This month’s event guide is sponsored by Britannia Taxis.
Featured Events
Shouldn’t Throw Stones – The View of a Night Watchman
A Photography exhibition and site tours of the ex Pilkington Glass HQ By Kevin Casey takes place in May. Tickets are FREE but limited in number.
This exhibition is the culmination of a two-year project undertaken by artist Kevin Casey. Part documentary photography, part archival re-presentation and part making ends meet, as Casey’s ‘night job’ as an on-site security guard at the former Pilkington Glass Headquarters became his ‘day job’ as an artist, the work presented tells the story of an uncertain future, tense present and captivating past.
Read more about the Shouldnt Throw Stones exhibition and tours and click to book tickets
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Other Events
CITADEL
http://www.citadel.org.uk/
01744 735436
Jadis
4th May
Doors: 7.30pm
Tickets: £15
The Neo Progressvie Rock band tour for the first time in 6 years
Danny Bryant
Saturday 12th May
Doors: 7.30pm
Tickets: £15
National Blues treasure launches his brand new album, “Revelation”
The Prince Experience
Friday 18th May
Doors: 7.30pm
Tickets: £15 ADV/ £18 OTD
Celebrate the music of one of the most prolific musical icons of all time.
Limehouse Lizzy
Friday 25th May
Doors: 7.30pm
Tickets: £15
Keeping the spirit of Celtic Rock Band Thin Lizzy alive
Keepy Uppy
Sunday 27th May
Doors: 11.30am & 2.00pm
Onstage: 12.00pm & 2.30pm
Tickets: £7/£5
Celebrate the beautiful game with this play for the 2018 World Cup. A tale of love, devotion and family. Filled with fab footy moves, flicks, sidesteps, and original live music. Perfect for football fans, children and families. Ages 5+
SHOWS AND PERFORMANCES
St Helens Gangshow (Scouts and Guides) Presents “We’ve Been Making Memories”
2nd to 4th May. Theatre Royal. 7.15pm. Tickets £8. Contact Jennifer Tickle on 07742 383176
MAYhem :Spine Tingling Stories for a Spring Evening written and performed by Sue Gerrard. Tuesday 8th May, 2018. From 7 to 8.30pm at St. Mark’s Lodge, Victoria Park, City Road, St. Helens. Light refreshments served : £5. Booking essential by ringing 07985556539
Rainhill Garrick society presents Ladies Day by amanda Whittington. May 17th to 19th. Rainhill Village Hall. 7.30pm. tickets available from the hall and Rainhill post office and by calling 01744 813429
FETES, FAYRES, MARKETS, FUN DAYS AND MORE
Family Fun Day
Saturday 5th May at Haresfinch rugby and Community Club. Raising money for Honeyrose Foundation. Midday to 4pm. Adults £1. Children go FREE.
Classic Car Show
North West Museum of Road Transport. Sunday 6th May. 11am to 4pm.
Earlestown Classic Car Show
Saturday 12th May. 10am to 4pm. Market Street
Artisan market at Inglenook Farm
Sunday 13th May. 10am to 3pm.Browse over 55 stalls full of stunning, handmade one of a kind crafts and find stunning art, award winning local produce and amazing regional producers. From handmade skin care to stunning jewellery and handmade childrens wear, there is so much to find. You will also find our courtyard full of stunning, award winning local produce to be sampled. There will be music and dancing with the Cotton Town Hot Club and fresh food and coffee in our cafe. Car parking and entrance is free
Pre-Loved Sale at Inglenook Farm
Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th May. 11am to 3pm. Discover some treasure in our first of this year’s pre-loved sales. From baby wear to toys, clothes to books and everything in between, you are bound to find something special. Make a day of it with the Birds of Prey display and see the stunning owls, hawks and eagles up close.
Rainhill Gala
Monday 28th May. entertainmetn for the whole family. 11am to 4.30pm. St Anns School Field, View Road, Rainhill.
EXHIBITIONS
Town And Country: The Poet And The Painter Exhibition
In celebration of St. Helens 150th birthday, poet Sue Gerrard and artist Carole Ann Eaves, ‘The Poet and The Painter,’ are presenting a special exhibition ‘Town and Country’ at the Millennium Centre Academy of Arts until Friday May 11th.
The exhibition contains paintings by Carol Anne of some of the town’s best-known buildings such as St. Mary’s Lowe House Church as well as country scenes such as ‘The Crossing Point’ in Newton -le -Willows.
Sue’s poems complement these scenes and are enhanced by photographs and Sue’s Computer-Generated Images (CGI) creating beautiful pictures of St. Helens and its proud heritage.
St. Helens born Sue and Carol Anne have staged more than sixty exhibitions throughout the North West. Sue is also the author of the best-selling book ‘St. Helens Now and Then’ which also celebrates the town’s milestone birthday and is available from Wardleworths Bookshop, St. Helens.
The Millennium Art Academy Exhibition will be held at:
The Millennium Centre (St Helens) Ltd
Corporation Street
St Helens
Merseyside
WA10 1HJ
Tel: 01744 675131
Opening Times:
Monday to Friday from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm
Weekend from 10.00 am to 9.00 pm
Visions of Another World.
Smithy Heritage Centre Saturday 31 March – Saturday 22 September 2018 Open Saturdays and Sundays, 1-4pm. Admission is FREE!
2018 marks 200 years since the publication of what is often cited as being the first work of science fiction, Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. H.G. Wells and Jules Verne conjured other realms, envisioning the invention of fanciful vehicles which could travel through time and space.
Technological advances have had a profound influence on literature, unlocking new possibilities for authors, artists and filmmakers; some modern gadgets have even been developed from fictional ones!
This fascinating and fun exhibition looks at the impact science fiction has had on popular culture. Come and spot your favourite characters and find out more about them. They will be hosting Smithy Con on Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 September, 10am-5pm, feel free to dress up!
The Smithy is all on one level with limited on-site parking, accessible amenities and baby changing facilities. It’s Dog Friendly too, so the whole family can visit!
Kiln Lane, Eccleston, St Helens WA10 4RA smithyheritagecentre@hotmail.com 01744 730744
Showcasing Student Talent; A First Look At Future Art Stars
May 2018 will see the historic Beechams building in the heart of St Helens Town Centre transformed into one of the borough’s largest art galleries, celebrating the achievements and talents of final year students from a selection of University Centre St Helens creative arts degrees, including BA (Hons) Photography, BA (Hons) Graphic Design and BA (Hons) Fine Art Painting. Vortex, the annual end of year show, provides students with the opportunity to showcase their final pieces in a gallery setting to friends, family, visitors and local influencers.
Open to members of the public from May 16th to 21st June, Monday to Friday 10.00am – 4.00pm and is completely free of charge. More information https://www.sthelensunlimited.co.uk/2018/04/17/showcasing-student-talent-a-first-look-at-future-art-stars/
SPEEDBOAT RACING AT CARR MILL DAM
Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th May. Cars Mill Dam, Garswood Old Rd, Saint Helens WA11 7LZ, UK
ST HELENS IN MOTION (Walk, Run, Cycle and more)
FRIDAYS
FREE Walking Groups from Go Active Team. All of the walks get you to and through places you wouldn’t think existed, beautiful views, fantastic wildlife & all this is on your doorstep. Great weekly session to get active as well as meeting new people on the same path as you. All abilities welcome. Walks take place on Fridays from 8.30am to 10.30am
4th May 2018
Sidings Lane Trail Walk, Meeting On The Rangers Car Park, Rainford. WA11-7SR. 6-Mile Flat Trail Walk Around Countryside In Rainford.
11th May 2018
Bold Country Park Trail Walk, Meeting On Gorsey Lane Car Park Opposite The Playing Fields, Burtonwood. WA5-4HP. 6-Mile Slightly Strenuous In Places With Hills, Leading Round Trails Around Bold.
18th May 2018
Billinge Trail Walk, Meeting At Beacon Road (Parking At top Of Street) Billinge,
Wigan. WN5-7HF. 5-6 Mile Very Strenuous Trail Walk With Hills Trail Walk Leading Up To The Lump.
25th May 2018
Parr Greenways Trail Walk, Meeting At Parr Swimming And Fitness Centre, Ashcroft Street, St Helens. WA9-1BQ. 6-Mile Flat Trail Walk Around Bold Moss Leading Onto Sankey Canal.
Please wear suitable footwear. Well behaved dogs welcome. Weather appropriate clothing. Please bring a drink. Fully Qualified Instructors. Why not bring a friend, family or neighbour. Please be there for 8.15am to sign register and be ready to set off at 8.30am Contact details andrewbrown@sthelens.gov.uk 01744 677970 / 01744 677236
Ranger Events
Wednesday 2nd May Health Walk at Mesnes Park, 4 miles long, 1.30pm start. Meet at the Visitor Centre, Park Road North, Newton-le-Willows WAl2 9TA For more information contact Mesnes Park Ranger on 01925-229021
Tuesday 8th May Health Walk at Sankey Valley, 4.5 miles long, 1.30pm start. Meet at the Visitor Centre on Blackbrook Road, St Helens WA11 OAB For more information contact the Sankey Valley Ranger on 01744 677772
Monday 21st May Health Walk at Rainford Siding Lane, 3.5 miles long, 1.30pm start. Meet at Siding Lane Visitor Centre WA11 7SR For more information contact Taylor Park Ranger on 01744-678073
Tuesday 22nd May Health Walk at Bankes Park, 4 miles long, 1.30pm start Meet at Bankes Park car park on Main Street, Billinge, WN5 7HR For more information contact Sankey Valley Ranger on 01744-677772
Colliers Moss Events
Colliers Moss Wildlife Walk with Tom Ferguson – focusing on spring flowers and Summer visitors. Meet at the Millenium Bridge that crosses the railway. Sunday 6th May. 2pm.
SATURDAYS
St Helens Park Run. Meet at 9am, Bandstand, Victoria Park. http://www.parkrun.org.uk/sthelens/
SUNDAYS
2k Junior parkrun for 4-14yr olds at Colliers Moss. 9am.
More info https://www.sthelensunlimited.co.uk/2017/08/17/junior-park-run/
Bike Rides With St Helens Pedal Power
Free use of bikes and helmets.
http://www.pedalpowerexperience.co.uk/sthelens.html
https://www.facebook.com/StHelensPedalPower/
St Helens and District Ramblers Club.
Checkout their website for more information and walks. http://shdrc.co.uk
Woolybacks Mountain biking Club
More info about this group on their website
St Helens Healthy Walks Programme
The walks programme from the Healthy Living Team have a range of different walks including Health Walks and Progression walks which are led by qualified, friendly Volunteer Walks Leaders, St Helens Council Rangers and Healthy Living Team Staff.
View the April and May timetable of walks
St Helens Canoe Club – Taster Sessions
Book your place for a taster session at Carr Mill Dam on Monday 7th May. They are Ideal for beginners and if you just want to do a bit of paddling. More information https://www.sthelensunlimited.co.uk/2018/04/28/st-helens-canoe-club-taster-sessions/
HAYDOCK PARK
Pertemps Swinton Hurdle Day
12th May 2018 | 12:00
Join us for the only mixed, Jump and Flat, meeting in England.
Opens 12:00, First race 14:00, Last race 17.55
Read more at http://haydock.thejockeyclub.co.uk/events-tickets/whats-on/swinton-hurdle-day#8dSLXeVIuVRGvwh6.99
188Bet Community Day
25th May 2018 | 12:20
What better way to unwind for the weekend than an afternoon of racing at Haydock Park
Opens 12:20, First race 14:20, Last race 17:10
Read more at http://haydock.thejockeyclub.co.uk/events-tickets/whats-on/1750-may-midweek-flat-racing#XuR6CF7RkQRtksVH.99
Family Day with the Forces, ft Armstrong Group Temple Stakes
26th May 2018 | 12:15
Tanks, planes and parachutes! See the very best of the Armed Forces at our Family Day
Opens 12:15, First race 14:15, Last race 17:40
Read more at http://haydock.thejockeyclub.co.uk/events-tickets/whats-on/temple-stakes#IT8xc9os18vhgdbX.99
DRINK BASED EVENTS (REAL ALE AND GIN ETC)
Beer Festival at The Mansion house. Saturday 5th May. £3 entry. 12 pm till Late. Live Entertainment. Food & Snacks
THURSDAYS
Bottle Night at Connoisseur Ales. 5pm. To 8pm. Basement of Wolverhampton House, Church Street.
Connoisseur Ales Open Days.
Saturday 5th May
Midday to 10pm. Basement of Wolverhampton House, Church Street. (First Saturday of every month)
DARKSTAR LASER ARENA
Call 01744 733378 for more info. http://www.darkstarlaser.com/
TUESDAYS
Tag Tuesday at Darkstar Laser. After 6pm its £9. 3 games of laser tag. Free pizza slice, happy hour drinks.
THURSDAYS
RE:FLEX at Darkstar Laser. Student night. £8 with sutdent ID, £9 otherwise. 3 games of laster tag. Free shot or slush. Discount vodka slush.
FRIDAYS
Friday nights at Darkstar Laser. A different event every week. 7-11pm £10.
Call 01744 733378 for more info.
SATURDAYS
Kids Club. This is aimed at younger kids 6 to 12 years of age. The first game is at 10am so guests have to be here for 9.45ish to get tickets. No booking, just turn up. £6 for 3 games.
HERITAGE AND HISTORY
Friday 11th May
The Rainhill Railway & Heritage Society meet at the Village Hall in Dane Court, L35 4LU, 7 for 7.30. Quiz Night. Admission £2.
Monday 14th May
The Queens Park Local History Group will be meeting at 7.15pm at Greenalls Sports and Social Club on Alder Hey Road, WA10 4DN. Victor Davies will be talking about St Helens of the Past.
Thursday 17th May
St. Helens Townships Family History Society present Betsy 4 – A Little More!, with Joanne Halliwell. Lucem House Community Cinema, 100 Corporation Street, St Helens. WA10 1SX. 6.45 for a 7pm start. Non-members are very welcome to attend.
Wednesday 30th May
Newton-Le-Willows local history group. Last Wednesday of the month. 5pm. To 7pm. (except December). Newton Library
Tuesdays
The Townships Family History Society “help and workshop” sessions are currently being held at Eccleston Community Library, Broadway, Eccleston, WA10 5PJ from 3 45pm to 6 45pm Ring 677575 to check.
The Birth Of Club Rugby – The History and Heritage Of Liverpool St Helens FC
An exhibition celebrating the history of club rugby and its origins in St Helens and Liverpool.
Eccleston Library – 30th april to 25th May
For more information please visit http://lshheritage.co.uk/
GREENSLATE FARM
Greenslate Community Farm. Greenslate Rd, Billinge, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7BG
An Evening of Music with Jon Brindley
Friday 4th May 7:00 pm Until 11:00 pm – Tickets £12 including a hot meal
Farmer For A Day
Come and find out what it takes to be a farmer at Greenslate in this action packed day where you can get up close to all the residents on the farm, both domestic and wild! Feed the sheep, collect the eggs, groom the goats, grow your own veg and take part in a wildlife exploration to find out how nature helps put food on the table! £10.00 per child.
Parents don’t need to stay. Monday 7th May 1pm to 4pm.
Saturday Farm Club
Each week will be packed with activities such as bug hunts, bush craft, den building, wildlife exploration, wild cooking, and of course, farm activities such as growing, harvesting and hands on with the animals! Best of all…parents do not need to stay! Places are limited so pre-booking is strongly advised. Saturday Farm Club every Saturday 1pm to 4pm.
for 5-11 year olds. Sessions are £7 per child.
Book via https://greenslatefarm.org.uk/kids-stuff-at-greenslate-farm/
The activities are a fun and interactive way to enrich your child’s learning, as all the activities are linked to the National Curriculum. They cover a wide range of topics from English, Maths and Science, to Geography, History and Arts, all in the natural outdoor environment. They also cover essential life skills such as communication, team building and leadership through the power of creative play, fun activities and team challenges.
Healthy Walks
We are designed to walk, and it keeps us healthy. Humans are also meant to be social creatures, having friends and companions is another well known ‘extender’ of life expectancy. So why not combine the two and take part in a one-hour social walk in the beautiful countryside around Greenslate Farm? Supported by Wigan Council and ‘Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles,’ the one hour long walking sessions take placed every Thursday from 11:00 am until Midday. These walks will start and end at the farm. But best of all, they won’t cost you anything unless you end up going for a brew with your new walking companions at the Straw Bale Cafe. (all new walkers need to register 15 minutes before). For more information contact Tracy 07943 840 259
MUSIC MECCA AND CITI-DIS-ARTS
http://www.citadel.org.uk/
01744 735436
Writing for Wellbeing
Wednesday 1pm-3pm £3
Good company and good writing lead to self-confidence!
This small, sensitive and supportive group share ideas, words and creative writing skills, and always welcome new faces. Whether you’re a beginner, or a more experienced writer, come along and join our group. The group is led by Terry Caffrey, a nationally recognised author, poet and script writer who is involved with numerous arts organisations in the North-West, as well as running projects in various schools and institutions throughout England. He has over 20 years experience as a Community Arts & Disability Worker.
Citi Dis Drama
Wednesday 6 – 8pm £5.50/£3
This group focus on many different techniques, such as improvisation, mime, physical theatre and script work. The group is friendly and informal and is always looking forward to welcoming new members.
The group works towards two performances a year and is led by Sophie Tickle, a professional drama practitioner who brings a wealth of experience to the group.
Sing Out Choir
Wednesday 6.30pm – 8.30pm £5.50/£3
Our Sing Out Choir was formed in 2008 and has since gone from strength to strength. Led by an experienced choir master this community choir is open to people over the age of 16 and of all abilities.
The choir rehearse weekly and take part in several community performances throughout the year performing a wide range of songs from old time classics to contemporary hits.
Portrait Class
Thursday 10.0am – 12.00pm £3
ST HELENS WRITERS’ CLUB
The club meets on alternate Wednesdays from 7.15to 9.15pm at the Christian Life Centre, Atherton Street. For more contact Marian Cleworth on 07720048029 or see the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/St-Helens-Writers-Club-1602649089997265/
LIBRARIES
Always lots on at your local Library, view all the events here bit.ly/SHlibraries
OTHER EVENTS
Get Ready To Ramble For This Year’s Special Edition Of ‘Beating the Bounds’. Residents are encouraged to put their best foot forward for charity this May by taking part in a walking challenge around the whole of the borough to celebrate 150 years of St Helens becoming an independent borough. On the back of last year’s successful event, local history enthusiast Ste Lingard is incorporating the Anglo-Saxon tradition of ‘Breaking the Bounds’ to the St Helens 150 events calendar. Sunday 13th May. more information https://www.sthelensunlimited.co.uk/2018/05/01/get-ready-to-ramble-for-this-years-special-edition-of-beating-the-bounds/
Royal Bedding Day. All day music event in The Percival Suite of Ruskin St.Helens on 19th May to raise funds and awareness for Musicians Against Homelessness & local homelessness charity Teardrops Supporting the Homeless. Tickets http://www.wegottickets.com/event/427819
International Blacksmiths Day: Real Ale & Hog Roast event at The smithy Heritage Centre in Eccleston. 19th May, Midday tart. Admission is free.
