Borough Life Issue 34 Summer 2011

THE MAGAZINE FOR ALL RESIDENTS OF WIGAN BOROUGH

BOROUGH

SUMMER 2011

Stars set to rock music venue

X You could be there too – enter our competition on page twenty nine

Recycled chic: gown team serve up a prom night treat X see page eleven

Life Lines

Borough Life welcomes your letters about local issues or comments about articles in the magazine. Write to: The Editor, Borough Life, FREEPOST NWW3502A, Wigan WN1 1XZ; Email: boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk (Letters may be edited).

More access to towpath please...

Sir, – I note with anticipation the long awaited and even longer needed upgrade to the canal towpaths south of Platt Bridge is now in progress, according to your Spring 2011 article.

An important route in the Greenheart network connecting with existing bridleways and footpaths.

This will provide a continuous high quality route between Wigan and Leigh town centres, providing year round off-road leisure facilities. But only if you are able bodied, if you are not the barriers and gates from Bamfurlong to Wigan will stop you.

They do not support passage of horse or disabled invalid carriages.

I would hope that the Communities Regeneration Programme and British Waterways take this into account and build provision for access for all.

John Gurhy, Ataxia UK North West Branch Chair • www.ataxia.org.uk ■ Wigan Council’s Corporate Director for the Places Directorate, Gillian Bishop, said: We are currently improving the towpath on the Leigh branch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, between Lily Lane and Plank Lane, to provide a continuous high-quality surface between Wigan and Leigh town centres. Once completed, the towpath will be accessible by pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians.

At present, a number of barriers on the towpath prevent/hinder access for cyclists, pushchairs, wheelchairs and mobility scooterusers. The barriers were installed by British Waterways to prevent access by motor vehicles and motorbikes, which can pose a

real nuisance and danger to legitimate users of the towpath.

Following discussions between British Waterways and the council, it has been agreed that the barriers between Lily Lane and Plank Lane will be removed and replaced, where necessary, with ‘kissing gates’ and horse-friendly barriers, which should also accommodate wheelchair and mobility scooter users. Any existing barriers located between Lily Lane and Wigan town centre are the responsibility of British Waterways and any requests for their removal should be

addressed directly to them.

We do not want to discriminate against wheelchair and mobility scooter users, however, it can be very difficult to strike a balance between allowing 'access for all' and preventing access for illegitimate users, such as motorbikes.

Wherever possible, the scheme has been designed in accordance with Disability and Equality Act 2010, however, in some situations, the gradients of ramps may not comply with the guidance, due to the prohibitive expense of construction.”

Please give DIAS a mention

Our Spring issue told of Sheila Fairhurst, who has campaigned for more support for victims of domestic violence after her daughter Carly was killed by her abusive boyfriend.

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BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

Sir, – The article, Ending The Fear, concerning the tragic death of Carly Fairhurst after a violent attack by her partner featured in the Spring edition of Borough Life, was shocking and disturbing.

One can only imagine the suffering endured by her parents and admire their heroic determination to direct their grief and anger into a campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse and raise funds to support victims. It was heartening to read of the multi-agency strategy to address the hidden monster and the inclusion of telephone helplines, for those in need of support, provided a practical touch – but with a glaring omission!

DIAS – Drop In And Share – is a Wigan-based charity that has been in operation from premises in King Street since 1994. As the name suggests, woman – and men – who suffer domestic abuse can

‘drop-in’ for advice and support or can access the services of trained and experienced counsellors.

The service extends to family members who are anxious about a relative’s abusive relationship and, for those who cannot make the journey into the town centre, there is always support available via the telephone. DIAS staff will even take a number and ring back, having first established the safety of the caller, if the cost of the call is an issue.

Since comprehensive, face-to-face support is available here in Wigan, I was surprised DIAS was not mentioned in your article and I hope that you can rectify this. DIAS 01942 495230, diasvc@aol.com Pat Davis For an update on Wigan Borough’s campaign to tackle domestic abuse see page 12.

The

Leader Column

Building the future together

Summer 2011 This edition packed with news, plus...

By Peter Smith Leader, Wigan Council IT IS a big year for customer services in our borough.

We’re on the cusp of the opening of the borough’s biggest and most ambitious public service construction projects as the new Wigan Life Centre prepares to open its doors.

The Life Centre represents a landmark change in the way the council and its partners operate. It is also embodies our ongoing determination to encourage investment and regeneration opportunities in our borough despite the difficult economic times.

Ultimately it represents excellent value for money for our borough and as you can read on page seven, makes good business sense. We firmly believe that in times of economic hardship it is more important than ever that Wigan has a modern, efficient, approachable public services that are available to all.

WHAT a waste! The problem of what to do with the vast amount of household waste we produce as a borough isn’t one that’s just going to go away.

The council is working hard on how we as a borough can cut the amount of waste we all produce, through recycling and other initiatives, and how we can dispose of the waste we do generate in a more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective way.

This year we have been running a trial of new blue bins that are used for recycling an increasingly precious resource – paper.

As you can read on page six, the trial has been a huge success and we now plan to roll the new blue bins out to households across the borough.

IF Wigan Borough really is to compete as the great place to work, play and do business, that we all know it can be, then the borough’s transport network is something we must address.

The council is currently putting together its transport strategy for up to the year 2026 and we need your help. We want to know what your priorities are when it comes to getting around our borough and what you would like to see for the future.

You can find out how to get involved in the consultation for Transport 2026 on pages 18 and 19. Let’s get our borough moving!

FINALLY...Wigan is the greenest borough in Greater Manchester and has many well-known parks and open spaces that we can be rightly proud of.

But if you go off the beaten track a little bit you can find some real hidden gems. On pages 14 and 15 we’ve asked some of the borough’s best known outdoor fans to name their favourite spots.

We think you’ll agree they are all worth exploring in a little more detail and they stand as proof that you don’t need to travel far to find stunning scenery, just put a foot over your doorstep.

Raising the roof to boost park

Surf’s up for hi-tech pensioners

Going places with transport plan

Fun and games... Olympic style

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13

18 &19

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CONTENTS

www.wigan.gov.uk

COVER PICTURE Haigh, it’s Peter Andre!

Full Haigh Hall Live line-up and competition details on page 29.

Borough Life is published by Wigan Council and distributed to all households in the borough. This edition was published on 27 May 2011. Distribution should be complete by 20 June 2011.

The Editor Borough Life, FREEPOST NWW3502A, Wigan WN1 1XZ. Tel: 01942 827823 Email: boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk

The magazine is printed on paper from renewable resources. It is written and edited

by Wigan Council’s Media and Communications team, designed by Smith Davis Press and printed by PCP.

If you are a resident of Wigan Borough but haven’t had a copy of Borough Life delivered through your letterbox, please let us know.

Copies of individual articles may be available in other languages on request.

Large print and audio versions can also be provided. Please phone 01942 827823.

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

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

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SPADEWORK: In Bloom Co-ordinator Damian Jenkinson is digging for local heroes.

Expo Twenty11 is

THE BUSINESS IGAN Borough’s biggest seminar programme delivered by business event is back and it experts on a variety of subjects promises to be bigger and including securing contracts with major better than before! organisations such as Wigan Council and Last year the council and its partners the NHS, as well as other need to know hosted a major showcase for the information for businesses. borough’s businesses to come together In addition, borough based businesses and promote everything positive that will again be able to arrange one-to-one our borough has to offer. meetings with the buyers from public The event, entitled Business Expo and private sector giants.

Twenty11, will return on Friday 14 Mrs Barker adds: “We are also pleased October at Leigh Sports Village and to announce that we will once again be borough businesses are being urged to offering borough based businesses the book their place now. chance to meet the buyers from selected Miranda Barker, Wigan President of public and private sector giants. These the Greater Manchester Chamber of appointments were really well received Commerce and Chair of the Economic last year and we know of at least one Partnership, said: “Wigan Business business who secured a contract with Expo Twenty11 will span no Heinz on the back of the fewer than 26 lounges meeting they had with them and provide a variety at last year’s Expo.”

If your business of options for nearly Cllr David Molyneux, would like to be the first 80 borough-based Cabinet Champion for to know any Expo news, as businesses to Regeneration said: exhibit their goods “The Expo has proven well as being the first in line and services to to be an excellent when exhibition spaces and buyers from across platform for meet the buyer appointments the region.” businesses to become available, please In addition to the network, share good email ero@wigan.gov.uk exhibition of local practice and display or visit our Facebook, Twitter businesses, there will their fantastic range of or LinkedIn pages. also be a jam-packed good and services.”

W Who’s your blooming champion?

THEY’VE stayed true to their roots, dug deep and never thrown in the ‘trowel’.

The army of volunteers who make Wigan Borough look beautiful as part of the annual ‘In Bloom’ event really do deserve a pat on the back.

Each autumn, all those who get involved with Borough in Bloom are invited to a special ‘Thank You’ evening hosted by the Mayor and the council’s deputy leader.

But the organisers want to do things a little differently and need your help…

This year, we’re introducing a series of special awards honouring the outstanding environmental achievements of borough residents – and they want the nominations to come from YOU! So, if you know someone who helped with a community garden, worked with a school to improve their grounds or maybe even a local business that created a green space for customers – we’d like to hear from you!

All winners will be invited along to the ceremony and will receive an award and vouchers to spend on developing further projects in 2012.

For a full list of categories and details of how you can nominate your local champion visit: www.wiganboroughinbloom.co.uk ● For further information, send your enquiry to Inbloom@wigan.gov.uk or call In Bloom Co-ordinator Damian Jenkinson on 01942 488299.

Under pressure THERE’S never a good time to get a flat tyre. Most local garages will repair a puncture but once the repair is done, can you be sure it’s still road safe?

When Wigan Council’s Trading Standards Officers visited 28 traders to advise them how tyre repairs should be carried out, 11 of them (almost 40 per cent) were not aware of the requirement to fill all puncture holes.

For further information regarding tyre safety, please visit www.tyresafe.org You can find a list of reputable traders (including mechanics) on Wigan Council’s website – www.wigan.gov.uk and search for ‘Good Trader’.

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BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

EXPO IS GO! Launching Business Expo Twenty11 at Leigh Sports Village are (from left): Cllr David Molyneux, Miranda Barker, Colin Weaver from The Best of Wigan, and Claire Walsh and Dominic Stockton from Wigan Council’s economic regeneration team.

Here come the girls

Sarah strides out with her mates in DIY running club TWO years ago Sarah Lucas decided to go out for a jog.

The mother-of-two was a former Leigh Harrier so knew her way round a pair of running shoes.

She was joined by two friends on what was to become a momentous first run around Pennington Flash.

And as they ran, like a scene from the film Forrest Gump, they were joined by others along the way. And they’ve continued to flock to Sarah’s side ever since.

Today Sarah, who hails from Pennington, is at the helm of her very own running club which boasts in excess of 50 members. The ‘Leg It’ Running Club meets twice a week to take ladies of all ages and abilities through their paces.

Sarah, 39, says: “After that first run I decided to take it further so I advertised in my local area to see if anyone was interested. The response was amazing and through the adverts and word of mouth alone I now have around 50 ladies running each week… sometimes 70.”

Sarah was not only a serious runner at one time but she also used to coach for the Leigh Harriers. She has divided the group up into walkers, joggers and

LEADER OF THE PACK: Sarah Lucas and the gang are ready to run!

runners, so there’s something to suit Ready. “It’s clear that it has not only everyone. helped to improve the health of the “Our youngest member is 14 and we individual members but it has helped have ladies who are in their 60s,” says create a greater sense of community spirit Sarah. “We new mums and mums-to-be, and the real beauty is that it has been ladies wanting to lose weight, ladies who done without any outside help. want to run the Race for Life events and “We wish the Leg It group continued some who just enjoy the social side. I see success and we’d love to see more people their confidence grow each week, their following this fantastic example and bodies change and they make new creating their own interest groups.” friends.”

Sarah has members who will be running Through their regular Monday and marathons, half-marathons and 10k events Thursday evening meetings, the group has this year – there really is no stopping them! earned the nicknames the ‘running pub’ “The great thing about it is that anyone and because there’s a lot of them dressed can run,” says Sarah. in pink, running together – the Flamingos!

“You just need trainers and a bit of Wigan Council’s Cabinet motivation.

Member for Leisure, Cllr “Start slow with a walk then Chris Ready, is full of jog from lamp-post to The Leg It praise for Sarah’s and lamp-post… six or seven of Running Club meets the club’s efforts. these and you’ll have done every Monday and “At its heart this a mile.”

Thursday. Beginners set off running club is a She adds: “The pleasure at 6.20pm, intermediates begin great example of I get from running is only what people can beaten by the joy of at 7pm and the five mile runners achieve when they seeing a lady who has go at 7.45pm. Ladies who have a good idea struggled to jog for three would like more information and the spirit of minutes, run for half an can call Sarah on determination to see hour… and chat and laugh 01942 670510 or it through,” says Cllr all the way round!”

07824 757479.

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

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Anyone need another

BIN? F you want one, yes. If you don’t, that’s okay. A trial of blue bins for paper in various locations around the borough has been a huge success and it’s to be expanded to reach everyone by next spring.

There are many choices which the team hope will suit the different households around the borough. Instead of receiving a new blue bin, they can keep their sack, or people can request a smaller sized bin – or even ask to share with their neighbour.

“We have to free Wigan Borough of costly landfill and stop the throwaway culture,” said deputy leader Cllr David Molyneux. “And most residents tell us they want to help.”

A leaflet later this summer will explain how to make your choices.

Around 8,000 survey forms have already been sent to residents.

One resident on Kenyon Road in Standish said: “By using the blue bin it has cut the rubbish we

I

Refuse collector Steve is focussing on the great blue yonder.

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BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

Annual cost to collect Wigan Borough’s waste: £8.2m Annual cost to dispose of Wigan Borough’s waste: £9.2m put in the black bin.”

A reply from Elmhow Grove in Wigan was particularly useful - “I felt that the one thing missing from recycling was card and cardboard which I had to take to a tip. This problem has now been solved.” Residents on Orrell Road and nearby Brook Lane said recycling had been made much easier with their new blue bins. But a resident of Manchester Road, Ince said: “I don’t use it.” Their comment was echoed by a Kimberley Street resident who said: “Too many bins.

Waste of space. No need for them.

“There is a need,” explained Dr Gail Robinson, the council’s waste manager, “It’s too expensive for us to keep to burying our waste, both in terms of cost to council tax payers and to the environment. The things we all buy need to be dealt with once we’ve finished with them.”

The key to making the blue bin trial a success was to offer choice and accept that different households have different needs. “It’s all about helping people dispose of the things they choose to buy,” says Cllr Molyneux. “The days of putting everything into one bin and burying the contents are long gone. And whilst we don’t make money by recycling, the council’s bills are kept down when we all manage our waste properly.

This means when costs are tight, funds can be used for other vital services.”

The blue bins will also take cardboard and Tetrapaks (fresh juice and soups), which is another stage forward to boost the borough’s recycling capabilities.

This is the

WORK on the first part of the new Life Centre in Wigan town centre is reaching its climax.

It is now just a matter of weeks until the south site of the new Life Centre in Wigan will be ready.

The impressive building houses two swimming pools, a state-of-the art Profiles gym and dance studio with a sprung floor.

It also contains new costeffective office space for council and other public service staff in our borough.

The north site, which includes a new public library, One Stop Shop for all public services and

life community space, is anticipated to be open early in the New Year.

The creation of the new Life Centre has taken nearly a decade to complete and represents one of the most ambitious public sector construction programmes taking place anywhere in the country.

The £217million project was made possible through a mixture of government credits and finance from the private sector.

Wigan Council has invested £2.1million in the project but as the council’s Customer Services Champion Cllr Chris Ready

explains, it represents a great deal for the borough.

“The council will be able to pay for its share of the investment through the sale of older buildings that are no longer needed, so it is a burden that has not fallen on the tax payer,” he said. “We now have a public service and leisure complex that will be the envy of the entire country for little extra cost.

If we add to this the fact that the cost of bringing the former Wigan International Pool up to modern standards would be more than £1million you can begin to see just how good this deal is for our borough.”

Citizen Support – at your service THE opening of the Wigan Life Centre’s south site in August will follow hot on the heels of the borough’s five local ‘Life Centres’.

Now, as part of on-going work to make accessing services easier for residents, the council has created a Citizen Support Service.

Underpinning the Citizen Support Service will be a new IT system for revenue and benefits.

This will help process benefit claims more quickly for residents and enable council partners such as Registered Social Landlords to send important data direct to the council

to further decrease processing times.

There will be a seven week ‘content migration’ period between (10th August-28th September), to complete the switch from the old system to the new one.

Cabinet Member for Customer Services Cllr Chris Ready said: “There is some potential for delays in processing new benefit claims and increasing/reducing other payments as a result of changes in circumstances, but plans are well underway to minimise any disruption and the long-term benefits will be well worth the wait.”

The Life Centre has already had a massive impact on the local economy – to the tune of hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Cllr Ready explains: “More than 100 people have found work on the project after being referred by the council’s Skills Shop, more have found work on the project from local recruitment agencies. Out of the 16 contracting firms working on site, 12 have been locally-based and many of the raw materials such as concrete have been provided by local suppliers.

“In addition to this existing town centre businesses have benefited from an increase in trade and new ones, including cafes to service the on-site workers, have opened.”

The You can find council out more at and its www.wigan. partners gov.uk/wiganis have also changing created a network of local Life Centres across Wigan Borough to compliment the new public service hub.

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

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KEEPING A LID ON IT: Mesnes Park Officer Joanne Ramdewor puts the roof back on the Mesnes Park Pavillion in this mock-up photograph.

ESNES Park’s magnificent restoration will enjoy a number of landmark moments during 2011.

As we went to print the project was literally raising the roof!

As part of the multi-million pound transformation the ‘lantern’ section of the top of the pavilion, at the heart of the Victorian park, was being removed for restoration by Wigan based restorers Lost Art. It’s one of a number of major works taking place over the next two years which will see the much loved park transformed following a massive £6.4m investment by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Big Lottery Fund, Wigan Council and Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust.

The bandstand has already been removed for restoration while a new roof has been installed on the shelter.

In June work will start on the restoration of Dalton Steps which lead up to the pavilion.

Work on the pavilion will continue throughout the summer and is scheduled to be completed in December.

By October the bandstand will be back on site and the restoration of the For further steps should be information about the completed by restoration tours or about November. Then the Mesnes Park Project attention will turn to improving the contact Joanne Ramdewor Entrance Lodge. on 01942 776 609 Joanne or visit www.wlct.org/ Ramdewor, Mesnes mesnespark Park Officer for Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, said: “This is a very exciting part of the project with major restoration underway.

“Over the next two years this restoration and refurbishment will ensure roundabouts and other obstacles. the future of this wonderful The courses consist of four sessions and park, at the heart of Wigan, participants must complete all sessions to for future generations to gain the Bikeability Level 2 qualification. enjoy.

Further courses will be held at schools “It is a massive piece of across the borough in the next year. work we have undertaken To take part, all you’ll need is a and we have organised a roadworthy bike and a cycle helmet. If you number of restoration tours don’t have a helmet, you will be loaned one throughout 2011 that we’d for the duration of the course along with a love people to come to and high visibility waistcoat. find out more.”

If you are interested in signing up for a Significant work starting in Bikeability course in the borough this April 2012 includes summer, please call Wigan Council on 01942 restoration of the Pulham 488250.

Rockwork, installation of the ● 18-26 June is National Bike Week, visit Coalbrookdale Fountain and www.bikeweek.org.uk for details. restoration of the Sir Francis Sharp Powell statue.

Need some fun... get on your bike SUMMER’S here and what better time to enjoy the great outdoors than a lovely cycle ride?

And if you’re going out and about, two wheels can be better than four!

After long days studying at school many young people can’t wait to get out of the house for a bike ride.

It’s great fun, but it’s also important to stay road safe.

That’s why Wigan Council is offering free Bikeability training for children aged 10 and up this summer holiday.

The courses are run by accredited trainers from Cycle Experience. Those who complete the course will learn how to ride safely on the road and negotiate road junctions,

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Sharing the Vision: pictured are: (back row, from left): Dr Tim Dalton, Dr Tony Ellis, Cllr Keith Cunliffe, Cllr Peter Smith, Dr Pete Marwick, (front, from left): Wigan Council’s Service Director for Strategy and Commissioning Stuart Cowley, Dr Kate Ardern, Dr Deepak Trivedi, Dr Shikha Pitalia and Joyce Redfearn.

As government health reforms gather pace, Borough Life explains what the abolition of the Ashton, Leigh & Wigan Primary Care Trust (PCT) and the shift of its responsibilities to GPs and the council means for the borough – and you.

Modern Medicine: 21st century facilities for customers at Ince Community Life and Health Centre.

New era starts for NHS As part of the national government reforms of the health service, local Primary Care Trusts like NHS Ashton, Leigh and Wigan – which currently plan and manage the buying of local services such as hospital care, GPs, mental health units and community clinics – are being phased out.

In their place, GPs will be asked to come together in new ‘consortia’ to make sure

local health resources are spent in the most effective way.

GPs in the borough are working closely with NHS ALW to ensure a smooth and effective transition to the new arrangements, which are expected to ‘go live’ in April 2013. Although NHS ALW administers the same area as the council, in the reforms the new GP consortia don’t have to match up to these

THE STRUCTURE OF THE NHS Current

Proposed

Dept of Health

Independent Board

North-West Regional Health Authority

Wigan Borough’s GP Federation

Ashton, Leigh & Wigan PCT

Hospitals, GPs, mental health units, dentists, community services eg. district nurses

Hospitals, mental health units, community services eg. district nurses

Patients

Key

overseeing role

GPs, dentists, specialist services eg. intensive care

Patients

flow of money

caring role

boundaries.

Wigan Council has been working closely with the local NHS for a number of years to deliver the best healthcare locally and effectively integrate health, social care and wellbeing services.

Whatever the final shape of the new GP consortia, the new reforms will see the council developing strong links with GPs at borough level to ensure that the health of residents remains a top priority through a Health & Wellbeing Board. The main objective of the board will be to plan and deliver local services to support the health and wellbeing of residents.

Key council representatives and local GPs are already making the development of the new board a priority.

This is with the recognition that against a backdrop of dwindling public resources, working together towards a common purpose of putting residents needs first and making a difference to peoples’ health and wellbeing is vital.

Councillor Keith Cunliffe, Cabinet Member for Healthier Communities at Wigan Council and Chair of

the new Health and Wellbeing Board, said: “Wigan Council is working with local GP leaders to make our existing health services more responsive and to effectively plan future services.

“The launch of our local Health & Wellbeing Board signals our intentions – to focus now and in the future on the reduction of health inequalities through early intervention, and through integrated services for social care and health, and to promote wider wellbeing.

“We want to create and promote choice for health and independence amongst all our residents, putting their needs first.

“As the local authority we influence so many other factors that contribute to health, but we are clear that working with local GPs through the Health & Wellbeing Boards our purpose is better health outcomes for everyone.”

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

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GETTING a leg-up on the first rung of the career ladder is important - especially for young people. Wigan's Way to Work website offers advice and guidance to help anyone find the right path for them. But often advice on jobs and careers isn't the full story. In some cases people have to embark on a life-changing journey to ensure that they are 'job ready' and often have to overcome significant hurdles along the way. Way to Work can help with this as well, as Borough Life discovered after speaking with one remarkable young person who has triumphed in the face of adversity thanks to a little help.

Way to Work gives Hayley high hopes AYLEY Smith had a tough start in life.

A troubled childhood, years of moving from place-to-place and an addiction to hard drugs. Enough harrowing experiences to last a life-time, all before her 21st birthday.

With a track record like that it would be easy to write Hayley off... but this isn't the kind of girl who is going to roll over quietly.

“I was a ticking time-bomb waiting to go off,” admits Hayley. “I was battling so much pain from my early life that I spent my days taking any drugs I could get my hands on to block it out.”

Despite the chaos and despite missing a whole year at school, Hayley still got a handful of GCSEs and she went on to further studies.

Matters came to a head for Hayley when she turned 20. She had been living rough on the streets of Wigan and Chorley since the age of 14 and admits that she now thought her life was over.

But the born fighter refused to give up. Hayley sought the help she needed for the psychological and emotional scars she carried. She eventually got off the streets and was offered a place at a supported accommodation centre for young people aged from 16 to 25.

The lodgings provided Hayley with the security she craved and now it was time to turn the rest of her life around.

“When I first arrived I had nothing to live for. I had zero-confidence and I rarely left my flat,” says Hayley.

“Thankfully I had an amazing support worker For details who made me see that life of the full range of could be services that Way to different, if I Work has to offer visit really wanted www.way-to-work. it.” co.uk Last year Hayley joined

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BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

Groundwork's Prince's Trust programme for a 12 week self-development programme. The course gives young people the skills, motivation and confidence to go onto further education, training or employment.

Hayley’s passion and determination impressed Groundwork’s Hugh Shields so much that the organisation ended up offering her a position through the Future Jobs Fund.

Now she works with other troubled young people, giving them the benefit of her experience to get a flying start.

Hugh, the programme manager at Groundwork, tells us: “Hayley is an inspiration to us all. When she arrived she was shy and quiet and looking for direction.

“Groundwork's staff were able to work with her on her confidence and we recognised that she had the potential to be great and that's why Hayley was offered the role of Trainee Personal Development Officer – she is a completely different person today.”

Hayley has marked the transition by moving into her own place and for the first time in her life 'feels settled'.

“Every day brings its challenges, so I take it one step at a time.

“I'm sharing my story because I know there are others out there who have had to deal with unimaginable hardship and trauma and don't know where to turn.

“There is help out there – if you really want it.

“I refused to be a victim and I'm sure there are others that feel the same way. I have so much to offer and I want to help others be the best they possibly can.”

To watch Hayley’s video diary, visit her blog at http://hayley smithwaytowork. wordpress.com Hayley Smith...

An inspiration to us all.

DRESSED TO THRILL: Amy, Charlotte and Amy are ready for prom night, and below: Hindley girls get ready for the Summer Proms season…without breaking the bank.

Recycling

Hindley style

THE end of year American Prom-style event for high school leavers need not break the bank.

One group of girls from Hindley has come up with a solution for young women who may be feeling the pressure of finding an expensive and lavish dress.

Prom outfits can cost £300 for the dress alone. Throw in the need for shoes, handbags, spray tans and even a limousine for transport and the end of year party can soon turn into an expensive and stressful experience.

Hindley Girls Group, run by Wigan Council’s Youth Service, have teamed up with Wigan and Leigh Hospice to organise a dress drop off.

They are calling on women across the borough to donate any dresses they no longer use so that young women can buy them at reasonable prices for their high school proms.

Wigan Council Youth Worker Lisa Russon said: “Prom events and the dresses are just getting bigger and bigger every year and this puts a lot of pressure on young people and their parents.

“Some young people might say to their friends they can’t be bothered with the end of year prom and that they don’t want to go. The reality is that they might actually be embarrassed because they cannot afford to go.

“The prom can be stressful for

young people experiencing peer pressure from their friends and for their parents who are having to find this amount of money to pay for the night out.

“If women across the borough donated a nice dress they never wear anymore they would be helping other young girls out and raising some money for Wigan and Leigh Hospice at the same time.”

Beth Hoyle, 15, a member of Hindley Girls Group said: “There are only two times in your life that you might get to wear a big dress like this – your wedding and your high school prom.

“You want to feel like a princess so there is a lot of pressure to get a gorgeous dress that no one else has.”

Dresses can be donated at any one of the twelve Wigan and Leigh Hospice shops across the borough, which are located in Ashton, Atherton, Golborne, Hindley, Newtown, Pemberton, Platt Bridge, Shevington, Standish, Wigan and Leigh (two stores).

Making the most of Prom night AFTER all the preparations, it’s important that prom night is a night to remember for all the right reasons.

Here are some top tips that have been put together by local young people and youth workers to help you stay safe on prom night: ● Try to travel with others if you are taking a taxi. ● Always let someone at home know where you are going and when you will be back. ● Take a mobile phone with you (with credit on and fully charged up). ● Take a spare taxi number with you. ● Take enough money for a taxi home and keep it in a separate place to the rest of your money so that you don’t accidentally spend it. ● Consider carrying a personal alarm. ● Agree with your friends that you will all look out for each other and try to stay together on the night.

At the prom: ● Don’t flash your mobile or your money around. ● Try to stay with your group of friends. ● Avoid aggressive people. ● If you feel strange after having a drink (including soft drinks) tell a friend or teacher immediately to make sure they stay with you and help you to get home safely. ● Remember it is illegal for under 18s to buy or be bought alcohol. Adults who buy alcohol for young people under 18 can face big fines. ● If you have been drinking alcohol, know your limits and don’t lose control of yourself. ● Make sure you don’t do anything you might regret the next day. ● If you think you or a friend have had too much to drink and you feel unwell get some help from a responsible adult. ● Remember 999 is free to call in an emergency. Don’t be scared to call if you really need it. ● NEVER let anyone talk you into doing anything that you don’t want to do. Be confident, look after yourself and your friends.

Follow these safety tips and have a brilliant time!

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

11

COMMUNITY SAFETY UPDATE

Pilot aims to spot the signs of abuse

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

140

Source: iQuanta

Crimes per 1000 Residents Greater Manchester CDRPs All Crime 01 Apr 2010 – 31 Mar 2011

120

Force average

100

80

60

40

20

Rochdale

Salford

Tameside

0 Manchester

12

meaning 303 fewer offences.

Reports of antisocial behaviour have also decreased across the borough by 5,752 – a 25 per cent reduction.

Chief Superintendent Shaun Donnellan of Greater Manchester Police’s Wigan Division said: “These figures show we are succeeding in tackling the issues that the people of Wigan Borough have told us concern them most.

“We have attained these reductions by continually working with partners and local communities, and this hard work is now not only making communities safer,

continue to work hard to further bring down crime, make life difficult for criminals and help improve the quality of life for everyone in the borough.”

Oldham

WIGAN Borough is the safest in Greater Manchester… and we’re still getting safer!

The latest figures show that overall crime has fallen by 15 per cent in the 12 months to the end of March 2011 when compared to the previous year. And this reduction equates to 3,377 fewer victims of crime.

The drop in theft crimes is especially significant.

Burglary has gone down by almost 10 per cent with 119 fewer offences, car crime by 22 per cent with 571 fewer offences and robbery by 14 per cent, equating to 33 fewer victims. Violent crimes are also down by 15 per cent,

but making them feel safer too.

“The public can be reassured that we won’t be resting on our laurels in the coming months, but will

Bolton

Safety F1RST

■ Don’t suffer in silence... partners in the borough are reaching out to victims of domestic abuse.

Bury

“I'M SCARED SOCIAL SERVICES WILL TAKE MY KIDS AWAY” Social services want to help keep families together, safe and happy.

Stockport

“I DON'T WANT TO REPORT MY HUSBAND TO THE POLICE” You don't have to go through the police to get the support you need. You can access help by calling any of the numbers on: www.wigan.gov.uk/ domesticabuse

Invited guests, Trevor and Sheila Fairhurst gave a moving account of their 19-year-old daughter, Carly’s ultimately fatal relationship with boyfriend Darren Pilkington and how she denied to them that he was attacking her.

Plans are in place to ensure that 24,000 frontline public service staff – from fire officers to midwives – complete on-line training so that domestic abuse victims can be offered sympathetic and practical advice.

Trafford

Myth Busters!

libraries, police and the health service – in fact any of the agencies we interact with on a daily basis. The same professionals who may unknowingly come into contact with victims of domestic abuse but tragically fail to recognise the signs though no fault of their own.

And so a routine enquiry pilot scheme has been launched which aims to ensure people on the frontline of services who suspect somebody is the victim of abuse, intimidation or violence in the home are equipped with the awareness and training to ask the right questions. And first in the queue to sign up to the scheme are local GPs. As part of Wigan’s Child Safeguarding Board, professionals from the police, council and NHS recently addressed an audience of GPs and other medical centre staff at a conference at Haydock’s Thistle Hotel, and the support from local GPs was unanimous.

Wigan

A BLACK eye. A broken tooth.

Some poorly disguised bruises…

Recognising the tell-tale signs of domestic abuse should be easy.

Shouldn’t it?

Not according to those professionals who work on the frontline of public services such as housing, the benefits system,

If you are suffering domestic abuse, you can call the following in confidence: WAVE 01942 262290 DIAS 01942 495230 Victim Support & Witness Support 01942 322033.

Rugby’s coming

HOME? T HE Rugby League World Cup ‘belongs’ in Wigan Borough.

That’s the message from sports stars, community leaders, the business community and fans of the game who are supporting Wigan Borough’s bid to host the 2013 tournament.

A top-flight team from Wigan Council, Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, Ashton Leigh and Wigan PCT, Leigh Sports Village, home-town heroes Wigan Warriors and the Leigh Centurions as well as the borough’s network of amateur clubs have all been working hard to bring League’s most prestigious event to the game’s spiritual home.

Lending his support to the bid, former Wigan, England and Great Britain Rugby League star and Sky Sports Commentator Phil Clarke, says: “The Rugby League World Cup offers a real opportunity to spread the game of Rugby League across the whole of Greater Manchester and although it has been played for over 100 years in the region, I believe that this event will help raise the profile of the sport and demonstrate the skills and values the game has to offer.”

Wigan Borough faces competition to host the event from the Rugby League heartland You can keep up across the to date with Wigan Borough’s Pennines bid to host the Rugby League and from World Cup by following the Wrexham in council’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

North Wales, as well as bids nearer to home from Warrington, Widnes and St Helens.

But the borough partnership is confident that the bid from Wigan will be a worldbeater.

Wigan Council and PCT Chief Executive Joyce Redfearn says: “Few places can measure sporting success in the same way that our borough can and for many Rugby League is the lifeblood of our community.

“We believe that Wigan Borough will be a World Cup winner!”

Wigan Warriors star and Super League Young Player of the Year Sam Tomkins, summed up the mood: “Come on Wigan Borough!

“Sport is a fantastic way of bringing people together and this event really would be a massive boost to both the borough’s community spirit and the local economy as well.

“It’s going to be brilliant to see this event come home and we’re all backing the bid!”

YES Wii CAN: Residents of Walkden House and pupils from St Edmund Arrowsmith School get to grips with gaming.

Surf’s up for hi-tech pensioners WHEN it comes to getting to grips with the very latest technology, all you really need is a bit of pensionerpower!

And for residents at a Wigan Borough sheltered housing scheme, surfing the web and riding the superinformation highway, really is opening up a whole new world.

So far 11 people living at Walkden House in Ashton have completed a computer training scheme and are all avid internet users.

Residents May Gannon and Doris Pecekajus, both 85, had never used a computer until the course started 12 weeks ago. Now they are both very excited about the new opportunities suddenly available to them online.

Together they both regularly beat the computer at card games and Doris has also proven to be a talented goal scorer on the Wii! Contact with family has been particularly important and by using a webcam Doris has had face to face contact with her son in New Zealand for the first time in three years.

Doris says: “It was lovely to have a good chat and it is exciting to get emails and see photos of my grandchildren and great grandchildren. The first thing I noticed was that he has gone bald!” ● Internet access is available for free through the People’s Network at the borough’s libraries and at your local Life Centre.

BRINGING IT ALL BACK HOME: Wigan's Rugby World Cup bid team.

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

13

Two thirds of the borough is countryside – and the urban third has many buildings of note and places to visit too. We asked some local experts and dedicated residents to tell us about their favourite affordable and accessible places which deserve to be shared.

Summer around YOUR BOROUGH

❖ Dean Lock Keith Bergman of Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust says: “The Douglas Valley is always a treat, but I especially recommend the walk through Dean Lock.

It’s nice and flat along the canal of course, which makes it accessible, and with plenty of wildlife and passing boats, there’s always a lot to see. By road, it’s off Gathurst Lane B5206, and Gathurst railway station is close by for easy access.

Porter’s Wood, just behind Heinz, is a real hidden gem. It’s a brisk walk down from the station over the railway bridge.”

❖ six hidden gems ❖

❖ River Douglas, Haigh Graham Workman, Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust’s wildlife and countryside manager, says: “Away from the hall’s grounds, there’s a true riverside delight. You can have a peaceful stroll and perhaps see one of the birdlife treats – a kingfisher or even a dipper.” Start at Plantation Gates, go down the hill for 200m and turn left after the bridge – for a lovely bankside walk. Graham is developing a habitat for otters there to expand their River Douglas territory.

❖ Astley Green Colliery Geoff Jones, chair of the Red Rose Steam Society (pictured below right), says: “It dominated our area for generations, but there are some youngsters today who don’t know what coal is.

“The volunteers here work hard to maintain the borough’s last pit head and we are open Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday afternoons for visits to see the machinery and museum. We’re just off the East Lancs Road, with an exhibition and classroom facilities and host all sorts of rallies and events. Astley itself has lots to offer, with a nature trail and easily manageable country walks.

One starts at Ellesmere Street and crosses the canal at Whitehead Hall Bridge and then back into the village.”

14

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

ON PATROL: Help is at hand thanks to the Red Cross.

❖ Amberswood Common Martin Purcell, the council’s Greenheart Manager, says: “Recent consultation with local residents and schools has shown that many local people, even those living close to the site, rarely get out to enjoy it.

“Amberswood Common is 160 hectares of former opencast mine and landfill site. Today there are small lakes, woodlands and wetlands, and it

is easily accessible from the surrounding communities of Platt Bridge, Hindley, Spring View and Ince.”

On the other side of Liverpool Road A58 is Low Hall Nature Reserve, with its peaceful lake, with well surfaced pathways and lots of wildlife to discover. Low Hall is a stronghold for willow tits. There’s an active Friends of Low Hall Park group. Type ‘FLOW nature reserve’ into a search engine.

❖ Lilford Woods, Leigh Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust Parks Officer Peter Alker says: “We believe that this woodland walk is one Leigh’s real hidden gems. It is an extremely significant site in terms of both the history and natural history of Leigh. We believe that part of the wooded area is ancient woodland – which means that there have been trees here for at least 400 years. It is by far the best site in the borough for seeing the elusive Green Woodpecker or at least hearing it ‘yaffle’.

“Together with ward members and the Environment Agency, we’ve invested more than £50,000 on improving access, with 2km of new paths within the woods. And Lilford Park itself, at the end of The Avenue, has a great play area for the children too.”

Ruth Green and Anne Rampling of the Ashton Town Green Residents’ Association say: “We’re really proud of the garden.

The community have created a local landmark and a place for people to sit and relax. Please come and enjoy it.”

The group works with schools and has created a wild meadow area and space for events – they even grow plums and figs. The green is situated on the A58 Bolton Road just a brisk couple of minute’s stroll north out of

❖ Ashton Town Green Ashton’s busy town centre.

And it’s not the only oasis in the area: the tranquil Stubshaw Cross

Memorial Garden, also created by the efforts of residents, is a few strides further up the hill.

How friendly faces offer help at home A CARING voice or a friendly face really can make all the difference when you’re living alone.

Now older people who live alone in Leigh can benefit from exactly this kind of support thanks to the caring actions of a group of dedicated volunteers.

The British Red Cross is expanding its Dawn Patrol service to cover Leigh after it has proved a big success in other parts of the borough.

Launched in 2008 in Wigan, the free service involves local Red Cross volunteers making a daily phone call to, or visiting older people who are living alone to check they are warm, safe and well. Volunteers also provide care in the home where needed such as assistance with shopping, washing up or helping people to get to appointments.

Steve Jones, Dawn Patrol service coordinator at the British Red Cross, said: “Dawn Patrol has already proved successful in most parts of Wigan, where local volunteers have helped look out for older and vulnerable people in their community, so we are delighted that the service has now been extended to cover Leigh as well.”

The British Red Cross is always looking for volunteers who would like to get involved in helping their local community. ● If you would like to use the service or get involved as a volunteer contact Steve Jones on 01204 369 628 or sjones@redcross.org.uk

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

15

KNOW YOUR COUNCILLOR COUNCILLORS are elected to represent their communities and are here to help you with any local issues you may want to raise. Three councillors represent each of Wigan’s 25 wards, and a picture of each appears along with their phone number and email address. Currently there are 58 Labour members, eight Independent Group, five Conservative, two Liberal Democrat, one Community Action and one Standish Independent.

ABRAM

Contacting your councillor Councillors hold regular surgeries where you can discuss matters in confidence.

Surgery details are published on our website at: www.wigan.gov.uk Your councillors can also be contacted directly by phone or email*

Eddie Russon (Lab) Tel: 01942 736261

Eunice Smethurst (Lab) Tel: 01942 736228

E.Russon@wigan.gov.uk

ASHTON

Carl Sweeney (Lab) Tel: 01942 864328

E.Smethurst@wigan.gov.uk C.Sweeney@wigan.gov.uk

ASPULL-NEW SPRINGS-WHELLEY

Nigel Ash (Lab) Tel: 01942 736216

Joel Haddley (Lab) Tel: 01942 487689

Paul Tushingham (Comm Act) Tel: 01942 776060

Ron Conway (Lab) Tel: 01942 486853

John Hilton (Lab) Tel: 01942 736215

Chris Ready (Lab) Tel: 01942 736218

N.Ash@wigan.gov.uk

J.Haddley@wigan.gov.uk

P.Tushingham@wigan.gov.uk

R.Conway@wigan.gov.uk

J.Hilton@wigan.gov.uk

C.Ready@wigan.gov.uk

ATHERLEIGH

ASTLEY-MOSLEY COMMON

Brendan Bowen (Lab) Tel: 01942 873773

Sean Ell (Con) Tel: 01942 888497

Barry Taylor (Lab) Tel: 01942 486854

Mark Aldred (Lab) Tel: 01942 894262

Susan Loudon (Lab) Tel: 01942 897240

Pam Stewart (Lab) Tel: 01942 486855

B.Bowen@wigan.gov.uk

S.Ell@wigan.gov.uk

B.Taylor@wigan.gov.uk

M.Aldred@wigan.gov.uk

S.Loudon@wigan.gov.uk

P.Stewart@wigan.gov.uk

ATHERTON

BRYN

Karen Aldred (Lab) Tel: 01942 894262

Norman Bradbury (Ind) Tel: 01942 895671

Bob Splaine (Ind) Tel: 01942 893577

K.Aldred@wigan.gov.uk

N.Bradbury@wigan.gov.uk

R.Splaine@wigan.gov.uk

J.Birch@wigan.gov.uk

Mike Dewhurst (Lab) Tel: 01942 736247

Ann Rampling (Lab) Tel: 01942 486856

Don.Hodgkinson@wigan.gov.uk A.Rampling@wigan.gov.uk

Gary Wilkes (Ind) Tel: 01942 736478 G.Wilkes@wigan.gov.uk

GOLBORNE AND LOWTON WEST

DOUGLAS

Mayor Joy Birch (Lab) Tel: 01942 736233

Don Hodgkinson (Ind) Tel: 01942 776252

Shirley Dewhurst (Lab) Tel: 01942 736247

M.Dewhurst@wigan.gov.uk Shirley.Dewhurst@wigan.gov.uk

Ged Bretherton(Lab) Tel: 01942 736232

Stuart Keane (Lab) Tel: 01942 487683

Yvonne Klieve (Lab) Tel: 01942 275808

G.Bretherton@wigan.gov.uk

S.Keane@wigan.gov.uk

Y.Klieve@wigan.gov.uk

HINDLEY

HINDLEY GREEN

Jim Churton (Lab) Tel: 01942 522734

Jim Ellis (Ind) Tel: 01942 736258

James Talbot (Lab) Tel: 01942 736256

Bob Brierley (Ind) Tel: 01942 736259

Frank Carmichael (Ind) Tel: 01942 487687

Kier Stitt (Lab) Tel: 01942 486857

J.Eccles-Churton@wigan.gov.uk

James.Ellis@wigan.gov.uk

J.Talbot@wigan.gov.uk

R.Brierley@wigan.gov.uk

F.Carmichael@wigan.gov.uk

K.Stitt@wigan.gov.uk

16

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

*Please note this edition of Borough Life has gone to press before all the new councillors phone numbers may be in operation. This process will be completed by mid-June.

LEIGH EAST

INCE

Janice Sharratt (Lab) Tel: 01942 487682

David Molyneux (Lab) Tel: 01942 495083

Jim Moodie (Lab) Tel: 01942 776184

Anita Thorpe (Lab) Tel: 01942 487681

Keith Cunliffe (Lab) Tel: 01942 736251

Fred Walker (Lab) Tel: 01942 897278

J.Sharratt@wigan.gov.uk

D.Molyneux@wigan.gov.uk

J.Moodie@wigan.gov.uk

A.Thorpe@wigan.gov.uk

K.Cunliffe@wigan.gov.uk

F.Walker@wigan.gov.uk

LEIGH WEST

LEIGH SOUTH

Kevin Anderson (Lab) Tel: 01942 736250

John O’Brien (Lab) Tel: 01942 677148

Charles Rigby (Lab) Tel: 01942 736206

Susan Greensmith (Lab) Tel: 01942 736204

Peter Smith (Lab) Tel: 01942 604496

Myra Whiteside (Lab) Tel: 01942 776273

K.Anderson@wigan.gov.uk

J.O’Brien@wigan.gov.uk

C.Rigby@wigan.gov.uk

S.Greensmith@wigan.gov.uk

P.Smith@wigan.gov.uk

M.Whiteside@wigan.gov.uk

ORRELL

LOWTON EAST

James Grundy (Con) Tel: 01942 601488

James Cowley (Lab) Tel: 01942 486858

Pam Gilligan (Lab) Tel: 01942 487680

Richard Clayton (Con) Tel: 07979 734969

James.Grundy@wigan.gov.uk

J.Cowley@wigan.gov.uk

P.Gilligan@wigan.gov.uk

R.Clayton@wigan.gov.uk

PEMBERTON

David Arrowsmith (Lab) Tel: 01942 486859

Stephen Murphy (Lab) Tel: 01942 487688

D.Arrowsmith@wigan.gov.uk Stephen.Murphy@wigan.gov.uk

SHEVINGTON WITH LOWER GROUND

Barbara Bourne (Lab) Tel: 01942 736235

Jeanette Prescott (Lab) Tel: 01942 736242

Paul Prescott (Lab) Tel: 01942 736242

Mike Crosby (Lab) Tel: 01942 486860

Paul Collins (Lab) Tel: 01942 487684

Paul Liptrot (Con) Tel: 01257 407005

B.Bourne@wigan.gov.uk

J.Prescott@wigan.gov.uk

Paul.Prescott@wigan.gov.uk

M.Crosby@wigan.gov.uk

Paul.Collins@wigan.gov.uk

P.Liptrot@wigan.gov.uk

STANDISH WITH LANGTREE

Judith Atherton (Con) Tel: 01257 407006

George Fairhurst (Standish Ind) Emma McGurrin (Lab) Tel: 01257 407078 Tel: 01942 486861

Judith.Atherton@wigan.gov.uk George.Fairhurst@wigan.gov.uk

E.Mcgurrin@wigan.gov.uk

TYLDESLEY

Robert Bleakley (Lib Dem) Tel: 01942 897560

Paul Valentine (Lib Dem) Tel: 01942 486862

Stephen Hellier (Lab) Tel: 01942 487685

R.Bleakley@wigan.gov.uk

P.Valentine@wigan.gov.uk

S.Hellier@wigan.gov.uk

WIGAN WEST

WIGAN CENTRAL

Lawrence Hunt (Lab) Tel: 07766 478296 L.Hunt@wigan.gov.uk

George Davies (Lab) Tel: 01942 486864

Michael McLoughlin (Lab) Tel: 01942 487686

George.Davies@wigan.gov.uk M.McLoughlin@wigan.gov.uk

WINSTANLEY

Steve Dawber (Lab) Tel: 01942 776281

Phyll Cullen (Lab) Tel: 01942 736257

Terence Halliwell (Lab) Tel: 01695 628386

Steve.Dawber@wigan.gov.uk

P.Cullen@wigan.gov.uk

T.Halliwell@wigan.gov.uk

WORSLEY MESNES

Stan Barnes (Comm Act) Tel: 01942 766454

Clive Morgan (Lab) Tel: 01942 486880

Rona Winkworth (Lab) Tel: 01942 736229

Brian Baldwin (Lab) Tel: 01942 736222

Lynne Holland (Lab) Tel: 01942 736255

William Rotherham (Lab) Tel: 01942 495091

S.Barnes@wigan.gov.uk

C.Morgan@wigan.gov.uk

R.Winkworth@wigan.gov.uk

B.Baldwin@wigan.gov.uk

P.Holland@wigan.gov.uk

W.Rotherham@wigan.gov.uk

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

17

Connexions bucks trend on youth unemployed YOUTH unemployment may be on the rise nationally but thanks to Connexions, Wigan is bucking the trend.

The young people’s information, advice and guidance service is boasting its lowest ever figures for the number of young people aged 16 to 18 years who are not in education, employment or training.

Just 6.6 per cent of young people in our borough are now classed as unemployed, which compares to a nationally set target of 6.8 per cent.

Not only that, more school leavers than ever before are now moving into learning, especially further education.

The Wigan and Leigh Connexions service has achieved the fifth best figures nationwide for the September Guarantee. This is the offer of further learning to all school-leavers.

Wigan Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Cllr Susan Loudon, congratulated the borough’s Connexions service for a ‘wonderful achievement’.

“The team at Connexions should be very proud,” says Cllr Loudon. “Providing opportunities for our young people has never been more important. It is also reassuring to know that our young people are motivated and determined to take up the opportunities that are offered to them.”

Connexions service manager Elaine Dann adds: “We have worked together with our partners to exceed the targets set for us by the government. The team has worked hard to help our young people realise their potential by going into jobs and training.” ● For more information on Wigan Borough’s Connexions Service visit Wigan Council’s website – www.wigan.gov.uk and search for ‘Connexions’.

18

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

Transport connects people to places – places where we work, shop, study, access services and socialise. But the borough’s ageing transport network was never designed to cope with 21st century travel. Narrow and sometimes congested roads, overcrowded trains, and too few bus and cycle lanes…if we were starting our journey again we wouldn’t start from here. Or would we?

Help shape the future to make sure we’re

GOING PLACES e’re thinking transport and you can help shape the

W

future.

Tell us how you feel when travelling around the borough, why you’re travelling – and, importantly, how you’d prefer to get around in the future.

What you say will help paint an overall picture of what local communities need and want – and enable us to influence decisions and lobby for the improvements on your behalf.

“An effective transport network can unlock the

potential of Wigan Borough and its people,” said Cllr David Molyneux, Cabinet Member for Regeneration.

“While there have been many improvements to our transport infrastructure in recent years, we are still a long way from where we need to be.

“Everybody who travels in and out of this borough knows that there is room for improvement. If we do nothing traffic and congestion will continue to grow, there’ll be greater delays, higher costs and more damage to our health and

environment.

“Wigan Borough needs a transport network that can meet the challenges of a growing economy and the demand for travel – without compromising our health and environment. With your help we can move quickly to understand those challenges and share the solutions.”

What are your aspirations and priorities? Have your say at www.wigan.gov.uk/onthe move from Monday 20th June or come along to one of the roadshows across the borough (see local press for details).

Council cuts red tape on grant aid applications

Wigan on the move – the challenges Rail: Wigan is a key hub of the regional rail network, with links including north and south via the West Coast Main Line, and east and west on local lines.

The last decade saw exceptional growth, particularly on the Wigan-Bolton-Manchester corridor, with knock-on effects for overcrowding.

We need a rail network that provides fast, reliable and efficient services, especially for inter-urban journeys and commuting into large urban areas.

Buses: In the weekday morning peak thousands of adults and schoolchildren travel on buses, removing thousands of car trips from our roads that would otherwise make congestion much worse. We need bus services that are reliable, flexible, convenient and tailored to local needs.

Cycling: Across the whole of Greater Manchester cycling levels increased by 17 per cent between 2005 and 2009. In Wigan, there have been pockets of even greater success, with annual growth on the Whelley Loop Line at about 25 per cent. However, cycling still only represents about 1 per cent of all traffic – even

though two thirds of all journeys across the borough are fewer than five miles. We need to make cycling a real alternative for local trips.

Walking: Everyday, people choose to walk… to school, to the local shop, to the park, out with the dog, even if it is just a short walk to the bus stop or to the car. But sometimes time and convenience play a stronger role in decisions for short, local trips and walking frequently gets left behind. Walking is often ideal for short journeys and can have significant health benefits and make a real difference to local communities.

Roads: Locations in and around the M6 and A580 are attractive propositions for businesses, but the poor access and congestion that characterises some areas of the borough deters investment and job creation. We need a road network that provides a reliable, free-flowing service for both personal travel and freight, with people able to make informed choices about how and when they travel.

Have your say at: www.wigan.gov.uk/onthemove

WIGAN Council is cutting red tape to help community groups and organisations apply for grants.

There will now be just one scheme to apply to, a single set of criteria for applications to meet, and only one application form.

Groups and organisations must be able to provide evidence why they feel their project or service is needed and explain how the grant will make a difference.

Under the new scheme, the council will periodically highlight priority issues that it would like to see addressed.

Applications which address these will be given priority consideration.

Wigan Council’s Efficiency Champion Ged Bretherton says: “When resources are scarce we must make every penny count towards achieving things that we know will benefit Wigan and its residents.”

The new arrangements will enable the council to award grants to a wider range of groups and organisations, as the single scheme and criteria can be more flexible about responding to what the community needs.

Cllr Bretherton adds: “Under the previous system there were 13 different schemes, each with their own specific criteria.

“We have made it easier for people to apply for a grant because there is now only form for them to fill in.

We have also created one single set of criteria for all grants, and created a ‘fast-track’ system for grants under £1,500. Groups who apply for small amounts of money and satisfy all the criteria should have their money within 4 weeks.”

For more information on the new Wigan Council Grant Aid Scheme you can call 01942 486256 or email grantapplications@wigan. gov.uk

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

19

ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR... It’s a relatively new term for a very old set of problems. From noisy neighbours and dog-fouling to young people causing annoyance, ASB can come in many forms and they all make life pretty miserable for those on the sharp end. Being a victim of ASB can leave people feeling intimidated, angry, vulnerable and frustrated. But the good news is that, according to the latest figures, ASB in Wigan Borough is down by 25 per cent. Wigan Borough’s Building Stronger Communities Partnership (BSCP) is at the forefront of tackling ASB and its got a whole bagful of tools at its disposal. And with summer here, it's important that the council and its partners strike the right balance, particularly when dealing with youth-related ASB. Borough Life looked at some of the good work that’s taking place across the borough and found out more about some of the recent success stories.

Carrot and stick HIT BACK AT ASB WHEN it comes to tackling antisocial behaviour, we’re no one-trick pony, according to Cllr Kevin Anderson.

He's the council's champion for safer communities. “Our methods are diverse and wide-ranging. In old-fashioned speak, it's very much the carrot and stick approach. We believe in creating positive opportunities for young people, identifying problems early and taking the appropriate action.”

He adds: “It’s too easy to think that young people are the cause of ASB but that's just not the case. The truth is that 70

per cent of the ASB in our borough is caused by adults.

However, we do recognise that there are a small number of young people whose behaviour is just not acceptable. But we have had some real successes in tackling this. The key to it is that we are working with young people, offering them opportunities to get involved with their communities, learn new skills

and build up their confidence.

Where A host of necessary, we activities and events encourage young people are helping young who have people in the borough been in steer clear of trouble to antisocial make amends behaviour. and think about what they have done. With the figures for ASB on the decline, it’s an approach that is clearly paying off.”

■ Safe4Summer THERE are more than 28,000 young people in our borough and each year they can enjoy thousands of hours of positive diversionary activities laid on by partner agencies. The Safe4Summer campaign is back soon, when partners organise loads of activities so young people can have fun, keep out of trouble and stay safe. ● Want to know what’s going on in your area?

Visit: www.wigan.gov.uk/safe4summer or go to www.wlct.org/linconline Since 2009, there have been more than 12,000 registered attendees taking part in events and activities as part of the Nowt2Do? project, including dance, drama and sport. The scheme,

■ The Learning Curve YOUNG people and alcohol don’t mix.

That's why much of the work taking place in Wigan Borough is about preventing children from getting hold of drink. For example, the council’s Trading Standards’ team carries out hundreds of inspections and test purchases each year to prevent shops and off-licences selling alcohol to the under 18s.

led by Greater Manchester Police, rewards good behaviour and is described by young people as ‘brilliant’.

Did You Know?

Last year, Wigan Council's Youth Service worked with more than 8,000 young people, many of whom achieved awards and qualifications as well as having a great time! Also,in 2010, a summer sports project in Mesnes Park in Wigan, called Operation Windburn, cut complaints of ASB by 75 per cent compared to the same period in the previous year.

Meanwhile, Operation Staysafe is a joint operation between the police and the council which sees officers patrolling ASB hot spots, confiscating alcohol, giving advice on health and personal safety, and ensuring those at risk get home safely.

Did You Know?

If you’re caught buying alcohol for someone under 18 you could be facing a sobering £5,000 fine.

■ No smoke without...

FIREFIGHTERS in Wigan have been putting young people through their paces.

More than 800 young people took part in special courses last year to learn more about life as a firefighter.

Although anyone could attend, some of the courses were primarily aimed at those who had been involved in fire-related ASB. ● Want to know more?

Visit: www.manchester fire.gov.uk

To find out more about the measures agencies use to tackle youth-related ASB, go to www.wigan.gov.uk/ASB 20

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

■ Making good THERE is a small number of young people who keep getting into trouble.

But that doesn’t mean we have to turn them into criminals.

When it comes to owning up and accepting responsibility for what you have done, the council and its partners find that giving young people the chance to put things right really works. Seeing what impact their crimes have on their victims and then giving them the chance to say ‘sorry’ isn't the easy option but it can be the best. The victims get a say in how justice is done and this is

We have contact usually something that benefits the entire community. And in putting the damage right the young people can also learn valuable new skills and build selfesteem. All without getting a criminal record.

Did You Know?

Wigan Council’s Youth Offending Team has consistently beaten national targets for driving down the number of young people entering the criminal justice system. Since 2005/2006, we’ve seen a 67% drop in first time entrants and a 29% drop from last year alone.

■ Tough Love THE fact that there are fewer young people entering the criminal justice system means that the council, police and others can focus their attention on the small minority who commit the most serious offences.

“We understand the need to reassure the community that we take ASB seriously and deal with offenders appropriately,” says Cllr Anderson. “And our aim is to do this without stigmatising the majority of young people.”

There are a number options

available, including Anti-Social Behaviour Orders and the Intensive Supervision and Surveillance Programme. ISS is one of the most effective tools used by the council’s Youth Offending Team – and it’s no soft option. It includes electronic curfews (tagging) and 25 hours of contact per week with YOT staff.

If it fails, the next stop is lock-up Did You Know?

Convictions at court dropped by 23% from 09/10 to 10/11.

PREVENTION is always better than cure and for people working in this field, the earlier you can get in the better your chances are of changing behaviours.

One way of doing this is through Contact Cards.

When a young person gets into trouble they get a card.

For the police and council teams who administer the scheme, it means 'you're on our radar'.

If the bad behaviour continues and the young person gets more cards, it's time for further action, for instance, getting the young person to sign-up to an Acceptable Behaviour Contract.

Last year close to 2,500 Contact Cards were given out to young people in Wigan Borough but only 379 got a second one – so the scheme does make a difference.

Did You Know?

Fancy a dream trip to the United States? Then stay out of trouble.

A criminal conviction could see you banned from the USA and this includes penalties for young people involved in ASB.

To report ASB, call the council’s hotline on 01942 404364 or Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

21

Solar panels a ray of good news for borough ENERGY conservation is an issue that should concern us all.

And now council housing chiefs have found a ray of hope in the ongoing campaign to introduce more renewable forms of power, which could have benefits for the whole borough.

Working in partnership with Npower, Wigan and Leigh Housing has installed solar panels on the roofs of eight south facing homes as a trial project with very encouraging results. The panels produce electricity in an environmentally friendly way and tenants are also benefitting from lower bills. On average annual electricity bills are being cut by £100 thanks to the solar panels and the sun doesn’t even have to be shining for it to work.

Any electricity generated that is not used by the householder can be sold back to the energy supplier. The money made by producing electricity will be used to cover the costs of installing solar panels and re-investing in other properties.

Wigan Council’s Cabinet Member for Efficiency Cllr Ged Bretherton, says: “As part of an overall energy strategy, we are currently trying to find ways of installing solar panels for many more council homes.

“These solar panels work even on cloudy days and the clean electricity produced reduces the tenants electricity bills. Petrol and home fuel bills are rocketing up so we are now capturing energy from the sun to generate clean, low cost electricity.”

More Than Words

W

IGAN Borough’s biggest and brightest voice for people with learning disabilities is going it

alone.

More Than Words began life four years ago as part of a council-backed initiative to give people with learning disabilities a means of expressing themselves and have their say about life in our borough.

The 10-strong group uses art, drama, dance, games and poetry to explain and express the views of others – particularly those with more complex needs.

Now the group is in the process of breaking away from Wigan Council and striving for an independent status. And with this bold move comes an ambitious plan from the group to expand the range of services they offer as well representing even more people.

Sue Seager, who helps run More Than Words, explained: “It’s an exciting time and it really makes sense for a group

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BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

such as ours that speaks for people “This means we will be looking to work within the community to be truly for and on behalf of people with physical independent. disabilities and mental health issues as “We can now look for new groups and well. organisations to work with and take on “We will retain close links with the new tasks and projects both within Wigan council and will still be doing a lot of Borough and beyond.” work for them but independence was the Whilst the group is best known for its right option for us and we’re now looking performance work it has also helped to a bright future.” develop a communications tool for people The group’s next engagement will be a with learning disabilities that uses special performance for Armed Forces pictures and symbols.

Day on Saturday June 25.

From its base at Platt Bridge Wigan Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Zone, More Than Healthier Communities and Older Words is now also keen to get People, Cllr Keith Cunliffe, said: involved in providing, “The group provides a very To find out organising and running real and powerful voice for more about More training courses for people people in our borough and Than Words you can with learning disabilities. the group’s performances call Sue Seager on “We are also looking to capture the imagination of 01942 828182 or expand our operation to be everyone who sees them. We email: sue.seager@ even more inclusive,” said are sure they will continue to wigan.gov.uk Sue. go from strength to strength.”

LEIGH-ding the way CUTTING EDGE: The Marina at Bickershaw taking shape.

EVELOPMENT in and around Leigh is continuing apace this summer. Several big schemes are set to deliver jobs and improved services, and even in tough economic times, there’s more to come.

The two most noticeable projects are at Leigh Sports Village and by Spinning Jenny Way. A brand new Morrisons nears completion at Leigh Sports Village, and the site also includes a petrol station. Improved bus services announced by planners will ensure the complex will be accessible to all.

There’s a Tesco, new cinema and restaurants coming to the old Barlo Radiator site showing retailers’ faith in the town.

Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Cllr David Molyneux welcomes these schemes. He said: “As well as delivering new services, they are creating jobs and further improving the town’s look and feel.”

Cllr Molyneux is also enthusiastic about the return of the silver screen.

He added: “After a generation of Leythers commuting to see the latest movies, a seven screen cinema is really welcome. And the first popcorn goes on sale well before Christmas.”

D

Earlier this year the impressive marina on the Leeds Liverpool Canal by Plank Lane was completed... a more attractive gateway to Leigh than the derelict (and very dangerous) former Bickershaw mining and pub buildings.

Environmental charity Groundwork has also been working with the council and British Waterways to improve canal towpaths through to Abram. They supported dozens of unemployed young people who created an improved pathway suitable for walkers and equestrians.

The north of Leigh is also set for new jobs and investment, including homes, business and local community facilities. Traffic improvements to the Atherleigh Way, including the promised removal of the infamous Kamikaze roundabout on Twist Lane, are also scheduled.

And the UK’s first zero-energy cost business park is coming to Hindley Green following £2.7m investment from the European Regional Development Fund. The Swan Lane site will provide nine business units – around 65 jobs – and tenants won’t pay

any gas, electricity or water costs.

The park will be powered by a wind turbine and rainwater will be collected and filtered. Similar eco awareness has influenced the design and build of other local projects, including the cinema and at Bickershaw.

Cllr Molyneux said: “We are working with landowners, developers and companies to bring careful and significant investment to Leigh. Plans are being discussed for the town centre too, addressing concerns about traffic, parking and open spaces. It’s an exciting time and residents will see the results over the next few months.”

Fond memories of a movie Classic

FILM BUFF: Matthew Elliott

LEIGH author and movie fan Matthew Elliott is eager for the new multiplex to open.

He remembers the old Classic Cinema: “In the Classic's heyday queues for particularly popular films ran down the street. The longest I recall was for Jaws in 1975, which ran all the way round the building! The queue for the original Batman in 1989 was particularly long, but this was the very first 12

certificate film, and many youngsters were turned away, which caused the line to move pretty quickly.

“Quite a lot of parents took their kids to see Return of the Musketeers instead, boosting its box-office revenues more than it deserved.

“The Classic was a single-screen cinema until 1978, when it was renovated and re-opened to coincide with the release of Superman.

“There are two particular images of the Classic that stay with me after all these years one is of hot dogs in brine, before the invention of those roller devices. Hot dogs have never tasted the same since.

“The other is of an exceptionally large poster for the 1979 film Mad Max. Seeing Mel Gibson pointing his gun at me on every single visit used to quite unnerve me.”

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

23

Walk, Run, Cycle but always be healthy!

GIVING CHILDREN A CHANCE: Foster carers Tom Connor and Valerie Hargreaves promote the cause of fostering with Paul Rowley from the Leigh Centurions.

Human touch shows benefits of fostering THERTON’S Valerie Hargreaves, go’ all the time keeps me young. If I had mum to four grown up children, my time again, I wouldn’t change a began fostering 10 years ago. She thing!” admits her husband Stephen wasn’t too Thanking her for her efforts, and giving sure to start with, but she loves it so much the cause of fostering a boost by signing that it’s become a full time role for the the Big Fostering Book, was Paul Rowley, former Tesco manager. ex player and current coach for Leigh Valerie and Stephen first fostered an 18 Centurions. year old with some serious issues. “He Family man Paul said: “I have the turned into a gentleman,” she says. “He utmost respect for the carers who open blossomed because we listened to him and their homes to children and young people treated him like a human being for the who need a safe and secure environment.” first time in his life.”

Chris Williams, Chair of the North West Valarie’s story of placements lasting up Fostering Forum, was one of the organisers to several years is one familiar to many of a recent awareness week which foster parents. resulted in several thousand “We treat all our foster children like enquires.

If you are part of the family,” she said.

He said: “We’re giving interested in “So although many of them more people the fostering call eventually leave us, it’s never opportunity to come 01942 487203 ‘goodbye’… we still hear from most forward and find out or go to: of them and some even call round about how they can www.wigan.gov.uk for tea. make a difference to a /fostering “It’s so rewarding… being ‘on the child’s life.”

A

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BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

A HOST of activities to encourage residents to get healthy have been organised this summer by the borough’s Cultural Partnership.

As Borough Life went to print a festival of walking was taking place at Haigh Country Park in every conceivable form from Nordic Walking to Power Walking to a challenging 10K Bluebell Walk.

Other events organised by the Cultural Partnership this summer include: ● Sunday 12 June – a unique opportunity to cycle round the Three Sisters Race Circuit – the day will include Time Trials; Family Cycle Routes; Charity Raffle and much more. Cycles are available to borrow on the day – booking essential – 01942 488481. ● Sunday 17 July – Leigh Sports Village 10k Run, starts at 10am. To register your place for the run visit www.legacyevent.org ● Sunday 25 September – Haigh Country Park 10k Run starting at 9.30am and a 5k Family Run starting at 12 noon. To register your place for the run visit www.run4alife.com Wigan’s Cultural Partnership is a body made up of individuals from the public, private and voluntary sector dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and communities by increasing the accessibility of cultural resources and developing recreational facilities.

To find out more visit www.wlct.org

Winning Team: Celebrating litter-picking success are Wigan Athletic stars Hugo Rodallega, Franco Di Santo, Ronnie Stam, Steve Gohouri, Conor Sammon, Steven Caldwell and Gary Caldwell with the cleanteam from St John Fisher High School and members of the council’s Environmental Education, Cleansing and Neighbourhood teams.

Didn’t they do well!

SCHOOL children from across Wigan Borough have scored a real winner with their campaign to clean-up the school run.

With help from the council’s Eco Schools, Cleansing and Neighbourhood teams, pupils took ownership of the areas surrounding their schools with a planned programme of litter-picks.

And the results were stunning! More than 240 children collected 280 bags of rubbish from around their schools.

The pupils and the council even managed to pull off a late substitution in the shape of stars from Wigan Athletic,

who have come out in support of the young people’s efforts.

A group of 13 young litter-pickers from St John Fisher High School took part in one of the events.

During the clean-up that followed the pupils managed to collect a whopping 30 bags full of litter. As a thank-you the team were invited to Wigan Athletic’s training ground to meet some of the players.

Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez said: “Everyone knows that you play better when you play as a team and when it comes to clearing litter it looks like Wigan Borough has a great one.”

CURLING UP: Keeping active with curling are: Valerie Middleton, 76, Carole Richards, 54, Ian Simpson, 64, John Middleton, 75, Anne Winstanley, 60 and Richard Walsh, 71.

Golden age of games IF you need proof that age isn’t a barrier to sporting success then remember the name Oscar Swahn.

The Swedish sharp shooter won his sixth Olympic medal at the grand old age of 72 back in 1920... a reminder to us all that it’s never too late to take part.

Which is where Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust’s Active Living Team come in!

They’re planning Wigan and Leigh’s very own Olympic-style fun and games day in September.

“There’s only one criteria. ‘You have

to be over 50’, said Active Living Officer Elanor Reynolds. “This is a chance to make new friends, have fun but also improve your health and wellbeing at the same time.”

Starting in June a series of training camps will be arranged across the borough where teams can hone their skills in the disciplines including new age kurling, short mat bowls, table tennis, Wii Game, dance mats and a mystery old school game. When the teams compete in September all the hallmarks and protocol of the games will be adhered to with a team anthem,

medal ceremony and closing ceremony.

“This promises to be a lot of fun but there’s also a serious side,” added Elanor. “Engaging in regular physical activity can have a profound affect on your health.

If you’re Throughout the day interested in taking there will also be part call the Active lots of different Living Team on 01942 agencies such as 488 481 or email Arthritis Care where e.reynolds@ people can ask advice wlct.org and access information.”

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

25

Wigan festival set to jazz it up IGAN’S 26th International Jazz Festival (14th-17th July) heralds the return of the big band sound to the borough. Throughout the four day event, some of the world’s top jazz musicians will descend on the town and organisers hope the popularity of the big band sound will once again ensure sell out shows.

‘Big Bands and Beyond’ will see performances from The Ryan Quigley Big Band, the Laurence Cottle Big Band and the Pete Cater Big Band all performing at Lowri Beck Celebration Hall, Robin Park.

Other highlights include presenter of the BBC’s ‘Big Band Special’ Clare Teal & Her Trio performing alongside home grown talent including AJ Brown and His Band and the Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra.

“There really will be a fantastic array of talent on display this year,” reckons festival director Dr Ian Darrington. “So get your tickets early for what is sure will be a magnificent spectacle.

“When we themed the festival around big bands in 2009 it was one of our most popular and successful festivals and we’re hoping for more of the same this year. The bands have been carefully chosen to Clare Teal and represent as wide a variety of Her Trio, right, styles as possible and we are and Andreas Varady, confident that in terms of below, are among big band entertainment that the acts playing at Wigan is the only place to the festival. be in July.”

Wigan International Jazz Festival blends celebrity concerts with seminars and workshops.

Once again it has won support from main sponsor Manchester Airport to ensure it goes ahead. Local businesses have also thrown their support behind the festival with Lowri Beck, P A Hull and Co, Gordons Honda, Wigan Council, Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, Gallimore’s Restaurant, Grant Thornton and Wigan Jazz Club all sponsoring the festival.

Ian adds: “This is tough financial climate for all arts organisations and we are truly grateful for support from our sponsors.”

In response to this tough climate the rover ticket has been set at a lower price this year (less than £7 per concert). For the first time, this year children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

Student discounts are also available.

Wigan town centre will also a host a series of open air concerts between 11am and 1pm, Thursday until Saturday.

Tickets are available from www.quaytickets.com by phone on 0843 208 0500 or over the counter at Robin Park Indoor Sports Centre, Loire Drive, Wigan.

For more information visit www.wiganjazz.net

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BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

Wigan’s 26th International Jazz Festival – at Lowri Beck Celebration Hall, Loire Drive, Robin Park, Wigan Thursday 14 July 3pm to 5pm Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra with Steve Waterman.

8pm The Ryan Quigley Big Band in a Tribute to Maynard Ferguson.

8pm Pete Cater Big Band (Tribute to Buddy Rich).

Masterclasses – 10am till 12 noon Thursday 14 July Michael Janisch & Patrick Cornelius Improvisation Masterclass with Wigan Youth Band Big Band.

Friday 15 July 12 noon till 2pm John Law Trio.

3pm to 5pm AJ Brown and His Big Band.

8pm Clare Teal and Her Trio.

Friday 15 July Ryan Quigley Trumpet Masterclass.

Saturday 16 July 12 noon till 2pm Geoff Eales Quartet with Neil Yates.

3pm to 5pm Andreas Varady & David Lyttle with David Lyttle Trio 8pm Wigan Jazz Club Big Band with special guest Alan Barnes.

Seminars – 10am till 11am

Sunday 17 July 12 noon till 2pm Darius Brubeck Quartet.

3pm to 5pm Laurence Cottle Big Band.

Sunday 17 July Pete Cater with ‘Get into swing drumming.’

Friday 15 July The Empress Orchestra presented by Ashley Frohlick.

Saturday 16 July My Favourite Saxophone players

by Alan Barnes.

Sunday 17 July “Dave Brubeck – a Life in Jazz in the 20th Century” by Darius Brubeck.

World Wide Wigan can you help us be better connected?

LET’S GO SURFING: Cllr Chris Ready visits the Wigan Council website.

WE’RE planning major changes to our website – and we’d love you to be involved right from the start. wigan.gov.uk is the main source of information about Wigan Council and the hundreds of services we provide.

Thousands of people visit our website every day – and many of you are in regular contact with us via Facebook or Twitter.

If you’re a regular visitor we want to make sure that you are getting the best possible online experience from our website. And if you’ve never visited us before, we’d really appreciate your views as a first time user.

Cllr Chris Ready, cabinet champion for customer services, explains: “There’s an urgent need for councils to deliver more for less and the web can certainly help, but only if people seeking council services online can get what they want – and quickly.

“Two minutes of your time could make all the difference to how we shape up in the future.”

Simply visit www.wigan.gov.uk and make our business your business.

Let there be Life MORE letters from readers… More about green and environmental issues. how we can recycle… More space for “I don’t think you promote Keeping questions and answers… More articles on Wigan Tidy enough,” wrote one reader some of the villages surrounding Wigan… from Kitt Green. “I am walker and every These are just some of the many time I walk along the canal, in the bushes comments you the readers of Borough Life there are cans and endless litter.” have given us on how you would like to “I especially like to read environmental see the magazine improve in the future. issues and anything to do with protecting The council magazine for all residents and improving the countryside and green of Wigan Borough is now in its eighth spaces within our borough,” wrote year. It is delivered to more than 140,000 another reader from Pemberton. households in our borough four times a Others want more help and advice: “I year. Each issue costs individual would like to see a large section with households less than the price of a first questions and answers,” wrote one reader class stamp. from Leigh. “If I saw something As part of the Borough Life production suspicious, who do I report it to? If I have team’s commitment to continuing to problems in my area, what can I do?” improve the content of the magazine and One correspondent wrote: “I find give readers more of what they want, we Borough Life an interesting magazine but asked readers to fill in a simple due to the present economic climate I questionnaire in the Spring edition. feel it is an unnecessary expense and We asked readers to rate Borough Life should be scrapped.” on a scale of ‘excellent’ to ‘poor’.

Wigan Council’s Cabinet member of We also asked about the quality of the Customer Service Chris Ready thanked magazine’s design and how easy to read it all those who took part in the survey. is.

“Borough Life is one of the More than half of all those who council’s biggest platforms for responded (60 per cent) rated communicating with our The winner of Borough Life as ‘excellent’ residents and customers,” the Borough Life Survey whilst 54 per cent of he said. “We believe it competition was Mrs J respondents thought the very important in this Howarth of Whelley, whose design of Borough Life was regard but it is questionnaire was the first ‘excellent’. important that it does pulled out of the hat. Mrs Many of those who gave what the readership Howarth receives £50 views on what they would expects it to do. worth of shopping like to see more of were “Many readers have vouchers. particularly interested in written to us saying what

they would like to see more of, which suggests the magazine is well-read and valued by people.

“Whilst this is pleasing, it is no cause for complacency. We want to make Borough Life as effective as we possibly can, particularly during these difficult economic times. We will be taking all our readers’ comments on board and acting on them wherever we can.”

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

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‘Fete’ lends a hand in Shevington EVERY year Shevington Gardening Club organises a show.

Flowers, vegetables and all manner of produce are proudly displayed, with prizes for the best.

Now in its 27th year, the event is promising to be an extra special one this year.

The Gardening Club has joined forces with Shevington Community Association to organise the first Shevington and District Summer Fete.

Ted Unwin from the Gardening Club says: “Local groups and organisations have been asked to take part in the Fete and we have had a terrific response. It's a chance for everyone to support local groups, showcase their activities and raise funds.”

Groups taking part so far include the Fire Brigade, who will be bringing along an engine, the St John Ambulance Brigade, Guide Dogs for the Blind and the Police who will be giving a security demonstration.

There will also be a craft fair.

The Fete and Flower Show will take place on Saturday 6 August in and around Shevington Methodist Hall and Shevington Youth Club, look out for the sign-posts.

The Fete and Craft Fair will run all day (10am to 4pm) The Flower Show timetable will be: ● Staging – 9am till noon ● Judging – noon till 2pm ● Public viewing – 2pm onwards.

The show will be followed by an auction of produce.

Refreshments will be available on site throughout the day. For more information about the Fete email: shevingtonanddistrictfete2011 @hotmail.co.uk or marlaine@hotmail.co.uk Exhibiting at the show is for members only, but you may enrol on the day of the show, by taking a half year’s membership, which will run until January. ● For information about the show email: tedunwin@talktalk.net or phone 01257 255171, or ring Eileen on 01257 402097.

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BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

Borough Mayor Cllr Joy Birch.

Mayoral reward for

BRAVE STALWART T was to be the beginning of pinnacle of Cllr Joy Birch’s civic career… the Douglas Ward councillor had represented her community since 1995 and in the process become one of the longest-serving female members on the council.

After 16 years’ dedicated service, she was about to be sworn in as the borough’s Deputy Mayor. The natural course of events would mean she became Wigan’s first citizen a year later.

The woman with a self-proclaimed passion for community spirit was about to realise the dream of serving the community of the entire borough.

But the celebrations were about to be cut short because days after the civic ceremony the mother and grandmother of four was given some life-changing news.

Nagging pains had prompted Cllr Birch to seek medical advice, the result of which confirmed her worst fear – cancer.

It was breast cancer and secondary tumours that required immediate and intense treatment with no guarantee of success.

“It was a shock at first,” admitted Cllr Birch. “It’s not something you can ever expect but I was told that it was treatable so I was determined to fight it.”

The tragic irony for Cllr Birch was that she had already cared for two people extremely close to her as they lived with and finally to succumbed to the terrible illness.

“I had seen what this illness could do and had already lived with the consequences,” she said. “But I refused to give in to it. I had to hold on to the hope that I could beat it.”

And so began a year-long course of treatment, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy – which Cllr Birch admits she found ‘difficult’ at times.

“I had been given a chance, so I wasn't going to give in to personal discomfort,” she said.

I

“The care I was given by the doctors and nurses was fantastic, I couldn't have asked for more. They spurred me on every step of the way.”

One year on and just weeks before Cllr Birch took the Mayor's Chain of Office at a special ceremony, she got the news she was hoping for as she was given the all-clear.

“It really has given me a new lease of life,” she said. “I really feel that there's no stopping me now.”

The hard-working councillor has vowed to go on serving the people of her ward and the borough for as long as she can and she also looking forward to her mayoral year with fresh hope.

Each year the incoming Mayor chooses who they will support and raise money for during their term. Cllr Birch has nominated two causes. She will be working with the Multiple Sclerosis Society. “Two close family members have it,” she said. “And it’s important that everyone understands it doesn’t just affect older people.”

Cllr Birch’s second cause is even closer to home: “It’s the local branch of Marie Curie Cancer Care, so I can help people in our borough who are living with cancer. From expert advice and support to a bit of care and just a listening ear, the service provided by Marie Curie is very special.

To find out how Both my causes you can support Cllr Birch's are ones I am charity appeal, visit Wigan proud to Council's website support and www.wigan.gov.uk and search I know the for 'Mayoralty'. You can also people of e-mail the Mayor's Secretary Wigan at: mayorssecretary Borough will @wigan.gov.uk or call: be right 01942 404149. behind me.”

Haigh Rock ‘n’ Roll ET ready for a sizzling summer of live music at Haigh Hall.

Manchester indie band The Courteeners, The Coral, the hunky Peter Andre and star of Pineapple Dance Studio’s Andrew Stone – with his band Starman – will all perform in the grounds of Wigan’s majestic manor house in June and July.

And to ensure you don’t miss out we’ve secured a couple of competition tickets!

Haigh Hall Live! is being brought to Wigan by private promoters Cuffe and Taylor, and supported by Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust.

The opening night of the four day event on Thursday 30 June will see indie band The Courteeners perform with Merseyside based The Coral supporting. It’s an evening sure to evoke memories of the Verve’s triumphant 1998 home coming gig – the event is expected to be a sell out.

Event director Peter Taylor said: “This is going to be an epic night. It will be a celebration of Manchester’s finest, in a wonderful location that will set the tone for the weekend.

“I keep saying it but the

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Tickets to see top acts up for grabs

STAR ACTS: The Courteeners and bottom right, Peter Andre. people of Wigan are lucky to have this venue on their doorstep.”

On Friday 1 July pop fans can revel in a truly eclectic line-up of celebrities with Mysterious Girl singer and TV presenter Peter Andre, Andrew Stone and Starman all performing.

The curtain for this wonderful celebration of

All tickets are available from the following ticket outlets www.haighlive.com 0844 880 6614 or www.seetickets.com; www.ticketmaster.co.uk on 0844 873 7334. For more information visit www.haighlive.com

music will be brought down by the annual Haigh Fest – a celebration of the borough’s best unsigned bands on Sunday 3 July.

Organisers of Haigh Fest, Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, will be introducing a nominal £2 charge this year in light of government cuts to funding.

Chief Executive of Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, Stuart Murray, said: “Central government funding for this wonderful event is no longer available. By working with Cuffe and Taylor and by introducing a nominal fee we can ensure the long term future of this fantastic event.”

Borough Life has a pair of tickets to watch The Courteeners live at Haigh Hall and a pair of tickets to see Peter Andre perform.

To enter answer this simple question.

Who first played a sell-out concert at Haigh Hall in 1998?

Answers on a postcard to: Borough Life Haigh Festival Competition, Freepost NWW3502A, Wigan, WN1 1XZ or hand it in at your local library.

Even easier you can enter via email to boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk but please make sure you put your name and contact details along with your answer.

Your answers must reach us no later than Friday 24 June.

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

29

Summer 2011

What’s

ON

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

Arts and Festivals Sun 5th Jun, 8pm

MICK MARTIN - BROKEN TIME The Academy of Live and Recorded Arts, Turner Street, Wigan.

Tel 01942 828227. FREE.

Tue 14th Jun, 1.30pm – 2.30pm

MEET THE MAKER - JAMBALL Turnpike Gallery, Leigh.

Local design duo Jaime and Pete Ball. Includes light refreshments.

For further information and to book Tel 01942 404469. £1.

Sat 18th Jun, 10am - 3pm

AN INTRODUCTION TO PRINTMAKING FOR ADULTS Turnpike Gallery, Leigh.

Explore two different printmaking techniques in this full day session.

Booking essential.

For details and to book Tel 01942 404469. £12.

Thu 30th Jun, 8pm

Haigh Country Park. £2 Entry plus £2 car parking Full line up at wlct.org/festivalfever

Sat 9th Jul, 10am - 3pm

APPROACHES TO ABSTRACTION Turnpike Gallery, Leigh.

A look at artists’ approaches to Abstraction by exploring their ideas, style and techniques.

Suitable for beginners and those with some previous experience.

Includes all materials. Booking essential. For details and to book Tel 01942 404469 £12.

Sat 9th Jul, 10am - 3pm

BATIK FOR ADULTS Turnpike Gallery, Leigh.

Includes all materials. Booking essential. For details and to book Tel 01942 404469. £12.

Sat 9th Jul, 11am-2pm

LANDGATE SCHOOL PTA Summer fair at the Bryn school.

Major raffle prizes and family fun.

Sat 16th Jul to Sat 27th Aug

THE COURTEENERS

ART FACTORY: FUN FAIR

Haigh Country Park.

For tickets seetickets.com / 0844 873 7334 or ticketmaster.co.uk / 0844 844 0444. Gates open at 6pm. £35 For details visit haighlive.com

Turnpike Gallery, Leigh.

Funfair draws on the traditions of the travelling fair, the circus and the village fete to create a unique exhibition. For details Tel 01942 404469. FREE.

Fri 1st Jul, 8pm

Parks & Countryside

PETER ANDRE Haigh Country Park.

For tickets seetickets.com / 0844 873 7334 or ticketmaster.co.uk / 0844 844 0444. Gates open at 6pm. £35 For details visit haighlive.com

Fri 3rd Jun, 1pm - 2pm Fri 24 Jun 1pm - 2pm Fri 15 Jul 1pm - 2pm Sat 16 Jul 10am - 11am

MESNES PARK RESTORATION TOURS

Turnpike Gallery, Leigh.

Artist led workshop for 5-12s.

Booking essential.

Tel 01942 404469. FREE.

Mesnes Park, Wigan.

Experience first hand how the team in Mesnes Park are restoring the heritage features. Adults only.

Must wear sturdy boots.

Booking essential.

Tel 01942 245369. FREE.

Sun 3rd Jul, 12pm - 8pm

Sat 4th Jun, 10am - 4pm

Sat 2nd Jul, 10:30am - 12:30pm

ARTS ACTIVE

HAIGH FEST 30

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

FAMILY OPEN DAY

Wigan Flashes Nature Reserve.

Try your hand at pond dipping, watch the wood turning, join a guided walk, or just buy a burger.

No booking required. For details call 01942 233976.

Sat 16th Jul, 10am

MEADOWS IN MIDSUMMER Wigan Flashes Local Nature Reserve. Booking essential.

For details Tel 01942 233976.

Sun 17th Jul, 2pm - 4pm Sat 25th Jun, 1pm

BUTTERFLY WALK

CAFÉ SOCIETY GET THE WASHDAY BLUES

Low Hall Local Nature Reserve.

Join Lancashire Wildlife Trust staff on this guided walk Booking essential. Tel 01942 233976.

Pennington Hall Park, Leigh.

Jazz Quartet.

For details Tel 01942 486904.

Heritage Tel: 01942 828128.

Sun 26th Jun, 10am

Sat 4th Jun, 11am - 2pm

THINK AHEAD 5K

SUPER SATURDAYS!

Haigh Country Park.

Run, jog or walk around the beautiful grounds of Haigh Hall in aid of a local charity. More details at think-ahead.org.uk/events or tel 01942 824888.

Museum of Wigan Life.

Fantastic Fossils - craft activities, quizzes, trails and objects to see and touch. Suitable for all ages. For details Tel 01942 828128. FREE.

Sat 4th Jun, 12 noon Tue 28th Jun to Wed 29th Jun, 2pm

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S TWELFTH NIGHT Haigh Country Park. 7pm.

Outdoor summer Shakespeare in the walled gardens. For advanced booking and reservations, tel 01772 466256. Family £50 (2 adults + 2 children). £20, Concessionary £16, children £12 (ages 6-18).

Sat 2nd Jul, 10am - 3:30pm

PRACTICAL CONSERVATION DAY Wigan Flashes Nature Reserve.

No experience necessary, just lots of enthusiasm. Booking essential.

For details Tel 01942 233976.

LEIGH HISTORY AND FUN WALKS A Walk in the Park. Locations confirmed on booking. Bring the buggies, get out of the house and discover local history. Book at Wigan and Leigh Local Studies.

For details Tel 01942 404559 £1.

Sun 5th Jun, 1pm – 2.30pm

WIGAN HISTORY WALK Discover your local area on foot with one of our historians.

Booking essential. Outdoor wear Advisable. For details Tel 01942 828128. £2.

Fri 10th Jun, 11am - 12pm

CARVED IN STONE WALKS Ince UDC Cemetery, Warrington

01204 460989 or visit www.northernlink.co.uk

Refreshments included. For details Tel 01257 400496. £5.

Tue 14th Jun, 11am - 12pm

Sat 18th Jun, 8pm - 1am Sat 16th Jul, 8pm – 1am

Thu 16th Jun to Thu 23rd Jun, 10am - 12pm

CARVED IN STONE WALKS

45 CARET SOUL

BUYING AND SELLING ONLINE

Lower Ince Cemetery.

Discover your local area on foot with one of our historians. For details Tel 01942 828128. £2.

Formby Hall, Alder Street, Atherton.

Bar till 12.30am. Pay on door.

For details Tel 07787 948671 or 07706 836498. £5.

Leigh Library.

Join the internet buying / selling craze and learn how to do it safely.

Tutorials on Amazon and eBay. For details Tel 01942 404404.

Thu 16th Jun, 5.30pm - 7pm

Fri 15th Jul, 8.30pm - 12am

MR DOOTSON’S READING GROUP

NORTHERN LINK SINGLES DANCE

Wigan and Leigh Local Studies, Leigh Library. For details Tel 01942 404559. FREE.

Monaco Ballroom, Hindley.

Mod Sequence, Ballroom and French Jive. Your host DJ Rex. Members £5, guests welcome £7.

For details Tel 01204460989 or visit www.northernlink.co.uk

Road. Discover your local area on foot with one of our historians. For details Tel 01942 828128. £2.

Tue 21st Jun, 1pm

OBJECT OF THE MONTH Museum of Wigan Life.

Guernsey Plaque. In the Second World War 709 evacuees came from the Channel Islands to Wigan.

Find out more about this plaque presented as a token of thanks. For details Tel 01942 828128. FREE.

Wed 29th Jun, 1pm - 3pm

LEIGH HISTORY CHAT Wigan and Leigh Local Studies, Leigh Library.

Leigh Youth Groups. Informal chat about past times. For details Tel 01942 404559. FREE.

Thu 30th Jun, 6:30pm - 7:45pm

AN AUDIENCE WITH IAN MILLER Museum Of Wigan Life.

Archaeologist Ian Miller uncovers Wigan’s Roman history. Booking essential. For details and to book Tel 01942 828128. £2.50.

Sat 25th Jun, 11:30am – 2.30pm

SUPER SATURDAYS! Museum of Wigan Life.

World of Fun – Celebrating Refugee Week. African drumming, storytelling. face painting, games from Asia and Africa, Henna and hair braiding. Tel 01942 828128.

FREE.

Thu 23rd Jun, 5.30pm – 6.30pm

FAMILY ORIGAMI CLUB Leigh Library.

Have fun using ancient paper folding techniques. For details Tel 01942 404404. FREE.

Sat 25th Jun

NEW WII LEAGUE

Libraries

Standish Library.

Open to any age. No need to book.

For details Tel 01257 400496.

Fri 3rd Jun, 3pm - 4pm

Tue 5th Jul, 10am - 11am

CHILDREN’S CRAFT SESSION Tyldesley Library.

For details Tel 01942 404738 £1.

Sat 4th Jun, 11am - 12pm

THE OPEN BOOK CLUB Leigh Library.

New reading group for adults. For details Tel 01942 404404.

Tue 7th Jun, 10am - 11am

STORY TIME - PEPPA PIG Wigan Children’s Library.

Special monthly story time. For details Tel 01942 828104. FREE.

Sat 11th Jun, 10.45am – 11.45am

CHILDREN’S CRAFT CLUB Standish Library.

Limited places. Tickets £1. For details Tel 01257 400496. £1.

STORY TIME - THE THREE LITTLE PIGS Wigan Children’s Library.

For children aged under five years.

For details Tel 01942 828104. FREE.

Thu 7th Jul, 10am - 12pm

INSPECT-A-GADGET Leigh Library.

Learn about the latest computer technologies. Booking Essential.

For details Tel 01942 404404.

Thu 7th Jul to Thu 14th Jul, 10am - 12pm

THE SOCIAL NETWORK FACEBOOK AND TWITTER Leigh Library.

Booking essential. For further Details Tel 01942 404404.

Thu 21st Jul to Thu 28th Jul, 10am - 12pm

MICROSOFT WORD FOR BEGINNERS Leigh Library.

Two consecutive Thursdays.

Booking essential. Gain the confidence to starting using this powerful word processing program.

For details Tel 01942 404404.

Thu 21st Jul, 3.30pm - 5pm

BEETLE DRIVE AND BINGO SESSION Tyldesley Library.

For details Tel 01942 404738. £1.

Sat 23rd Jul

NEW Wii LEAGUE Standish Library.

Open to any age. No need to book.

For details Tel 01257 400496.

Tue 26th Jul to Fri 2nd Sep

SUMMER HOLIDAYS 5-11’S EVENTS Wigan Children’s Library.

To coincide with this years Circus Stars Summer Reading Challenge scheme. Come early to avoid disappointment. For details Tel 01942 828104.

Tue 26th Jul, 10.30am – 11.30am & 2pm – 3pm

MAKE YOUR OWN BIRD FEEDER Leigh Library.

For details Tel 01942 404404. £1.

Tue 26th Jul, 2pm - 3pm

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE CRAFT CLUB Wigan Children’s Library.

Sign in for session 1.45pm -2pm.

For details Tel 01942 828104 £1.

Sat 9th Jul, 10.45am – 11.45am

Fri 29th Jul, 2pm - 3pm

Thu 16th Jun, 1.30pm

CHILDREN’S CRAFT CLUB

CRAFT CLUB

FLOWER ARRANGING

Standish Library.

Limited places. For details Tel 01257 400496. £1.

Wigan Children’s Library.

Sign in for session 1.45pm -2pm.

For details Tel 01942 828104. £1.

Standish Library.

Make your own display.

Leisure Venues Sat 4th Jun, 8pm - 2am Mon 6th Jun, 8pm - 2am Sat 2nd Jul, 8pm – 2am

NORTHERN SOUL AND MOTOWN NIGHT Monaco Ballroom, Hindley.

Bar till 1am. Pay on door. For Details Tel 01942 522992. £5.

Fri 10th Jun, 8:30pm - 12am

NORTHERN LINK SINGLES SPRING BALL Monaco Ballroom, Hindley.

Mod Sequence, Ballroom and French Jive. Dress to impress. Your host DJ Rex. Members £6, guests welcome £7.50. For details Tel

BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2011

31