borough life issue 37 spring 2012

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GH ISSUE 37 SPRING 2012BOROUGH

Walk of LIFE!� Stars come out to celebrate launch of new centre

Borough Life 1 23/2/12 11:18

2 BOROUGH LIFE Spring 2012

Need to contact a council service?Here are the key ways to get in touch with us.

Most council queries can be dealt with by ringing the contact centre on 01942 404364. Here are some of the services the contact centre can assist you with:• Council Tax • Street lighting• Housing and Council Tax Benefits • Pest control• Blue badges • Highway works• Housing options • Bulky item collection service• Planning queries • Refuse collection

CENTRAL DUTY TEAM – ADULT SOCIAL CARE 01942 828777open from 8:45am-8pm, Monday to Fridayand 8:45am-1pm on Saturday. Outsidethese hours in emergencies only, phone0161 834 2436.

CHILDREN IN NEED DUTY TEAM 01942 828300open from 8:45am-5pm Monday to Friday,outside of these hours ring Central DutyTeam.

WIGAN LIFE CENTREThe Wiend, Wigan, WN1 1NH

LEIGH LIFE CENTRELeigh Town Hall, MarketStreet, Leigh, WN7 1DY

MARSH GREEN LIFE CENTREMarsh Green Library, HarrowRoad, Wigan, WN5 0QL

PLATT BRIDGE LIFE CENTREPlatt Bridge Health Centre,Rivington Avenue, PlattBridge, Wigan, WN2 5NG

INCE LIFE CENTREInce Clinic & CommunityCentre, Manchester Road,Ince, Wigan, WN2 2DJ

ATHERTON LIFE CENTREAtherton Health Centre,Nelson Street, Atherton, M46 0LE

You’ll find information on all our services at

www.wigan.gov.uk Follow us on

Pay a bill online ......................................................... www.wigan.gov.uk and click Pay It

Bin queries and requests can be done online ...... www.wigan.gov.uk/recycling

Report a fault online ................................................ www.wigan.gov.uk and click Report It

Online reporting forms can be used forroads and pavements, blocked rainwatergrids and street equipment.

Card payments (automated line) ........................... 0800 169 5878.

Feedback, comments and complaints .................... www.wigan.gov.uk/haveyoursay

Online school admissions service ........................... www.wigan.gov.uk and click Apply For It(Primary and Secondary).

Borough Life 2 23/2/12 11:19 Page 1

The

LeaderColumnBy Peter SmithLeader, Wigan Council

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This edition packed with news, plus...

Spring 2012www.wigan.gov.uk

Borough Life is published by WiganCouncil and distributed to all households inthe borough. This edition was published on1 March. Distribution should be completeby 16 March.

The magazine is printed on paper fromrenewable resources. It is written and editedby Wigan Council’s Media andCommunications team, designed bySmith Davis Press and printed by 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 827823 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 827823.

Helping children learn and grow 6

New fleet boosts recycling effort 22&23

Olympic torch comes to town 12&13

Volunteer army of unsung heroes 25

BOROUGH LIFE Spring 2012 3

WIGAN Council has always been committed to providing the bestvalue for money services. Faced with having to make £66m cuts tomeet government targets, the council's budgets have been hit hardand we’ve been doing all we can to continue to provide those servicespeople in our borough rely on.

In one year alone we have been expected to make £21M worth ofsavings and we have achieved this by looking at the every aspect ofthe council’s operation and taking some tough decisions.

We have made a commitment to protect frontline services and wehave managed to protect many other services that people in ourborough value. For example by varying hours and working with localcommunities we have maintained our network of local libraries.Our strategy so far has served us well but there are more cuts to comeand in future years we may not be able to maintain as we would like.

Over the next four years we anticipate that we will have £400 lessto spend for every household of the borough than we did at the startof this process.

An alarming statistic but a target we must meet. We can only dothis by making the right decision and continuing to ensure that valuefor money remains at the top of our list. Find out more about howwe're doing this on pages 8 and 9 of this edition.

Shocked by the increase in youth unemployment in the borough wedecided that even in such difficult times we should do our bit andhave set up a fund to recruit new apprenticeships in the council. (Seepage 24 for more on apprentices).

THERE’S a chance to bring local history right up to date on page 7where we ask for suggestions to name the new Saddle Junction reliefroad in Wigan. Streets across the borough commemorate many things.On the Bickershaw roads they acknowledge our mining past, the oldbleachworks on Chorley Road recall the Pilgrim Fathers who sailedwith Myles Standish on the Mayflower and the last baby to be born atBillinge hospital is remembered at Jacob Close off Upholland Road.The Saddle relief road goes through the old industrial heart of ourtown – read the article and give us your ideas.

AT one time, if you had a number of questions about different councilor other public services, chances are you’d have to speak to a lot ofdifferent people. Well not any more.

We have now officially launched our new public services ‘hub’ theWigan Life Centre and with it comes the council’s new ethos fordealing with its customers.

With access to information about every aspect of the council’sbusiness and staff from different public services all under one roof weaim to resolve any and all of our customers’ issues quickly andeffectively. In fact we have set the target of providing solutions to 80per cent of our customers’ queries at the very first meeting.

It saves time, it saves money and above all it’s what you have askedus to do.

We’re proud to launch the Wigan Life Centre and its fresh newapproach to serving our customers.

You can find out more in our four-page special feature in thisedition, starting on page 15.

COVER PICTURE:All Stars: BillyBoston, StuartMaconie and JohnWinnard get theirstars on the WiganWalk of Life at theopening of thenew Wigan LifeCentre.



The eco has landed

Lucy Gordon of GordonsHonda is gearing up toshowcase the latesthybrids at the Eco TravelRoadshow in May.

LADIES and gentleman start your engines for possibly the best travel show…in the world!

Wigan Council’s Top Gear-stylechallenge is to promote a greener futurefor our borough and this includes the car.

In May the council will be teaming upwith local businesses for the Eco TravelShow, which will highlight the very bestin modern eco transport.

And one of the big stars of this year’sshow will be the hybrid car.

Hybrid cars have both a traditionalpetrol engine and a battery. They behave– and look – just like any other car andthey don’t need to be plugged in.

“In fact, they charge themselves in

response to good driving,” says LucyGordon of Wigan’s Gordons Honda, who’llbe showcasing the latest hybrids at theshow. “The dashboard display on ourmodels turns from blue to green whenyou go from spending energy to makingit. After each journey, you even get ascore about how much fuel you’ve saved.”

Studies show that hybrid cars massivelyreduce smog-forming pollutants andcarbon dioxide emissions. Car tax is alsomuch less than for similar sized petrolvehicles.

Deputy leader Cllr David Molyneuxsays: “Creating a greener borough is high-up on the council’s agenda and thecar is a good place to start.

“But our Eco Travel Show proves that itdoesn’t have to be dull. We have animpressive line-up for this year’s show, sowhy not come along? And why not try touse the bus or your bike to get there.”

THE CAR’S THE STAR:The Honda hybrid that willbe starring at the show.

■ FIND out more about local sustainabletravel choices at the Second Eco Travel Showon Standishgate and the Market Place inWigan on 11-12 May 2012.

Major local motoring businesses, as well asbike, bus and walking organisations, will beshowing off their green credentials withactivities for all the family.



GREATER ManchesterPolice’s Military Band willtrumpet in the end ofPhase One of MesnesPark’s magnificentrestoration in April…andyou’re all invited.

Scores of Victorianthemed family eventshave been planned forthe fun family dayopening on Monday 9April to mark thismomentous point in thepark’s history.

Families are beingencouraged to turn up inVictorian dress to honourthe park’s originalopening in 1878.

Work began on PhaseOne of Mesnes Park’smulti-million poundrestoration in 2011 andon Monday 9 AprilWigan’s mayor will openthe newly refurbishedand restored pavilionand Dalton Steps.

Leader of the CouncilLord Peter Smith says:“Mesnes Park is amagnificent asset to ourborough and thisrestoration project isbringing it back to its fullglory.

“We hope people willcome out and celebratethis landmark moment.”

Phase Two of thepark’s regeneration willinclude the restoration ofthe historic entrancelodge, refurbishment ofthe bowling pavilion andfootpaths, improved parklighting and parkfurniture are beinginstalled and are plannedto be completed by 2013.

Mesnes Park EasterExtravaganza – takesplace on Monday 9 Aprilbetween 11am and 3pm.

Visitors will be able toexperience Victoriangames, make bunting,play croquet, enjoy anEaster egg trail, teddybear picnic and VictorianFair.

For more informationring 01942 245 369.

Mesnesevent inthe park

HOUSEWIGAN Borough’s largest social

landlord is 10 years-old. Wigan andLeigh Housing (WALH) was formed

in 2002 to look after the borough’s stock of23,000 council homes.

And what a decade it has been! Estateshave been transformed, homes are now moreenergy efficient than ever and more than 100new homes have been built.

All of these improvements have beenfunded by rents at no cost to local council taxpayers.

Tenant Board Member and Vice of Boardfor Wigan and Leigh Housing, MarjorieMarsden explains: “We have kept our day today running costs low so we have more moneyto invest in maintaining people’s homes.

“Our management costs are one of thelowest in the country yet we are now seen asone of the top performers and our tenantsatisfaction rates are at an all time high.

“We are very proud of the services weprovide.”

A tenant for over 12 years, LindsayRobinson has seen many of the improvementsmade.

She said: “I had a new kitchen put into myfirst house, that was a big improvement andthere has been lots of work done to make thehouses warmer and reduce fuel bills. I havedefinitely noticed a difference in how muchwe are spending on gas and electricity.

“As my family has grown, we needed morespace and they have helped us as much aspossible. We have five girls and we were luckyto get one of the new four bedroom homesthat have been built, which has made a bigdifference to our family life.”

Leader of Wigan Council Lord Peter Smithadded: “When we formed Wigan and LeighHousing we wanted to provide our tenantswith a first-class service, improve the livingconditions and provide great value for money.

“Thanks to the great team at WALH we’repleased to say we have succeeded on all threeand much more besides.”

OUR HOUSE:Wigan and Leigh

Housing tenant Lindsaywith husband Trevor and

daughters Whitney,Jenna, Bethany,

Georgia and Leah.



Helping our children tolearn and growAVALUABLE and cost effective

resource providing as it does high quality, flexible and easily

accessible childcare to a range ofparents/carers and families” – so said theNational Childminding Association’sinspector following her recent visit toWigan.

“I like Paula and books and playingtrains and counting,” said two-year-oldAaron from Kitt Green. He doesn’t say allthat at once of course. He’s far too busybuilding a track across the room.

To call Paula Bennett a childminder is aglorious understatement. As well as beingOfsted registered and accredited, shedelivers Early Years Foundation Stage to

the children in her care. It’s just the sameas a nursery, but from her home, andOfsted inspect at least once every threeyears.

“I love it,” she said. “It’s a challenge butthe children get so much out of it. One toone learning, properly evaluated andfollowing a carefully worked outcurriculum. It means they get so muchfrom it and I really enjoy seeing themlearn and grow.”

Paula is a member of the WiganChildren Come First Childminder network.It is made up of a group of childminderswho provide childcare within a homeenvironment – and it’s just been approvedby the National Childminding Association.

They are all accredited to the NCMA’s‘Children Come First’ quality standardsand their aim is to keep improving thestandards of local childcare.

Only accredited childminders can offerto deliver the free 15 hours of Early Yearschildcare provision for 3 and 4 year olds.

“Working from home means we can bemore flexible,” said Paula. “We can offerchildren a broad range of learningactivities and at times which can suitindividual parents. It’s great to get theassessor’s feedback.”

As for Aaron – his train track is finishedand despite the unexpected presence of atoy bus on the line, he’s really happy.“Paula is fun,” he explained.

IF you need help or support to bringup your child, the Family ServiceDirectory provides details of servicesand activities for families, childrenand young people.

For advice and learning opportunitiesand to find out if there is a networkchildminder near to where you live, goto www.wiganfis.org.uk or phone01942 828849

This is also the number for parentsto find out more about accessing their15 hours’ early years entitlementusing an accredited childminder likePaula.

Schools scoreimprovementsin results atGCSE levelHIGH schools across Wigan arecelebrating another successful year ofachievement with the release of thefull GCSE exam results data for 2011.

Figures show that the percentageof pupils achieving five or more A* toC grades, including English andMaths, was 57.1 per cent – slightly upon last year’s figure of 56 per cent.

Education leaders are particularlypleased that for those pupilsachieving five or more A* to C (incl.English & Maths), Wigan’s resultsimproved year on year for the pastfive years from 41.7 per cent in 2006to 57.1 per cent in 2011.

At the same time the percentage ofpupils achieving five or more A* to Cor equivalents has improved from 57per cent in 2006 to 78 per cent in 2011.

Statistics are also in for the pupilsachieving the English Baccalaureate,the performance measure whichrecognises where pupils have secureda C grade or better across a core ofacademic subjects – English,Mathematics, History or Geography,the Sciences and a language.Introduced in 2010, 11.2 per centachieved the new Baccalaureate. In2011, that has risen to 12.5 per cent.

Wigan Council’s Cabinet Memberfor Children and Young People, CllrSusan Loudon, said: “It’s a reflectionon all the hard work of our pupils, aswell as the support they receive fromparents, the dedication of school staffand the commitment of schoolgovernors and the local authority.

“We all have plenty to do to keeppushing up standards and I wish allthe current GCSE students the verybest in their studies and for theirfuture.”

Young people can take advantageof careers’ advice offered throughtheir schools as well as at borough’sConnexions service, available at theLife Centre in Wigan and at Leightown hall.● Westleigh High School has beennoted for its particular achievements.This year, 54% of pupilsreceived 5+ A* to C(incl. English &Maths), which is asignificant step upfrom the 35 percent figure in2010.

ChildminderPaula Bennettand two-year-

old Aaron.

“



BACK in Spring 2010,Borough Life announcedambitious plans for

improving town centre accessfrom the busy Saddle Junction.

Last year, work began toimprove the highway and the oldbus depot was demolished to makeway for new employment land,development opportunities and abrand new road which will avoidthe regular bottleneck around thenarrow railway bridge.

The whole project is a priority for thecouncil and a potential catalyst for jobs.And whilst officers and politiciansdiscuss the big issues with firms andbusiness leaders, a small but crucialquestion needs to be answered.

What to call the new road?Street naming is a legal function of the

council, and when roads are built,developers must choose suitable nameswithin the rules. When a road isrenamed, there’s consultation with those

affected: what emerges must be uniqueand reflect the area’s history or location.At present, drivers leave Wigan downPottery Road, which is a reminder of oneformer industry near the Pier.

The proposal is for the road fromWallgate to the Saddle, which will beginconstruction this spring, to have one newname along its entire length, with thename of Pottery Road kept for the olderroute near the ambulance station.

Deputy leader and council economychampion, Cllr David Molyneux, wantsBorough Life readers to get involved.

“This is an important piece of

infrastructure for our town,” he said.“We’ve seen road on new housingdevelopments, but it is rare for a brandnew public road to be built.

“We want to hear suggestions fromlocals which will help us to name thisnew stretch of the A49. So if you are ahistorian, a pupil who has done a projecton industry around the Pier, then pleaseget in touch.”

Full details and the form are availableon the council’s website –www.wigan.gov.uk/boroughlife which you

can access at home or for free in alocal library or Life Centre.

A change to the roadlayout entering Wiganpromises better traffic flowand fewer delays.

Council engineers plan toopen up Sovereign Road,opposite the Lidlsupermarket on DarlingtonStreet. This will allow trafficcoming into town fromLower Ince to bypass thebusy crossroads at a newpriority give-way junction.

This then makes theexisting crossroads moreefficient for all other traffic.

Mark Tilley, head ofhighways, says: “Theexisting junction is workingwell above capacity, as I amsure many drivers willknow too well. The councilhas listened to localconcerns here, we havesupport from local wardmembers and we want todeliver an effectivesolution.

“We have the funds andthe opportunity now toaddress this and make areal difference for all road

users in the area.”As part of safety

considerations for thescheme, new dropped kerbsand tactile paving fordisabled access will beinstalled at the junction andside roads. New trees willbe planted around thejunction and the PepperMill car park will beupgraded.

Construction is likely tostart this month (March)and last for six to eightweeks.

Traffic Improvements:Better Access from A573

Names cannot be duplicatedwithin the Wigan Borough area(historically a few remain, but now they must be new).Names need to be clear to avoidconfusion or misunderstandings.Names of living persons are notnormally allowed.Where possible names shouldreflect the history of the site oracknowledge the geography ofthe area.Marketing or commercial namesare not acceptable.

TheRules:

Where the streets have

no name (yet)

ALLCHANGE:The busySaddle

Junction.

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4

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Value For Money – Your Life,Your Borough and Your Money

E ach year Wigan Councilprovides manythousands of people in

our borough with services tomeet their needs.

It ranges from cleaning thestreets, emptying the binsand making sure ourcommunities are safe rightthrough to giving ourchildren and young people aflying start, creating newinvestment opportunitiesand protecting the elderlyand vulnerable.

In recent years the councilhas faced some bigchallenges in terms of theamount of money it has tospend.

Over a four year periodthe council must make£66million worth of savings.

It means there’s lessmoney to spend on theseservices.

Leader of Wigan CouncilLord Peter Smith explained:“We have faced difficulttimes and have made sometough choices and this yearthere will be more to come

but Wigan Council remainscommitted to providing thevery best value for moneyservices it can.

“We have looked at everyarea of our business and thisyear alone we have managedto make £21million worth ofsavings, which is a promisingstart.

“However we are facingfurther cuts so there are bigchallenges still ahead.”

How We’ve MadeThe Savings:Wigan Council is muchleaner than it was a year ago.

The council has pledged toprotect vital frontlineservices on which people inour borough rely. So we'vetaken a long, hard look atthe way the council isstructured. We’ve cut backon bureaucracy and red tape.

Some of the things wehave looked at include re-negotiating many of ourexternal contracts down tocut costs and promoting the

green agenda by becomingmore energy efficient,which is good for theplanet and saves money.

To add to this we havemade savings on ourwaste disposal costs byencouraging increasedrecycling and we haveinvested in newfacilities, such as asalt barn which willcut the costs ofgritting the roads inthe years ahead.

We have alsoreviewed our seniormanagementpositions whichhas resulted in£1M worth ofsavings.

With twoexecutivedirectors, WiganCouncil nowhas the

smallest management teamof any authority in GreaterManchester.

The council has joinedforces with other localauthorities to share someservices and back-officefunctions.

The council has cut backon the number of buildingsand offices it uses.

Developments such as thenew Wigan Life Centremeans that staff fromdifferent areas of the councilcan be brought togethereffectively.

Buildings that are nolonger needed are sold tohelp the authority reach itssavings’ targets.

Housing: value formoneyWigan Council is the biggestsocial landlord in theborough.

For the past 10 years thecouncil’s stock of more than23,000 homes has beenmanaged effectively by arms-length company Wiganand Leigh Housing (WALH).

Whilst it is a not-for-profitorganisation, WALH sharesthe council’s ethos onproviding the very best valuefor money.

For example:By working hard to get

better rates on its contractson behalf of the council,WALH has saved thetaxpayer a massive£14.3million since 2004.

Merging offices andreducing staff numbers hasmeant that over the past fiveyears WALH has netted afurther £3.2million.

On top of this, for the pastfive years WALH hasreturned any savings on itsmanagement fee to thecouncil.

This has meant an extra£3.8million to be re-investedin council housing services.

AT the time Borough Life went topress, councillors were expected toagree not to increase Council Taxrates this year. This means that theCouncil Tax for a typical Band Dproperty remains at £1,368.

The council spends more than£900M and each year we puttogether a full picture of how wespend this money on the servicesyou need. This shows you that wehave used your money fairly, legallyand responsibly.

The council’s full Statement ofAccounts is a public document thatis available for anyone to read.Copies are available in publiclibraries and you can view theinformation online at the council’swebsite: www.wigan.gov.uk –search for ‘Statement of Accounts’.

But here’s a summary of how thecouncil gets its money and where itgoes:

Where themoney comes fromGrants and Contributions(£501million):This includes grants from thegovernment paid to councils fromnational taxation to provide fundingto operate local services. Othergrants received include theDedicated Schools Grant, the AreaBased Grant, Standards Fund Grants,Housing Benefit and Council TaxBenefit Grants. 54.7 per cent ofWigan Council’s funding comes fromgrants and other contributions.

Council Tax:£112millionJust over 12 per cent of the council’sfunding comes from Council Tax.

Business Rates:£116million12.8 per cent of the council’s fundingcomes from this source.

Rents, fees and charges£186millionCouncil house rents, income fromresidential care homes, school mealsincome, licence fees and planningfees. Just over 20 per cent of thecouncil’s funding comes from thissource.

Councillorsagree CouncilTax freeze

Leaner council provides best valueservices for all

Borough Life 8-9 23/2/12 14:13 Page 1


EmployeesWigan Council employs over 12,000 staff across 3 Directorates and 135 schools.More than 36 per cent of its annual budget is spent on staff.

£333millionCapital FinancingThis relates to the annual depreciation charged on property,plant and equipment as well as interest payable on loans and investments. Just over seven per cent of the budget is used this way.

£67millionOther operating costsThe day to day running costs of the council including thepayment of Council Tax benefits and housing benefits, adultscare costs, Passenger Transport Levy and transport costs, andmanagement fees for council housing and leisure. This accountsfor the remainder of the council’s budget (56 per cent).

£516million

Where the money is spent Children’s and Education ServicesIncludes the provision of early years development, childcareservices, healthy schools, activities for teenagers, specialeducational needs, adoption and fostering services –

£387million

Economy, Environmental, Cultureand HousingAreas include community safety, street cleaning, refusecollection and disposal, regeneration, highways maintenance,transport initiatives, sports centres and play areas, countrysideparks and open spaces –

£231millionAdult Social CareThis service is not just concerned with statutory social carebut also includes adult abuse, alcohol and drug misuse, adultdisabilities and mental health care –

£141million

Central Services to the Public,Governance, Policy and SupportThis includes Financial Services, Information Technology,Legal Services, Insurance and Democratic Services –

£128million

Other ServicesThis relates to smaller services including Building Safer Stronger Communities and Direct Service Organisation Tradings (DSOs) –

£29million

Council Services for YouWhat can you get for £1?COUNCIL Tax covers a whole range of services provided across our borough.Approximately £113M of the council’s budget is raised through Council Tax. For aborough of our size that works at less than £1 per person, per day.

For about the same price as a couple of pints of milk a day, residents of WiganBorough have access to hundreds of council services.

Here are some more examples of what your £1 provides. On a typical dayWigan Council:

What the moneyis spent on

To find out more about what Wigan Council does for everyonein our borough, visit the website: www.wigan.gov.uk

Serves around17,000 school meals.

Cuts 600,000 squaremetres of grass

(in season).

Empties more than 52,000household waste and

recycling bins.

Helps approximately 50people enjoy the borough’s

countryside throughactive living walks.

Keeps 480km of publicrights of way in good

repair.

Introduces 100 people toour new Good Trader

Scheme via the website.

Reduces the borough’scarbon emissionsby 150 tonnes.

Provides more than 450elderly and vulnerable

residents with acommunity meal.

Diverts 142 tonnes ofrecyclable and

compostable materialaway from costly landfill.

Carries out 60 repairs toour roads, includingfilling in pot-holes.



WIGAN Council has secured the futureof its two outdoor education centres inthe Lake District thanks to an excitingnew partnership with a national charity.

An agreement with charity TheBrathay Trust means the twin centres ofLow Bank Ground and Hinning Housewill be able to provide high-qualityoutdoor education experiences for yearsto come.

Low Bank Ground on the shores ofLake Coniston has been owned by WiganCouncil since 1983 and Hinning Housein the Duddon Valley has been a councilproperty since the 1970s. The running ofthe centres has been subsidised at a costof £200,000 per year.

However significant pressure oncouncil budgets prompted seniorpoliticians to look at possible options forthe future of the two centres.

The council must reduce its budgets by£66million over the next four years andthe council’s cabinet has pledged toprotect those vital front line servicesthat people in our borough rely on.

Whilst selling the two facilities hadbeen a distinct possibility, the councilwere determined to find a more creativesolution as it has previously done withthe borough’s libraries, swimmingpools and leisure venues.

Following an extensivetendering exercise BrathayTrust, which has bases inboth the Lake District andWigan, was identified as anideal partner.

Brathay will now lease the centres forthe next seven years and will keep theexisting staff.

As part of the contract Brathay willalso take responsibility for the repairand maintenance of the buildings.

The agreement stipulates that thecentres must be available for Wiganfamilies.

Welcoming the move, Leader ofWigan Council Lord Peter Smith says:“The Lake District may be relativelyclose to Wigan Borough but we areconscious that many children and youngpeople from our borough would neverhave been or indeed have the chance togo.

“This was uppermost in our mindswhen we went to view Low BankGround nearly 26 years ago.

“From the many reports we have hadback since about children and youngpeople literally having the time of theirlives at these centres it is clear we madethe right decision to invest in them.

“I am therefore delighted that we candevelop a partnership with Brathay thatwill enable future generations of localchildren to broaden their experiences

by visiting the Lakes.”Brathay Trust has 65 years’experience working with

children and young peopleon outdoor educationprojects.

WIGAN and Leigh will be lightingJubilee Beacons to celebrate 60 years ofthe Queen’s reign.

Bruno Peek, the nationalpageantmaster of the Queen’s DiamondJubilee Beacons said: “There is a longand unbroken tradition in our country ofcelebrating Royal Jubilees, Weddingsand Coronations with the lighting ofBeacons. Her Majesty The Queen will belighting the National Beacon in Londonat around 10.30pm on 4th June.”

Council Leader Lord Smith said: “Weare known as an Ancient and Loyalborough. And so, along with the rest ofthe country, we shall be lightingbeacons in Leigh and in Wigan.”

Council officers and senior politicianswant the community to join in theorganisation of events to mark theGolden Jubilee. Events – similar in feelto Leigh’s Christmas lights switch on butwith the patriotic trappings of a Promsin the Park evening – are beingdiscussed, with food, activities forchildren and entertainment which wouldculminate in the lighting of the beaconitself.● There's plenty of advice and legal andsafety information online atwww.diamondjubileebeacons.co.uk● If you are part of a sports or socialclub or similar and want to hold aBeacon event, get in touch for detailsand advice [email protected]

Grant aid for aWarmer Wigan

Hinning is winning:borough children answer

the call of the wild atWigan Council’s OutdoorEducation Centre HinningHouse in the Lake District.

Tofind out more

about Low BankGround and Hinning

House, visit:www.lakelandoutdoorcentres

.com

walk on the

wild sideLOOKING FORWARD TO

Long to reignover us

SPRING is just around the corner andhopefully good weather’s on the way.But the advice to borough residents whomay have suffered during the cold spellis don’t leave it until next winter to dosomething about it.

The council, health, voluntary sectorand other groups are providing help forlocal people who need help with theirheating.

Through Warmer Wigan, grants of upto £1,000 are available to repair brokendoors/windows; burst pipes; faultyboilers; electrics; heating or hot water;leaking gutters or roofs.

If you know someone who is havingdifficulties heating their home, pleasecontact Starting Point on 01942 826079to find out more about the services thatare available. Did you know you can getfree cavity wall and loft insulation,regardless of income? Referrals need tobe received by 30 September 2012.● For more information contact ToastyWigan free on 0800 512012 for moreinformation.



ELECTION time is nearlyupon us and the messagefrom Wigan Council is:

Use Your Vote!A third of the council’s 75

seats will be up for grabs onThursday 3 May and councilchiefs want everyone in ourborough to use theirdemocratic right.

Overall turnout at the 2011local council elections wasjust over 33 per cent.

But with more ways to votethan ever before there reallyare no excuses for not makingyour mark on election day.

Wigan Council’s DeputyChief Executive Donna Hallsays: “The council believes inworking in partnership withresidents in the borough andwe want as many people aspossible to play an active rolein the democratic process.

“Throughout our historypeople have fought long andhard to make sure that theright to vote is something wecan all exercise. It is the

cornerstone of a free andfair society. In manycountries this strugglecontinues to this day, which iswhy it is not something any ofus should take for granted.

“Unless we use our vote, wecannot hope to influence thedecisions that are made onour behalf.”

The traditional method ofvoting is to turn up at yourlocal polling station on theday but if you cannot make it,you can apply to vote by postor appoint someone to vote on

your behalf (known as aProxy). Paying Council Taxdoes not automaticallyregister you to vote.

You must be registered onthe Electoral Roll to vote, if

you have moved houserecently and are not sure ifyou are registered you shouldcontact the Electoral Serviceshelpline on 01942 827168 foradvice.

Last day for applications toregister on the electoral rolland postal applications:Wednesday 18 AprilLast day for receipt of proxyapplications:Wednesday 25 AprilLocal council elections:Thursday 3 MayNew elections for Police andCrime Commissioner forGreater Manchester:Thursday 15 November

Diary dates:Record number registeredMORE people than ever have registered their right tovote across the borough, following an effectivecampaign to ensure everyone is aware of theirelectoral rights and responsibilities.

Officers can now announce that the final rate ofreturn for the 2011-12 canvass was 93.3 per cent, upfrom 92.2 per cent last year and 86 per cent theprevious year.

Dozens of canvassers working with the council’sdemocratic services team made contact with everyhousehold in the borough to ensure the electoral

register was kept up to date. Door knocking helped toensure accuracy at the most detailed level, and keptcosts down by reducing the need for printed leaflets.

Forms were distributed last autumn, enabling thepublic to register online, by text or phone.

The efforts of canvassers and officers enabled anincrease of 1.1 percentage points on registered votersfrom 2010-11.

Officers are keen to achieve a target of 95 per centin the year ahead. So the message is: ensure you areregistered to vote and, of course, use it!

Vote for…You!

EVERY VOTE COUNTS...Anyone not registeredhas up until 5pm on 18April to submit anapplication to beeligible to vote in May.



BUSINESSES in Wigan are beingencouraged to “go for gold” ahead ofthis year’s Olympics.

During the lead up to London 2012staff from Wigan Leisure and CultureTrust’s Sports Development Unit areorganising a series of Olympic stylechallenges to raise money for goodcauses.

Teams of four can challengethemselves to clock up 500mwalking, 10km cycling, 2.5km rowing,2.5km running and 400 metresswimming.

Gold, Silver and Bronze medals willbe awarded for the fastest team, theteam that raises the most money forcharity and best team spirit.

Money raised will go to the 150good causes which include MarieCurie Cancer Care, Oxfam, Scope andthe British Red Cross.

Chief Executive of WLCT StuartMurray says: “There are scores ofactivities over the next few monthsthat celebrate the London Olympicsand inspire people to get involved insport in order to improve their healthand wellbeing.

“This is a wonderful way forbusinesses to booststaff morale, raisemoney for a goodcause and havesome fun at thesame time.”

Raising cash by‘Going for Gold’

TEAM WIGAN:WLCT’s top team are ready for action at the Wigan Life Centre gym.

LOCAL hero Cameron Foster is carrying the torch forWigan! The 16 year old student from Hindley Green wasnominated by StreetGames, a national charity workingto make sport accessible in disadvantaged communities.

Cameron was injured in a skiing accident – breakingboth legs and an arm – and this gave him anunderstanding of the difficulties people have returningto sport after setbacks, and the problems less ablepeople have as they try to access sport in any form.

He said: “I hope that when people learn about mystory they see you can turn what seems like a bad

THE Olympic Flame is coming to Wigan Borough.Games organisers have selected their route and on31 May, the eyes of the world will be on Lowton as

the Torch Relay arrives in the borough. Passing schoolsand community groups in Abram and Lower Ince, theOlympic Convoy will go through Wigan town centre, andthen on to Hindley and out towards Bolton.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase the town,” saidCllr Chris Ready, cabinet champion for leisure andcustomer services. “We’ve contacted every school alongthe route and we’re working with a number of communityleaders to ensure we give the world a Wigan welcome.”

Several groups are already on their marks to tell theworld what Wigan can offer.

Mid Lancs Sub Aqua Club, who dive at the Wigan LifeCentre pool, donned Union Jack t-shirts to tell BoroughLife that they want to make a splash on the day.

The club’s Ann Miller said: “Taking part in SCUBAdiving is fantastic for keeping you fit and healthy, and wealso have social events such as white water rafting. Wedive here at Wigan, as well as in the open sea whenpeople are ready.”

Eyes of the

A torchbearer to inspire t

This is a wonderfulway for businesses to booststaff morale, raise money fora good cause and havesome fun at the same time

“”Stuart Murray WLCT Chief Executive

For furtherinformation callRichard Smith at

Wigan SportsDevelopment on 01942 488 480 or

email [email protected]

AndyBennett Mid

Lancs Sub AquaClub gets intothe Olympic

spirit.



situation into a positive one that others canbenefit from.”

Cameron was thrilled to be told he would becarrying the Olympic Flame on part of its journeythrough the borough. “It’s a once in a generationopportunity and I want to share it with my family,friends and those I work with. My family are overthe moon.”

Officials will shortly confirm the exact part of therelay through our borough where Cameron will becarrying the Olympic Flame.

The Mid Lancs group work with all ages but asdive officer Andy Bennett says, the club also wantto show their patriotism with one particular group.

“We’re proud to promote sport in our town andwant to put on a show on the day of the Torch Relayto promote both the Olympics and the Paralympics.We want to particularly welcome local war veteranswho are keen to try something new. If anyone wantsto know more about our club or to arrange a TryDive, please call me on 07899 883087.”

Organisers are keen that when the excitement ofthe Olympics pass, communities will havesomething to remember it all by. Cllr SusanLoudon, cabinet champion for young people, said:“The event is rightly focused on the youth and onthe legacy of the games.

In my area, the Howe Bridgers communitygroup wanted to ensure that they didsomething which would last – so we’ve beenbusy tree planting to ensure 2012 isn’t justgold, it’s green as well.”

e world will be on

Left, Cameron Fostermeets Lord Coe,Chairman of theLondon OrganisingCommittee of theOlympic Games.

e the whole Borough

We’re proud topromote sport in ourtown and want toput on a show on theday of the Relay

OLYMPICPAGEANT

“”Andy Bennett Dive Officer OLYMPIC

BOROUGH:Wigan’s own

Olympian, 800mchampion Jenny

Meadows, with anOlympic torch.



DOG owners arebeing urged to helpkeep the boroughclean by clearing up aftertheir pets.

Most people use a poopscoop to clean up whilewalking their dog, butsome do not, leaving theborough with a messyproblem which coststhousands of pounds ayear.

People who don’tclean up are warnedthey face a fine of £50if caught by the council.They should follow thisadvice:● If you own a dog, or arelooking after a dog, it’syour responsibility to cleanup after it.● You should always pickwaste up and put it in thenearest litter bin. You canuse any plastic bag as apoop scoop but its goodto purchase biodegradableones (like nappy sacks)and you can dispose ofwrapped waste in anylitter bin or your bin athome.● Please do not put dogwaste in your green, blueor brown recycling bins asthis contaminates them,meaning we can’t recycleany of the items in thatbin. Please bag dog wasteand put it in the black bin.● Always carry a plasticbag or ‘poop scoop’ withyou to clean-up every timeyour dog fouls.● Train your dog to go tothe toilet in your gardenbefore you leave thehouse. Never let your dogonto the street to foul.● Don’t forget, if yourdog is caught fouling in apublic place and you failto pick it up, you can befined £50.

For more informationon dog fouling, visitWigan Council’s website– www.wigan.gov.ukand search for ‘dogfouling’.

Picturedwith the talking

bin are Rosie Kelleher,Ellie Massey, Ethan

Davies and Curtis Lawtonof St Michael’s School. Ellie

said: “The bin is reallygood and makesthrowing rubbish

away fun.”

Clean upafter yourpet dog

“Talking rubbish”

IT looks like an ordinary bin, ittakes litter like an ordinary bin…So just what is so special about

the newly installed bins in HoweBridge? Well, they talk!

Yes, it’s true and now litter-consciouscommunity members get a ‘thank-you’ or evena comedy ‘burp!’ each time they dispose oftheir rubbish responsibly.

The talking bins are part of a national pilotproject by Keep Britain Tidy aimed atencouraging people to make friends with theirnearest bin.

The two solar-powered bins in Howe Bridge

have been loaned to the community by KeepBritain Tidy.

One of the bins, outside St Michael’sPrimary School, is already making a big noiseand it’s fair to say the children love its cheeryand encouraging messages.

Wigan Council Cabinet Member and localward councillor Susan Loudon says: “We don’thave a big problem with litter in Howe Bridgebut this is a fantastic way of getting childrenand adults alike to respect their localcommunity and love where they live.

“If it helps to keep our streets clean, then itreally will be worth talking about!”



Welcome to Wigan’snew Life Centre – now

open for business.Come and explore it

over the next fourpages �

That’sLIFE

Welcome to Wigan’snew Life Centre – now

open for business.Come and explore it

over the next fourpages �


16 BOROUGH LIFE Spring 2012 BOROUGH LIFE Spring 2012 17

THIS was just one visitor to the new WiganLife Centre’s opinion after they had paidtheir first visit to the exciting new building.

The centre is setting new standards for howthe public services like the council help thecommunities they serve.

“The thinking behind how the Life Centreworks is quite simple,” said the council’sCabinet Member for Customer Service, CllrChris Ready.

“Residents of the borough want the adviceand information they need quickly and easily.

“They want a place where all of theirqueries can be answered in a single visit andthey want friendly and professional people tohelp them.

“They don’t want to have to make manydifferent appointments to see people andthey don’t want to be travelling across town todifferent offices for meetings.

“We have listened to all these points andthe Life Centre is our answer. We aim toresolve 80 per cent of our customers’ queriesat the first meeting.”

Life Centre staff have already reported thatvisitors to the centre welcome its quick, easyand no-nonsense approach.

Here’s what just some of the Life Centreusers are saying:

W IGAN Borough’s new publicservices hub is open for business

and has been officially launchedin spectacular fashion.

A trio of famous Wiganers, who haveexcelled in the spheres of sport, cultureand business now have their very own‘stars’ inserted in the impressive Piazza athe front of the new building.

Writer and broadcaster Stuart Maconie,Rugby League legend Billy Boston, MBEand Uncle Joe’s Mintball king JohnWinnard, MBE, have been immortalised instone on the Walk of Wigan Life.

It is now hoped that they will be thefirst of many to receive the honour, whichover the years will create a feature similarto the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Spanning two new buildings either sideof Wigan Town Hall the multi-millionpound project has taken 10 years tocomplete and has been finished on timeand within budget.

“At a time when communities are facingdifficult economic times and are beingforced to make drastic cuts Wigan has

delivered this fantastic multi-millionregeneration project,” said Leader ofWigan Council Lord Peter Smith.

“The project has created employmentopportunities for local people, supportedborough businesses and has put Wigan onthe map as a confident and forward-thinking borough.”

The Life Centre consists of anInformation, Learning and NeighbourhoodZone – which acts as a hub for all public,voluntary and community services as wellas a new public library and a HealthyLiving Zone – which includes new

swimmingpools, leisure complexand council offices, whichopened over the summer.

Speaking about thehonour, Stuart Maconiesaid: “This is a fabulousnew building and theidea of having all theservices you need underone roof is real genius. I

am delighted to be part of it and gettingmy own star.”

Billy Boston said: “I am proud anddelighted to be recognised in this way.Rugby is all about teamwork and this newbuilding will allow the council to worktogether more effectively which can onlybe a good thing.”

Whilst John Winnard added: “We’rereally proud to fly the flag for WiganBorough! Wigan Life is something that weshould all celebrate and it’s clear that thenew Life Centre embodies everything thatis positive about our borough.”

MORE and more peopleare connecting with theircouncil and making use ofthe Wigan Life Centre.

In the first week ofopening alone, more than1,600 people camethrough the doors andbenefited from the vastarray of services on offer.

The centre, situatednext to Wigan Town Hallon The Wiend, representsan exciting new approachto how the council and itspartners do business.

In the first week 1,655customers used the LifeCentre, with 469 of theseusing the council’s CitizenSupport Services.

The average waitingtime for customers wasjust over one minute and79 people used the newself-service facilities.

The library also sawvery brisk business in thefirst week with a 6,397books being issued,returned or renewed.

Many customers to theLife Centre needed helpwith just a single issue but45 per cent were helpedwith other queries on topof their original one.

In total 85 per cent ofcustomers said they werehappy with their visit.

And to make sure thatas many local peoplereceive the help andsupport they need at atime to suit them, theimpressive new building isnow open on Saturdays.

Wigan Council’s CabinetMember for CustomerServices, Cllr Chris Ready,said: “This is a fantasticstart for the new LifeCentre and one that weaim to build on andimprove.

“Residents of theborough have told us thatthey want us to make iteasier for them to dobusiness with the counciland get the advice andinformation they need.

“The Life Centre and itsfantastic customer serviceethos is our answer tothis.”

Thousandsbenefitfrom a visit

Public welcome centre’s facilities Star names praise centre fromWigan’s Walk of Life“You come here to

sort your Life out…”

David Fouracre fromShevington: “I walkedthrough the door andimmediately someonecame up ‘Can I helpyou? They looked afterme and took all thedetails. I’d say it took nomore than ten minutesto get my problemsolved. I then went tothe library, which issuperb for people inWigan. It’s all in onebuilding which is ideal.It’s an excellent idea.”

Brother and sister Kirsty and Karl Sneddonfrom Hindley, were also taken with thenew Life Centre. Kirsty is already a LifeCentre regular.

“I like coming here,” she says. “I comehere with my friends to use the computers.Everyone is pleasant and they speak to youreally nicely. I like the experience of cominghere.”

Whilst Karl added: “I came in to use thelibrary. It’s a great building with some greatstaff.

“They helped us out straight away. Iwould recommend anyone paying a visit.”

Joy Wilson, Adam Coley and Joshua, aged 20 months, fromHighfield: “It’s really nice and looks good. It doesn’t look like acouncil building, it’s more modern and friendly.

“As soon as we walked through the doors someone greetedus and asked what we were there for and helped us out,pointed us in the right direction.

“We waited five minutes and then we were seen to. It wasfast and reliable.”

ALL STARS: (from left) Wigan Council Chief Executive JoyceRedfearn, Mayor of Wigan Cllr Joy Birch, Stuart Maconie, BillyBoston, John Winnard and Leader of Wigan Council Lord Peter Smith.



THE Wigan Life Centre offers all the public services you need in a modern, friendlyenvironment.

Specially trained staff are onhand to provide information, helpand advice on a wide range ofservices.

If they can’t find the answersstraight away they will be able toput you in touch with someonewho can.

What’s on offer:● Housing Options Advice● Emergency and non-

emergency housing advice● Electronic payment facilities

for council bills● Benefits advice and support● Planning queries answered● Apply for a licence● Do you have a concern

about an environmentalhealth issue?

● Need advice on consumerissues?

● Worried about communitysafety issues?

● Adult and children’s services advice

● Local voluntary sector andadvice groups

● Access to employment,education, skills and training.

Modern,friendlyand closeto home

HEALTHY LIVING ZONE

FULLY BOOKEDWith more than 70,000books, visitors to thenew library in theWigan Life Centre arenever short of choice.

There are children’sand teens’ areas withfree public accesscomputers and learningand references areas.

The new library isalready opening uplearning opportunitiesto inspire everyone!

LOCAL LIFE CENTRES

Wigan’snewestleisurecentre withtwoswimmingpools, gymand otherservices topromotehealthylifestyles.

WIGAN TOWN HALL

Right in the middle of things and still the place to go for:

● Registrations – births, deaths and marriages

● Council meetings

● Civic functions – weddings, awardceremonies and other events

● Bistro

● Town HallTours

● MayoralFunctions

Here are the five locations of our Local Life Centres:Marsh Green Life Centre, Marsh GreenLibrary, Harrow Road, Wigan, WN5 0QL

Leigh Life Centre, Leigh Town Hall, MarketStreet, Leigh, WN7 1DY

Platt Bridge Life Centre, Platt BridgeHealth Centre, Rivington Avenue, PlattBridge, Wigan, WN2 5NG

Ince Life Centre, Ince Clinic and CommunityCentre, Manchester Road, Ince, Wigan, WN2 2DJ

Atherton Life Centre, Atherton HealthCentre, Nelson Street, Atherton, M46 0LE

The same great Life Centre service but right in the heart of the community.

The Local Life Centres:● Make it easier for our customers to

get in touch with us by face to facecontact.

● Answer all council related enquiriesin a professional and efficientmanner.

● Develop a joined up approach topublic service delivery by workingwith a range of local partners.

● Provide suitable meeting spaces fromwhere local groups can meet up.

everything you need in one central locationThe Wigan Life Centre



RESIDENTS in Platt Bridge areamongst the first in our borough tobe part of an exciting national projectto mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Following requests from localpeople to improve a piece ofwasteland off Woodcock Drive whichis often used for fly tipping, staff atWigan and Leigh Housing’s AreaHousing Office in Platt Bridge co-ordinated a project to plant 300new trees on the site.

The saplings were donated free ofcharge to the Voice of Woodcockresidents group by The WoodlandTrust.

Platt Bridge’s own Jubilee Woodwas planted with the help of 24pupils from Platt Bridge CommunityFirst Primary School and staff fromWigan and Leigh Housing, Wigan andLeigh Cultural Trust and Groundwork.

Jubilee woodlands mark anniversary

EVERY day – hundreds of local tenants and residents are out doing

their bit for the localenvironment: digging,planting, clearing up,designing projects andgenerally making the placebetter for everyone.

It’s their work that makesWigan Borough in Bloom agrowing success. Each year,the team has brought backmore and more RoyalHorticultural Society prizes.And this year they havetaken the borough to theBritain in Bloom nationalfinals.

“National recognition forthe work done at street levelby so many volunteers isbrilliant,” said DamianJenkinson, the council’s InBloom co-ordinator. “Thecouncil and our publicservice partners work closelytogether, but it’s localpeople’s efforts which areessential.”

Damian, 25 and fromAbram, was recentlynominated for the BBC’sYoung Gardener of the Year.Viewers will have seen himcome a worthy secondnationally on the recentSunday night programme.

“It was superb to helpshow off Wigan to everyone,”says Damian. “I’ve had a lotof support from colleaguesand community groups – andI am proud to have playedmy part.”

Ten years ago, Damian wassitting his GCSEs and gettingready to start a course incommercial horticulture at

St Helens College. Afterstudying environmentalconservation, he was part ofa team of 5 creating prizewinning show gardens at theRHS Tatton Park FlowerShow in 2004 and 2005.

“I really wanted to make adifference and improve theenvironment,” he said. “So Idid voluntary work withWigan Council. I was luckyto receive a Europeanaward in 2007 forbeing one of themost successfulvoluntarystudents – andthis helpedme to getseveraltemporarycontracts withthe counciland finally, Ibecameresponsible forWigan Borough inBloom, which hasreally gone from strengthto strength.”

The council’s environmentchampion Cllr KevinAnderson said: “In Bloom isa really cost-effective way tomake positive changes,brighten the localenvironment and putspeople in charge of theirlocal areas. Damian’scheerful and positiveattitude is a real asset –and I know he’d love tohear from you if you wantto get involved in Boroughin Bloom 2012.”

You can contactDamien at: [email protected]

BloomingGREAT

John O’NeilIn Bloom

Champion.

“”With Damien’sspecialist knowledgeand positive attitude,

I know we can allcontinue to keepWigan Borough

in Bloom.



WANDERING aroundthe shops, popping tothe bank, taking in a

movie or just nipping for a pintwith your mates…

Having the freedom to goabout our daily lives withoutfear of abuse or harassment issomething most of us take forgranted.

But research by mentalhealth charity Mencap revealsin the past year that nine outof 10 people with learningdifficulties have foundthemselves the victim of verbal

abuse, intimidation andbullying because of theirdisability.

Even more shocking, 32 percent said they experiencedharassment or attacks on adaily or weekly basis, whilst 23per cent said they’d beenassaulted.

So a new scheme is nowbeing launched inWigan town centrewhich aims tohelp peoplewith learningdifficultiesfeel Safer inTown.

“It’s totallyunacceptablethat somemembers of ourcommunity don’t feelsafe when they visit ourtown centres, so much so thatthey avoid leaving their homefor fear of being bullied,” saidJulie Davies of Wigan andLeigh People First.

“The Safer in Town projecthelps people with a learningdisability feel safe when theygo out and about. This safetynet gives them the confidenceto lead independent livessecure in the knowledge that ifthey experience anydifficulties, there are peoplearound who can help them.”

Everyone registered on thescheme is given a contact cardwhich includes the details offriends and family who can becontacted in the event of anemergency.

Shops and businesses acrossthe town centre are invited tosign up to the scheme and to

prominently display the Saferin Town logo on their premisesor in their windows.

This project has beendeveloped by Wigan and LeighPeople Firstand funded byNatWest Community Force.

It has been endorsed byWigan Council, Greater

Manchester Police,VictimSupport and other

partnershipagencies and

there are plansto roll thescheme out toother towncentres in theborough.

Cllr KevinAnderson,

Cabinet Memberfor the Environment

and SaferCommunities, said: “The Saferin Town project is not simply apractical measure which makesour town centres feel safer, butalso raises awareness of anissue which affects some of themost vulnerable members ofour community.”

SAFER IN TOWN

Independent livesboosted thanks to

RESIDENTS in Lowton arebeing urged to sign up to ascheme to protect elderlyand vulnerable people.

Posters on displayaround Rowan Avenueinform callers not to waitfor a response but to go toa nominated neighbourinstead.

To find outmore, contact Julie Davies on 01942 233353,

visit wiganandleighpeoplefirst.co.uk or follow

the group on Twitter attwitter.com/WLPeople1st

Show themthe door



NO two cases of domesticabuse are the same. Norare the reasons that

victims find for staying in anabusive relationship.

Sadly, their thoughts are oftenclouded by denial, low self-esteem, guilt and fear.

Often, victims also fall prey tocommon misconceptions: I mighthave my kids taken into care orI’ll have to report him to thepolice.

That’s why dispelling mythsand giving victims theconfidence to question their ownself-limiting beliefs arefundamental to the borough’snew strategy for tacklingdomestic abuse.

Because the message is that nomatter what reason you have forstaying, there is hope. Domesticabuse is wrong and you don’thave to suffer it.

“We need to challenge theperception in some quarters thatabuse in the home is somehow‘acceptable’” said Cllr KevinAnderson, Wigan Council’scabinet champion for safercommunities.

“Making the decision to leavean abusive or violent relationshipcan involve a great deal of soulsearching, particularly whenthere’s children involved.

“So it’s vital to ensure thatvictims have the confidence tomove on by giving them all thesupport they need.”

DOMESTIC ABUSE: don’t suffer in silence

BRIDGEWATERCommunity HealthcareNHS Trust wants to talk topatients and the publicabout its plans for thefuture.

Working with itspatients, staff, partnersand public it is seekingviews on becoming aFoundation Trust (FT).

Bridgewater provides awide range ofcommunity-based healthservices to a populationof more than one millionpeople. In addition, itsdental division provideshighly specialistcommunity dentalservices for vulnerablepeople.

The Trust is consultingon its plans to become aFoundation Trust, so itwill still remain part ofthe NHS and subject to itsstandards and systems ofinspection.

As part of theconsultation there will benumerous opportunitiesfor patients, the publicand partners to hear of itsambitions and to givetheir views.

The consultation willrun until 30 April 2012and local consultationevents will be held on:

12 March – 11am to1pm at Queens HallMethodist Church, 46Market Street, Wigan,WN1 1HX.

12 March – 6pm to 8pmat Wigan and LeighCollege Theatre Room,Parson’s Walk, Wigan,WN1 1RS.

To download theconsultation documentsoutlining our plans forbecoming a FoundationTrust and for details ofmore consultation events,visit our websitewww.bridgewater.nhs.uk/ft

To become as memberof the Trust or to requesthard copies of theconsultation documentsemail [email protected] ortelephone 01942 482672.

NHS Trustseeks viewson future

PARTNERS including Wigan Council, Greater ManchesterPolice, the NHS, the Probation Service and other frontlinethird sector agencies have all signed up to the newstrategy, which has highlighted five key priorities:● To focus on prevention, identification and

early intervention.● To make sure support is available and easily

accessible ● To improve the protection and safety of

victims and children.● To manage perpetrators more effectively.● To raise awareness of the issue in communities

Over the coming months we plan to train more than800 front line staff across all agencies on how to spotand respond to cases of abuse.

We’ve also started to streamline processes and haveimproved communication between agencies so that nomatter who the victim turns to, they will receive the rightadvice and support.

“There is more to dobut our efforts arealready paying off,”added Cllr Anderson.

“We are alreadyseeing positiveresults such as areduction in thenumber of repeatvictims, so clearly ourapproach is working.”

Partners set five priorities

Dispelling the myths overVIOLENCE AT HOME

Whatever the circumstances there is no excuse fordomestic violence. Here are some of the ways a victimmight think – but with support they can overcomepressures and dispel the myths.

DENIAL: “It’s not that bad. It’s not his fault, it’s thedrink. Nobody’s perfect. All relationships go throughbad patches.”

FEAR AND DESPAIR: “If I leave, he’ll come after me.There’s no way out. He said he’d find me and kill me.”

SHAME: “I’m so ashamed. My wife beats me up. I can’tlet my family know what’s happening. They wouldn’tbelieve me…”

CULTURE: ”I said for better, for worse so I’ve got tomake this marriage work. Divorce isn’t an option.”

CHILDREN: “The kids love him. They don’t know whathe’s really like. They’d never forgive me if I took themaway.”

HOPE: “We used to be so happy and we could be again.It will get better. I know it will…”

If you areexperiencing

domestic abuse orknow somebody who

needs help or confidentialadvice please contact

Greater ManchesterDomestic Abuse

Helpline 0161636 7525.



RECYCLING... WITHOUT

A‘silent majority’ –tens of thousands ofhouseholders from

Astley to Appley Bridge –are making a massivecontribution to Wigan’s waron waste by joining thearmy of avid recyclers.

Since 2002, the amount ofrubbish collected fromresidents’ black bins hasfallen by a third, while theamount being recycled hasincreased from just 2 percent to nearly 37 per cent.

Now, following thecompletion of the popularblue bin roll-out borough-wide, householdersare being asked to playtheir part in helping boostthat recycling rate to 50 percent by 2020.

Food for thoughtWith landfill costsescalating and roomrunning out, Wigan Councilis all set to begin phasing infood waste collections fromApril and extending themborough-wide by August.

The average householdcan get through an awful lot

of food in a year. But whatmight be surprising is theamount we actually throwaway.

Each year your typicalfamily throws away nearly£700 of food – that’s £12billion we, as a nation,throw away each year!

Much of this wasted foodwill end up in landfill whereit will rot down and give offgreenhouse gases thatcontribute to climatechange. Households withgreen bins will be givensilver plastic caddies andcompostable caddy liners toput their food waste inbefore transferring it to thegreen bin.

Those households withoutgreen bins will be given thesame kitchen caddy andliners as green binhouseholds, plus a largergreen outdoor caddy to puttheir food waste out forcollection. These householdswill have their collectionsusing the same crew andvehicles as those with greenbins, with collections everyother week.

The enthusiasmand support of many

local residents means weare now recycling more than

ever before. The blue bin servicewill allow householders to recycle

an extra 5,000 tonnes more ayear and at the same time save

the council £373,000 in thenext financial year as we

divert this waste awayfrom landfill.

Find out more about what to do with your waste at www.lovefoodh

IT’S ALL RUBBI

Borough Life 22–23 23/2/12 11:48 Page 1


T YOU

Landfills costs,recycling saves“Food waste currentlycounts for about a fifth ofthe average black bincontents” said CabinetMember for theEnvironment, CouncillorKevin Anderson.

“Now, we’re going to bedoing everything we can tomake it as easy as possibleto compost it.

“It’s much cheaper torecycle and compost wastethan to send it to landfill,and at a time when we haveto make £66million of cutsover the next four years, thiswill help save £14million foressential frontline services.

“The proposals also makeenvironmental sense.Sending less waste tolandfill means fewerproblems down the line forour children, naturalhabitats protected notpolluted, fewer greenhousegases and even more wasterecycled into new products.

“We understand that someresidents may be nervousabout the prospect of a

fortnightly food wastecollection. Householders willtherefore have the option ofputting their food waste intotheir black bin on the weekthat their green bin isn’tbeing emptied. This wouldmean their food waste couldstill be collected every week.

“Ultimately, we’re strivingto find the right balancebetween meetinghouseholders’ needs,improving recyclingperformance and providingvalue for money.”

Fleet StreetWigan Council’s refuse fleetis enjoying a major overhaul– and it’s long overdue.Over the coming months 27new vehicles, courtesy ofCPD Ltd of Chorley, will becoming to take your wasteaway.

The lorries have beenbought as part of a jointorder with Bolton, Bury,Oldham and Rochdalecouncils that has saved thetaxpayer well over half amillion pounds.

Vehicles with years of

solid service, but whichare suffering more andmore service-affectingbreakdowns, will headfor the great scrap yardin the sky.

“This is a majorinvestment in one of ourmost important frontlineservices” said Cllr Anderson,

“The older vehicles haveserved us well, “but they arewell past their sell-by date.The new fleet will improveservice reliability andreduce maintenance costs byover £160,000 a year.

“We’ll also be looking tocut our annual £1/2millionfuel bill through improvedtraining for drivers.”

Did you know?

FOOD WASTEis that generated during thepreparation of meals and anyfood that is not eaten.

It includes food that ispartly used or that would bethrown away and that iseither cooked or raw.

Food waste collections areset to save the council around£144,000 per year in landfillcosts.

The combined food andgarden waste will be sent toregional waste disposalfacilities, where it will becomposted indoors to createquality compost. The compostwill be suitable for use onagricultural land.

IMPROVEDONLINE CONTENT

For all your collectioninformation, tips and

advice, why not visit ourimproved recycling

pages atwigan.gov.uk/recycling?

COMINGYOUR WAY...part of the

borough’s newfleet.

HEADING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION:Wigan Council’s Cabinet Member forthe Environment Cllr Kevin Andersonin the cab with Waste CollectionSupervisor Simon Speakman.

odhatewaste.com

ISH

Borough Life 22–23 23/2/12 11:49 Page 2


TIMES are tough andmoney may be scarce butthis year the council and

its partners are working hardto make the borough’sbusinesses boom.

And thanks to exciting newprojects and uniquepartnerships, the hard work is

already paying off.The number of people

visiting and shopping inWigan town centre has goneup and hundreds of newproperty deals were signedacross the borough last year.

“An average of one newbusiness every working dayset up here last year,” saidWigan Council’s DeputyLeader Cllr David Molyneux.

“This year we’re funding theGateway to GrowthProgramme, which aims tocreate and support 100 newbusinesses in high growthsectors like digital media.”

Last year, 267 commercialproperty deals were signedacross the borough.

That’s over 3.4 millionsquare feet for top names likeMorrisons, Schuh, Frankie &Benny’s and Cineworld, plus amajor retail outlet atAtherton’s Ena Mill.

Wigan town centre has oneof the region’s lowest emptyproperty rates.

It is one of the country’s top100 retail destinations andCllr Molyneux said work isongoing to keep it that way,including parking deals suchas £2 to park all day Saturdayon Harrogate Street andChapel Lane, with Sundaysthere free.

And with falling crimerates, it is also the safest placein the region.

He added: “Major retailersand our shopping centressupport the town bycontributing financially toevents – over 70 in 2011 alone– which bring in visitors, boostthe economy and giveconfidence to our retail sector.

“People need to starttalking our town up – there’slots to do but good things arehappening.”

WIGAN Council has set a targetof creating 100 newapprenticeship posts for youngpeople in our borough overthe next 100 days.

The move is part of anational initiative promotedjointly by Job Centre Plus andthe National ApprenticeshipService and will see thepartners working with localbusinesses and employers toencourage them to take on ayoung apprentice.

Wigan Council’s DeputyLeader Cllr David Molyneux,says: “Youth unemployment ishigh both nationally andlocally but in Wigan we arecommitted to investing in ouryoung people and providingthem with the newopportunities they need tosucceed. An apprenticeship is afantastic choice for a youngperson, it gives them the on-the-job training andexperience.

“Taking on an apprentice is agood way of making sure yourworkforce has the practicalskills and qualifications yourcompany will undoubtedlyneed in the future. We’ll beworking hard to bring the twotogether and make 100 in100!”

Call 01942 486185 to find outmore about apprenticeships.

Apprenticestarget is set

BUSINESS leaders and senior council staff have launchedthe borough’s Economic Framework document.

The cabinet’s economy champion, Cllr David Molyneux,said: “Working with top business names at the WiganForward Board means we make things happen whichreally put people first.

“Some schemes are delivered by us, such as the WorkProgramme, others are by partners such as Wigan andLeigh College and Job Centre Plus.

“The council gives a tailored support service tobusinesses to cut recruitment costs and provide incentivesto get long-term people unemployed into jobs.”

Martin Ainscough, chair of the Forward Board added:”I am pleased to have been an integral part of developingthis strategic vision for Wigan Borough.

“As a local businessman, I understand the restraintsand challenges businesses deal with, especially duringthese difficult economic conditions. The Frameworkoutlines how businesses will besupported to develop here andtake advantage of local skillsand opportunities. This is keyto ensuring the borough’seconomic prosperity.”

TEMPLATE FOR SUCCESS: Cllr Molyneux with business leaders MirandaBarker (President, Wigan Chamber ofCommerce), John Winnard (William Santusand Co) and Harry Cunliffe (Wigan FoodGroup) launch Wigan’s Economic Framework.

LEIGH traders were initiallyconcerned at the openingof the Tesco superstore.

However, it has proven tobe a big draw for newcustomers to the town.

There is also improvedparking now available at anumber of sites, with plansfor Bengal Street to beprogressed this year.

Tesco boost

Bosses back vision for the future

For moreinformation

about businessopportunities inWigan visit thisis

wigan.com

Regeneration effortspaying off



IDON’T know if there is such a thingas job satisfaction when youvolunteer,” grins Vince Broomhead,

“but I’ve certainly got it!” 72-year-old Vince, a former Transport

Manager, is one of 23 volunteers nowrunning Aspull Library as part of theborough’s radical library review. And theywant more people to become involved.

“We have achieved something here,”says Vince “We’ve helped save thislibrary and although we’ve got a lot tolearn, we will get there, but the more themerrier as they say.”

Under the guidance of some staff fromWigan Leisure and Culture Trust (WLCT)they’re helping to keep the communityfacility up and running.

Faced with massive cuts of £1.1m dueto the government’s austerity measuresWigan and Leigh’s Library service hasbeen re-defined. But unlike otherauthorities making huge cuts in librarynumbers, in Wigan the picture is verydifferent.

The new look library service hasreduced costs by reducing some openinghours in certain locations, relocatingservices and by maximising stock andstaff rotation across libraries.

It has been developed in response tokey information such as local demand,

lifestyle needs and cost effectiveness.And of course community support.

“The experience they bring from theirworking lives is amazing,” says KimCollins, Libraries Manager for WLCT,who continues to help and support thelibrary.

“People can volunteer for as long orshort as they want and they can pickwhat they want to do. So if someonewants to come in for an hour and read tothe children that’s fantastic.

“Alternatively if they just want tostock take they can. This is their libraryand their community and we’d love evenmore residents to get involved.”

It’s a view echoed by Jackie Ivory, whoat 66 now comes in regularly to readnursery rhymes to children as well asorganising other fun events. She said: “Ispent my whole working life workingwith children so this was just the perfectopportunity for me.

“Seeing the children enjoy themselvesis my reward. It’s vitally important thatthe community in Aspull recognise this istheir library and come to use it and takepart in the events and activities.”

Currently the site opens for 11 hours aweek but with more volunteers on-boardthat could well be just the beginning of anew chapter in Aspull Library’s history.

Hands up to help

CREATIVE thinking has saved ourlibrary service!

Cabinet Member for Leisure andCulture Cllr Chris Ready. “We haveremained committed to making sureevery community within the boroughcan use the library.”

Wigan and Leigh have becomeLibrary Central locations, offering thegreatest range of stock and activitiesand the longest opening hours (over50 hours per week).

Library Local services, located atAshton, Golborne, Hindley,Lamberhead Green, Standish andTyldesley, provide a strongcommunity library offer.

Convenience libraries will beprovided at Aspull, Atherton, InceHope, Marsh Green, Platt Bridge andShevington.

The final tier, Library Direct, marksthose services that can be accessedon-line and at home. This includesongoing improvements to the libraryservice’s website, and the HomeDelivery Service.

Libraries givena lifeline

72-year-oldvolunteer VinceBroomhead atwork with the

books at AspullLibrary.

People canvolunteer foras long orshort as theywant andthey can pickwhat theywant to do

“

“”

KIM COLLINSLIBRARIES MANAGER FOR WLCT



TWO of Leigh’s great institutions havecombined forces. One known for winningtries, the other for its winning buys…

Leigh Centurions and Leigh Market areworking together to promote the very bestin local sport…and shopping.

Traders are showing their support for theCenturions this season. The famous markethas taken out perimeter advertising at theNorth Rail Cup Champions’ ground atLeigh’s Sports Village.

Wigan Council’s leader and keenCenturions fan Lord Peter Smith and LeighMarket traders John Doherty and DarrenLilly were at the ground before theCenturions derby with Wigan Warriors toback the new partnership.

Sports Village Chief Executive Simon Toonand Centurions stars James Taylor andTommy Goulden were also there to showtheir support.

The council’s deputy leader Cllr DavidMolyneux said: “What makes this a winningpartnership is Leigh’s passion for rugby andthe dedication of our market traders thatserve the community.”

THOMAS, Jack, Poppy and alltheir friends know how tomake learning fun. They’re

just a few months old, but thanksto their mums – and to Tyldesley’sSure Start Children’s Centre –they’re gaining vital sensory skillsat the lively Poplar Street centre.

Tyldesley Children Centre’sproject co-ordinator Lyndsey Dalysays: “We’re here to support thecommunity. The new crèchefacilities will help parents andcarers to take part in some of thecourses on offer safe in theknowledge that their children arebeing cared for.

“There’s free advice andsupport, and families can call inat our café for a drink and a biteto eat.”

Big smiles and satisfied snoresafterwards show how much thetots enjoyed their Baby Moversactivities.

The hugely successful musicand movement session is based onEarly Years Foundation Stage,carefully designed to stimulatetheir early development.

And for babies – and grownups– all around the borough, allchildren’s centres offer a wide

range of services, including:

● Jobcentre Plus● Brook Sexual Health Clinic● Careers’ Information and Advice● Youth Service● Stop Smoking Service● Police Surgeries● Parenting Courses● Health Trainer● Young parents group● Men Matter sessions for dads

and male carers● Breastfeeding support

Wigan Council’s CabinetMember for Children and YoungPeople, Cllr Susan Loudon, said:“Tyldesley Children’s Centre isproviding an excellent service tothe community.

“With the re-opening of thecrèche and new services foradults, there really is somethingfor everyone.

“There are 20 sitesin total, and we’rekeen to encourageall residents totake advantageof what theirlocal Children’sCentre has tooffer.”

Try and buy... markets link up with Centurions

Oh baby! Borough centres make

learning fun

CHILDSPLAY: Fun and games at Tyldesley Sure StartCentre's Baby Mover session. There’s plenty goingon at children’s centres across the borough.

POSITIVE SIGNS: Lord Peter Smith, John Dohertyand Darren Lilley from Leigh Markets, LSV Chief

Executive Simon Toon, Leigh Market’s JohnDoherty and Darren Lilly, Leigh Centurions

James Taylor and Tommy Goulden are all inthe market for success.

To find outmore about

children’s centres,log on to the FamilyInformation Service

website atwww.wiganfis.org.uk

or phone 01942828644.



AN historic former industrialsite is all set to become WiganBorough’s latest greenattraction.

Countryside lovers mayalready know the gem that isKirkless in the heart of Wigan.It is home to Rabbit Rocks andremnants of Wigan’s industrialpast.

The site boasts panoramicviews of Wigan, has woodlandwalks, meadows, ponds andbuilding remains from the oldIron and Steel Works, whichhave become unusual featuresof the landscape.

Now the council-owned siteis going to get the attention itdesperately needs, asLancashire Wildlife Trust takeon restoration andmanagement of the site, withthe support of local residents.

Thanks to funding from theHeritage Lottery Fund, workcan now begin and the trustwould like to involve the localcommunity in the futuremanagement of the Kirklesssite.

At one time the site washome to an iron and steelworks which was part of the

engine room of the borough’slocal economy. Now the samesite plays host to a specialcommunity of plants,which you’d bemore likely tofind on coastaldunes! As wellas importantwildlifehabitats itconnects withthe network ofexistingfootpaths andbridleways in thearea.

The Whelley Loopline – nowan accessible pathway, and the

Leeds and LiverpoolCanal, also runs

alongside Kirklessoffering easy

access foranyone toenjoy thecountrysideand an activelifestyle.

Funding fromthe Heritage

Lottery Fund isbeing used to drive a

new heritage andconservation project, to helpvisitors and the localcommunity to learn moreabout the heritage of the site,including path improvements,a heritage trail, practicalconservation tasks, as well aspublic events and educationalvisits to the site.

“This site is very importantfor developing Wigan’sGreenheart,” says WiganCouncil’s Deputy Leader, CllrDavid Molyneux. “The localcommunity has alreadywelcomed the plans for caringfor this site and we hope thiswill encourage more people tofind out about local historyand see for themselves what afantastic nature area it hasbecome.”

Latest green attraction grows out ofborough’s richindustrial heritage

Big dig unearths hall’s pastMOVE over Time Team because Wigan Borough’s got itsown ‘big dig’ and it’s about to unearth the past of anhistoric Leigh hall.

The spadework began at the beginning of this monthon an archaeological project on the site of the formerEtherstone Hall at Rothwells Wood, Leigh Sports Village– which forms part of Greenheart. Communityvolunteers and local schoolchildren have led the chargeat the dig, rubbing shoulders with seasonedarchaeological experts and learning new skills as aresult.

Etherstone dates back to the 15th century and wasthe family seat for several local landlords. It was givenover to the tenants in the 18th Century and becameknown as a ‘farmhouse’.

Soon after, the land was bought by Thomas Jones, awealthy cotton broker, who built a new mansionalongside the old hall for his family to live in. Itcontinued to be a grand residence until the 1880s whenit was abandoned only to be demolished in 1908. Theold hall however continued as a farmhouse andremained standing right up until the late 1970s.

In 2006, a small excavation was carried out on thesite and found that parts of the buildings still remainbelow the ground. This new excavation will build on thisand try to find evidence of the original medieval hall.

The project is supported by officer representatives ofWigan Council, Wigan Leisure & Culture Trust,Groundwork and the Greater ManchesterArchaeological Unit.

Rabbit Rocks.

Greenheartstretches from Haigh

all the way to Leigh andincludes beautiful parks,

woodlands, wetlands, canalsand green spaces for you

to visit. For moreinformation, go to:www.visitgreen

heart.com



FROM a masterclass by a multi-awardwinning playwright to a day of folkand verse… it could only mean one

thing!The full programme for Wigan and

Leigh’s annual literature festival is out andonce again it’s promising an eclectic mix ofevents combining national and localliterary luminaries for residents’delectation.

Highlights for this year’s ninth WordsLiterature Festival, which starts onMonday 9 April, include a masterclass withrenowned playwright Jim Cartwright –author of “The Rise and Fall of Little Voice”.

Dinesh Allirajah will be showing peoplehow to write humorous short fiction andfor lovers of fantasy, author of“Necromancer’s Gambit and Empire of theSaviours” A J Dalton will be discussingcurrent trends in fantasy literature andhow he finally signed a global book dealafter 25-years of trying.

Wigan based “Secret Writers Club” willbe holding a day of poetry in the newlyrestored bandstand at Mesnes Park, a“networking” event will be held atLeigh’s Turnpike Centre for localwriters to meet local andinternational publishers whileWigan’s Willpower Youth Theatrewill perform a new showcommemorating the lives of thoselost with the sinking of theTitanic.

This year’s action packedprogramme has 31 eventsorganised fromMonday 9April toSaturday21 April.

Words co-ordinator Gillian Forrestersaid: “There are so many festival highlightsthis year but for me it’s wonderful that wehave such a talented playwright andbestselling author as Sarah Waters comingto Wigan. The author of Tipping theVelvet, Little Stanger, Night Watch is oneof the biggest literary stars to ever come tothe festival.

“This is a really exciting programme ofevents and one, which we hope, appealsacross the age spectrum.“There are light-hearted and fun evenings,family days and some touching and tragicevents.“There’ll also be improvisation classes,evenings of sketches and monologues,poetry slam events and a song writing event.”

There will also be improvisation classes,evenings of sketches and monologues,

poetry slam events and asong writing event.

WordsLiteratureFestival isorganised by theLeigh and WiganWords Together

committee inassociation with

Wigan Leisure andCulture Trust and

supported by the ArtsCouncil England's

National Lottery fundedGrants for the Artsscheme.

FestivalhighlightsMonday 9 April: Day of Folk ‘n’ Verse –The Orwell, Wigan Pier, Wallgate.Tuesday 10 April: Jim CartwrightMasterclass – Park Inn, Leigh.Humorous Short Fiction – Wigan CricketClub, Bull Hey, off Parsons Walk.Ashton Writers with Dinesh Allirajah –Sam’s Bar, Warrington Rd, Ashton.Wednesday 11 April: Fantasy Writingwith author AJ Dalton – Wigan CricketClub, Bull Hey, off Parsons Walk.Running in Heels with author EmmaJane Unsworth – Wigan Library.‘Eclectic Utterances’ – The Press Room,Wigan town centre.Local to international with AJ Dalton –Santos Coffee Bar, Mesnes Street, Wigan.Thursday 12 April: A New Voyage toThe Levant – The Archive,Leigh Town Hall,Civic Square, Leigh.The Magic of Words – Dam House,Astley Hall Drive.Poetry Slam – The Tudor House Hotel,New Market St, Wigan.Friday 13 April: Sarah Waters inconversation with James Nash – TheAtrium, Wigan Town Hall, Library St.The Titanic – St Michael’s Hall, Shaw St,Swinley, Wigan.Saturday 14 April: ‘The War Tour’ withauthor Zoe Lambert – The Queen’s Hall,Market Street, Wigan. 2pm. Cost £3 – payat the door.Handmade Books for Adults – 10am-3pm. Turnpike Gallery, Turnpike Centre,Civic Square, Leigh.Sunday 15 April: Poetry in the Park – Mesnes Park Bandstand, Mesnes Park.Monday 16 April: Kipling with ColinPinney – Academy of Live and RecordedArts (ALRA), Turner St, Wigan.Bullets and Daffodils – the WilfredOwen Story – ALRA, Turner St, Wigan.Tuesday 17 April: Songwriting withVirginia Barrett – Wigan Library.Improv with Impropriety – WiganCricket Club, Bull Hey, off Parsons Walk,Wigan.A. E. Housman with Vince Smith –Museum of Wigan Life, Library St, Wigan.Wednesday 18 April: Improv withImpropriety – Wigan Cricket Club, BullHey, off Parsons Walk, Wigan.Thursday 19 April: Meet author JennAshworth – Wigan Library.Leigh and Atherton Writers Showcase– The Derby Room, Civic Square, Leigh.Impropriety at The Tudor House Hotel– The Tudor House Hotel, New Market St.Friday 20 April: Awarding winningauthor Louisa Young – ALRA, TurnerSt.The Lost Gardens of Etherstone –Rothwells Woods, Leigh Sports Village.

For more information call 01942 828 227.

Festival spreadsTHE WORD

For moreinformation visitwww.wlct.org/

festivalfever


Spring 2012

Arts and Festivals

Fri 20th April, 8pmLOST GARDENS OFETHERSTONEThe Woods, Leigh Sports Village.Booking essential. Outdoorperformance theatre on the site ofEtherstone Hall. For furtherinformation telephone 01942828227. £5.

Sat 21st April, 7:30pmTHE RISK TAKERS ANDTHE WOODSALRA, Turner Street, Wigan.Pay at the door. Two festivalperformances of poetry and dancewith CO2, Mark Mace Smith andLouise Fazackerley, and The Woodsperformed by Linda Lee Welch andAnimat. For further informationtelephone 01942 828227. £5.

Green Spaces

Sat 24th MarchHALF MARATHON AND 10K RACEPennington Flash. The race willstart at Leigh Sports Village. Forfurther information contact GrahamJackson Race Director, Sports ToursInternational.Telephone 0161 703 5806.Email graham@sportstoursinternational.co.ukwww.sportstoursinternational.co.uk

Wed 4th April, 1pm – 3pmEASTER FUN ATPENNINGTON HALL PARKPennington Hall Park. An EasterEgg themed activity for familiesand children in the park organisedby The Friends – drop in from1.00pm to 3.00pm. Bring a hardboiled egg with you and join in thefun. Children must be accompaniedby an adult. Tel. 01942 486904.

Thu 5th April, 1:30pm –3:30pm

EASTER FUN AT THREESISTERSThree Sisters. Easter fun and gamesfor all the family organised by theFriends of Three Sisters.Bring a hard boiled egg to join inthe fun – children must beaccompanied by an adult.Telephone 01942 720453.

Mon 9th April, 12pm – 3pmMESNES PARK EASTEREXTRAVAGANZAMesnes Park.Come along and celebratecompletion of the phase 1 of theHeritage Lottery Fund. See therestoration and opening of thepark’s Pavilion, bandstand andshelter. Lots of fun for all the familywith musical entertainment, gamesand activities.Come dressed as a Victorian to helpgive a 1878 feel to the re-enactment of the park opening!Telephone 01942 245369.

Sat 21st April, 12pm – 4pmMUTT STRUTTSpring Walk Festival at ThreeSisters. Bring your pooch to join ina sponsored dog walk to raisefunds for charity; find out aboutmicro-chipping; dog agility andobedience classes and the law onscooping the poop! Stalls fromlocal animal charities.Telephone 01942 720453.

Haigh Country Park

Wed 21st MarchEXCLUSIVE TOURS OF HAIGH HALLYou and your family will love thisunique guided history tour of HaighHall followed by a sumptuousmeal. Learn of the history of HaighHall from Medieval times to thepresent. From Lady Mabel to thelast Lord Crawford. Hear folk talesand ghost stories, take a behind thescenes look at Haigh includingthe hidden cellars and attics.

Includes tea orcoffee on arrival,followed by a 2-course hotpot meal.Just £12.00 per person.Group rates available. Toursavailable: February Wednesdays –1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th.Thursdays – 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd.March Wednesdays – 14th*, 21st,28th. Thursdays – 15th*, 22nd,29th.Day itinerary – 10.30amarrival, 11am tour, 12.30pm lunch.Evening itinerary – 6.30pm arrival,7pm tour, 8.15pm meal. (*Pleasenote Wednesday 14th March isevening only. Thursday 15th Marchis day only). For further informationand to book telephone 01942832895. £12.

Heritage Events

Sat 24th March, 11:am –1:30pmSUPER SATURDAYS – SPRING MADNESSThe Turnpike Centre.Spring is in the air so leap intolocal studies for a mad springspree, then hop along to the galleryto make your own March hare andcut out and colour your own springbouquet. For further informationtelephone 01942 404420. Free.

Sat 28th April, 11am –2:30pmSUPER SATURDAYS –PLAYTIMEThe Turnpike Centre. Be inspired byour new exhibition Art + Play,designed specially for childrenunder 5, and make your own

sensorytoy that

you’ll be able to hear,smell and touch, then come to localstudies to find Victorian toys toplay with. For further detailsphone 01942 404420. Free.

Libraries

Sat 31st March, 10am – 3pmAPPROACHES TO ABSTRACTLANDSCAPESTurnpike Gallery, Leigh. Gain an in-depth understanding of early 20thcentury artists’ approaches toabstraction in the British landscapeand complete a series of studies inwater-based media on paper.Suitable for beginners and thosewith some previous experience.Tickets: £15.00, including allmaterials. Book in advance on01942 484420. £15.

Mon 2nd April to Sat 14thAprilTHE LITTLE SOCIETYTurnpike Gallery. Visual poet PhilipDavenport will create a series ofword landscapes in the gallery,inviting visitors to reflect on theirsurroundings and add theircontributions to these visualpoems. Part exhibition, part playfulexperiment, there’ll be somethingfor everyone to enjoy. For furtherinformation telephone 01942404469.


What’s

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

ON

THE RACE IS ON...A half-marathon and 10K race take placearound Pennington Flash on 24th March.

IN THE SWIM...Pool Lifeguard courses are availableat Howe Bridge Sports Centre.


Sat 14th April, 10am – 3pmHANDMADE BOOKS FOR

ADULTSTurnpike Gallery.This new session

combines calligraphyand bookmaking as you learn howto create a concertina book andorigami box using a variety ofbookmaking and embellishingtechniques. Suitable for beginnersand those with some previousexperience. Tickets:£15, includingall materials. Book in advance on01942 484420. £15.

Sat 28th April to Sat 16th JuneART AND PLAYTurnpike Gallery.An exhibition of interactiveartwork, designed specially forchildren under five that encourageschildren to think, play, explore andcreate. The exhibition featurestactile sculptures and installationsthat will engage children’s senses.For further information telephone01942 404469.

Sports andHealthy Living

Mon 20th February to Sat25th February, 8am – 5pmPOOL LIFEGUARD COURSESHowe Bridge Sports Centre.NPLQ course. Course pre-requisite –must be 16 years of age, jump/diveinto deep water, swim 50 metres inno more than 60 seconds, swim100 metres continously on frontand back, in deep water treadwater for 30 seconds, surface diveto the floor of the pool and climbout unaided without ladder/stepsand where the pool design permits.For further information telephoneRebecca Mazey on 895045. £230.

Mon 20th February to Fri24th February, 9am – 3:30pmDANCE AND CHEERLEADINGCAMPSVarious Venues.Major Dance Coaching. Dance andCheerleading Camps. Venues nearyou! Hawkley Hall High School,Orrell St James Primary School,Lamberhead Green Primary School,Abram Bryn Gates Primary Schooland more! Dance and Learn andhave fun, also take part in ourfantastic final day performances.Our camps are aimed at children ofall abilities, as we firmly believe in“Dance for all”. 9am – 3.30pmonly £40 per week or £10 per day(Ages 4 – 14) To book call or text07739 417562 or visit www.majordancecoaching.co.uk/camps.

Mon 20th February to Fri24th February, 9am – 3:30pmMULTI SPORTS CAMPSVarious Venues.Major Sports Coaching. MultiSports Camps. Venues near you!Hawkley Hall High School, Orrell StJames Primary School, LamberheadGreen Primary School, Abram BrynGates Primary School and more!Take part a range of differentactivities: Football, Dodgeball,Rugby, Basketball, Badminton toname a few!Our camps are aimed at children ofall abilities, as we firmly believe in“sport for all”. 9am – 3.30pm only£40 per week or £10 per day (Ages4 – 14) To book call or text 07739417562 Or visit ww.majorsportscoaching.co.uk/camps

Sun 26th February,8am – 6:30pmWIGAN RAMBLING ANDCLIMBING CLUB.Blow the winter cobwebs away!!Why not join us on our coachramble from Wigan to Skipton onSunday 26th February. You have achoice of three different walks tosuit your taste. Skipton is in thebeautiful Yorkshire Dales and isonly about an hour away by coach.You’ll have plenty of goodcompany and glorious countrysideto enjoy. All this for only £10!The coach leaves Wigan town centreat 8am picking up at Standish enroute and we arrive back approx6.30pm There is free car parkingnear the coach departure point.Reservation is essential. Contact oursecretary, Jill Shilladay 01257421926 or Email:[email protected] forfurther details. There is something onevery week! For more informationgo to: www.wiganwalkers.com

Sun 25th MarchSPORT RELIEFLeigh Harriers Athletics Club, LeighSports Village, Leigh, WN7 4GX.Walk, jog or run!!! Wave 1 – 10amstart 1, 3 or 6 miles. Wave 2 –10.30am start 1, 3 or 6 miles. Wave3 – 11am start 1 or 3 miles. Pleaseregister at www.sportrelief.com/

Sun 25th MarchSPORT RELIEFRobin Park Arena, Loire Drive,Wigan, WN5 0HJ.Walk, jog or run!!! Wave 1 – 10amstart 1, 3 or 6 miles. Wave 2 –10.30am start 1, 3 or 6 miles. Wave3 – 11am start 1 or 3 miles. Pleaseregister at www.sportrelief.com/

Sun 1st April to Thu 5thApril, 8am – 5pmPOOL LIFEGUARD COURSESHowe Bridge Sports Centre.

NPLQ course. Course pre-requisite– must be 16 years of age,jump/dive into deep water, swim 50metres in no more than 60seconds, swim 100 metrescontinously on front and back, indeep water tread water for 30seconds, surface dive to the floor ofthe pool and climb out unaidedwithout ladder/steps and where thepool design permits. For furtherinformation telephone RebeccaMazey on 895045. £230.

Community Events

Wed 21st March to Sat 31st MarchCELEBRATIONWigan Little Theatre, CromptonStreet, Wigan.Comedy. A great play for the loversof soap opera. Booking essential.For further information and to booktelephone the Box Office on 01942242561 or visit in person the weekbefore or during a show.£10, Concessionary £7.50.

Fri 30th March, 7:30pmLEIGH ORNITHOLOGICALSOCIETYDerby Room, Turnpike Centre,Leigh, WN1 1AR.Hesketh Out Marsh (a newlyopened RSPB reserve) by GrahamClarkson and Alan Bedford. Forfurther information telephoneTeresa Fayle on 01942 606531 orvisit www.leighos.org.uk

Sat 31st March, 8:30amCAR BOOT AND TABLE TOP SALESt Mary’s Church, Newton Road,

Lowton WN7 1EG. Pitches £7 pre-booked, £8 on the day. Tel:01942 674042. Refreshmentsavailable.

Fri 20th April, 7:30pmLEIGH ORNITHOLOGICALSOCIETYDerby Room, Turnpike Centre,Leigh, WN1 1AR. Wild About Town.New show by Charlie Owen.Stunning photography. For furtherinformation telephone Teresa Fayleon 01942 606531 or visitwww.leighos.org.uk

Sat 21st April, 7:30pm

SPRING DANCERose Club, Formerly MonacoBallroom, Hindley.50/50 Social Dance. A greatevening of dancing with that touchof class, glass of sparkle on arrival,fabulous demonstration. Bring yourown nibbles. Spot prizes. Bookingessential. Dress to impress, red andblack theme. For furtherinformation and to book telephone07872 146896 or visitwww.hurstdance.co.uk. £11.

Sun 22nd April,12pm – 4pmWALK THIS WAY!Spring Walk Festival at ThreeSisters. Put a spring in your step –here is a chance to try lots ofdifferent sorts of walkingtechniques to improve your fitness.Doesn’t matter if you are a couchpotato or a regular on the treadmill– we have an outdoor activity foryou to try! Telephone 01942720453 for further details.


WALK THIS WAY...Improve your fitness atthe Spring Walk Festivalat Three Sisters.


borough life issue 37 spring 2012

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