borough life issue 39 autumn 2012

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GH ISSUE 39 AUTUMN 2012BOROUGH

Safety� Road safety boost for

borough’s roads, see page 8

Good luck to all theWigan Borough In

Bloom volunteers as wego for the national finals!

WINFREE GYM

MEMBERSHIP FOR

SIX MONTHS

See centre

pages

FIRST

Borough Life 1 ALT Cover 31/8/12 14:52

SIR,– I am writing to you on behalfof Leigh CE Junior School ParentStaff Association. We recentlyentered a nationwide competitionfor PTA of the year. We were thrilledto learn that we have been votedbest PTA of the North West ofEngland. We are delighted with thisaward as it reflects the hard workand dedication from parents andstaff to bring our school togetherand work for a shared goal.Jean Harvey, PTA Chair.Cllr Susan Loudon, cabinetchampion for young people,said: “Well done Leigh CEJuniors! The work of parentsas well as governors and allstaff in supporting theirschools is well worthcelebrating across theborough. I think it’s reallyimportant for the children tosee their whole communitypulling together at events,fairs and fun days.”

THE letter in our previous issue aboutpeople parking on the H-bar markingin front of a reader’s house elicited awide response from readers. Thisfrom Standish is typical:Sir,– I would like to thank J Jones forhighlighting the problem. I amseverely disabled and have troublewith people parking across the H-bareven though there are parking placeselsewhere. Do these people notrealise it is an offence? Perhaps ifeverybody reads about the problemthey will become less ignorant!B Johnstone Chief Inspector Mark Dexter ofGMP's Specialist OperationsBranch said: “If we get a callfrom someone whose drivewayis obstructed to the pointwhere they cannot get in orout in their car, then we havethe power to remove thevehicle, and would use thisonce we had made reasonableattempts to locate the owner.”

2 BOROUGH LIFE Autumn 2012

Borough Life welcomes your letters about local issues or comments about articlesin the magazine. Write to: The Editor, Borough Life, FREEPOST NWW3502A, WiganWN1 1XZ; Email: [email protected] (Letters may be edited).Lines

Life

Call to stopignorance

Pledge over20mph limits

SIR,– I wanted to tell you a little about a social carecompany I have set up, we have our first customers andothers in the referral process. We are based in a housein Leigh offering day time opportunities to adults with alearning disability Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm.

I was employed for 23 years in various roles withWigan Council in adult social care. We support thepersonalisation agenda promoting choice and controlof how services are delivered, each person has theopportunity to complete our referral form and

welcome pack to identify their needs; skills, desiresand ambitions. The company aims to developindividual’s skills so they can play a role in running thecompany, get involved in the committee and beinvolved in promotion and marketing.

The company is registered as a community interestcompany therefore we aim to invest in the service asJust BU C.I.C is not for profit.Justin Fellows, 07827 455306www.facebook.com/JustBUcic

Care packages for individuals

SIR,– I find Borough Life very interesting.After reading Life Lines I have something Iwould like to say. On Westleigh Lane there hasbeen 20mph signage on the road for quitesome time, but most people ignore them eventhough there are 3 schools in the area. Couldsomething more prominent be put up evenif it’s just in term time?Denise LloydKevin Hargreaves, Wigan Council’straffic manager says: “Speeding is amatter of police enforcement but thecouncil will be implementingmandatory 20mph speed limits onmost residential streets in the boroughover the next three years. As part ofthis we need to raise the profile of thescheme with residents and will beplanning a series of publicity eventsduring implementation.”

PTA namedbest in thenorthwest

SIR,– I would like to I would like tocongratulate whoever is responsible for the

beautiful flowers and boxes in Wiganand the surrounding areas. Each time Ipass some flower boxes on the

railings I am delighted with the

beautiful displays of flowers. Please pass onmy gratitude to whoever has done theseand just to say that they are very muchappreciated.Mrs Christine Hasler,Winstanley, Wigan

Borough Life 2 31/8/12 12:41 Page 1

The

LeaderColumnBy Peter SmithLeader, Wigan Council

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This edition packed with news, plus...

Autumn 2012www.wigan.gov.uk

Borough Life is published by WiganCouncil and distributed to all households inthe borough. This edition was published on1 September. Distribution should becomplete by 14 September.

The magazine is printed on paper fromrenewable resources. It is written and editedby Wigan Council’s Public Relations team,designed by Smith Davis Press and printedby PCP.

If you have any comments or feedback –or if would like to write a letter forpublication – please contact:

The EditorBorough Life,FREEPOST NWW3502A,Wigan WN1 1XZ.Tel: 01942 827116 Email: [email protected]

If you are a resident of Wigan Boroughbut haven’t had a copy of Borough Lifedelivered through your letterbox, please letus know.

Copies of individual articles may beavailable in other languages on request.

Large print and audio versions can also beprovided. Please phone 01942 827116.

The story of my life... now in the library 9

On track: get involved at Three Sisters 19

The music plays on for award winners 13

Sporty & healthy: give yourself a boost 24

BOROUGH LIFE Autumn 2012 3

IT’S been quite a summer for Wigan Borough. I’d like to thank everyonewho took part or helped with the Olympic Torch and the Queen’sDiamond Jubilee celebrations as I’ve had a lot of positive reaction fromresidents. The Olympics managed to lift everyone’s spirits and it wasgood to see locals and honorary locals doing so well at both Olympicsand Paralympics. And then of course, Bradley Wiggins, immediately afterwinning the Tour de France, took off his yellow jersey to reveal hisWigan Warriors T-shirt.

NOW back to reality! In difficult economic times the Ten GreaterManchester authorities are working together across the political divideto maximise the help for our local economy. I was delighted to be re-elected as the Chair of Greater Manchester Combined Authority which isthe envy of other conurbations. We are saving money by joint working,supporting local economic strategy and making sure we use our majorassets such as Manchester Airport, which helps bring in thousands ofjobs through its excellent connectivity to the world.

YOU’LL have seen from the letters’ page that residents have realconcern about road safety. I want to see 20mph zones rolled out for allthe streets where there are vulnerable people and children. We’ve madea good start around schools with ‘Twenty’s Plenty’ and I know ourschool crossing patrols appreciate the difference it has made. The NorthWest Regional Directors of Public Health have published research aboutlocal road traffic casualties. Within this it was reported that 140 killed orseriously injured child casualties in the region could have been preventedeach year between 2004 – 2008 if residential 20 mph speed zones hadbeen introduced across the region. They strongly recommend that 20 mphlimits for residential streets be introduced. Read more on page eight.

THE fact that Wigan Borough has been chosen to represent the wholeNorth West for Britain in Bloom Competition organised by the RoyalHorticultural Society is something about which we should all be proud.A small army of volunteers, tenants, residents and business leaders arewaiting with baited breath for the judges’ verdict next month. Whateverthe decision, I would like to offer my own thanks and congratulations.All across the borough, from hanging baskets to new gardens, and fromflower beds on existing parks to pieces of public art – your effortsalready give a boost to our local quality of life.

ON page nine, we’ve a story from a fascinating local character. ArthurDrinnan has, in many ways, had an ordinary life but he’s recorded withsuch wit and detail that it forms an invaluable record of our area and theway people used to live. It was a pleasure and privilege to meet Arthurand I can recommend the book to local historians, anyone interested inthe contribution of our town to the war effort, and Leythers everywhere.

NEXT year some of the sporting spotlight will be on Leigh and Wigan aswe host two games and a training camp for the Rugby League WorldCup. It’s an ideal time to get involved in the game and we’ve beentalking to one of Leigh Centurion’s players about why the support of agood crowd really makes a difference. We have also met a youngWarriors fan whose artwork may well see him on the national stage.Both player and fan have the same message – do something sporty andenjoy the benefits. The legacy of the Olympics should be get moreengaged in sport and get behind our teams.

COVER PICTURE:

Crossing patrolmanager PaulWood keeps thestreets safe.


THERE have been plentyof flags on show thissummer – and now there

are three more proudly flyingat full mast at three of theborough’s parks – markingthem out as some of the bestin the country.

For the third year runningAlexandra Park, Newtown,Pennington Hall Park, Leighand Jubilee Park, Ashton haveall been awarded theprestigious national GreenFlag Award, a sign to visitorsthat the parks are well-maintained and well-managedwith excellent facilities.

In July communitygroups, councillors andrepresentatives from WiganLeisure and Culture Trust(WLCT) – who manage parkson behalf of Wigan Council –took part in a special flagraising ceremony at AlexandraPark, Newtown to mark theoccasion and celebrate “LoveParks Week”.

Dignitaries also officiallyopen the newly refurbishedBowling Pavilion recently

installed by WLCT followingcontributions from localcouncillors through theBrighter Borough Fund, WiganCouncil and the BowlingForum.

Stuart Murray, ChiefExecutive of WLCT, said:

“We’re delighted these parkshave once again beenrecognised in the Green Flagawards.

“We work tremendouslyhard each year to ensure thatour parks and green spaces arewell-managed and

well-maintained and thisaward recognizes all theendeavour that takes placethroughout the year.

“I must congratulateeveryone who has beeninvolved in gaining theseGreen Flags, especially thosevolunteers who give their timeand energy free as part of ourFriends groups and localcouncillors for their supportthrough Brighter BoroughFunding.”

This year’s Green FlagAward scheme saw 1,424 sitesacross the UK recognized fortheir excellent facilities.

Wigan Council’s CabinetMember for Leisure andCulture, CllrChris Readysaid: “Parksplay a majorpart in ourlives.

“They areplaces to relax,to play and to exercise and areexceptionally well used by thecommunities in which they aresituated.”


WIGAN Borough is on show on the national stage aftersuccessfully winning Northwest in Bloom 2011.

The Mayor and senior council officers greeted the judges at thestart of their day around the borough.

They visited sites including Ashton’s Town Green and RoseBridge High School in Ince. On the bus, between locations, therewas a series of presentations from areas which there hadn’t beentime to call at.

Deputy council leader Cllr David Molyneux said: “In Bloom is atremendously cost effective way to improve the look and feel ofour area. Working with residents to deliver what they want intheir communities boosts civic pride.”

BBC Young Gardener of the Year runnerup and the borough’s InBloom co-ordinator, Damian Jenkinson, added: “Judging day couldnot have gone any better and I am extremely proud of everyonewho took part.” The results are due later in the autumn.

THERE’S still time for eager photographers tosnap a late summer scene in Wigan Borough’scountryside. As announced in the previous issueof Borough Life, the team behind the Greenheartregional park are looking for images of our openspaces for their 2013 calendar.

You can enter up to two jpegs(under one megabyte in size) to

[email protected] – if the judges chooseyours, they will ask for a higher resolution version and sendyou two copies of the calendar when it’s ready.

Borough in line forblooming accolade

Chief Executive of WLCT, Stuart Murray raises the Green Flag atAlexandra Park, Newtown, watched by representatives fromWigan Leisure and Culture Trust, Wigan Council, the Green FlagAwards Scheme and councillors.

BRING OUT THE FLAGS

Time to get snapping

Find outmore aboutyour parks atwww.wlct.org.parks

PETAL POWER:Damian visits New

Springs allotments.


WIGAN Councilis on track tomake savings

and protect vitalpublic services.

Savings made lastyear by the councilhave enabled moreinvestment into themost critical services.

Last year saw a totalsaving of over £23million. The savingshave been achieved byreviewing back officefunctions whilstretaining front lineservices.

£1 million has beensaved through betterwaste disposal andsending less ofresidents’ rubbish tocostly landfill sites.

Staffing savings –including the leanestmanagement team inthe region – have saveda further million.

Cllr Ged Bretherton,

cabinet champion forcorporate resources,said: “Whilst we areall experiencingcutbacks and difficulteconomic times, it isgreat news that WiganCouncil is providingvalue for money forresidents.

“Our priority is tocontinue to provide thebest possible servicesfor those who need itthe most.

“Improvement andefficiency are high onour agenda. We’vepledged to protectfront line services anda good example of thisis the work that’s beendone to ensure olderpeople’s care ismaintained.”

There has been aretendering process fordomiciliary care forolder people which hasresulted in the same

level of care but forless money.

The well-knownoutdoor educationcentres in the LakeDistrict are now run byprivate partners, whichoffsets the cost to thecouncil, but means

they remain availablefor local school children.

Cllr Brethertonnoted that despite thedifficult decisionscustomer satisfactionremains high. With thenew Life Centres nowfully operational,customers have beenable to access a wholerange of services andseek advice andguidance.

The buildings notonly house council

employees but partnerorganisations againimproving efficienciesand better joined upworking.

With the need to save£66 million over fouryears from 2011-2015,Wigan Council iscontinually looking atways to makeefficiencies and savings.

The priority remainsto protect services andmaintain high levels ofcitizen support.


THE biggest business event toever be held in Wigan Borough isall set for Friday 12th October.

The DW Stadium will play hostto over 100 local businesses andmany high profile speakersdelivering expert advice and freeone-to-one sessions.

Peter Rimmer of the Federationof Small Businesses and FleetDynamic said: “We see this eventas one of the highlights of thebusiness calendar and one not tobe missed, as a local businessperson myself we really

benefitted from attending theevent last year and made somegreat contacts.

“This is a great platform toshowcase your business. We arereally looking forward to theevent and hope to see lots oflocal firms on the day.”

Twenty12 will be three timesthe size of the first event in threeyears.

Cllr David Molyneux, DeputyLeader of Wigan Council andRegeneration portfolio holderbelieves that initiatives like this

show that Wigan is really openfor business.

He said: “The responseto Wigan Business ExpoTwenty12 has beenphenomenal.

“That so manystands have beensold in such a shortperiod is a testamentto the reputation ofthe event and theimportance the localbusiness communityplace on it.”

Hundreds sign up for this year’sexpo business showcase

Council protectsvital public services

Be the first tohear all the news forWigan Business Expo

Twenty12, please follow ourFacebook (facebook.com/

wiganbusinessexpo),Twitter (@wiganexpo) orLinkedin (Search groups

for Wigan BusinessExpo) feeds.

The council’s Deputy Leader CllrDavid Molyneux and Miranda

Barker at the DW Stadium.



DEEP in the Museum ofWigan Life there’s afaded signature of Eric

Blair. His visit in 1936 andsubsequent book whichexplored the living conditionsof the working class would goon to dictate nationalstereotypes about Wigan forthe next seven decades.

But under his pen nameGeorge Orwell, the infamous“The Road to Wigan Pier”described a town now a worldaway. Gone are virtually all ofthe scars of old industry, intheir place wildlife habitatsand a countryside nowdubbed ‘Greenheart’.

As well as moderndevelopments, manyolder buildings havebeen restored.Nestled on thecorner of LibraryStreet, oppositethe new multi-million poundWigan Life Centreis the Museum ofWigan Life –formerly Wigan’sfirst public libraryand where Orwellcarried out much of hisresearch.

In 2010 it re-opened after a£1.9m refurbishment andrestoration made possibleafter a £500,000 grant from theHeritage Lottery Fund andmatch funding from WiganCouncil and Wigan Leisureand Culture Trust.

The museum isn’t the onlyfacility to benefit from awindfall like this. In the lastfive years Wigan has receivedmore than £7m for majorcapital investment projects

from the lottery – a majorbenefactor being Mesnes Park.

And community groups andcommunity projects havereceived hundreds ofthousands of pounds from theHeritage Lottery Fund.

Since 2008 the HeritageLottery Fund (HLF) has beenworking closely with WiganLeisure and Culture Trust(WLCT) to help create newopportunities for people fromacross Wigan Borough toexplore their local heritagethrough HLF supportedprojects.

Over the last few yearsprojects have included:

CreativeLeigh – apromenade performance aboutthe history of Leigh involving

professional actors andcommunity theatre

groups.Haigh Windmill

Restoration –Primary schoolpupils from OurLady’s RCPrimary createdartwork and took part in theirown research aspart of HaighWindmill’s

award-winningrestoration.Our Past Our

Future – LeighExcellence Cluster

primary schools created visualarts images about people andplaces alongside artist BryanEdmondson.

The Noise We Mek – TheLancashire Society’s researchinto dialect differences alongthe Leeds-Liverpool Canal.

Private sector investment,such as the Grand Arcade, andpublic sector investment suchas the multi-million poundWigan Life Centre have alsoplayed a major role in thistransformation.

Inside the museum nine-year-old Keiron Furlong sitshappily making models withhis mum Angela. Would Orwellknow the town of today?

“I’ve lived in Wigan mywhole life,” said Angela, “andyou have to say in the last fiveyears it’s definitely improved.Mesnes Park is lookingwonderful. Just like therestoration here at themuseum they’ve managed tokeep the original features andrestore it sympathetically butupdated at the same time.

“It’s important to rememberthe past, our history isimportant to us, but you cansee the benefits that thelottery has brought and Idoubt Orwell would recognisethe place now.”

Perhaps it’s time to consignEric Blair’s signature to thehistorical archives?

GETTING CRAFTY:Sue Maiden of the

museum with Kieronand mum Angela.

Doubts writer wouldeven recognise Wigan!

Thriving Borough nolonger an Orwellian Vision

Borough Life 6-7 31/8/12 12:06 Page 1

WIGAN SportsDevelopment’s ‘Back toSport’ programme isnow entering its fourthyear. It’s funded byAshton, Leigh andWigan Primary CareTrust and encouragesadults to get active.

It’s all about creatingopportunities forpeople to return tosport or try sport forthe first time. So, if youare looking to playrecreational sport,meet new friends,access coaching fromfully qualified andexperienced coaches orplay competitive sportagainst players of asimilar standard, thenBack to Sport is foryou.

Wigan SportsDevelopment currentlywork with localorganisations and clubsto develop a range ofsports specific, multi-sport and physicalactivity sessions to helpto increase adultparticipation across theborough.

If you are anindividual or a groupthat are interested intaking up regularsports activities whereyou can get fit, activeand socialise with like-minded people, goto www.wbsc.org.ukand search under ‘Backto Sport’.

● Clubs that arelooking to increase thenumber of members orare part of a groupwho are interested inbecoming more activecan contact the teamfor details of fundinggrants, volunteering,competition dates, andmuch more. Go onlineor call Richard Smith,Back to Sport Officer,at Robin Park Arena on01942 488480 or [email protected]

Active lifeinitiativenow in itsfourth year

Days like today giveyoung people a chance

to take part in the spirit of theParalympics and help with theirathletic development.

The words of Thomas Young, 21, who, asBorough Life goes to press, is hoping for amedal in the 100m backstroke and 400mfreestyle at the London Paralympics.

Thomas, speaking at the Greater ManchesterDisability Games held at Leigh Sports Village,was one of many athletes out and about over

this sensationalsummer of

sport,supporting

scores ofculturalandsportyevents.

Therewerethrills,heroics andplenty of golden moments at London 2012 buthere in Wigan and Leigh there was also a fullprogramme in the form of the CulturalOlympiad.

Highlights included Ironman UK once againstarting their Triathlon at Pennington Flash, anOlympic style sports day in Mesnes Park to

celebrate a sporting exhibition at theMuseum of Wigan Life, while visitors to

the Turnpike Centre in Leigh madetheir own medals as well as handlingsporting objects from the past.

On the track more than 200disabled athletes competed in theGreater Manchester DisabilityGames, organised by WLCT’s SportsDevelopment Unit. Whilst 500

young people also took part inSPLAT Fest competing in a

host of events includingathletics, tag rugby,football and volleyball atLeigh Sports Village.

James Taylor, 17, who won a silver medal inthe 4 x 100 metres at last year’s European YouthOlympic Games, said: “Making something funalways encourages people to get involved andSPLAT has certainly done that! It’s nice to beable to pass over some tips to the children.”

More than 90 events were organised byWLCT, in partnership with Wigan Council, overthe summer months as part of the Olympiadprogramme.

Stuart Murray, Chief Executive of WLCT,said: “London 2012 was a phenomenal andthrilling Olympic games which celebratedsport and culture and showcased ourcountry to the world. One of its main aimswas to inspire a generation and we hopethose events we’ve held over the summerhave inspired people within this boroughnot just to future Olympic glory but to beactive, creative and healthy.”


Hundreds enjoy aSPORTY SUMMER



THE first data fromthe 2011 censushas been issued,

and it shows theborough as a thrivinglocation where peoplewant to live.

Our population grew5.4 per cent over last decade. It’s now317,800 according to figures publishedby the Office for National Statistics.

The increase, although below theregional and national averages,indicates that the borough has nowreversed the population declineexperienced in the 1980s and 1990s. Thegrowth has been underpinned by therise in life expectancy and an increase

in the number of births.One in six of the borough’s population

are now aged over 65. That’s up 18 percent over the last decade as the 2011Census charts the first of the post-war“baby boom” generation reachingretirement age. During the same timeperiod, the number of under five yearolds within the borough increased 12per cent to 19,700

These increases have led to a nine percent growth in the number ofhouseholds in the borough. The censusrecorded a rise to 136,400 householdswith at least one permanent resident in2011.

Council chief executive Donna Hallsaid: “We now have a detailed snapshot

of the borough to work from. I’d like tothank the 94 per cent of the borough’spopulation who took part in the census.

“The information you gave is vital forhow we plan and deliver everydayservices such as housing, education,healthcare and transport.”

Council ChiefExecutiveDonna Hallwould like tothank those

who completed theirforms for the 2011 census.

Growing borough

OPENED by HRH the Duke ofGloucester and bearing the names ofthe teams behind its creation, thisviewing platform on the canal bankoffers commanding vistas ofPennington Flash.

The Mayor, Cllr Myra Whiteside, inwhose ward it is located, said: “Itwas a pleasure to show ourGreenheart Park to the Duke recently.

“A lot of people work together toensure the whole site is accessible for

families, horse riders, birdwatchers,golfers and many other groups.”

The new platform offers fine viewsof the birdlife as well as acting as awelcome respite for walkers usingthe new Greenheart Jubilee Way.

Wigan Council is proposing tointroduce a 20mph zone for allresidential roads.Many nearbyHighway Authorities have alreadytaken on board the Department forTransport’s 2009 challenge to

develop 20mph speed limits on allresidential roads.

Our neighbouring authorities ofWest Lancashire and ChorleyBorough Councils have begun thisprocess locally. So far the only

Greater Manchester authority totake steps towards implementationis Manchester itself. Leader ofWigan Council Lord Peter Smithsays: “Drivers are always told todrive to the conditions of the road,and for that we usually think of iceor poor visibility. But excessivespeed on our residential roads

causes easily avoidable accidents.Wigan Council intends to

implement these 20mph zones,starting next year, in ourcontinuing bid to improve roadsafety and cut the road casualtyrates.” Borough Life will keepreaders informed of the process ofthis scheme.

Twenty’s Plenty!


MEET Arthur Drinnan –a Leyther who’s liveda full life, served his

country and successfully runhis own business.

Arthur was born in 1925 butisn’t content just to sit backwith his memories. The dapperchap with a twinkle in his eyetold his stories to friends andfamily. It was his children whosaid: “Dad, these are worthputting into a book.”

The result – after mucheffort and publishingchallenges – is a near 400 pagememoir of childhood poverty,the mysterious ‘OperationHumpty Dumpty’ of World WarTwo and life back into civvystreet where Arthur went fromhelping out to running a seriesof local shops.

Ever keen to support his

community, formerCorporal Arthur hasmade two copies of hisbook available, one forLeigh Library and theother for the new WiganLibrary in the LifeCentre.

“I want people to knowabout their past,” saysArthur. “We can learn a lotfrom where we have beenand I hope that I can sharewith people some of howour area played its part in thebigger history of the twentiethcentury.”

The book relives the fun andtears of a tough childhood andallows readers an insight intothe sheer hard work andperseverance of those whosurvived the war and theausterity that followed.

In the every man for himselfatmosphere of Germany in theautumn of 1946, Arthur recallsbeing ordered to get thenecessary furniture to set up amilitary office. His bookreports his subordinateCorporal Young bringing in achair with something of aguilty look on his face. The

book goes on…“Suddenly there

was a loud knockingon the door… and adriver thumped hisway into the room.‘Have you seenanybody with achair?’ he shouted.‘Somebody’s pinchedmy damn chair!’ Hestopped dead in histracks and pointed atthe chair in theoffice. ‘That looks likeit. Yes! Where did youget it?’ Arthur askedYoung where thechair had come from

and was told ‘I bought it thismorning at the Co-Op’, with aninnocent look. After the driverhad stormed out, Arthurchallenged Young: “HereCorporal, I never knew theyhad Co-Op stores in Germany.”

After the war, Arthursuccessfully moved intobusiness, with a valet servicein Ince, Eagle Dry Cleanersand Actionwear in Leigh andthen into Horwich andHindley. Arthur also partiallyowned the Zambezi snack barin Atherton.

Lavishly illustrated, andranging from Holland toHorwich and Berlin toBradshawgate, full of full-blooded wit and gentleLancashire charm, as well asthe sad poignancy of war,Arthur Drinnan’s book“Arthur’s Pot of Gold” isavailable in the referencesection of Wigan and Leigh’slibraries.


Arthur (in white)with AndyBurnham MP, CllrChris Ready,cabinet lead forleisure and LordSmith.

ALL borough libraries havereference sections and ableto access a wealth of onlineinformation, with the mostextensive collections at Leighand Wigan.Wigan Library, Wigan LifeCentre, The Wiend, WiganWN1 1NH. Tel: 01942 827621■ Monday 8am-5pm ■ Tuesday 8am-8pm ■ Wednesday 8am-5pm ■ Thursday 8am-8pm

■ Friday 8am-5pm ■ Saturday 9am-5pmLeigh Library, TurnpikeCentre, Civic Square,Market Street, LeighWN7 1EBTel: 01942 404197■ Monday 9am-7pm ■ Tuesday 10am-7pm ■ Wednesday 9am-7pm ■ Thursday 9am-7pm ■ Friday 9am-7pm ■ Saturday 9.30am-4pm

Access a wealth of information

Arthur’sGolden Memories

Arthur onhis wedding

day and, right,during his army

service.



YOU’LL have heard ofMillgate, Hallgate andWallgate in Wigan towncentre, and perhapsBishopsgate and a coupleof the others. Ratherthan literally meaningwhat we understand bythe word ‘gate’, they allrelate to the old Norseword meaning a waythrough a town.

It’ll soon be time todrive down Southgate –the new name for theSaddle Junction reliefroad. Following anappeal in Borough Lifewhich resulted in dozensof suggestions, councilleader Lord Smith anddeputy leader Cllr DavidMolyneux selected thename Southgate.

The new road, whichwill avoid the notoriousbottleneck on the A49around the railwaybridge just north ofSaddle Junction, willmean that there are twolanes in and out of thetown for the first time.

New land, on the siteof the old bus depot, isalso now available forjobs and investment.

Cllr David Molyneuxsaid: “I’d like to thankeveryone who madesuggestions for the newroad, which has helpedus to choose somethingtruly local andappropriate.

“And with an expectedopening date early in theNew Year, it won’t belong before we can alldrive along Southgate.”

Readersnamenew road

Westwood GO!David Gloverof Direct TyresSales in Pembertonsees the plans forSaddle Junction.

Looking east towards theflashes: an artist’s impressionof the new road.

COUNCIL plannersand engineers havebeen considering

views about the proposedWestwood Park and A49 linkroad scheme.

“We’re gratefulfor people’sinput into howthe schemewill make adifferencefor them,”says CllrMolyneux,“I’ve beenspeaking toresidents andmet withsenior businessleaders to let themknow that this scheme isour best opportunity todeliver much needed jobsand better transport links toserve a critical regenerationneed.”

The scheme would seehousing, a potential retailelement and employmentland on the brownfield siteat the old Westwood powerstation south of Wigan towncentre, creating over athousand jobs on derelictland.

The vast overuse of theroad through Poolstock whichcauses so much concernlocally will be addressed by anew dual carriageway willfollow the route of the oldrailway line. This wouldbecome the primary access

into Wigan from the southeast. The road would startfrom Little Lane in GooseGreen and link in to the endof Riverway offering an

uninterrupted 40mphroute into town.

As part of thescheme, there

are plans fora WiganFlashesGreenheartvisitorcentre. Itwould be a

jointventure

between thecouncil and

Lancashire WildlifeTrust and will cater for the

estimated 170,000 visitorseach year to the region.

Main issues raised were:● Respecting the landscapethrough which the plannedA49 will pass: Thedevelopment at WestwoodPark will be designed tointegrate in to thesurrounding landscape andenhance habitats for floraand fauna living in the area.At the meetings, plannersexplained that modern roadsurface techniques cuttraffic noise, street lightingcan be adjusted and dimmedand modern lighting shinesonly downwards. Noisebarriers and othermitigation methods areessential to any planningapplication.

● Keeping and improvingaccess to the Wigan Flashes:footpath and cyclewayimprovements are proposedand a new visitor centre isplanned to promote theGreenheart regional parkthat includes the flashes.The road plans do notencroach into the flashesthemselves.● Poolstock Lane: locals toldthe planners that they wantto see HGVs andunnecessary commutertraffic moved off the B road.Further consultation isplanned so that Poolstockresidents can have their sayon local road safety andtraffic issues. Trafficmodelling shows buildingthe A49 diversion wouldmean around 65 per centfewer cars on the B road andgood opportunity for newand improved pedestrianfacilities for residents in thearea.

Some residents wanted tosee the scheme implementedimmediately and werecomfortable that their inputinto earlier road plans forthe area had been heard.

Others left specificconcerns on the feedbackforms and will be respondedto by officers in detail.

If the planning applicationis successful, work isexpected to begin nextsummer.

Check out thewebsite at

www.wigan.gov.uk/westwood

The new road would easeresidents’ concerns about

congestion inPoolstock.


IT’S the perfect bonding time for mum and her new baby andthe benefits of natural breastmilk are well known.And so, local health and council colleagues have been

promoting breastfeeding to support mums in how theyhave chosen to feed their baby and ensure thatpublic and public venues are accommodating tothem.

Dr Kate Ardern, Wigan Borough’s directorof public health, says: “There are stronghealth benefits for both mother and babyto be had from breastfeeding and we areright to support women in this way.There has been a number of eventslocally and in particular there was agreat turnout of new mums at theBig Feed event on Friday.”

An increasing number of localvenues are being declared‘breastfeeding friendly’ whichmeans mums can feed theirbaby in a relaxed setting andnot feel awkward about it.

Local mum Rachel Orme metfriends over a brew in one ofthe Grand Arcade’s cafes inWigan town centre, all ofwhich are breastfeedingfriendly. Her new daughterNancy got her refreshmenttoo. Rachel says: “I want todo what’s best for Nancyand it’s lovely to knowthat there are places Ican come to that aresupportive of my choiceto breastfeed.”

Mums to be and thosewanting more advice onfeeding choices can access theAshton, Wigan and Leighbreastfeeding website for all thelatest local information on feeding,

whether baby is gettingenough and general

health issues. Andthere are tips therefor new dads toowho may be feeling abit left out so they can

support their partner andchild.


IF you like public art that’s a little ‘off-the-wall’, then look no further than the newpiece that graces the car park at KingsCourt, on Market Street, Tyldesley.

The stunning mural has been created byYear 10 students at Fred Longworth HighSchool and Wigan and Leigh Housing(WALH) tenants.

The artwork is the brainchild of Estate

Rep Maureen Hicky and its subject is thehistory of Tyldesley – brick-by-brick.

It was funded through WALH’s BetterNeighbourhood money and by FredLongworth. Students from the schoolhave used the project as the basis fortheir GCSE art work.

It features the cotton mills, foundriesand the mining heritage that were once

the lifeblood of Tyldesley but have sincevanished almost without trace.

Maureen says: “We were all impressedby the fantastic work the studentscreated and are very grateful to theschool and Wigan and Leigh Housing fortheir support. The mural has transformeda very boring aspect into something quiteincredible.”

Rachel Orme andher daughter Nancy.

Inset: local ladies andtheir babies cheer onbreastfeeding friendly

venues like theGrand Arcade.

Mum’s theWORD!

Check out thewebsite at

www.mymummydoes.co.uk



Fred Longworth pupilsgot the message

during last year’seducation programme.

Treacle sticksOPERATION Treacle returns this autumnand agencies are once again workingtogether to tackle Anti-Social Behaviour(ASB) over the Halloween and BonfireNight period.

The seasonal campaign targetsdisorder in all its forms – from innocentmischief-making which gets out of handto serious incidents of criminal damage.

Partners including Greater ManchesterFire & Rescue Service, Wigan Council,Wigan & Leigh Housing and GreaterManchester Police will again befocussing on areas where there’s been

a previous history of youth-related ASB.“The fortnight around Bonfire Night

can be a flashpoint for all kinds of ASB,blighting neighbourhoods and causingdistress to local people,” says Cllr KevinAnderson, Wigan Council’s CabinetChampion for Neighbourhoods.

“Operation Treacle combineseducation, enforcement

and safety messagesto ensure that youngpeople are informedabout the potentialconsequences of

getting caught up in ASB, whilst alsobeing encouraged to take part in fun,meaningful and safe activities.”

“This campaign is also about reducingthe kind of injuries caused by recklessnessand stupidity,” says Steve Sheridan,Wigan Borough Commander from theGreater Manchester Fire and RescueService. “We don’t want to be killjoys –but sadly too many people still forget tofollow basic safety advice around bonfiresand fireworks.”

For moreinformation aboutOperation Treaclevisit: www.safe4

autumn.co.uk andwww.manchester

fire.gov.uk



AS the pomp andcircumstance of theLast Night of the

Proms falls into silence foranother year, the music stillgoes on in Wigan Borough. Infact, as Dave Little, head ofWigan’s Music Service, tellsus, his team have really beenraising the roof.

“The students and theirteachers have really done usproud recently,” Dave says.

“The Wigan Youth JazzOrchestra won an outstandingperformance award at theNational Festival of Music forYouth in July, followed that afew days later by opening the27th International Jazz

Festival with superstar soloistJames Morrison here inWigan and then they went ontour in Germany.”

Dave tell us that this year’sWigan Young Musician of theYear Competition showcasedthe talents of over 60 localsoloists. The final, atStandish StWilfrid’sChurch, wasattended byCllr MyraWhiteside,Mayor ofWigan.

CllrWhitesidesays: “It’s one of

the real pleasures of beingMayor that I get to see somuch of the talent of ourborough. These young peoplehave practiced hard andshown great dedication – andI am proud to support themand this competition.”

The autumn term is theideal time to start to

learn to play amusical instrumentand Wigan MusicService is inevery schoolteaching childrento play. Parents

should enquire atschool or call the

service directly on01942 776169.

Dave Little is responsiblefor choirs, ensembles and theinstrumental teaching servicewhich operate across thewhole borough. He’s alwayson the lookout for newmembers – any instrument,any standard. “We have agroup for every youngmusician to enjoy,” he adds.

“We even have a few rarevacancies in the JazzOrchestra this year so, if achild plays trumpet,trombone, sax, bass, drumspiano or guitar to Grade sixstandard or above, this couldbe their big chance!

EMILY Green 19, fromWinstanley, leaves theWigan Music Service thisautumn.

It’s been a busy decadesince she took up thesaxophone.

“It’s one of thoseinstruments which you needa few years to get a goodtune out of,” she says. “But Iam glad I stuck at it and Ireally want to thank all mytutors – as well as DaveLittle and Ian Darrington –for all their support.”

Emily has played solo atWigan’s International JazzFestival and rounded off herfinal year in Wigan YouthJazz Orchestra on tour inGermany.

“The really rewarding partfor me is hearing how thepart I’ve been practicing andpracticing fits in when thewhole band comestogether.”

She’s moving on to studybut is already booked to playtenor sax in a musical at theuniversity she’s not evenstarted at as yet – and she’son the lookout for musiciansto set up her ownband as well.

Emily ismovingon, andthatmeansthere’sspacefor newmembersto keep theband fresh.“Over to you,” she says.

● 3,000 local children learn to play through thetraditional music service system, either in small groupsor one to one● 3,500 learn through whole class instrumental projects● 500 young musicians play in 24 ensembles which meetacross the borough each week

Dave Little said they are happy to work withmusicians who have private teachers too.

“You’d be most welcome in one of our ensembles –the chances are there is one near you. There is a terrificprogression route through ensembles with the very bestmaking their way into the senior groups like WiganYouth Symphony Orchestra, Wigan Youth Brass Bandand Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra.”

Music to our ears

Why notcome along and see

our groups in action atour evening sessions

throughout theborough. Just call us for

information on01942 776169.

Thank youfor themusic...

See WYJO inaction: Saturday 21stSeptember – Parr Hall

Warrington with WarringtonMale Voice choir (7.30pm) and

Sunday 30th September atWigan Jazz Club (Whelley

Ex-Servicemen’s Club12.30pm).

Wigan’s Mayor Cllr. MyraWhiteside with Young Musician of

the Year Winners, Louis Brookes(Guitar) – Advanced; Grace Jeffers(Tenor Horn) – Intermediate; Emily

Masser (Voice) – Entry Level.



ALISON Thorpe was dismayed when the banner advertising her chicken rescueshelter was stolen… but the owner of Lucky Hens in Amberswood Common knewwhere to turn for help.

Alison called in Wigan Council’s Restorative Solutions Team who arrange foryoung offenders to make amends by taking part in community reparationprojects.

“We are always interested in finding innovative community projects for theyoung people to get involved in,” explained Paul Crooke, Restorative SolutionsWorker. “When we heard about Alison’s problem, we commissioned local artistHelen Pye to work with some young offenders on the design of a new banner.

“Lucky Hens already offers young people an opportunity toget involved in landscaping and construction projects as

well as caring for the chickens. Although they say it’sreally satisfying, I think some youngsters find it

hard work, too. So thisproject has given them

a chance to flex theircreative muscles for achange!”

WHEN a videoshowing a group ofteenagers creating a

disturbance in a fast foodrestaurant in Wigan wasuploaded to a social mediawebsite, it rapidly went viral.

Reaching tens of thousandsof You Tube viewers, the storyalso dominated local mediaand made front pageheadlines in the nationals.

The Daily Mail reportedTerror in McDonald’s,describing how a mob of up to100 youths brought McDonald’sto a standstill with a shamefulrampage. The Telegraph calledthe youths a baying mobwhilst the Mirror referred to amob rampage of foul mouthedyobs.

So in the ensuing mediafurore, did the incident raiseimportant questions aroundthe perception of youngpeople – and of Wigan

Borough? These young peopleare adamant that the footagewasn’t representative of theyouth of Wigan…

Daniel Gilmore is one ofWigan’s elected Members ofYouth Parliament (MYP). The18 year old says: “I wasshocked by the images I sawon You Tube, as were many ofmy family and friends.

“These teenagers don’trepresent the vast majority ofyoung people in our borough,who play an important part intheir community and arepositive role models andambassadors for the borough.It hasn’t done the reputationof young people any favours –

or of Wigan either.”Fellow MYP, 17 year old

Jilly McKiernan, adds: “Onceagain, young people are beingportrayed in the media in anegative light, withsensational, attention-grabbing headlines. Thereality is that most youngpeople are law-abiding andrespectful. Unfortunately,that’s often forgotten becausethe true picture doesn’t sellnewspapers.”

Olympic torchbearerCameron Foster from Hindleyis himself a role model toothers. The 17 year oldWinstanley College studentand champion fundraiser says:“Sadly, this didn’t portray theyouth of today in a good light.However, there are thousandsof young people doingamazing things in theircommunities throughout the

UK, which willhopefully helpto changesociety’sperception ofyoung peoplefor the better.”

Whilst someof the youthsinvolved in thisincident facedlegal action,

agencies know there’s morethan one way of tacklingcriminal and antisocialbehaviour.

In fact, Wigan Borough’strack record in restorativejustice with young people hasearned it national recognition.

“Restorative justice worksby giving young people thechance to acceptresponsibility for what they’vedone and to make amends tothe victim and the widercommunity,” says GrahamDoubleday, the council’srestorative solutions teamleader.

“Victims are given a voiceon how justice is meted out, sothey feel more empoweredand able to achieve closurewhilst the wider communitybenefits through a range ofreparation projects.”

THE number of young people (11-18) entering the criminaljustice system in Wigan has been falling consistently overthe past six years, repeatedly beating national targets.

Between 1st April 2012 and 30th June 2012, young peoplecompleted a total of 890 hours of community reparationwork.

The community has benefited from young peoplecleaning alleyways as part of the Leigh Neighbours Project;serving lunches at the Higher Fold social club; helping in thekitchen at the Belong Village in Platt Bridge; and supportinglocal allotment holders in Tyldesley.

Did you know?

CameronFoster

DanielGilmore

Youth related antisocial behaviourRedressing the balance

Egg-cellentINITIATIVE

Alison Thorpe, owner ofLucky Hens, her daughterAmber and Paul Crookefrom Wigan Council’sRestorative Solutions Team.

If youwould liketo adopt a

hen, call LuckyHens on 01942

233375.

JillyMcKiernan



MILLIONS of peopleworldwide use socialnetworking sites to

look up long lost relatives, tomake new friends and tomeet their ‘forever’ soulmate.

But what happens when aso-called virtual friendbecomes a very real danger?

Clare Wood was just 36years old when she wasmurdered in 2009 by a manshe met on Facebook. Initiallycharming, George Appletonsoon became violent towardsClare and subjected her tosexual assault. After theyseparated, Appletonstrangled the mother of onefrom Salford and set her onfire. He later hanged himself.

It subsequently emergedthat Clare had firstcomplained about Appletonto the police in 2008 after hehad threatened to kill her.Tragically, it later emergedhe had a history of brutalviolence against women,subjecting victims to threats,harassment and kidnappingat knifepoint.

In 2011 at the coroner’sinquest into Clare’s murder,the coroner advised that:“...consideration should begiven to the disclosure ofsuch convictions and theircircumstances to potentialvictims in order that they can

make informedchoices aboutmatters affectingtheir safety andthat of theirchildren.”

In March 2012, theHome Secretaryannounced that theClare’s Law pilot willtest a process forenabling the police todisclose to the publicinformation about previousviolent offending by a newor existing partner wherethis may help protect themfrom further violentoffending.

The pilots went live inGwent and Wiltshire in Julyand in Greater Manchesterand Nottinghamshire thismonth.

Clare’s Law is designed toprevent tragedies fromhappening, by ensuringthere is a clearframework for thedisclosure ofinformation,which canhappen by one oftwo ways:

The first wouldbe triggered by arequest by amember of the publicknown as the “right toask”.

The second would betriggered by the police wherethey make a proactivedecision to disclose theinformation in order toprotect a potential victimknown as the “right to know”.

Victoria Gethin,partner at

StephensonsSolicitors LLP,explains that theClare’s Lawpilot, also calledthe Domestic

ViolenceDisclosure

Scheme, is aboutrisk assessment and

empowerment. She says:“These pilots enable

potential victims to takeinformed action to protectthemselves. The policealready have powers todisclose information about anindividual’s past convictionsin the interests of preventingfurther crime. The pilots aimto see if a national disclosurescheme with recognised andconsistent processes wouldimprove the protectionavailable to victims ofdomestic violence.”

There will be a decision onwhether to roll it out furtheronce the pilot has beenevaluated.

Simple enquirycould prevent

VIOLENCE

CLARE’S LAW – LOCAL PILOT FOR THE “RIGHT TO ASK”

Clare Woodwho was murdered

after meeting aviolent man

throughFacebook.

Wigan Council has been at theforefront helping to achievebetter outcomes for those

who’ve suffered the terrible ordeal of domesticabuse. For instance, we’ve created a new teamof partners under one roof which pulls togetherthe professional expertise and resources of all themajor agencies responsible for tackling domesticabuse. This means we can give a betterresponse, better support and better information.

Sally Hobbs, the council’s head of servicefor community options, welcomes theinitiative. She says:

Earlier in the summer, theWigan law firm hosted agroundbreaking conferencein partnership with WiganCouncil, children’s charityBarnardo’s and The FreedomProgramme, bringingtogether a range ofprofessionals who work inthe field of domestic abuse.

The event at Leigh SportsVillage was attended bysocial workers, familysupport workers, healthvisitors, family solicitors,neighbourhood policingteams, probation services,family liaison teams, healthworkers, counsellors andteachers.

Delegates heard aboutlatest developments in theborough including measuresdesigned to improvereferral routes and supportfor those affected by abusein the home.

Victoria Gethin, partner atStephensons Solicitors LLP.

StephensonsSolicitors LLP

family law specialistsprovide 24 hour free

and confidential adviceon 0800 073 1324 orwww.stephensons.

co.uk


WHEN you enter the buildingthe first people you will findare the uniformed ‘meetersand greeters’.

They are friendly and veryhelpful. They will make sureyou find the right part of thebuilding and the right peopleto help deal with yourenquiry.

The building is a one stopshop of council and partnerservices in a central locationand the emphasis is onmaking sure people get aquick solution to their issues,all under one roof.

Most people are helped bythe greeters to the servicethey need but an increasingnumber – ten per cent at thelast count – are using the hi-tech self serve facilities whichreduces costs, saves themtime and increases customerindependence. About 46 percent of visitors to the buillding.

Let’s get digital...As more and more public

and private services becomeavailable online, the WiganLife Centre is at the forefrontof helping people access

digital services aseasily as

possible.There

are dedicated computersfor the public to use –and they are free.

If you are unsure howto use the onlineservices the teams at thecentre are there to help.They’re keen to assistvisitors learn new skillsand make sure they aregeared up for accessingthe increasing numberof public services whichare available digitally.

Let’s get social…You can hardly avoid the

world of social media andcouncils are no exception.

People want access toadvice and services at their


IT was one of themost ambitious

projects everundertaken inthe borough.

And when theWigan Life

Centre opened inFebruary it marked

the completion ofyears of hard work to

deliver a true one-stop-shop forall the public services you need.

Residents have judged it agreat success. Nothingexemplifies that more than theProfiles Health and Fitness Centreon the south site, above thebaths on Library Street.

State-of-the-art Technogymequipment boasting the latestcardio-vascular and strengthequipment, including integratedTV screens, iPod function andfans, delivered at competitiveprices, has ensured thatmembership has now topped2,500.

And “retention” – the numbersof members not only joining butstaying active with Profiles – is 95per cent, which is a sure sign thatpeople are achieving their healthand fitness goals and are happywith the service.

To mark this magnificentmembership total we, inassociation with our partners atWigan Leisure and Culture Trust,are giving one lucky reader achance to win a free six monthmembership. Simply answer thequestion below and send it to usat: [email protected] orBorough Life, Wigan Town Hall,Library Street, WN1 1YN. Theclosing date is 1st November andall successful entrants will havean equal chance of being selectedfrom the hat. All personal detailswill be destroyed once thecompetition is completed and thewinner notified.

Question: In this issue ofBorough Life Pennington HallPark and Jubilee Park are bothcongratulated for receivingGreen Flag status. Which otherWigan Borough park was alsoawarded this accolade?

Wigan Life Centre – finding my waPeople are often heard saying“The Wigan Life Centre lookslike a fabulous modernbuilding, but what’s in therefor me to do?“ Borough Lifetakes a whistle stop tour tolet you know what’s in therefor you. Let’s take a look…

THAT’S LIFE

More and more pevibrant centre eaUSE of the Life Centre has increaseopened.

And there are local Life Centres Services are available in Atherton,Platt Bridge and at Leigh town ha

Officers at the Life Centre on Nereport this from a local resident:

She said: “I am 85 years old and again when my husband died. I wa

can come here and the whole procesdid the form for me. “I am grateful for the help and it has

with you. I am glad this office is here.”

Win a FREEmembershipof moderngym facilitiesfor six months

Access to services...

Margo Beesleyfrom Beech Hill

makes use of thelibrary facilities.


own convenience and sothere’s a lot of informationand fast service updatesavailable on Wigan Council’ssocial media sites. And if theworld of social media is newto you, and you want to find

out more about the digitalconversation why not take atrip to the life centre on aFriday morning between 10:30and 11:30 to take part in a‘best of the web’ session atthe library and learn all aboutit. There is no need to book –just drop-in to see the team inthe Library.

Feel the (e) benefits…The council is increasing its

use of online benefit forms toimprove customer satisfactionand increase efficiencies andcost savings. In July, the teamreceived 797 e-forms and just25 forms on paper. Movingaway from paper has obviousefficiencies and officers arepleased with this trend andcustomer surveys say thatvisitors to the Life Centre areas well – 78 per cent say thatthey are very or extremelylikely to recommend it toothers.


way…

Council ServicesWe can help you with all yourenquiries from housing benefit,council tax, recycling, highwaysor planning queries.

Expert staff are on hand whocan answer your questions andgive you the service that youneed.

NHS Ashton, Leighand WiganFor all health related matterssuch as finding a doctor, dentistor optician in your area. Staffcan provide emergency contactnumbers or medical exemptioncertificates.

Starting Point – Age UK● Handy person service● Support at home● Benefit advice● Hospital support information

Citizens Advice BureauSkilled advisors can give youspecialist up to dateindependent and practical adviceto support you and resolve yourproblems, including on legal anddebt issues.

HousingThe team from Wigan and LeighHousing can help with yourenquires, applications for newproperty or reporting problemswith your existing property.

Victim Support andWitness ServicesPractical and emotional supportfor victims and witnesses of crime.

Library ServicesThere are over 70,000 booksplus CDs and DVDs as well asspecialist children’s and teenageareas, plus free access tocomputers, internet and Wi-fi.

A friendly team of staff thereto help if you need them or youcan also self-serve and beindependent to find what youneed.

Don’t forget to come along toone of the events too – underfive’s storytime, craft sessions orwork club.

The Skills Shop – homeof the Careers ServiceThe team are available for skillsand careers advice to help youwork out your next education oremployment opportunity.

Call in to discuss a life-longlearning account, build your CV,find out about fundingopportunities or find out aboutthe local jobs market.

Life Centre services...

people visiteach month

reased every month since it

ntres across the borough as well.rton, Marsh Green, Higher Ince,

wn hall. on Nelson Street in Athertonnt:and had to apply for benefitsI was told on the phone that Irocess has been so easy as you

t has been a pleasure speakingere.”

Meeters andgreeters... Gemma

Gregson and JoanneAshcroft with one of theinteractive information

screens which can access aworld of public services

at the Life Centre.

Did you know?● 99 per cent of those whouse the Wigan Life Centre aresatisfied with the service theyreceive.

● 97.6 per cent of customerswere seen within five minutesof arrival.

● 90 per cent of peopleattending with a benefitsproblem have it solved duringtheir visit.

● Got a Smartphone? Freeaccess to WiFi is available atthe Life Centre.

● There’s an X-Box in theteenage library – just bookyour slot for a free session.



RIGHT now, there are 51children in WiganBorough who are eager to

meet their ‘forever parents’,including babies and smalltoddlers.

Sadly, in the North West, thereare 10 times more childrenwanting adoptive families thanthere are prospective families.

That’s why Wigan Councilhas teamed up withneighbouring councils inWarrington and St Helens tocreate WWISH, a pioneeringshared adoption service. It’sthe first of its kind in thecountry.

“Our goal over the next sixmonths is to tackle this trendand recruit 40 families for ourchildren,” says Cllr SusanLoudon, Wigan Council’sportfolio holder for childrenand young people.

“Tragically, some of ourchildren don’t get the best startin life and as a result of theirearly experiences theysometimes have additionalneeds. Some also have adisability which means giving

them extra support as theygrow up. We also have anumber of brothers and sisterswho need a family where theycan stay together. I urgeanybody considering adoptingto talk to specialist advisors atWWISH and to find out howthey can make space in theirlife for a child.”

Wigan Council’s ChiefExecutive Donna Hall knowsonly too well what a differenceadoption can maketo a child’s life.

“I wasadopted asa babybecausemy youngmumcouldn’tcope,” saysDonna. “My

adopted parents made thisamazing life-long commitmentwhen they welcomed me intotheir family and I am sograteful to them for theirconstant love and support.

“Adopting a child isn’t adecision that can be takenlightly. But there is a vastresource of ongoing helpavailable through the WWISHAdoption Support Group.

“If you think you have thecapacity in your life to adopt a

child, please don’t hesitate toget in touch with us. We

need inspiring peoplelike you who can take onone of life’s mostexciting and rewardingcommitments – and givebabies and young

children a second chanceat a loving home.”

WIGAN Borough has beenchosen as one of 15 areasacross England to pilot anew restorative justiceproject designed toaddress antisocialbehaviour and low-levelcrime.

Local panels aredesigned to give victimsand the wider communitymuch more of a say in thepunishments handeddown.

They will seeperpetrators agreeing tocarry out tasks to makeamends to the victim orthe community.

Volunteers will sit onthe panel. They will betrained in the principlesof restorative justice, andwill be expected tofacilitate meetingsbetween the victim andperpetrator.

More serious offenceswill still be dealt withthrough the formal legalsystem.

The aim is to agreemeaningful action on thepart of the perpetratorthat meets the needs ofthe victim, and any widercommunity involved.

Cllr Kevin Anderson,Cabinet portfolio holderfor safer communities,said: “Restorative justice isan excellent way ofincreasing publicconfidence in the criminaljustice system because itseeks to bring about apractical resolution.”

Wigan has been apioneering area for youthrestorative justice for thepast 10 years achievingregional and nationalrecognition, includingawards for conservationwork with young peopleon community reparationprojects and reducing firsttime entrants into thecriminal justice system by80 per cent over the pastsix years.● Further details of theprocess for recruitmentprocess for panel memberswill be released shortly.

Public tohave a sayon justice

Forever parents

For moreinformation call

01942 487272 or visitwww.wigan.gov.uk/

Adoption

An artist’s impressionof the Tyldesley

Interchange.

For the latestinformation on the

consultations and to seemore information about

the plans, please visitwww.tfgm.com/buspriority

Alternatively, you canring the helpline on

0300 123 1177.

Make it Manchester...and fast!LAST issue we reported on thecouncil’s work with Transport forGreater Manchester (TfGM) toimprove the bus links betweenLeigh, Tyldesley, Atherton andManchester.

The major part of this isGreater Manchester’s first guidedbusway, which will be built onjust over four miles of dedicatedroute between Leigh andEllenbrook, on which onlyspecifically-adapted buses will beable to travel. From Ellenbrook,it’s on into Salford and

Manchester on dedicated laneswith priority over other traffic,meaning it will be just a 45minute journey from the heart ofLeigh to the centre ofManchester. There will be eightbuses an hour when servicesfrom and Atherton meet up atTyldesley. The busway servesmuch wider catchment areasthan existing services intoManchester and the publicenquiry studied issues ofcustomer demand in detailbefore the scheme was granted

approval to proceed.Leader of the council Lord

Smith believes the route will helpboost the local economy. Hesays: “This is a busway for thepeople of Leigh, Atherton andTyldesley, providing them withthe potential to make the mostof many local opportunities.”

Wigan Council and TfGM willbe consulting local communitieson the details for their area,starting this month. It is hopedthat the route will be fullyoperational in 2015.

Quite simply, it’s the best thing we’veever done. Yes it’s challenging and life

is definitely never the same again. But the rewardsare amazing. We’ll never forget the moment wemet our daughter for the first time… and when shesaid her first words to us, ‘Hello Mummy’.



UNEMPLOYMENT. Truancy.Domestic abuse. Anti-socialBehaviour. Mental health issues.

Drug and alcohol misuse. Criminalbehaviour. Any one of these issues canwreck a life.

But together, particularly whencompounded by financial stress andlimited life opportunity, these issues canbring an entire family to its knees.

There are several hundred families inWigan Borough which have beenidentified as particularly affected bythese issues. They are involved with anumber of agencies, have experienced arange of complex issues – often overgenerations – and require intensivesupport if they are ever to turn their livesaround.

The Life Programme is one of the waysthat Wigan Council and partners areworking with families to help themachieve this.

The 18-month pilot scheme waslaunched earlier this year and earlyindications are good. The eight familieswho joined the programme have seenmarked reductions in incidents ofdomestic abuse, problems with housing,issues around child protection and a drop

in antisocial and criminal behaviour.Unlike other kinds of agency

intervention, the Life Programme doesn’tjust focus on any single problem.

It takes a more holistic approach andconsiders the family as a whole, ratherthan looking at problems in isolation.

“Some families are simplyoverwhelmed and become stuck in a wayof living,” explained Gill Wright, one ofthe members of the Life Programme teambased in Worsley Hall.

“The Life Programme gives them ablank slate to start afresh. It isn’tcompulsory. Families are invited onto theprogramme and can leave at anytime.

“Historically, agencies tend to fix afamily’s problems but we make it clearthat we aren’t here to fix their problemsfor them.

“What we do is empower and supportthem. Watching them grow in confidenceand make the changes they want in life isa real privilege.”

The Life Programme has the support ofagencies across the borough and teammembers are drawn from the council,police, housing and others.

The Life Programme also recognisesthat a problem can be symptomatic of

other, more deeply rooted, issues.For instance, a young person’s anti-

social behaviour may be a symptom of adysfunctional home life linked todomestic abuse.

Gill said: “In that situation, rather thantreating the ASB in isolation, the LifeProgramme approach would give ‘Mum’the support she needs, whilst also helping‘Dad’ tackle self-esteem issues that mightbe rooted in childhood issues or longterm unemployment.

“We’re not trying to be psychologists!”said Gill. “We work really hard atbuilding trusting relationships with ourfamilies to allow us to give honest,reflective and practical advice.”

Cllr Susan Loudon, cabinet member forchildren and young people, said: “TheLife Programme is an exciting initiativebased on trying to understand the rootcause of the issues and encouraging thefamilies to take responsibility forimproving their opportunities with oursupport.

“By supporting families intoindependence, we hope to reduce theburden on the taxpayer and achievegreater value for money for all servicesacross the borough.”

Young Lawrence Hanney, who enjoyed a spinround the race track with an expert driver.

IT’S not too far from Haydock Park Racecourse in fact,but Three Sisters is home to a quite different kind ofracing – where the speeds are faster and petrol isking.

Three Sisters Race Circuit in Ashton-in-Makerfieldhas just invested in a new fleet of LPG Sodi karts –which are lighter on the environment as they whizztheir drivers past at 70mph, just three inches fromthe ground in a real adrenalin rush. The venue also

hosts a number of race meetings throughout the year.“We like to consider ourselves part of thecommunity,” says general manager Ian Makinson.

“As well as being part of a national series ofracing events, there is opportunity for local

people to come down and use the track.”The circuit holds Charity Rideouts on the

second Tuesday of every month (March-Oct).The next charity day is on Tuesday 9 October

and bikers who bring along their licence and adonation can take part in a ten lap session of

the 1100m track.“We’re happy to accommodate groups –

especially for a really exciting andinnovating fundraising event,” Ian adds. “It’ssafety first of course, and after that – achance to drive on a real race circuit.”

Young Lawrence Hanney, four, got theday off nursery for a spin of the circuit

watched by mum Nicola. Driven by a ThreeSisters’ expert diver, Lawrence was taking

part in a community session organised by BobBrierley, one of the borough’s ward councillors.

“It was magic,” beams Lawrence. “I was just a bitscared though.” Borough Life promises not to tell…

A day at the races

Creating confident families



OUR home is our refuge.It’s the place where we

should feel protectedand sheltered.

But for Mary (not her realname), her home stoppedbeing her sanctuary when shebecame afraid to answer herfront door, pick up the phoneor even to open her mail.

Mary’s story is not unique.Unable to work because ofphysical and mental healthissues, and finding it difficultto cope financially, Mary tookout a pay day loan for £400.To begin with all was well.

“I knew of the dangers ofillegal money lenders becauseyou hear some horrorstories,” she says. “So Ithought a pay day loancompany would be theresponsible way of borrowingmoney. They were legitimatemoney lenders. The termslooked reasonable and therepayments felt achievable.”

Unfortunately, Mary beganto struggle making therepayments. The chargesstarted piling on, adding tothe loan.

Soon afterwards, theintimidating phone calls andthreatening letters began. Bythis time, the amount sheowed had grown to more than£1,200 and Mary’s anxietywas now so severe shecouldn’t bring herself to goout.

“I felt totally isolated,depressed and more than alittle ashamed as well,” saidMary. “I desperately tried toresolve the issue but thecompany didn’t want to know.They just wanted theirmoney.” But there was hope…

“I contacted Wigan CouncilTrading Standards and they

were really helpful,” saidMary. “I’d sent the companylots of letters explaining Icouldn't repay it all at onceand offering to make reducedpayments. But they just keptringing, writing and emailingme asking for more money.

“Trading Standards put mymind at rest that I wouldn’tbe prosecuted for not beingable to repay.”

Council officers referredthe matter to the FinancialServices Ombudsman who

looked into it and found thatthis particular loan company’sactions had been unfair.

The company subsequentlyagreed to stop writing toMary and because of thecircumstances of her casethey wrote the loan off.

Julie Middlehurst, TradingStandards Manager said: “Werecognise that not all pay dayloan companies are the same.Sadly, a minority harasscustomers to recover moneyowed.

“As it turned out, Marywasn’t the only victim of thisparticular company's actions.They were doing the same tomany other people across thecountry. They are now beinginvestigated by the Office ofFair Trading.”

Cllr Kevin Anderson, WiganCouncil’s portfolio holder forsafer neighbourhoods, said:“Debt is a problem thataffects many people. You mayfeel isolated or scared butsupport is available.

“Specialist advisors can’tnecessarily make the debt goaway but they can provideexpert and practical advice.

“I urge people to contactCitizens Advice. Our two localcredit unions, Unify andWelcome, are keen to attractnew members. Once a savinghistory is established, they

offer members loans withflexible repayment terms andvery reasonable interestrates.”

Help is at hand overPAYDAY LOANS

THE first elections for adirectly elected Police andCrime Commissioner will beheld on 15 November 2012.

A year ago, the Police &Social Reform Bill receivedRoyal assent and becamelaw. It covers policeaccountability andgovernance and manyother issues.

The headline area wasthe replacement of policeauthorities with directlyelected police and crimecommissioners.

So now, for or the first

time ever, thepublic acrossEngland and Waleswill elect police and crimecommissioners who will beaccountable for how crimeis tackled in their policeforce area.

The voting system to beused and the policies of thecandidates will be thesubject of informationpassed to all householdsthis autumn.● Find out more atwww.greatermanchesterpccelection.org.uk

Help andadviceavailableIf you are struggling torepay debts, you can seekconfidential help and advicefrom:■ Citizens Advice Bureau:www.citizensadvice.org.ukor www.adviceguide.org.uk 0844 826 9713■ National Debtline:0808 808 4000www.nationaldebtline.co.uk■ Welcome Credit Union: [email protected] www.welcomecreditunion.co.uk01942 828702/828611■ Unify Credit Union:[email protected] 701706/607002

If you are being harassed bya loan company, pleasecontact:■ Citizens AdviceConsumer Servicewww.direct.gov.uk08454 04 05 06

Help was athand when Mary

faced the pressureof a payday loanspiralling out of

control.

Police chief electionsset for November



TIME is running out to claimyour free insulation – it’syour last chance to get warm

in time for winter through the GetMe Toasty scheme

Loft and cavity wall insulationis now FREE* for the majority ofresidents living in GreaterManchester. The scheme (backedby all ten local councils in GreaterManchester) is now even moreappealing if you haven’t got roundto having your home insulated yetand already over 10,000 peoplehave benefited from the scheme.

You don’t have to be on benefitsto qualify, if you’re one of thosepeople who thinks ‘I’m neverentitled to anything’, then this isyour chance to grab up to £700worth of improvements to yourhome for free! And landlords canapply as well.

Typical annual savings arearound £175 for loft insulation

and £135for cavitywallinsulation (figuresfrom the EnergySaving Trust), andfrom enquiry toinstallation is usuallywithin 21 days.

Call the GreaterManchester EnergyAdvice Service freeon 0800 009 3363 or0161 245 7638 (open9am-5pm, Monday toFriday) or visitgetmetoasty.com to book a free,no obligation survey online.* The small print: the offer isbased on an average-sized, threebedroom semi-detached housewith less than 60mm loftinsulation currently in place.Larger properties may be subjectto excess meterage charges.

Just get meTOASTY!

CouncilLeader LordPeter Smith

with the Toastymascot.



IF you’d asked LeanneBalderson seven monthsago if she’d take part in a

fashion show, the answer wouldhave been an unequivocal“no”.

“I still can’t believe it’shappening. I would never havedreamed of doing it,” said the30-year-old from Whelley.

At her post-natal check aftergiving birth to her secondchild, Leanne weighed 19st4lbs and was considering agastric bypass. “I’d decidedenough was enough,” Leannetold us.

“I’d always been ‘big’ but myweight was holding me backfrom enjoying time with mytwo young children. I couldn’tplay with them without beingout of breath.”

Earlier this year Leannedecided against surgery,instead opting to join theborough’s Lose Weight FeelGreat programme. In just a fewmonths she’s already lost an

impressive 4st 8lbs and iswell on target for her“dream” weight of 12stone.

“It’s changed mylife. I’ve quit my joband am now aSlimming WorldConsultant. Not onlythat but I’m competingin the Southport 10krun this month,” sheadded.

“Lose Weight Feel Greatteaches you how to lose weightproperly through healthyeating and exercise. I can’trecommend it enough.”

To mark the achievements ofLeanne and many others likeher, there’s to be specialfashion show called “LostWeight, Feeling Fabulous!” inthe DW Sports Fitness Loungeat the DW Stadium, RobinPark on Friday 19 October.

Doors open from 7pm andtickets are £5. Proceeds will goto Cancer Research and the

price includes a healthy buffet.“This is a chance to

celebrate the achievements ofthose who have been throughthe programme,” said EmmaMartin from Wigan Leisureand Culture Trust.

“The models for the showwill be some of our previousand current participantswho’ve lost weight and kept itoff. They’ll tell guests abouttheir experiences on LWFGand how it helped change theirlives.”

The event has beensponsored by the ladies’clothes shop, Sassy Robes inMesnes Street. Businesspartners Susan Hornby andWendy Nealen were delightedto be asked to be involved.

Susan says: “This is a greatway to show off our wonderfulproducts. We stock sizes from10s to 24s so whatever yourneeds we can find yousomething nice to wear thatmakes you feel confident.”

FEELGOODfashion show

WIGAN Council is calling onlocal residents, licensedbusinesses, interest groupsand agencies to have theirsay on the borough’s futuregambling policy.

The Gambling Act 2005requires all councils topublish a gamblinglicensing policy statementevery three years.

A review into the currentpolicy is now underway.

Copies of the reviseddraft policy are available atall libraries, Wigan townhall, Wigan Life Centre andLeigh town hall. The policycan also be viewed on thecouncil website andcomments can besubmitted online.

Alternatively, responsescan be made by email [email protected] orin writing to the PrincipalLicensing Officer, WiganCouncil, Town Hall, Wigan,WN1 1YN by not later than1st October 2012.

Support to ‘live healthy’LOSE Weight Feel Great offers a tailored service whichprovides the three important elementseveryone needs for successful weightmanagement; healthy eating,physical activity and motivationalsupport.

The service is carefullydeveloped to help you loseweight and feel great, byencouraging you to move moreand eat more healthily.

For moreinformation about the

range of services that areavailable as part of ‘Lose

Weight Feel Great’, pleasecall 01942 496496 or visit

www.LWFG.co.ukTo book tickets for the

fashion show call01942 488 481.

Place yourstake ongambling

Borough Life 22–23 31/8/12 12:35 Page 1


THREE young peoplehave been hailed as rolemodels for their positive

attitude.Matthew Richards,

Matthew Turnbull and ZosiaDurrington are busy,successful and living theirdreams thanks to supportfrom the Future Steps group.Based at Leigh Sports Village,the service helps people aged14 who have a disability withskills, work experience andemployment. They giveservice users the chance totry out fully accessible ITsuites and get personaladvice.

From Friday 2nd November,they will be formallylaunching their service at thesports village with specialguests including comedy folkband favourites TheLancashire Hotpots andLeigh Centurions, plus awealth of otherentertainment and activities.

Partner organisations willhave stalls so attendees canget the very best localinformation, including thedisability partnership who’llbe providing information,support and advice toanyone with adisability.

LocalserviceusersZosia andthe twoMatthewswill bethere toshow justwhat canbe achieved.

MatthewTurnbull said:“I’m really excitedto have been be selectedas a games maker for theOlympic and ParalympicGames in London.” Matthewwill also be volunteering atthe Rugby League World cupin 2013 and in the meantime,he’s looking forward tostarting an apprenticeship as

a lifeguard and coach withthe Pelican Group who arerunning Tyldesley Baths.

Zosia Durrington hasimproved her confidenceimmensely under the scheme.We featured her in the last

issue of Borough Lifeand she is now

providingtraining and

mentoring toothershavingcompleteda partner-shipcourse

withGroundwork

Trust/Greenbank

and Active Livingcall on 01942

488481, where she’sdeveloping her horticultureand DIY skills.

Since starting with FutureSteps in June, MatthewRichards from Leigh hasdeveloped his personal skillsalongside his passion for musicinto a budding career. He said:

“I’ve beenvolunteering atReflex night clubin Wigan and haveDJ’d at parties forfriends in different venues.It’s great.” Matthew alsogained studio skills at ‘live’station Bolton FM.

Michelle Campbell,Community Based ServicesManager, said: “These youngpeople are now making theirown choices in life and havegained important life skills.

We’re really proud of themand all the service users.Please come along to ourevent on Friday 2nd Novemberto find out if Future Steps canbe of assistance. The day willbe a lot of fun with freeentertainment and activities.

Olympics volunteerMatthew Turnbull.

Roles models are livingTHE DREAM LIFE

Three Future Steps group service users are transforming themselves with new skills and opportunities

Zosia Durrington learns new DIY skillson her partnership course with

the Groundwork Trust.

Busy andsuccessful...Zosia is now

passing on theskills she learnedto other service

users.

Busy year continues for church choirTHE choir from the landmarkLowton church are set for a busyautumn season.

Over the years, they’ve touredthe country and have two CDsout. And, to continue this year’sDiamond Jubilee theme, they arecelebrating the church’s muchadmired stained glass eastwindow which was installed incommemoration of QueenVictoria’s Diamond Jubilee.

The church, on the crossroadsoff Slag Lane, will be open on

18-19thOctober from1pm to 5pmand on the 20thOctober from9.30am to 3pmfor a local artexhibition.

There’s a chance to see thechoir on tour at BlackburnCathedral at 3.30pm on 22ndSeptember and in Wigan at theGrand Arcade for carols atlunchtime on 8th December.

Borough Life 22–23 31/8/12 14:54 Page 2


WIGAN Borough has the first HealthyStadia and Sports Clubs Network to be setup and launched in the UK.

Experts have looked at the healthchallenges in the borough and thenetwork will offer sports clubs and stadiathe chance to develop their contributionto the health of their communities.

Dr Kate Ardern, executive director ofpublic health, said: “This innovativeprogramme has the potential to have avery positive impact on the health andwellbeing of the whole Borough, and it isgreat to see Wigan taking a national lead.”

Boost for health

WE’RE not sure if young SamBithell is a future player forthe Warriors or whether he’ll

soon be running the whole SuperLeague. The eight year old from Aspullis, quite frankly, obsessed with thesport.

Sam plays, has a season ticket,collects all the programmes, gets his kitautographed – and may well havedesigned the winning mascot for the2013 World Cup.

His creation has just been chosen bya panel of local experts following arecent competition. Each host area hasbeen selecting a design which will goforward to the national judging. WiganBorough received over a thousandentries – one of the best rates in thecountry. Sam’s sketch is now

representing usagainst the likesof Leeds, Hull,Cardiff andFrance.

“I used the coloursof the Rugby World Cupto make my mascot,” says Sam. “He’scalled Grubber the Gorilla and I wantpeople to vote for him.”

Sam and his brother Jake don’t justwatch the game on television or play ontheir Xbox, they go to Warriors Camps,play in the community and keepthemselves fit as well. And it all startedwhen the family were given a ticket toattend a game at the DW Stadium a fewyears back. “Mum loves it,” Sam says.“She cheers the team on even louderthan dad!”

IT’S just over 12 monthsuntil the Rugby LeagueWorld Cup kicks off andtwo of the games will behere in the borough.Leigh Sports Village hosts

Tonga vs Cook Islands onMonday 5th November and

the runner up of Group A willplay 3rd place group B atthe DW Stadium on Friday16th November.

The council’s cabinet lead forleisure (and massive rugby fan)Cllr Chris Ready, says: “Fans cannow put the local fixture datesin their diaries. Tickets go ongeneral sale on Friday 25thOctober 2012 – and it wouldbe great to see new faces atthose games – people like SamBithell and his family, whowent to one game and reallyenjoyed the experience.”

World cup... one year to go

Rugby lover Sam isshaping up to be a

Sporting buzz agreat way to hitfitness targetsRUGBY’S a lifestyle choice... so saidTommy Goulden of Leigh Centurions.

“It’s a great way to keep fit,” he toldBorough Life. “Especially if you startyoung and really get into it”.

Tommy balances being a second rowforward in Leigh with the day job as anelectrician as well as responsibilities as anexpectant father. He’s full of praise forthe training facilities offered at LeighSports Village – and says that he wants tosee more people using the gym and poolto get fit.

Tommy also wants to see more fansfollowing the Centurions. “The sound of acrowd cheering us on is unbeatable,” hesaid. “They help us focus so much and getme really buzzing to play well. The WorldCup will be massive for the town. It’s agreat time to join in the rugby party.”

Leigh Centurions Chief Executive TrevorBarton MBE said: “I’ve watched Tommyplay rugby since he was seven. His workrate is phenomenal. Tommy shares theClub’s ‘family value’ ethos.

“I have an enormous respect for himboth as a player and as an individual.”

Tommy Gouldenin action for theCenturions.

TOP FAN

Keep an eye onwww.rlwc2013.com

where the competitionwill be hosted this

autumn and followthe local news on

Twitter @RLWCLeighWigan


ALowton youth group hastaken the next step toeducate young people

across the borough andbeyond about sexualexploitation.

Young women from LowtonGirls’ Group have alreadybecome the ‘go to’ girls todeliver education on thesubject after being trained asspecialists by Wigan Councilyouth workers and thenational Child Exploitationand Online Protection (CEOP)Centre.

Now the girls have producedan educational DVD called‘LGG News – SexualExploitation and OnlineProtection’.

The work of the group, runby Wigan Council’s Voice andEngagement Team, hasalready had the backing ofGreater Manchester Police,Barnardo’s and WiganBorough’s Safeguarding Board.

Girls’ group member GeorgeHall says she response has

been overwhelming. She says:“The young people we haveworked with so far have beenshocked at what we are tellingthem. They didn’t realise thissort of thing went on. But theysaid they trusted the

information because we’reyoung people too.”

George says that the DVDmakes viewers think abouthow they might be at risk, thesafety measures they can takeand what they can dodifferently when they areonline.

“By the end of our trainingyoung people are asking usquestions about how to staysafe on Facebook andhow certain safetyfeatures work,”she adds.

The girlshavealreadydeliveredtraining athighprofileevents.They also siton the board

for YAPPERS, anationwide group ofyoung people thatcome together fourtimes a year to sharetheir views andopinions on childsexual exploitation.

Their message issimple: if you areever in a situationwhere you feel atrisk of sexualexploitation thenspeak up – no matterwhat you have beentold, people willbelieve you.

Tell a trusted adultsuch as a parent,teacher or youthworker or contact

the police, CEOP, Barnardo’sor the NSPCC.

If you are online, don’t eventhink about using social mediaif you don’t understand theprivacy settings, keep yourcomputer’s security softwareup to date and remember thatanything you place onlinecould be shared withstrangers.

The girls worked with alocal film maker in a

mock newsroomsetting.

Theypresented themessage andincludedexpertopinions andon the streetinterviews all

acted out byLowton Girls

Group members.

Action from thegirls’ DVD on the

dangers of sexualexploitation.

DVD drives homeSAFETY MESSAGE

Lowton Girls’ Groupmeet every Monday from

6 – 8.30pm at Lowton YouthClub in Newton Road. New

members are always welcome.For more information on how toget a copy of the DVD for yourschool or group contact Wigan

Council’s Voice andEngagement Teamon 01942 486237.


Janine Pevitt from Barnardo’s: “This

kind of information is invaluable

and I have never seen a piece of

work that delivers it so clearly. This

is also the first piece of peer-led

sexual exploitation training I have

seen. It is ground-breaking work.”

Youth worker Deb Hall: “The girls

have a lot of credibility with

younger audiences. It has been a

long journey for them to reach this

level of professionalism but now the

training they are delivering along

with this DVD is second to none. It is

a subject they really care about.”

Kath Vereycken, head of Wigan's

Safeguarding Board: “We strongly

support this. I’ve taken the DVD to

different meetings and I have to say

everyone has been really impressed

with it – and these are high levels

professionals saying this from the

council, police and health services.”

Members ofthe LowtonGirls’ Group.


The proud day as Joncarried the OlympicTorch through Wigan.


WITH schoolcontemporaries likeSean Long and Ian

Lucas, it’s not surprising thatPemberton’s Jon Pollockwould get thesporting bug.

But it’s fair tosay that Jon isnot a man to gofor halfmeasures – he’smassivelycompetitive,hungry for successand has a string of medalsand championship successesto his name.

And at 35, Jon’s justcompeted in his fourthParalympic Games andfully intends to bein Rio.

At 14, Jontried for awheelchairbasketballteam.“Everyoneelse had reallyhigh techwheelchairs,”he said.

“I just had anordinary one – but Icould run rings roundthem. They said I had anatural talent.”

Jon was quickly signed up

for third division WidnesRaiders. Word soon spreadabout his abilities and withina year he was playing for hiscountry with Great BritainJuniors as well and in

Europe.He’s been in the

elite team since1997 andcontinued towork his way up

the rankings. Inthe 2004 Games, he

was mentored by SirSteve Redgrave. He’sfull of praise for theProfiles Gym at RobinPark.

“I get on the court area forsome practice,” said Jon. It’s agreat facility and Irecommend it.”

Jon is back to form afterinjury last year

but whenasked aboutwhere wecan seehim afterthe Gameshesmiled:“Aroundthe pubsin Pem.”

Followthe sport and

find out more atwww.gbwba.

org.uk

Wigan’s multi-OlympianWANTS MORE

WE can’tafford notto makethesechanges.

Putsimply,landfillcosts,recycling saves. If wedon’t make these changes thecost to the council (and localtaxpayers) will be up to £14million more between now and2020 – money that will have tobe found from elsewhere.

This year landfill tax costs £64a tonne. This tax will rise everyyear up to 2014 when it will be£80 a tonne – costing WiganCouncil (and local taxpayers) anadditional £375,000 per year ifsending waste to landfill is notreduced.

We have to modernise ourcollection system to maximisewhat we recycle and reducewhat we send to landfill.Disposal through landfill must bethe last option for our waste.

But although many residentsare doing their bit and helping usto recycle and compost more ofthe borough’s waste, largequantities are still sent todisposal and we need to dobetter still.

The new bin collections willhelp us achieve our targetrecycling rates of 45 per cent by2015 and 50 per cent by 2020 –and spend less, which willultimately help us protectessential council services.

The recycling services alreadyintroduced helped us save almost£2.5 million during 2011/12.

It’s now more important thanever you recycle as much as youcan so you can fit two weeks’worth of waste in your black bin.

For a list of what can and can’tgo in each of your bins, includingyour new food caddy, visit the‘Which Bin’ section of thewebsite.

We arechangingour refusecollections

Find out your new collection dates - look at your collection

calendar which wedelivered recently or check

the online calendar atwww.wigan.gov.uk

/recycling



GOOD news for the environment,better value for council tax payers,new legislation and a more

efficient service – that’s the thinkingbehind the upcoming changes toresidents’ waste services.

By now virtually all households willhave their food caddy service which willcompliment the new cycle of bincollections that includes black bins beingcollected every other week.

Each household will have a kerbsidecollection of their bins every weekbut the type of bin emptiedwill alternate. Thecouncil will collectblack bins everyother week –items in this binwill go tocostly landfill.Green andbrown binsare emptiedevery otherweek and theblue bin everyfour weeks, allyear round.

Cllr KevinAnderson, thecouncil’s portfolio holderfor the environment, says:“As all our residents will be aware, thesignificant public spending cuts driven byCentral Government has led to sometough decisions by the council. But evenin this difficult financialclimate, the councilhas beenable

to provide kerbside facilities for allour waste and recycling that willsave £14 million through to 2020 andprotect other essential front lineservices.”

Council director of environmentTerry Dunn says the changes maytake a bit of getting used to. “But asthe system beds in, the really goodnews is that you will be able todispose of almost all of your foodwaste in your green bin. If youdon’t have a green bin, please use

your new green outdoorcaddy. With the steady

improvement in the rangeof recycling facilities we’ve

introduced, less and lessneeds to go in the blackbins and we can cut theamount sent to landfill,which is great news forthe environment andfor all our futures.”

Recycling rates areup to nearly 37 per

cent. The target is 45per cent by 2015.As the rounds change,

you’re likely to see differentrefuse crews working within

your area. You can also expectchanges to the time of day when your

bin is emptied. In order to make moreefficient use of vehicles and time, these

changes to collection

rounds may mean that anarea which would have

normally had a collection early morningmay now have a collection in theafternoon. Go online for all the localdetail at www.wigan.gov.uk/recycling

Terry Dunn adds: “It is important thatcustomers put their bins out on time.Please make sure your bins are out from7am and that you bring them back in assoon as you can the same day.”

To ensure the service works as smoothlyas possible, the council has also investedin 23 new vehicles that will improve thereliability of its fleet. They are alldeployed on the frontline as domesticrefuse vehicles.

A small number of properties on ruralrounds or with communal bins will jointhe scheme later, once the main servicehas been assessed.

Bring out your bins...AND HELP USGO GREENER

Overflowingbins will be a

thing of the pastunder the new

system.

One of the new fleetof wagons which is drivingthe borough’s recycling initiative.

An environmentally friendlyalternative as food waste

goes in the green binfor recycling.

The councilcurrently collects

over 99 per cent ofits bins every weekfrom a total of 15million collections

a year!



Contacting your councillorCouncillors hold regular surgeries where you can discuss matters in confidence.Surgery details are published on our website at: www.wigan.gov.ukYour councillors can also be contacted directly by phone or email.

Martyn Smethurst (Lab)Tel: 01942 205255

[email protected]

Eunice Smethurst (Lab)Tel: 01942 736228

[email protected]

Carl Sweeney (Lab)Tel: 01942 864328

[email protected]

Ged Bretherton (Lab)Tel: 01942 736232

[email protected]

Stuart Keane (Lab)Tel: 01942 487683

[email protected]

Yvonne Klieve (Lab)Tel: 01942 275808

[email protected]

ABRAM

GOLBORNE AND LOWTON WEST

Nigel Ash (Lab)Tel: 01942 [email protected]

Joel Haddley (Lab)Tel: 01942 487689

[email protected]

Bill Clarke (Lab)Tel: 01942 487673

[email protected]

ASHTON

Barry Taylor (Lab)Tel: 01942 486854

[email protected]

Joanne Platt (Lab)Tel: 01942 487672

[email protected]

Susan Loudon (Lab)Tel: 01942 897240

[email protected]

Mark Aldred (Lab)Tel: 01942 894262

[email protected]

Pam Stewart (Lab)Tel: 01942 486855

[email protected]

ATHERLEIGH

John Hilton (Lab)Tel: 01942 736215

[email protected]

Chris Ready (Lab)Tel: 01942 736218

[email protected]

ASPULL-NEW SPRINGS-WHELLEY

Jamie Hodgkinson (Ind)Tel: 01942 487679

[email protected]

Karen Aldred (Lab)Tel: 01942 894262

[email protected]

ATHERTON

Brendan Bowen (Lab)Tel: 01942 873773

[email protected]

ASTLEY-MOSLEY COMMON

Don Hodgkinson (Ind)Tel: 01942 776252

[email protected]

Ann Rampling (Lab)Tel: 01942 486856

[email protected]

Gary Wilkes (Ind)Tel: 01942 736478

[email protected]

Jim Churton (Lab)Tel: 01942 522734

[email protected]

James Talbot (Lab)Tel: 01942 736256

[email protected]

Jim Ellis (Ind)Tel: 01942 736258

[email protected]

BRYN

HINDLEY

Bob Brierley (Ind)Tel: 01942 736259

[email protected]

Frank Carmichael (Ind)Tel: 01942 487687

[email protected]

Kier Stitt (Lab)Tel: 01942 [email protected]

HINDLEY GREEN

Joy Birch (Lab)Tel: 01942 [email protected]

Mike Dewhurst (Lab)Tel: 01942 736247

[email protected]

Shirley Dewhurst (Lab)Tel: 01942 736247

[email protected]

DOUGLAS

Ron Conway (Lab)Tel: 01942 486853

[email protected]

Norman Bradbury (Ind)Tel: 01942 895671

[email protected]

5-21 OCTOBERLocal Democracy Week

Your local elected Member is thereto represent the community and

help you with local issues. They holdregular surgeries and can be contacted

online or on the phone. Councillors arethere for you throughout the year. They get

involved with housing problems, improving theenvironment, helping people have their say on planning applications andworking with the police to fight anti-social behaviour.

During October, we’ll be promoting their work strongly as part of anational week of activities – watch the local press and the council’s socialmedia feeds for details of how you can get involved and learn moreabout the democratic structure of the council.



Phyll Cullen (Lab)Tel: 01942 736257

[email protected]

Steve Dawber (Lab)Tel: 01942 487690

[email protected]

Terence Halliwell (Lab)Tel: 01695 628386

[email protected]

WIGAN WEST

Peter Smith (Lab)Tel: 01942 604496

[email protected]

Susan Greensmith (Lab)Tel: 01942 736204

[email protected]

Myra Whiteside (Lab)Tel: 01942 776273

[email protected]

LEIGH WEST

Gareth Fairhurst (Standish Ind)Tel: 0845 900 2882

[email protected]

Janice Sharratt (Lab)Tel: 01942 487682

[email protected]

David Molyneux (Lab)Tel: 01942 495083

[email protected]

Jim Moodie (Lab)Tel: 01942 776184

[email protected]

INCE

Kevin Anderson (Lab)Tel: 01942 736250

[email protected]

John O’Brien (Lab)Tel: 01942 677148

J.O’[email protected]

Charles Rigby (Lab)Tel: 01942 736206

[email protected]

LEIGH SOUTH

Barbara Bourne (Lab)Tel: 01942 736235

[email protected]

Jeanette Prescott (Lab)Tel: 01942 736242

[email protected]

Paul Prescott (Lab)Tel: 01942 736242

[email protected]

PEMBERTON

Paul Collins (Lab)Tel: 01942 487684

[email protected]

Mike Crosby (Lab)Tel: 01942 486860

[email protected]

Damian Edwardson (Lab)Tel: 01942 487674

[email protected]

SHEVINGTON WITH LOWER GROUND

Lol Hunt (Lab)Tel: 07766 [email protected]

George Davies (Lab)Tel: 01942 486864

[email protected]

Michael McLoughlin (Lab)Tel: 01942 487686

[email protected]

WIGAN CENTRAL

James Grundy (Con)Tel: 01942 601488

[email protected]

James Cowley (Lab)Tel: 01942 486858

[email protected]

Pam Gilligan (Lab)Tel: 01942 487680

[email protected]

LOWTON EAST

Emma McGurrin (Lab)Tel: 01942 486861

[email protected]

George Fairhurst (Standish Ind)Tel: 01257 407078

[email protected]

STANDISH WITH LANGTREE

Keith Cunliffe (Lab)Tel: 01942 736251

[email protected]

Anita Thorpe (Lab)Tel: 01942 487681

[email protected]

Fred Walker (Lab)Tel: 01942 897278

[email protected]

LEIGH EAST

Kelly Ready (Lab)Tel: 01942 487675

[email protected]

David Arrowsmith (Lab)Tel: 01942 486859

[email protected]

Stephen Murphy (Lab)Tel: 01942 487688

[email protected]

ORRELL

Robert Bleakley (Lib Dem)Tel: 01942 897560

[email protected]

Paul Valentine (Lib Dem)Tel: 01942 486862

[email protected]

Stephen Hellier (Lab)Tel: 01942 896616

[email protected]

TYLDESLEY

Paul Kenny (Lab)Tel: 01942 487677

[email protected]

Clive Morgan (Lab)Tel: 01942 486880

[email protected]

Rona Winkworth (Lab)Tel: 01942 736229

[email protected]

Phil Kelly (Lab)Tel: 01942 [email protected]

Lynne Holland (Lab)Tel: 01942 736255

[email protected]

Billy Rotherham (Lab)Tel: 01942 495091

[email protected]

WINSTANLEY WORSLEY MESNES

The councillorhas asked usnot to include

a photo.


Arts and Festivals

Wed 19th Sept, 7:30pmASHTON FESTIVAL:NORTHERN SOUL NIGHTWith D.J. Russ WinstanleyOriginal Wigan Casino DJ7.30pm/2.00am. Jack’s Night Club,Ashton Tickets from Ashton Library£4.50. On door £5.00.

Thurs 20th Sept, 6:30pmASHTON FESTIVAL:LET THE CHILDREN SING 6.30pm St.Edmund ArrowsmithSchool Tickets from Ashton Library£4.50. Pay on the door £5.00.Children £3.00.

Fri 21st Sept, 8pmASHTON FESTIVAL:IRISH NIGHT8.00pm Brian Boru ClubIrish Duo Keep it Country andChampion Irish Dancer JosephKeegan. £3.00.

Sat 22nd Sept, 10amASHTON FESTIVAL:THE BIG CRUMBLE10am/2.00pm – Ashton Market.

Sat 22nd Sep, 7:30pmASHTON FESTIVAL:GREENALL’S BRASS BAND 7.30pm St.Thomas’ Church Tickets from Ashton Library £4.50Pay on the door £5.00.

Sun 23th SeptRUN4ALIFE 2012Haigh Hall, WiganWigan Rotary Club’s run4alife 2012in aid of men’s cancer research. Tobook a place call 07813 471000 orvisit www.run4alife.com5K Family Fun Run, starts 12 noon– Adults £8 / under 18’s £5. Familyof 4 £20. 10K Run, starts 9.30am –Adults £10 / under 18’s £8. Pay onday £12.

Tue 2nd Oct - Sat 6 Oct, 7:30pmNATURAL CAUSESTyldesley Little Theatre, LemonStreet, Tyldesley

A Black Comedy. Dark comedy atits best from the writer oftelevision’s ‘Rising Damp’ and TLT’Sprevious hit comedy ‘Summer End’.Ticket line 01204 655619. Forfurther information telephone01942 886908

Sun 7th Oct, 11:45am-3pmDIAMOND JUBILEEAUTUMN FAYRESt Mary’s Church Hall, NewtonRoad, Lowton, WN7 1EG.Be greeted by royalty and enjoyBBQ, Refreshments, Games, Stalls,Face Painting, Soft Toy Tombola,Mystery Prizes and lots more.

Sun 28th Oct, 2pmTHAT’S ALL FOLKSFormby Hall, AthertonPay at the door.

Sun 16th SeptASHTON FESTIVALCIRCULAR WALKAshton AreaTime to be confirmed. A ranger led9 mile walk around the Ashtonarea. Packed lunch, sturdy footwearand weather proof clothingrequired. Booking Essential. Tel:01942 720453

Mon 22nd Oct - Sun 28th OctHALLOWEEN HALF TERMACTIVITIESVarious ParksLook out for Halloween / half termactivities in your local park. See ourwebsite www.wlct.org/parks fordetails closer to the time.

Haigh Country Park

Sun 2nd SeptAFTERNOON TEAHaigh HallAfternoon Tea Sunday 2ndSeptember £9.95 per person. To booktelephone 01942 832895. £9.95

Fri 7th Sept, 7:30pmFAWLTY TOWERS EVENINGHaigh Hall

An hilarious evening in thecompany of Basil, Manuel andSybil. Enjoy a 4 course dinner andsome unique fun and madnessFawlty Towers style. Dinner servedat 8pm. To book telephone 01942832895. £29

Sun 9th Sep, 12pm-4pmSUNDAY CARVERYHaigh HallCome and experience our popularcarveries served between 12-4pm,all with entertainment and 3courses. To book telephone 01942832895. £12.50 adults,Concessionary £5.95 children.

Sun 7th OctWEDDING SHOWCASEHaigh HallFor further information telephone01942 832895. FREE

Sun 14th Oct, 12pm-4pmSUNDAY CARVERYHaigh HallCome and experience our popularcarveries served between 12-4pm,all with entertainment and 3courses. To book telephone 01942832895. £12.50 adults,Concessionary £5.95 children.

Fri 26th Oct, 7:30pmCASINO NIGHTHaigh HallViva Las Vegas! After being met byour glitzy Vegas girls you will enjoy a4-course dinner followed by access

to all the fun and games of thecasino! Dinner served at 8pm. Tobook telephone 01942 832895. £29

Libraries

Fri 18th May - Sat 10th NovFROM THE WORD GO!Museum of Wigan LifeFrom the Word Go! is the firstexhibition created by our YouthHeritage Action Team. In the year ofthe London Olympics the exhibitioncelebrates the borough’s sportingachievements past and present.Find out about our top athletes,world famous sports, and the localheroes who have championed sportin the community.

Sun 16th Sep, 1pm-2:30pmSUPER SUMMER – JUNKMODELLINGMuseum of Wigan LifePlease book, £2.50 per childCome and create your ownmasterpiece at the museum thissummer. With a new theme everyweek, and as much junk as youlike, bring your imagination!Suitable for children from 4-1101942 828128. £2.50

Thu 20th Sep - Thu 25th Oct,12:45pm-1:30pmHUNGRY HISTORIESMuseum of Wigan LifeBring your lunch and grab a coffeeor tea as our local history experts


For full details of all special and regular eventsand festivals, pick up a What’s On brochure atyour local library or visit www.wlct.org/whatson

What’s

ONAutumn 2012


satisfy your history cravings. Fordetails of speakers, please contactthe museum. Thursdays: 20, 27 Sep,4, 11, 18, 25 Oct. 01942 828128FREE.

Thu 20th Sep - Thu 25th Oct,6pm-7:30pmFAMILY HISTORY FORBEGINNERSMuseum of Wigan LifeBooking is essentialLearn about sources, websites andhow to research and plan.Thursdays: 20, 27 Sep, 4, 11, 18, 25Oct. 01942 828128. £12 for thecourse.

Sat 22nd Sept - Sat 27th OctANNUAL OPEN EXHIBITIONTurnpike Gallery.Open to amateurs and professionalsfrom across the borough, a chanceto see an exciting variety ofpaintings, drawings, photographyand sculpture.

Sun 23rd Sept, 1pm-2:30pmSUPER SUMMER – JUNKMODELLINGMuseum of Wigan LifePlease book, £2.50 per childCome and create your ownmasterpiece at the museum thissummer. With a new theme everyweek, and as much junk as youlike, bring your imagination!Suitable for children from 4-1101942 828128. £2.50

Tue 25th Sept, 10:30am-12pmCOFFEE, CAKE & CULTUREMuseum of Wigan LifeLotions, Potions and PoulticePlease book.At our regular interactive heritageworkshops, learn, discuss, reminisceand enjoy a slice of cake withcoffee or tea. 01942 828128. £3

Thu 27th Sept, 6:30pm-7:45pmAN EVENING WITH…Museum of Wigan LifePlease book, £2.50, lightrefreshments. 01942 828128. £2.50

Fri 28th Sept, 2pm-3:30pmLOCAL HISTORY COURSEMuseum of Wigan LifeVictorian WiganFridays from 28 SeptemberJoin us as we explore VictorianWigan and find out what it waslike to live in a thriving industrialtown. You will discover the humancost of living in unsanitary housingand we will also look at thebrighter side of life during theperiod including local identity andpride. Fridays: 28 Sep, 5, 12, 19, 26Oct, 2 Nov. 01942 828128. £20 forthe course.

Mon 1st Oct, 2pm-3:30pmPALAEOGRAPHY PRACTICEMuseum of Wigan Life

Medieval to Modern Handwritingfor Experts.Informal drop-in sessions for thosewith a basic understanding ofpalaeography styles over the ages,transcribing original documentsfrom the archives in a group. FREE

Tue 2nd Oct, 10:30am-12pmCOFFEE, CAKE & CULTUREMuseum of Wigan LifeSuperstitions, Old Sayings andWords of Wisdom. Please book. Atour regular interactive heritageworkshops, learn, discuss, reminisceand enjoy a slice of cake withcoffee or tea. 01942 828128. £3

Tue 9th Oct, 10:30am-12pmCOFFEE, CAKE & CULTUREMuseum of Wigan LifeMake Do, Milk Bars and Mini Skirts.Please book. At our regularinteractive heritage workshops,learn, discuss, reminisce and enjoya slice of cake with coffee or tea.01942 828128. £3

Tue 16th Oct,10:30am-12pmCOFFEE, CAKE & CULTUREMuseum of Wigan LifeExplore Our History Mystery Chest.Please book. At our regularinteractive heritage workshops,learn, discuss, reminisce and enjoya slice of cake with coffee or tea.01942 828128. £3

16-20th Oct, 7.30pmMR WONDERFUL –A PLAY BY JAMES ROBSONSt Joseph’s Hall, off Mather Lane,LeighThe story of a single woman as shesearches for Mr Right whilstlooking after her bedridden mother.£7 children £3.50

Mon 22nd Oct - Mon 19thNov, 11am-12:30pmAN INTRODUCTION TO OLDHANDWRITING: MEDIEVAL TOMODERN PALAEOGRAPHYMuseum of Wigan LifeBooking is essential.Learn how to decode handwritingand bring documents alive in thisfive week course, ideal for familyand local historians. From the middleages to the present day, get handytips on how to read archive recordsand develop your confidence ininterpreting these sources. Mondays:22, 29 Oct, 5, 12, 19 Nov. 01942404430. £15 for the course.

Tue 23rd Oct, 10:30am-12pmCOFFEE, CAKE & CULTUREMuseum of Wigan LifeSchooldays: Hands Up If You LoveThem. Please book. At our regularinteractive heritage workshops,learn, discuss, reminisce and enjoya slice of cake with coffee or tea.01942 828128. £3.

Thu 25th Oct, 6:30pm-7:45pmAN EVENING WITH...Museum of Wigan LifeAn Evening with...Glen AtkinsonWhat the papers said: outtakesfrom local Victorian newsThursday 25 October, 6.30-7.45pmPlease book, £2.50, lightrefreshments. 01942 828128. £2.50

Sat 27th & 28th Oct,11am-4pmPOWER FESTTrencherfield Mill, WiganActivities for everyone to celebrateManchester Science Week -demonstrations, boat rides and ofcourse the fantastic Steam Engine.For further information telephone01942 828128. There may be a smallcharge for some activities. FREE

Tue 30th Oct, 10:30am-12pmCOFFEE, CAKE & CULTUREMuseum of Wigan LifeThe Way We Used To Live. Pleasebook. At our regular interactiveheritage workshops, learn, discuss,reminisce and enjoy a slice of cakewith coffee or tea. 01942 828128. £3

Mon 29th Oct, 1-2.30pm,Thurs 1st Nov, 1-2.30pmWITCHES & WIZARDSMuseum of Wigan LifeHalf-termPlease book, £2.50 per childMake your own witchy andwizardly hats and wands and othermagical crafts! Suitable for childrenfrom 4 -11. 01942 828128.

Sat 3rd Nov, 11am-2.30pmSUPER SATURDAYMuseum of Wigan LifeLightshaw Family FestivalDiscover the beauty and nature ofLightshaw Meadows, with exhibits,crafts and demonstrations from RedRose Forest. 01942 828128. FREE

Mon 5 Nov, 2-3.30pmPALAEOGRAPHY PRACTICE:MEDIEVAL TO MODERNHANDWRITING FOR EXPERTSMuseum of Wigan LifeInformal drop-in sessions for thosewith a basic understanding ofpalaeography styles over the ages,transcribing original documentsfrom the archives in a group.01942 828128. FREE

10th Nov - 20th Dec 2012THE BEST OF BRITISH CLUB Turnpike Gallery, Turnpike Centre,Leigh WN7 1EBPhotography 2012The Photographic Alliance of GreatBritain shows the very best of Clubphotography in Britain in 2012.01942 404420.

24th Nov 2012 - 6th April 2013MAKE IT, SPIN IT, CAN ITMuseum of Wigan Life

Since the 19th century, our townshave been powerhouses ofproductivity, creativity andinnovation. Immerse yourself in theborough’s manufacturing historywith this family friendly exhibition.

Thurs 29nd Nov, 5.30-7pmCHRISTMAS PREVIEW NIGHTMuseum of Wigan LifePrepare for Christmas with anexclusive first look at our newChristmas gifts and cards, withwine and nibbles. 01942 828128.

Mon 3rd Dec, 2-3.30pmPALAEOGRAPHY PRACTICE:MEDIEVAL TO MODERNHANDWRITING FOR EXPERTSMuseum of Wigan LifeInformal drop-in sessions for thosewith a basic understanding ofpalaeography styles over the ages,transcribing original documentsfrom the archives in a group.01942 828128. FREE

Fri 2nd NovFUTURE STEPS LAUNCH EVENTLeigh Sports Village(see article this issue).

Sun 4th NovBONFIRE SUPPERHaigh hosts one of the town’s bestannual bonfires and fireworkevents. This year, bring the familyinto the warmth of the Hall. Enjoya hot supper before steppingoutside and enjoying the evening’scelebrations. Supper served from4.00pm. Reservations essential.£10 adults. £6 children. £28 familyticket (2 adults and 2 children).

Sun 25th NovCHRISTMAS CARVERYA festive 4-course carvery servedwithin the Grand Ballroom alongwith Christmas cheer provided withcarols courtesy of members of theWigan Community Choir. Carverysittings available from 12pm –4.00pm. Reservations essential.£17.50 adults. £9.95 children.

Sat 1st DecCHRISTMAS CASINO NIGHTEnjoy a 4-course dinner beforetrying your hand at Roulette,Blackjack and other great fungames. Dinner with DJ and dancing‘til late. Dinner served 8.00pm. £29per person.

Sun 2nd DecCHRISTMAS CARVERYA 4-course carvery served withinthe Grand Ballroom and traditionalfestive entertainment courtesy ofthe Walkden and Farnworth BrassBand. Carvery sittings availablefrom 12pm-4pm. Reservationsessential. £17.50 adults. £9.95children.



WIGANBUSINESSEXPO

DW STADIUM, LOIRE DRIVE, WIGAN WN5 0UHFRIDAY 12TH OCT 2O12 8AM TO 3PM

FREE TO ATTEND AND NO PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

WWW.WIGANBUSINESSEXPO.CO.UK

➔More than 120 exhibitors.

➔ Informative seminars delivered by high profilekey note speakers.

➔ Free, impartial one-to-one advicethrough Meet the Experts.

➔Opportunity to Meet the Buyers (appointments must be booked in advance via the website).

FACEBOOK.COM/WIGANBUSINESSEXPO @WIGANEXPO (SEARCH WIGAN BUSINESS EXPO)

TO STAY INFORMED ABOUT WIGAN BUSINESS EXPO TWENTY12, FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK, LINKEDIN & TWITTER


borough life issue 39 autumn 2012

Documents

borough life autumn

life lines

pta chair

votedbest pta

housein leigh

young people

leigh cejuniors

parking placeselsewhere