th August

2010-08-13 09:46:00

There will be plenty to do and see throughout the 10 days.

Programmes are available now from the Visit Garstang Centre (01995 602125), the Arts Centre (01995 606648) and selected shops throughout Garstang. Now available to download online from here. See featured event panel.

Some events - such as the John Towers Band (see featured photo) and Trovatori (see featured panel) do need to be booked in advance - so hurry to get your programme now!

Chairman Garstang mayor Gillian Lamb said "This year promises to be a spectacular array of varied events from live bands, painting exhibitions, singing, crafts and much more!"

One of the highlights as always will be a poetry workshop with James Dodding at the Arts Centre on Friday August 27th at 3pm. (Booking is essential - contact Anne Humphreys on 01995 602633)

The Arts Festival events also coincide with the visit from Preston FM - they will be running media workshops, interviewing the public and generally promoting the town's wonderful community spirit.

See "more info" on the featured panel for a pdf download of the full programme.

A programme of lunchtime music concerts for Garstang

2010-07-26 17:13:00

Music to suit all tastes will be on offer in the music room of the Arts Centre every Thursday lunchtime at 1pm during the next few weeks.

Garstang musician June Baker has organised the series of presentations which will start on July 29th with a concert from young performers.

August 5th - Jazz and Blues with Eileen Guppy and Sue Parrish.

August 12th - Flute Fiesta

August 19th - Piano Recital

August 26th - Palm Court Concert with June Baker & friends.

Finally - September 3 - Clarinet recital with Harry Colledge and friends.

All concerts are FREE but donations are welcomed!

For further information telephone the Arts Centre: 01995 606648, or June on 01995 606008