Borough Life

THE MAGAZINE FOR ALL RESIDENTS OF WIGAN BOROUGH

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BOROUGH

ISSUE 32 WINTER 2010

Here comes Santa Claus Premier league boss backs borough youngsters see page five

FESTIVE ISSUE crammed with Christmas news and information see centre pages

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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).

Why, oh why, is Astley borough’s forgotten area?

SIR, – I write regarding the annual report just received, on page 13, it is the report on estate inspections which contains no report on my area Astley.

It is always the same in Borough Life which invariably omits to mention Astley in any way shape or form.

Things always appear to be being done for other areas of the borough – why once again is Astley the forgotten area? There are many decent people in Astley so why are we never considered?

Christine Nelson, via e-mail

■ Wigan Council’s Cabinet Champion for Customer Service, Cllr Chris Ready says: “Many thanks for the e-mail Christine.

We do try and cover as many different areas of the borough as we possibly can in Borough Life, but it isn’t possible to mention everywhere in every edition.

“Because Borough Life is delivered to every household in the borough, we try to focus on those stories that will affect everyone rather than concentrating on individual areas.

“In this edition, on page 20, you can read about the new Building Stronger Communities Partnership e-newsletter, which we are launching for all townships, including Tyldesley and Astley.

“This will cover campaigns and events at local level and the issues that affect your local community.”

ASTLEY IN FOCUS...

The historic colliery building is a familiar landmark and the gateway to the ancient mosslands to the south.

Ideas to balance budget SIR, – First I would like to say that the magazine is very well put together and covers all ages.

I have only lived here since mid-August and think that Wigan Council can be proud of all they are doing.

I did wait until after the Chancellor’s Budget before writing to you re: ‘Spending Challenge’, we all did expect cuts and how they are not just going to go away. You show a need for £5million this year, that leaves £50million in the remaining two years if, as you write, the total is £55million over three years.

I am 82 years old and not able to be of help as I am restricted in my walking, but you ask for ideas and even small ones count. First BINS... now we have much less for the black bin each week, we could have a two week pick up, leaving men free for other needed work.

Before I came here we had a two-week pick-up for 12 years with no difficulty.

There is also the beautiful plant display each year we all enjoy, but that time and cash could be saved.

Mrs June Bottomley, Worsley.

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■ Wigan Council's Waste and Recycling Manager Dr Gail Robinson said: "Thank you for the letters regarding the waste collection services and in particular your suggestions for saving money. By only putting out bins when they are full would mean we can look again at the frequency of the recycling collections, something we are experimenting with in our blue bin trial in which a bin for paper and card is to be emptied on a four week basis.

We have come a long way in a short time since the days of only receiving a weekly refuse collection and no recycling. It's encouraging that residents are noticing that the amount in the black bins is reducing and that they could manage with less refuse collections. We still feel that we have more to do to help residents recycle their waste but it is good to know that residents are open to different approaches to waste collection."

Bin it... fill it!

SIR, – I am sure there are many manpower hours to be saved if people were educated to put out their bins only when there is a need to do so.

A brown bin with a jam jar or a paper sack with two or three items in it, is wasting everybody’s time. My brown bin only goes out when it is full, i.e. once every six months.

I am sure there are many more like me who despite being all in favour of recycling don’t generate much waste.

‘Bin it – but fill it’ should be the message.

Mr R Crispin,Standish.

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www.wigan.gov.uk

The

Leader Column

Building the future together

Winter 2010 This edition packed with news, plus...

By Peter Smith Leader, Wigan Council “YOU must be the change you wish to see in the world.”

A quote from the father of modern India Mahatma Ghandi, which in our present climate really rings true. In the last edition of Borough Life we informed readers about the Challenging Times and how cuts to local authority funding may affect services in our borough.

That picture is now a little clearer and the council is faced with reducing its budget by more than a quarter (28 per cent) over the next four years. And whilst we remain committed to putting vital frontline services first, there will be changes.

We want residents of the borough to be fully involved in this change process and on page 6 you can find out how you can have your say, ask questions and even have a go at balancing the council’s budget as part of our Challenging Times update.

By working together we can face what the future will bring and I believe our borough will be well placed to emerge stronger and more resilient.

PAY online, benefits’ checks online, find out what services are available online. We live in an increasingly digital age and undoubtedly the fastest, quickest and in many cases cheapest way to find the information you need is through the Internet.

The council is embracing this and we have used this edition of Borough Life to launch a number of new online services all aimed at making it easier for our customers, namely you, to get what they want. If you haven’t got access to a computer, internet use is free in the borough’s libraries and Life Centres, now more than ever the best place to start your search is with Wigan Council’s website – www.wigan.gov.uk WINTER is upon us and at the forefront of most people’s thoughts will be…SNOW. Last year our borough disappeared under a white blanket as the worst winter for 30 years hit. Temperatures spiralled downwards, the snow froze and this made conditions even worse.

Many people were left housebound and there was a big impact on council services. Bin lorries could not get down streets to empty the bins and our town centres were covered with a sheet of treacherous ice. Throughout this the council’s gritting and street scene team, care staff, schools and many more kept going.

We were one of the few boroughs in the region which did not run out of gritting salt. In fact, we were actually able to help some of our neighbours when they ran out.

This year our plans are even more advanced and we have become one of the first authorities in the country to build our very own salt barn. The 14 metre high structure is based on a Scandinavian design and is already well stocked. We cannot prevent the bad weather from coming but we can make sure we are as prepared as we possibly can be. You can find out more about the salt barn on page nine. You can also prepare for the holiday period by finding out what services are available over Christmas and the New Year with our essential public services guide on pages 16, 17, and 18.

FINALLY, on behalf of everyone at Wigan Council, I would like to wish all our readers a happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year.

Wallgate’s lottery winners

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Help us meet the Spending Challenge

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The Mesnes event

Advice is the business Borough Life is published by Wigan Council and distributed to all households in the borough. This edition was published on 1 December 2010. Distribution should be complete by 18 December 2010.

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

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CONTENTS

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COVER PICTURE Father Christmas is pictured with threeyear-old Andrew Gordon from Hope Children’s Centre... one of the first in the UK to be rated “outstanding” by inspectors from Ofsted.

The Editor Borough Life, FREEPOST NWW3502A, Wigan WN1 1XZ. Tel: 01942 827164 Email: boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk 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 828145.

BOROUGH LIFE Winter 2010

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A computer-generated impression of how Wallgate would look after the £1.2million regeneration scheme.

Lottery winners!

IGAN town centre has won the Lottery! Exciting plans to revitalise one of town’s most prominent streets are now set to become reality thanks to a major funding boost.

The Heritage Lottery Fund is supporting the Wigan Wallgate Townscape Heritage Initiative with £1.2m worth of funding.

Council planners submitted a bid to help transform the street from a noisy thoroughfare into a tree-lined pedestrian-friendly boulevard. The scheme stretches from the Wallgate

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Bridge to The Wiend and includes parts of Market Place, King Street and Library Street as part of a larger five year regeneration programme.

Old pavements will be replaced with traditional York stone and bollards along the route will be removed.

There will be a move to ‘declutter’ this area of the town centre by removing old and outdated street signs and street furniture.

Cabinet champion for the economy and the environment, Cllr David Molyneux, says: “We want to make Wallgate a modern,

attractive environment that will promote the borough and help bring future trade and investment into Wigan.

“We also want it to be a place that is enjoyed by local residents who work or shop in our town centre and we want to build on Wigan’s reputation as a shopping destination.”

Sara Hilton, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund North West, said: “Our historic buildings are at the heart of the identity of our towns, and the best way to save and maintain these wonderful sites is to get them back into full use by local communities.

Website cuts out red tape RESIDENTS can use the power of the internet to cut through a maze of red-tape and form filling.

The council has launched an ‘apply on-line’ service, including a feature for those who feel they may be eligible for benefits.

It offers a fast, free and effective guide to filling in the forms required to apply for a host of benefits from Council Tax and Housing benefits through to free school meals.

Wigan Council cabinet champion for customer service, Cllr Chris Ready, said: “Many people in Wigan are missing out on benefits they may be entitled to and we know that in a typical year many thousands of pounds worth go unclaimed.

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“This could be due in no small part to the potentially daunting prospect of having to fill in long and complicated forms.

“We have looked at how we can make this process as simple as possible and have cut down on a lot of the repetition in some of these forms. We managed to reduce forms of sometimes more than 50 pages down to just a few.”

You can find out more by visiting Wigan Council’s website: www.wigan.gov.uk and clicking on ‘Apply for it’.

If you do not have access to the internet at home it is available for free in the borough’s libraries or your nearest life centre.

“The Wigan Wallgate Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) is a great way of using heritage as a springboard for regeneration and investment, and has the potential to give this area of Wigan a new lease of life.”

The THI will also provide grant assistance to renovate a number of key properties within the town centre and bring them back into vibrant use.

The council will also be working closely with partners to provide opportunities to obtain education within the construction and conservation field for local students.

Council planners will soon be writing to property owners in the area to inform them of the plans and to seek their views.

The community will also play a vital role in the proposed transformation of key town centre sites such as Tower Buildings on Wallgate and the Grimes Arcade on King Street.

If all goes well, council planners and engineers are hoping work For more can start on information and the new regular updates visit scheme www.wigan.gov.uk early next and search for year.

‘Wigan Central Area Action Plan’.

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WO years ago a run down building blighted the community in Wigan’s Worsley Hall.

Today that building has been transformed into a state of the art youth facility.

Games rooms complete with the latest consoles, lounge areas, brand new kitchens – everything a young person could want to work, rest and play.

The dream for the new centre, called The Meadows on Ridyard Street, began with a grant of £452,000 from the Youth Capital Fund – government money provided to create positive activities for young people.

From there it was up to young people from the area to help make the dream become a reality. They banded together to form the Meadows Steering Group and have been involved in everything from applying for grants, mulling over the plans with the architects, picking the furniture and organising the official opening.

Wigan Council’s cabinet champion for children and young people, Cllr Susan Loudon, has also been giving the young people a helping hand: “I became involved right at the beginning of this project when we were looking at a dirty run down building and thinking about what we

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“”

The young people should be really proud and happy with what they have achieved...

Roberto Martinez

could do with it,” says Cllr Loudon. “To see it open and full of people just means so much. One of the reasons we chose this area was the number of houses that surrounded the building TOP TEAM: meaning it would be easy for Wigan Athletic young people to walk here Manager Roberto and use the facilities.

Martinez meets young “It is so nice to see young people from The people having ownership of Meadows. something. We could see so much coming out of this building now, even new social enterprises – just watch this space.”

Another fan of The SOUND Meadows is Wigan Athletic INVESTMENT: manager Roberto Martinez, Mixing some who has been along to see it tunes at The at first hand.

Meadows.

“You come into The Meadows and you feel that pride from all the young people involved,” said Roberto. “The young people should be really proud and happy with what they have For more achieved. This is going to information or be a place where young to book The people can make their Meadows call dreams come true.”

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Challenging Times...

WHAT WOULD YOU DO? OU control a multimillion pound budget that provides people with services they rely on.

You have to keep the roads in good condition; make sure the bins are emptied and the streets are swept.

You have to provide a good standard of education for school children and ensure that the very young, elderly and vulnerable are protected.

And much, much more than this – 700 services in fact that someone, somewhere needs.

But you've got to make savings and those savings mean...cuts.

However much you may dislike it, someone's going to lose out and if you don't get your priorities right, some may suffer. These are the very real challenges facing decisionmakers as the council braces itself for cuts amounting to more than a quarter of total budget over the next four years.

Council members and officers have, for some time, been investigating how best to make the savings that must be made in the wake of the biggest cuts

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Your ideas in action “Only put your bins out when they’re reasonably full” – “Cut back on the number of street signs” – “Scrap free bus passes” – “Turn all the lights off in council buildings.”

These are just some of the suggestions put forward by Borough Life readers aimed at helping Wigan Council save money and protect services.

In the autumn edition of the magazine the council’s customer services champion Cllr Chris Ready asked for readers to e-mail a special ‘Have your say’ address or write in with positive suggestions about how the council could reduce costs in the difficult financial times we face.

And you didn’t disappoint!

“Plenty of people took us up on our request for help,” said Cllr Ready. “And we are delighted that they did.

“There were some very constructive suggestions by people who have first-hand experience of the services the council provides.

“If you want to know how to improve something, you

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ask your customers, and that’s exactly what we did.

“Comments ranged from suggestions about how we could simplify the form-filling process for people applying for various services, which could save money and reduce waste, through to how we could encourage people to recycle more and help us avoid more costly methods of disposing of rubbish.

“Some wanted us to look at the amount of money the council spends on advertising, others wanted us to empty the bins at night to speed up the process.”

There was a suggestion that we scrap Borough Life but then we had another urging us to invest more in the magazine and look at reducing our other communication costs.

Cllr Ready added: “We’d like to thank everyone who submitted suggestions and we would urge people to keep on doing it! We want to continue the conversation and involve the people of our borough in the decisions we have to take.”

in public spending in recent memory.

Over the next three years alone the council must make £55million worth of savings, which will mean job losses and reductions in services that are going to be challenging.

But the question is – what would YOU do?

To help answer this question, the council is inviting everyone to try out a new online tool called My Budget which gives you the chance to have a go at setting next year's budget.

Available on Wigan Council's website – www.wigan.gov.uk/ mybudget – My Budget opens up the council coffers under various headings such as children's services and education, adult social care and waste and recycling.

The easy to use interactive software allows you to explore service areas and decide where to spend and where to save.

But balancing the books won't be easy. Spending more or less on certain services has consequences. And this is where My Budget comes into its own.

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Switched On: Library users Paul Haigh and Colin Rigby try out My Budget at Wigan Library.

Find out more about the budget consultation at Wigan Council's website – www.wigan.gov.uk and click on Challenging Times.

As you alter your spending, you will be able to see the impact of your decisions – on individuals, communities and Council Tax bills.

Council Leader Peter Smith, said: “Whilst no one wants to be in a position where they have to make cuts to services that affect the lives and livelihoods of people in our borough, the bottom line is that we have little choice.

“Doing nothing isn’t an option and faced with this reality we intend to do the best with what we have available to us to help those who are most in need.

“Often this will mean doing things differently, so people will notice changes.

“We want the residents of the borough to be part of this process.

“Using My Budget will hopefully give people an insight into the very real and very tough decisions we are faced with.”

My Budget is no mere desktop exercise either.

In fact, the suggestions everyone makes will support the financial decision-making process undertaken by the council’s ruling cabinet for next year’s budget.

My Budget is just one way you can get involved with cost-cutting because the council is urging everyone to have their say on its finances.

The council's website now provides people with the opportunity to get in touch and put forward their suggestions on how we can save money. It also gives people the chance to ask questions about the challenges we face, how they may affect you and what you can do to help.

Residents can make comments or complaints and find out more about the many ways they can get involved and have their say from filling in a form to joining the Citizens’ Panel.

Cllr Smith added: “Looking to the future

we aim to protect those services that are the most vital to our communities, those that safeguard our children and protect our vulnerable residents, but for the majority of the population of the borough we must encourage a culture of self-reliance, greater independence and a spirit of working together.

“We know that residents of Wigan borough will not only accept and understand this but will be willing to get involved and work with us to face up to the challenges ahead.”

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Good as Gold Claire Dunn and Ian Burns from the waste team show off the new blue bins.

Singing the blues BLUE bins have arrived in Wigan. Collections have now begun in a special pilot programme to encourage people to recycle more.

The new bins are for recycling card, cardboard drink cartons, paper, envelopes, greetings cards, newspaper and magazines, catalogues and directories.

Around 8,000 homes are taking part in the pilot.

Gail Robinson, Waste Disposal and Recycling Manager, urges residents on the pilot to try a new standard sized blue bin: “It’s important to offer people a choice, but we think residents will be surprised how much extra recycling they can do using a blue bin.

“For almost everyone, a standard sized bin, rather than a white sack will be the better option.

“This is because the pilot areas will have their paper collection every FOUR weeks not fortnightly, during the trial period.

“However some rural properties will have a collection every two weeks.”

The first collection of the bins has now begun.

The trial will run for six months and the results will be assessed before a decision is made whether to roll the service out across the borough. ● For more information on waste and recycling in Wigan visit Wigan Council’s website – www.wigan.gov.uk/recyling

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IT might well be a bleak midwinter, but this year has been another stunning one for floral displays all around our borough.

Individuals, tenants’ and residents’ groups and businesses have been busy greening their communities – doing their bit with flowers, planters, hanging baskets and eco-projects.

And they’ve just had wellearned rewards from the Royal Horticultural Society’s North West in Bloom Awards.

These recognise eco schemes, community projects and sustainability at a local level.

Public art, children’s educational projects and the coming together of residents’ and tenants’ organisations have brought several previous awards to Wigan, often against traditionally greener and leafier parts of the region.

This year’s effort has netted a record 11 awards for a huge variety of green projects, including for specific local communities in Orrell, Ashton, Standish and Howe Bridge in Atherton, as well as for biodiversity on the Wigan Flashes. And for the efforts and initiatives of the whole borough, for the first time, the council has been presented with a gold award.

Deputy leader and environment champion, Cllr David Molyneux, said: “This is well deserved and a credit to everyone involved. From individuals and small groups,

Eden Moss Turner preparing for winter planting.

to community-wide projects and the work of our partner organisations, this is great news for Wigan borough.

“Borough in Bloom is a highly cost-effective initiative which brings people together, improves the look and feel of our town centres, our streets and our open spaces, and is strongly supported locally.”

This year has seen over 650

Official results: THE line up of North West in Bloom Awards ● Wigan Council - Gold, Large Metropolitan Borough ● Environmental Quality Award - Overall Winner, Wigan Council Outstanding Achievement, Level 5 ● Town Green Residents Association, Ashton in Makerfield Community Effort Award ● Town Green Residents Association, Ashton in Makerfield ● Wigan Flashes - Outstanding Achievement - Level 5 ● Wigan Flashes - Biodiversity Award ● Orrell in Bloom - Thriving Neighbourhood, Level 4 ● Stubshaw Cross Heritage Garden - Developing Neighbourhood, Level 3 ● Standish in Bloom - Best Newcomer ● Standish in Bloom - Silver Gilt, Best Large Town ● Howe Bridge in Bloom - Silver Gilt, Best Large Village

guardrail planters displayed and over 6 million spring bulbs blooming along verges and in landscaped areas. But it’s the work of the volunteers which has most impressed both the judges and the borough’s own champion for In Bloom, former deputy council leader John O’Neill.

John said: “This year a record number of individuals got involved. I’m proud that so many local people are taking an active interest in how their communities look and feel, and doing what they can.”

In Atherton, Keith and Val Sumner are stalwarts of the busy Bridgers group, where the 19th century planned village to a Dutch design, forms an attractive backdrop for a series of recent environmental improvements.

Val said: “We’ve received a silver gilt award this year – and that’s a lovely reward at a regional level for the hard work of a dedicated group of villagers who just want to make our patch an even better place to live in.”

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Barn makes borough ready for

WINTER WEATHER THE Nordic countries use the design extensively, but it is the first of its kind in England: after last winter’s freezing spell, the council’s highways depot is keeping at the forefront of technology.

Their brand new salt barn – 14 metres high and bigger than a swimming pool – can hold over four thousand tonnes of rock salt.

And although few are expecting the extremes which caused last January’s freeze across much of the northern hemisphere – no one in Wigan is taking any chances.

Highways depot manager Mark McCartney says: “Last winter was terrible and I am extremely sympathetic to those who struggled during the appalling weather.”

The team’s response is the new galvanised steel framed salt barn.

It took just 5 months from being suggested as an idea to becoming a fully operational facility, and it will allow the council to be far more resilient to periods of

AN exciting project to transform a former Wigan borough colliery site into a green oasis with new homes and a marina is beginning to take shape.

The regeneration of Bickershaw Colliery was given the green light in 2009 through millions of pounds worth of funding from the government's Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

The pit closed in 1992 and the plan to

severe weather.

As the salt is covered and therefore kept 'dry', it can be spread at half the rate as if it were left exposed to the elements, with the same end result.

A similar barn structure installed by the same company houses Concorde at Manchester Airport, and Scandinavian authorities are also using the design for road salt storage.

And Wigan’s version is the highest-spec possible.

In common with an increasing amount of the borough’s street lighting, the salt barn uses a low energy lighting system.

The latest LED technology reduces the carbon footprint of the new building and requires far less maintenance than a conventional lighting system.

“The gritting team work extremely hard to keep the roads clear,” says Mark.

“Call outs this year started in early November when temperatures dropped sharply and we will continue as required throughout the winter months.”

No business like 'snow' business: Cllr David Molyneux and Mark McCartney inspect the council's new salt barn.

Bickershaw... by boat? breathe new life into it has been divided into two parts.

Bickershaw North would have seen a new country park, golf course and outdoor activity centre, whilst Bickershaw South would bring more than 600 new

homes, a 40 berth marina feeding the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, new greenery and space for new businesses. Engineers working on the 56 acre Bickershaw South site believe the site could be ready for building on as early as next summer.

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Save time and money IT’S no secret – Wigan Council must save money.

And Borough Life readers can help keep costs down by choosing an easier way to pay your council tax.

It’ll save you time too. ● Here’s how: make a date with Direct Debit – you can download a Direct Debit mandate form from www.wigan.gov.uk or request one by phoning 01942 828696. ● Save time... pay online – most bills can be paid online, simply visit www.wigan.gov.uk and click on ‘pay it’. ● Try local – why not pay at your local paypoint, payzone or post office?

Find your nearest one by visiting www.paypoint.co.uk

Water gadget can cut bills WIGAN Borough residents are being given the chance to tap into big savings on their water and energy bills.

Energy boffins have come up with a revolutionary gadget to save water in the shower and United Utilities (UU) has 80,000 to give away for free.

The gizmo is about the size of a pop bottle lid and screws into the hose attachment of a traditional shower.

It slows the flow of water and mixes it with air bubbles.

The result is a shower that still has the same sparkle but can cut down on cost and carbon emissions.

UU reckon you can save up to £43 a year with the device.

You can pick one up by visiting United Utilities’ website www.unitedutilities.co.uk and requesting a free Water Saver’s Pack.

Emily Hill is welcomed into her new home on Etherstone Street... the first tenant to move into a brand new council home in Wigan for 25 years. Pictured left to right are ward councillor John O'Brien, Peter Layland - Head of Housing and Community Regeneration, Environmental Services, Cheryl Foster - New Build and Regeneration Manager, Wigan and Leigh Housing Angela Durkin Senior Housing Policy Officer, Environmental Services, Carl Moore - Team Leader Manchester South, Homes and Communities Agency, Emily Hill and Cllr Kevin Anderson.

Home is where

THE HEART IS THERE are a lot of memories in Emily’s old house: raising four sons and a daughter, losing her husband, regaining her independence with her motor scooter so she can head into Leigh to the shops and the library.

But, at 77 years of age, she’s the first to admit things are a bit tough now. “I’m mainly stuck downstairs,” she said.

“The bed’s here in the living room but the family and grandchildren are here to help.”

But things are looking brighter for the former Howe Bridge Mill girl.

Emily Hill has become the first tenant to receive

Emily is pictured at home with some of her photographic memories.

a brand new council home in 25 years.

In fact, the development on Etherstone Street in Leigh is the first council housing built in the North west for a very long time.

“It’s all on one floor, it’s great for me!”

Emily was keen to stay in the neighbourhood she knew and loved.

And when Wigan Council announced plans to build six modern bungalows in Leigh, Emily was eager to be a part of it.

“I put my name down for this as soon as I heard about it,” she said.

“I’m only moving from round the corner so I’ll be part of the same community. I didn’t want to move away.”

Emily welcomed the top brass as she received the keys for her new home.

Cllr Kevin Anderson, the council’s cabinet champion for neighbourhoods, congratulated Emily on her move. He said: “The council, our development partner Wigan & Leigh Housing and the Homes and Communities Agency are delivering local jobs, supporting our struggling construction industry – and creating affordable modern homes for local people.”

Including a larger development at Scholes in Wigan, over a hundred new homes are planned in the borough, addressing the need for affordable, high quality social housing.

The new bungalows will help to house people with health and mobility problems as well as smaller households downsizing from larger family homes.

For more These can then information be re-let to contact the Property other families Shop on 01942 who require 404091 (Leigh) or something bigger.

01942 404128 (Wigan).

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Job’s a GOOD ’UN

SUCCESS DELIVERED: Bob Johnson's enjoying his new role as a delivery driver.

FTER more than 300 job applications and five unsuccessful interviews Bob Johnson admits he began to feel a little down-hearted.

At one time, the former Grenadier Guardsman could literally walk into a new job but as he hit his 50s he began to wonder whether he would ever find work again.

Bob, from Marsh Green, specialised in driving and security work but after a nearly two-year stint without work Bob’s confidence had taken a bit of a battering. “It is difficult to keep upbeat at times,” he says. “Sometimes it feels that no matter how hard you try you just aren’t getting anywhere.”

Bob’s military career had taken him halfway around the globe but now the proud grandfather of five needed a little help. And it was Wigan Council that helped Bob find his ‘Way to Work’.

“It had been quite a while since I had been given any advice on how to best look for a job,” said Bob who was referred to one of the Inspire2 Independence

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Coaching Academies.

“I soon began to realise that I was a bit rusty at it. Through the scheme I was given real help with how to search for jobs and how to apply for them in the right way.

“I was given advice on how to fill in application forms, how to write my CV and what to do and say during at an interview.

“Above all, it gave me the confidence I needed to keep going, to believe in myself and that there was a job for me out there – I just had to find it.”

And now, after rediscovering his drive, that’s exactly what Bob is doing for a living.

He’s now working as home delivery driver for supermarket giant Asda and loving every minute of it.

Working from the Robin Park store close to the town centre, Bob’s out and about in the borough every day of the week.

“It’s perfect for me,” said 56 year-old Bob. “The hours are just right, you’re out and about and meeting people every day.

“It is hard to believe now that I was worried that my working life was over but it just goes to show you what a bit of self-belief and the right advice can do.”

Wigan Council’s Cabinet Champion for the Economy, Cllr David Molyneux, said: “This is a really great example of how we have worked with our partners to help people in our borough achieve their goals,

If you would like to find out more about I2I Coaching Academies, you can give them a call on 01942 218738 or visit www.enteri2i.com – If you're looking for a job, you can find your own Way to Work by visiting www.way-towork.co.uk

fulfil their potential and get the jobs they want. Working alone we can only do so much but when we pull together we can do so much more.

“Of course our most important partner is people and it is a tribute to the dedication of people like Bob that we’ve have been so successful.”

Big support event really was the business

ENTERPRISING GATHERING: President of the Chamber of Commerce Miranda Barker addresses a packed session.

EVERYBODY’S talking about Wigan borough’s biggest ever business event.

Organised by the council and Greater Manchester Chamber of Trade, Expo Twenty10 saw more than 300 movers and shakers from all over the North west converge on the DW Stadium.

The aim – to show everyone the best business opportunities Wigan has to offer.

More than 40 local businesses exhibited their goods and services representing several different industries including creative, construction, environmental technologies and manufacturing.

Cllr David Molyneux, champion for regeneration, said: “We have always known that Wigan Borough has a vast array of high quality businesses. Wigan Business Expo Twenty10 showcased the borough as one of the region’s premier business locations and has not only encouraged local businesses to work with each other, but will also act as a catalyst for those companies looking to invest in the area.”

Borough businesses can register their interest in Wigan Business Expo Twenty11 by emailing ero@wigan.gov.uk

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Domestic No more excuses – it’s got to stop ESPITE high profile court cases and shocking front page headlines, domestic abuse is still seen as the ‘hidden’ crime.

Small wonder given that victims of domestic abuse, whether through denial, shame, fear, guilt or hopelessness, all too often fail to come forward. In fact, national research suggests that only a third of incidents are reported to the police.

And even though our borough has the highest reported number of domestic abuse cases in Greater Manchester, we still have a long way to go in our efforts to encourage even more victims to come forward.

The facts are sobering. ● Domestic abuse makes up 8 per cent of the borough’s total crimes and costs us a staggering £29 million a year – the equivalent of £95 for every man, woman and child in the borough. ● According to the British Crime Survey, domestic violence claims the lives of on average two people a week in this country. ● It’s estimated one in four women and one in six men will be a victim of domestic abuse at some point in their lives. ● The British Crime Survey (2006) found that amongst victims, 65 per cent who had experienced partner abuse in the last 12 months did not think it was ‘domestic violence’. Only one in five thought it was a ‘crime’ and a third thought it was ‘just something that happens’. ● Children are victims too. In 80% of cases, they are in the same or next room.

D

Attitudes must change Sadly, the misconception still persists that when it comes to the family ‘domestic’ it’s best not to get involved.

Even today, as we delight in the invasiveness of reality TV and the lurid revelations of gossip columns, what goes on behind the doors of our close neighbours and relatives often remains a taboo subject.

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BOROUGH LIFE Winter 2010

“Attitudes to this crime must change,” says Cllr Keith Cunliffe, Wigan Council’s cabinet champion for healthier communities, “because only by taking a zero tolerance approach can we make any significant difference. It’s all about changing hearts and minds.

“Victims must be encouraged to come forward and then empowered to live their life free of abuse.

“Professionals at all levels need to be confident in their skills to provide the right help, at the right time. The police and courts must use the powers available to them to bring those responsible for these appalling acts to justice. And we all need to rally together and send out the message that there is no place for this kind of behaviour in our communities.”

Support to rebuild lives This is what’s behind Wigan borough’s new domestic abuse strategy. Running over the next three years, it covers three key areas: ● Prevention – changing attitudes and intervening early on to stop domestic abuse before it happens; ● Protection – ensuring the safety of victims and holding perpetrators to account; ● Provision – giving victims and their families the support they need, when they need it, so they can rebuild their lives.

The strategy is not ‘one size fits all’ because it recognises that no two incidents are the same. There is no such thing as the typical victim, the average offender or the catch-all solution.

The shadow of domestic abuse reaches into the homes of people from all walks of life and it’s a spectre which is indifferent to gender, age, sexual orientation, ethnicity, income, religion, culture, ability, professional merit, educational attainment or social prestige.

And no two experiences are the same, either. The form it takes, and the severe extremes to which it can go, varies from one incident to the next. There is no pattern – other than the recurring cycles

of anguish, fear, shame and despair.

“We deliberately refer to domestic abuse as opposed to domestic violence, because it’s misleading to associate it with black eyes, chipped teeth and broken bones,” says Cllr Cunliffe.

“Physical abuse is just one of many ways in which a person can become victimised. Victims are also subjected to mental cruelty, bullying, emotional manipulation, financial control, sexual abuse and threats of intimidation.

“It’s a combination of loss of independence, hopelessness and paralysing lack of self esteem which keeps victims locked in destructive relationships for years.”

Sadly, it’s the degree of tolerance that the victim shows, their capacity for forgiveness and their ability to put a brave face on things that perpetuates the abuse.

“It’s crucial that victims are encouraged to recognise the abuse and for communities to refuse to sit back and tolerate it,” says Sarah Owen, the new domestic abuse coordinator for the borough.

“Admitting you’re a victim of domestic abuse can be the hardest part. But we urge you to pick up the phone, call any one of the services that are available to you and your family in Wigan Borough.”

The new domestic abuse strategy launches in early 2011 and the next issue of Borough Life, will look at what the agencies tasked with tackling domestic abuse hope to achieve over the next three years, and how they intend to do it.

Cllr Cunliffe said: “By working together we can all play a part in driving down domestic abuse.

“No more excuses. It’s got to stop.”

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Where to find help IF you feel that you or someone you know is experiencing or has experienced domestic abuse, there is a wide range of organisations that can help.

In an emergency call 999.

The non-emergency line for Greater Manchester Police is 0161 856 5050 and the Domestic Violence Unit is Holly House (24 hour refuge) and Arena Options Domestic Abuse Services 01942 496094.

Barnardo’s – 01942 483200

Home was where the hurt was...

“I MAY have been screaming on the inside but there was no way my smile was going to slip, no matter what.”

Every year, Tessa was prepared to go to any lengths to ensure her two daughters had the perfect Christmas, but the older they got, the more convincing she knew her performance had to be.

“It’s supposed to be a happy and peaceful family time, but I dreaded it, especially after I put the girls to bed.

“But at least then I knew they’d be safely tucked up and would never know what their dad was doing to me.”

Like thousands of women putting on a brave face for the sake of the children, Tessa was constantly besieged by feelings of guilt and

shame during her eight year abusive marriage.

“I’d long since reached the stage where I knew it would never change but I just had to get through that final Christmas. As soon as the kids were back in school and we’d gone back to our usual routine, that’s when I made the call.”

Tessa may not be her real name but when the time was right, she got the real help she needed.

She discovered a range of services and took confidence from the support of skilled and caring professionals who worked with her at her pace.

“I don’t regret giving my girls that last Christmas and one day I might tell them the truth about their father.

“But for now, it’s enough that we are free of it and can move on. That peace of mind is the best Christmas present ever.”

DIAS (Drop In And Share Domestic Violence Centre) – 01942 495230 Domestic Violence National Helpline (24 hours) – 0808 2000 247 RESPECT (National reporting line) – 0845 122 8609 Victim Support – 01942 322033 or 0845 303 0900 Wigan Council – 01942 828777

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Weight loss puts Brenda

on top of the world

BEST PRESENT: The new slimline Brenda is all set for a healthy Christmas.

MINCE pies, Christmas pud and one too many… this time of year is never an easy time on your waistline.

For those troubled by an impending Santa style ‘tum’ Brenda Brown may just provide a New Year answer to your Yuletide over-indulgence.

The 58-year-old from Garswood is celebrating after dropping FOUR dress sizes and losing a whopping FIVE AND A HALF STONE since joining the borough’s Lose Weight Feel Great scheme.

“I feel on top of the world,” said Brenda. “Life’s so much easier and I feel fantastic.”

Back in early 2009 Brenda, at just 5ft,3 ins, weighed in at 16 stone. Having tried and failed to consistently keep her weight down Brenda signed up for the free 12 week trial of Lose Weight Feel Great.

“I had nothing to lose and everything to gain but wanted to have nothing to lose and not gain anything” she smiled.

“I’m a different person. I’m ten and a half stone and I’m happier than I was before. I wear size 12 clothes.

“I’ve given all my old size 20 clothes to the charity shop because I’m never going back.

“The support I received from Julie Barton from Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust and Lynn Murphy, my Slimming World Consultant was amazing.”

Brenda added: “Being around people with the same ambitions and acting as support for each other has been the key for Lose Weight Feel me. If you go to an Great is a free 12 week aerobics class, it’s a programme of physical session, and you activity and Slimming World either keep up or classes. It is delivered by Wigan you don’t.

Leisure and Culture Trust, in “At Lose partnership with Slimming Weight Feel World, and supported by Great if there’s an Ashton, Leigh and Wigan aerobics class you NHS. For more information go at your own pace call 01942 496496 with people of all abilities.”

Apples are simply my favourite fruit. I put them in the fridge so they last longer. After a good peel, even bruised ones make a scrumptious crumble, or they’ll go into a smoothie. Delicious. lovefoodhatewaste.com has more tips and recipes to help you waste less food and save up to £50 a month.

for Greater Manchester and Wigan

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Technology gives student Karl a real state of

independence KARL Leyland is your typical go-head twenty-something.

Wide circle of friends, active social life and big plans for the future.

The former Abraham Guest pupil is taking a university course and has set his sights on becoming a teacher.

Earlier this year the decided it was time to fly the nest and get a place of his own.

At 23, independence must seem like a desirable move to any young person. But for Karl, it’s a different story.

Five years ago he began to suffer pains in both knees whilst he was on a family holiday. Medical tests revealed that Karl had bones missing in both knees and as he grew it meant they would become increasingly prone to painful dislocation.

After four years of major operations the problem persists. To add to this Karl has type 2 diabetes and low blood pressure and must take different tablets at specific times of the day.

“The conditions aren’t connected,” said Karl. “But If I fall and can’t get back up close to the time when I need to take my medication, it could have serious effects.”

Given the circumstances you migh think that Karl couldn’t live on his own, at least not without regular visits from a carer to make sure he’s alright.

But that’s not how he wants it. And thanks to some nifty little devices – known as Assistive Technology – that’s not how he’s got it.

“I am very independent person,” he says. “I’m also a very private person and really wouldn’t feel comfortable with someone coming into my home to check on me on a regular basis, so the help I have been given works really well for me.”

Karl moved into his own

HOME FROM HOME: Karl Leyland shows off some of the assistive technology aids that are giving him an independent life.

place over the summer. The council’s assistive technology team supplied a few unobtrusive devices that make living alone a reality.

His main lifelines are a sensor, the same size and shape as a wrist watch and an automatic medicine dispenser that tells him exactly what pill to take and when.

The two devices are linked up to a phone line help service, so if Karl doesn’t take his medication at the right time or his fall sensor goes off – he gets a call to check that everything is ok.

“It works really well for

me,” says Karl. “It’s given me a lease of life that otherwise I would not have had.”

The assistive technology service helps many people in our borough live a more independent life. It offers a range of aids and useful gadgets that can give people like Karl the reassurance and peace of mind they need. ● For more information on the council’s assistive technology service visit Wigan Council’s website: www.wigan.gov.uk/ assistivetechnology. Or you can call the team on 01942 826079 or 825594.

Website has lots of info on care INFORMATION about care in Wigan Borough is now just a click away.

The council and its partners have just launched a new interactive web service called My Life, My Choices, which provides up to date information about care and support available to adults living in our borough.

Information is divided into nine areas and the bright modern design makes it easy for anyone to find their way around the site.

Wigan Council’s Cabinet Champion for Healthy Neighbourhoods and Older People, Cllr Keith Cunliffe, explained: “People who use our services have told us that they want us to make it as easy as possible for them to find the information they need and the new website is part of our response to this.

“It is not intended to replace other ways of getting information, such as face-to-face meetings or picking up the phone but it is another tool that is there to help. The information is presented in a simple and friendly way and we’re sure that residents, people who use our services and people who work in the care profession will find it a really useful aid.”

The website can be found through Wigan Council’s website at the following address: www.wigan.gov.uk/ mylifemychoices If you haven’t got access to a computer there is free internet access at the borough’s libraries.

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Christmas PUBLIC SERVICE GUIDE Leigh NHS Walk-in Centre THE Walk-in centre moves to the new Leigh Health Centre on 15th December 2010.

The centre is accessed via Lake Street, off The Avenue, Leigh and offers fast and convenient access to healthcare advice, information and treatment. No appointment is necessary and the centre is open from 7am-9pm seven days a week, including the holiday period.

The walk-in centre offers: ● Treatment for minor injuries and illnesses, e.g. strains and sprains, wounds, cuts, sore throat and ear infections; ● Assessment by an experienced NHS nurse; ● Advice on how to stay healthy; ● Information on local out-of-hours GP and dental services; ● Information on local pharmacy services; ● Emergency contraception.

The centre provides help where and when you need it, without you having to make an appointment, take time off work or re-arrange your day. Tel. 01942 483453.

CALL NHS DIRECT ANYTIME NHS Direct is a confidential telephone service to help you at any time of the day or night.

You can ring 0845 46 47 for nurse help or health information advice if you: ● are feeling ill and unsure of what to do; ● need information about particular health conditions and treatments;

● want details of local health services such as doctors, dentists or chemists; ● need details of self-help and support organisations.

Alternatively, you can visit NHS Direct Online at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

GP AND DENTAL SERVICES IF you are already registered with a family doctor or dentist you will be able to receive medical and dental services under the NHS as normal during the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Details of your GP or dental surgery days and times of opening during the holiday period can be obtained from the individual practices and will be displayed in their waiting rooms.

GP Out of Hours Service If you require a GP outside of these opening times you need to contact the GP ‘Out of Hours’ service. You can obtain details of this service by phoning your GP practice on the usual number – a recorded message will provide contact details for the GP ‘Out of Hours’ cover.

Dental emergencies Patients who are not registered with an NHS Dentist but who require emergency dental treatment can contact the In-Hours Emergency Dental Service on weekdays between 9am and 5pm by telephoning 01942 614390.

The Out-of-Hours Emergency Dental Service is available from 6pm until 8am on weekdays and 24 hours at weekends and on Bank Holidays, by ringing 01942 614376.

This service will be available on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and also on New Year’s Day.

DISTRICT NURSING District Nurses will be available throughout the Christmas and New Year period, including the bank holidays, and can be contacted as follows: Ashton Clinic

01942 775309

Atherton Health Centre

01942 481007

College St. Health Centre (via Leigh Health Centre) Golborne Clinic

01942 775505

Grasmere St. Health Centre 01942 775544 Hindley Pennygate

01942 254231

Longshoot Health Centre

01942 775636

Lower Ince (Out-of-Hours Service)

01942 481155

Pemberton Health Centre: Pemberton Team

01942 775845

Orrell Team

01942 775850

Platt Bridge Health Centre

01942 482311

Standish/Shevington Team 01942 481364

16

Tyldesley Health Centre

01942 482620

Wigan Health Centre

01942 482100

Worsley Mesnes Health Centre

01942 481477

BOROUGH LIFE Winter 2010

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE AND CLINIC OPENING TIMES COMMUNITY receptions at the following clinics and health centres will close at 3pm on Christmas Eve. They will be open as usual during the Christmas and New Year period, with the exception of the three bank holidays.

Ashton Clinic Aspull Clinic Astley Clinic Atherton Health Centre Children’s Hearing Services Golborne Clinic Hindley Health Centre For all queries regarding Adult Learning Disability Services please contact: Aspull Social Services Area Office, Aspull Leigh Health Centre Longshoot Health Centre Lower Ince Health Centre Marsh Green Clinic Orrell Clinic Pemberton Health Centre Platt Bridge Health Centre Shevington Clinic Standish Clinic Tyldesley Health Centre Wigan Health Centre Worsley Mesnes Health Centre

01942 775300 01942 775330 01942 483000 01942 481000 01942 482450/1 01942 775480 01942 482470

01942 01942 01942 01942 01942 01942 01942 01942 01257 01257 01942 01942 01942

832592 483300 775630 481100 483050 775750 775820 482300 501300 501320 482600 482070 481460

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Council services over festive period COUNCIL offices will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and will remain closed until Tuesday January 4.

Register offices: The offices in Wigan and Leigh town halls will be open for business as normal (9am until 4.30pm) on Wednesday 29, Thurs 30 and Fri 31 December. The offices will re-open after the New Year on Tuesday January 4.

Cemeteries: Cemeteries will be open to visitors throughout the holiday period.

Libraries, sports centres and leisure facilities: Most sports centres and libraries will be open as normal apart from Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Monday 27 December Tuesday 28 December, New Year's Day, Sunday 2 January and Monday 3 January. Details of all leisure facility opening times will be advertised on Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust's website www.wlct.org or contact your local service for details.

Leigh Library is undergoing refurbishments and a reduced service is running from the foyer until December 29. Call 01942 404556 for more information.

Robin Park Leisure Centre Profiles Gym is undergoing refurbishment and will reopen on January 10 ADULT SOCIAL CARE SERVICES If you need help over the holiday period please contact: Central Duty Team: 01942 828777.

The team will be available as follows: 24 December – open from 8.45am to 5pm.

25, 26, 27, 28 December – closed.

29, 30, 31 December - open from 8.45am to 5pm.

1 January – closed 2 January – closed 3 Jan – closed 4 Tuesday January 4 – open as normal from 8.45am to 8pm.

In an emergency outside of the hours above (and when the office is closed), call 0161 832 2436.

Community Meals Service: will continue as normal over the holiday, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Home Care Service: service as normal throughout the holiday period. For inquiries contact your individual service provider.

Medicines ● Make sure you have a supply of your regular

Day Centres: Day services are open on the following days over the holiday period, and open as normal on other days: 25 December – Sunshine House 26 December – Sunshine House 27 December – Hindley, Etherstone, Sunshine House 28 December – Hindley, Etherstone, Sunshine House 1 January – Sunshine House 2 January - Hindley, Etherstone, Sunshine House 3 January – Hindley, Etherstone, Sunshine House CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR WASTE AND RECYCLING COLLECTIONS BIN COLLECTIONS There are no changes to the days of collections over the Christmas period and bins will be collected as normal on the Bank Holidays.

Please refer to your collection calendar for more information.

GREEN WASTE RECYCLING The last green bin recycling collection of 2010 will be during the two weeks leading up to Friday 3 December 2010 and collections will re-start during the two weeks from Monday 14 February.

CHRISTMAS TREE COLLECTIONS Unfortunately, there will be no Christmas Tree collections this year.

Please put your Christmas tree in your green bin for the first collection in February or take to one of the borough’s Household Waste Recycling Centres with the exception of Orrell.

Please note Frog Lane HWRC is now closed.

HOUSEHOLD WASTE RECYCLING CENTRES (HWRCS) All HWRCs will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Years day.

Normal opening times will be in place on all other days.

The council’s telephone helpline will run a limited service over the Christmas and New Year period. See below for the number/ BAD WEATHER Further information about Christmas arrangements and recycling, including an changes due to bad weather will be available on the website www.wigan.gov.uk or by calling our telephone helpline 01942 404364

medicines to last you through the holiday period. If in doubt, contact your doctor.

● Have a supply of remedies in the house for common conditions like coughs and colds.

ASHTON, LEIGH AND WIGAN PHARMACY OPENING TIMES CHRISTMAS DAY – SATURDAY 25TH DECEMBER 2010 Manor Pharmacy Worsley Mesnes Health Centre, Poolstock Lane, Wigan, WN3 5HL TEL. 01942 492703 10.00am – 1.00pm Manor Pharmacy 90-92 Manchester Road, Leigh, WN7 2LD TEL. 01942 674283 12 noon – 3.00pm Manor Pharmacy 4 Gathurst Lane, Shevington, Wigan, WN6 8HA TEL. 01257 254142 2.00pm – 5.00pm Abram Pharmacy 358 Warrington Road, Abram, WN2 5XA TEL. 01942 866681 4.00pm – 7.00pm BOXING DAY – SUNDAY 26TH DECEMBER 2010 Manor Pharmacy Boston House, Wigan Health Centre Frog Lane, Wigan, WN6 7LB TEL. 01942 244566 10.00am – 1.00pm Manor Pharmacy 90-92 Manchester Road, Leigh, WN7 2LD TEL. 01942 674283 12 noon – 3.00pm Lambs Pharmacy Lower Ince Health Centre Phoenix Way, Lower Ince, WN3 4NW TEL. 01942 825961 2.00pm – 5.00pm Davina Pharmacy Ltd T/A Lee Pharmacy 155 Elliott Street, Tyldesley, M29 8FL TEL. 01942 883029 4.00pm – 7.00pm NEW YEAR’S DAY – SATURDAY 1ST JANUARY 2011 Bradshaw Street Pharmacy Bradshaw Street, Orrell, WN5 0AB TEL. 01942 224390 4.00pm – 7.00pm Davina Pharmacy Ltd T/A Lee Pharmacy 155 Elliott Street, Tyldesley, M29 8FL TEL. 01942 883029 4.00pm – 7.00pm

This information was correct at the time of going to press. Other chemists may also be open over the holidays – contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 for details.

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WINTER SERVICES 2010/11

Local hospitals are all set for

busy period EVERY winter there is the usual seasonal increase in the number of patients that attend Accident and Emergency (A&E) Departments right across the UK. A combination of weather conditions and winter bugs mean that more people need our services. As ever Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust (WWL) is preparing itself for this busy period.

WWL, which manages your local hospitals, including Royal Albert Edward and Leigh Infirmaries,

Wrightington Hospital and the Thomas Linacre Outpatient Centre, is working hard to ensure that all our key services and facilities are maintained no matter what winter may have in store!

The A&E Department at the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year.

Staffing levels during the festive period are set to ensure we can cope with expected patient demand with the flexibility to expand as required.

However, we are urging people to think carefully before they come to A&E. Research has shown that one in four people who go to A&E could have been treated elsewhere in the community or self-treated. The implications are enormous in terms of patient care and cost to the NHS; in 2009/10 alone A&E services across the North West cost £317 million; the equivalent of over £900,000 a day.

Remember A&E and 999 services

are for life threatening and emergency conditions only. The Choose Well Chart provides more information on which services can be accessed within the community and may be more appropriate than A&E. Hospital clinics opening times All trust clinics will be open 8.30am to 5pm, but will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years day and the Christmas Bank Holidays (December 27 and 28 2010 and January 3 2011).

Hospital visiting times It is advisable to check hospital visiting times with the individual wards concerned via the main switchboard number 01942 244000. ● Further information on the Trust and services provided at each facility can be found on the Trust’s web site at: www.wwl.nhs.uk

WWL is now a smoke-free zone TO promote a healthier environment for all, Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust (WWL) became completely smoke free on all of its sites including grounds, trust car parks, premises and buildings on October 1 2010.

Doctors and other health specialists encourage anyone who smokes to try and give up. Medical Director, Dr Umesh Prabhu, said: “It’s a well known fact that smoking is one of the major causes of many illnesses and diseases.

As a health promoting hospital we want to be at the forefront of preventing illness and a smoking ban is an important part of this. We know that it is difficult for people to give up but lots of support is available now.”

If you need help with giving up contact the Trust’s Stop Smoking service, which offers help and support to people who want to give up.

● The Service can be contacted on 0500 7867 669.

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Families find fun and togetherness in a different class

School’s Out,

SCHOOL’S IN! N a fine day you’ll find Jay and John Ramjekis down by the water.

Lines baited, poles set, steamlike breath in the winter air, a welcome warm flask close to hand.

Silence punctuated only by birdsong... “quality” time together.

Dad John is the first to admit he’s no fisherman but he’s there because his 10 yearold has found a passion for angling thanks to school.

“I don’t really know much about fishing but Jay came home from school and said he was interested in going so I decided to come along,” says dad. “Now I’ve just got my first rod for a few quid.”

Today’s one of those fine days and Jay and John are nestled

O

TALES OF THE RIVER BANK: John and Jay Ramjekis are hooked on angling.

near the bank at the Gone Fishing centre in Ince and they’ve already had a bite!

The session has been organised by the council’s extended service team and is aimed at getting dads and lads that bit closer together.

Jay, who found out about the project through his school, Shevington county primary, will happily sit from 10am till 2pm patiently waiting for the line to pull - no mean feat for any young person.

“I really like the calm and the quiet,” says Jay. “But I like it best when we get a fish.”

And almost as he speaks the line goes again and father and son are soon popping another ‘whopper’ in the keep net.

“If you would have asked me just a few weeks ago about fishing I would have had no interest at all,” said John.

“But here we are, it’s getting us both out in the fresh air,

we’re learning a new skill and we are getting to FUN AND GAMES AT FREDDIES: know each other a Children ‘go wild’ with their very whole lot more. own school sports day.

“It just goes to show that if you are willing to give something a go it can really hall and they’re queuing out pay off for you.” the door.”

Over at Tyldesley’s Fred From rock climbing to Longworth High School science skills and from footie there’s no Zen-like serenity in to field trips the extended the school sports hall, in fact services team offers enough to it’s mayhem! The happy, please any active youngster running, jumping, dancing, and it’s all done with the laughing, carefully controlled interests of the child and their kind of mayhem that children family at its heart. do so well.

Lisa Naylor is the council’s Extended development Extended Service Coworker Deb Kirby has been ordinator. running sports session all She said: “We are here to week and it’s fair to say support families, children and they’ve been a huge success. communities.

More than 50 families have “It’s about taking the great been turning up for the work our schools that bit regular daily mix of an indoor further and into home time. kick-a-bout, parachute games, The activities can help to raise music, movement and more. children’s self-esteem and can Today is the final session help improve their and prize-giving - for the performance at school. children and for their parents.

“The activities we provide “We run sessions during are for everyone and whilst and after school and during there is a cost involved, some the holidays,” said Deb. children could be entitled to “This one has been one of free access to clubs and the best and we are already activities through the being asked when the next FUND4ME scheme. People one is. can find out more by asking at “We are helping the school or your local children to make friends development worker.” and become more confident Wigan Council’s cabinet and we’re also champion for children and strengthening the bonds young people, Cllr Susan between families.

Loudon, said: “Time spent “Some parents do find it with our children is the most difficult to interact with precious of all and it’s great to their children but sessions see that so much good work is such as this really help going on across our borough to break those barriers help strengthen families. down.

“We believe that The key to success for communities work best when us has been to make it they work together. easy, accessible and “The family should be at above all, fun. If I To find out more the heart of the community. had asked parents about Extended “When we think about to come along to Services and what a family-bonding working with families we activities are on offer for often miss dad out and it is session I am very important that men also you and your child please pretty sure I feel part of children’s would have got contact your local upbringing; this project is one very few takers Children’s Centre or of many delivered by the but say that just pop into school extended schools service that you’re having a bit and ask. is making sure this happens.” of a kick-about in the

BOROUGH LIFE Winter 2010

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round hi-tech library k o lo a s ke ta n o tr a Celebrity p

TUART Maconie’s eyes drift left to right. “I can’t believe it, it’s even got a Bistro!” he says “When I was at school there was a couple of dusty periodical tables on the walls and it was a treat when they wheeled in the TV to watch a video but this place has all the latest technology. It’s astonishing.”

The BBC Radio 2 regular, whose illustrious broadcasting and journalism career has also included a string of acclaimed books including Pies and Prejudices and Adventures on the High Teas, paid Abraham Guest a visit recently and he couldn’t have been more praiseworthy.

The broadcaster offered top tips to youngsters at the new high school thinking of pursuing a career in broadcasting before taking afternoon tea in the new Lamberhead Green Library.

Stuart, who was born and bred in Worsley Mesnes, is Wigan’s patron of the libraries.

He said: “Having a library on site is a brilliant idea. I used to love the sense of event going to a library but being part of the normal day life of the school is brilliant.

“The opening line of Manic Street Preachers’ Design For Life says everything about libraries: ‘Libraries give us power’.”

Wigan’s new £23m super school and associated public library opened in April with latest best sellers, CDs and DVDs, extended hours, and activities for all ages including reading groups, under fives story time, basic IT courses and family history sessions.

The writer and broadcaster chatted with library users and signed copies of his books before revealing he’s currently halfway through a new book and currently presents on the BBC’s Inside Out which takes a closer look at stories across the region.

He added: “I’m about halfway through the book. I’ve chosen 10 significant dates in the recent history of Britain; some are serious, some are light hearted.

“From Queen Victoria’s death to the New Labour landslide. It’s serious enough at the moment but putting a few jokes in to some of the really serious stuff is proving a tall order.

“I’m excited by the TV work but my writing will continue to be the thing for me. Books have a life of their own.”

Taryn Pearson, head of libraries for Wigan Leisure For more and Culture Trust, said: “We’re delighted Stuart thinks information on so highly of the new library. He’s a wonderful libraries in Wigan ambassador for our libraries and the borough. and Leigh visit “If people haven’t managed to take a look round www.wlct.org this fantastic new facility we’d certainly encourage them to come down and see what it has to offer.”

S

Maconie's magic: Wigan's-own Stuart Maconine is fullybooked at Lamberhead Green Library.

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Borough Life 22–23

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Cameron bounces back to become a volunteer coaching hero

This Sporting Life!

AT the age of just nine years old Cameron Foster fell 40ft from a ski-lift while on holiday in Italy.

The freak accident left the youngster from Westleigh with both ankles dislocated, both legs broken and a broken left arm.

What followed was a long, slow period of rehabilitation to get Cameron up on his feet again.

Just six years on and Cameron has been crowned one of our borough’s sporting heroes as part of the annual Wigan borough sports awards.

“I was in a wheelchair for six weeks after the accident,” says Cameron. “And I realised that some people aren’t as lucky as me and I felt they should have the same opportunity as the rest of us to take part in sport.”

Now fully recovered, the 15year-old has been awarded this year’s unsung hero in sport Award for his work with disabled children as a volunteer coach with the council’s Sports Development Unit.

It’s one of many recent honours for Westleigh High School pupil Cameron who has been presented with a prestigious British Red Cross

Humanitarian Citizen Award. be called a hero.

The talented teen doesn’t “Everyone who has received just coach but is an active an award this year acts as a sport star in his own right with real role model and it is an football, cricket and karate honour for us to recognise the amongst his passions. wealth of talent and “It’s great to be given these commitment in community awards but it’s not something I sport we have in our do for recognition,” said a borough. modest Cameron, who has also “From helped to raise more than those who £10,000 for Wigan Disability excel on Sports Forum. the field of The ‘unsung hero’ was play to amongst eight individuals and those who organisations to be honoured work as part of the annual tirelessly sports awards.

Wigan Council’s cabinet champion for leisure and culture, Cllr Brian Baldwin paid tribute to all the winners.

He said: “Cameron’s triumph against Accidental Hero: adversity is an Cameron Foster receives inspiration to us his award from ex-special all and he really forces mountaineering does deserve to expert Dave Bunting.

to help others achieve their dreams, our borough really is one of the North West’s sporting greats and thanks to the work of our winners the future of sport in Wigan is in safe hands.”

Borough Sports Awards... the winners The full list of borough sports award winners is:

Club of the Year 2010 – sponsored by The Wigan Borough Sports Council Winner: Highfield Cricket Club Runner Up: Tyldesley Swimming and Water Polo Club Finalist: Highfield Grange Football Club Coach of the Year 2010 – sponsored by Wigan Athletic Football Club Winner: Mike Hack – Astley and Tyldelsey Cycle Speedway Cycling Club Runner Up: Gill Fitzpatrick – Standish All-Stars Cheerleading Club Finalist: Joe Galvin – Leigh Harriers Athletics Club Volunteer in Sport Award 2010 – sponsored by Ferryman Blue Winner: Martin Gaskell – Highfield Cricket Club Runner Up: Cameron Foster Finalist: Nick Clarke – New Springs Lions Amateur Rugby League Football Club

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BOROUGH LIFE Winter 2010

Sports Achiever of the Year 2010 – sponsored by Wigan Sports Development Winner: Laura Riches - Leigh Harriers Athletics Club Runner Up: Daniel Greaves – City of Liverpool Gymnastics Club Finalist: Grace Morley – Tyldesley Swimming and Water Polo Club Disabled Sports Achiever of the Year 2010 – sponsored by the Wigan Disability Sports Forum Winner: Isaak Dalglish – Bryn Badminton Club/Lancashire FA Disability Centre of Excellence Runner Up: Daniel Dawoud – England Table Cricket Team Finalist: Graham High – Whitley Badminton Club The Wilf Brogan Unsung Hero in Sport Award 2010 – sponsored by Wish FM Winner: Cameron Foster - The British Karate Academy/Westleigh Basketball

Club and Wigan Sports Development Runner Up: Mick Hatch – Norley Hall Cricket Club Finalist: Lev Baddley – Atherton and Leigh Swimming Club

Team of the Year 2010 – Sponsored by Healthy Stadia Winner: Standish All-Stars Cheerleading Team Runner Up – Tyldesley Swimming and Water Polo Club Girls Water Polo Team Finalist – Tyldesley Lightning U16 Netball Team The Martin Lynn Special Contribution to Sport Award 2010 – sponsored by the Wigan School Sports Partnership Winner: Stuart Isherwood – Aspull Church Primary School Runner Up: Victoria Glen - Standish AllStars Cheerleading Team Finalist: Anne Waltho – Wigan School Sport Partnership/Westleigh Hockey Club and Astley Tennis Club

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THE Mesnes Park makeover is steaming ahead thanks to a massive cash boost.

But the question is – have you got any bright ideas on how we can make the most of more of the borough’s history?

The Victorian gem of a park had been awarded £1.9m by the Lottery Fund (HLF) and the Big Lottery Fund (BIG) which is now encouraging community groups to come forward with any ideas they have for a heritage project that may warrant financial support.

Mesnes’ £1.9m windfall marks Phase Two of park’s regeneration and will include the restoration of the historic entrance lodge, refurbishment of the bowling pavilion and footpaths, improved park lighting and park furniture.

But it will also see the return and restoration of three of the park’s most impressive features.

The Coalbrookdale Fountain will be re-introduced complete with cast iron dolphins and serpents. The fountain is thought to have been removed in the early 1920s.

A new pump will ensure that

water once again flows over the magnificent Pulham Rock feature.

While Wigan’s luckiest statue – Sir Francis Sharp Powell – will receive a make over as the former MP’s statue is re-bronzed and his plinth repointed.

Thousands of people visit the statue each year to rub his foot for luck.

Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust (WLCT) manage the park of behalf of Wigan Council.

When work on Phase One and Phase Two is completed in 2012 a massive £6.4m will have been invested by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Big Lottery Fund, Wigan Council and Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust. Work has already started on Phase One of the project.

Mesnes is a classic example of a Victorian urban park. It is a Grade II listed park and was opened back in 1878

The

s e n ! s t e n M eve

as a ‘green lung’ for the industrial town.

Today it receives around two million visitors a year and plays host to an array of popular events.

Wigan Council’s cabinet member for leisure, Cllr Brian Baldwin, said: “Mesnes Park is a wonderful place to escape today’s hustle and bustle to relax or exercise.

“This fantastic funding is the icing on the cake for this regeneration project which will ensure this much loved park is conserved for the people of Wigan for another hundred years.”

Secretary of volunteer group, The Friends Of Mesnes Park, Sue Turner said: “This wonderful generosity means a great deal to the people of this town.

“Wigan will once again have a park at its heart which people can be truly proud of.”

For further information about the Mesnes Park Restoration Project contact Andrew Bond – Parks Regeneration Manager on 01942 828 232 or email a.bond@wlct.org or visit www.wlct.org/ mesnespark

Big Figure: Celebrating funding success are, left to right, Joanne Ramdewor, Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust's Sharon Saunders, Councillor Brian Baldwin, Stuart Murray, Friends of Mesnes Park Sue Turner, and Andrew Bond.

Mums and dads helped with alcohol issues ARE you concerned about the amount you are drinking? Are you thinking about how your child may be affected by your alcohol use? Do you want to cut down on your drinking? Willow can help!

The Wigan borough-based Willow Project is a voluntary organisation that supports women who are concerned about their own or someone else’s drinking.

Now it has launched a new parents’

support service for parents of children under five. The project offers six week courses consisting of weekly support sessions for mums and dads who are drinking more than the government’s recommended guidelines.

This is more than 15 units a week for women and 21 units a week for men.

The sessions inform families of the consequences of drinking to excess, help raise awareness of the effects of alcohol

and help parents understand the affect that this may have on their children.

Willow parent support officer Carole Johnston said: “The sessions look at enjoying family life and the importance of getting involved with activities that don’t revolve around alcohol,” says Carole. ● If you would like more information please call The Willow Project on 01942 679300 or email: mail@willowproject.com

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Show bogus callers

THE DOOR WE’RE told that our home is our castle… our sanctuary against the outside world, the place we feel safest.

But when it comes to doorstep crime, we’re practically inviting the bad guys in with open arms!

Helen Anozie would never have described herself as gullible. In fact, she used to think she’d be able to spot a rogue trader, a bogus builder or a fake water board official with her eyes shut.

But the mother of four from Ince recently had an expensive eyeopener when some builders knocked unexpectedly and offered to replace the paving on her front drive.

“To begin with they seemed very respectable. They had glossy brochures and didn’t demand money up front so I agreed to give them the work,” she said.

But what followed was a series of broken promises, missed appointments and a barrage of phone calls demanding cash up front.

“Even after being practically frogmarched to the cashpoint to draw the money out, still the work wasn’t carried out. I contacted the police but there was little they could do with the limited information I could give them. I rang the number on the brochure but they knew nothing about these people trading in their name. When I rang the mobile number, a man answered claiming to have bought the phone in a car boot sale that morning. By now, it was clear I’d been duped.”

Sadly, Helen knew her trust in human nature had been misplaced.

Shaking her head she recalled: “I am a Christian and I will always give people the benefit of the doubt. But it has shaken my faith in people and will certainly make me think twice in the future before I accept people at face value.”

After contacting Trading Standards, Helen was put in touch with John Clarke Paving, a reputable local tradesman who is registered on the Council’s Good Trader Scheme, and who completed the job in no time.

“I want to warn other people about how easy it is to be taken in

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BOROUGH LIFE Winter 2010

by plausible con artists who prey on innocent people. Don’t let it happen to you!”

“Doorstep crime relies on people putting their trust in total strangers,” said Julie Middlehurst, Chief Trading Standards Officer at Wigan Council.

“Whether they are distraction burglars or rogue traders, doorstep criminals are experts at targeting the elderly and more vulnerable members of our community, calling unannounced to catch unwary victims off guard.”

Across Greater Manchester, around 1,200 incidents of doorstep crime are reported to the police and Trading Standards every year.

“We believe doorstep crime is vastly under-reported,” said Julie.

“Victims often feel embarrassed at admitting they’ve been taken in, or fail to come forward out of fear or intimidation.”

The advice from Trading Standards is simple: ● Don’t be pressured into making on the spot decisions. or agreeing to potentially costly repairs. Always shop around for the best price and try to get two or three quotes. ● Be wary of ‘special offers’. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. ● Don’t take cold callers at face value. Always ask for identification.

Call to confirm who they are but first check the number is genuine with Directory Enquiries. ● Use the Wigan Council Good Trader Scheme. This lists honest and reliable local traders and businesses who are rated by local customers. ● Look out for the tell-tale signs. Not surprisingly, rogue traders don't want to be traced, so they will often drive vehicles that only have either a mobile telephone number or an 0800 number displayed.

STOP: if they ever offer to take you to the bank, call the police.

REMEMBER: it’s your doorstep, your decision. If in doubt, keep them out!

Police: 0161 872 5050 (emergency 999) Consumer Direct: 08454 04 05 06 Find out more about the Good Trader Scheme at www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader or by calling 01942 827476.

YOUR DOORSTEP YOUR DECISION: If in doubt, keep 'em out!

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taxes investment exam results policing antisocial behaviour abuse

crime How are we doing? health

crime

theft

Results show that performance matters economy jobs alcohol abuse environment

abuse education social care CLEANING the streets, emptying the bins, educating our children, boost the local economy, caring for the vulnerable and elderly, combating crime and anti-social behaviour The list goes on.

In fact Wigan Council provides 700 services to the communities across the borough for less than £3 per person, per day.

But it’s not just about providing services - it’s about doing it well and listening to people.

In the days when council’s were inspected, Wigan was consistently rated as a four-star ‘excellent’ council.

Those inspection regimes may be a thing of the past but the council remains committed to provide top-quality services and the best value for money.

Councillor Fred Walker is the council’s Cabinet Champion for Efficiency and he says: “Government cuts are beginning to bite and putting front line services first and protecting the vulnerable are our priorities.

“But whatever happens we won’t be sacrificing the standard of service we deliver.

“We’ll be keeping you regular updated through the pages of Borough Life.”

You can also find out more by visiting: www.wigan.gov.uk/ performance Borough Life chose a number of key areas and looked at how well the council was performing, here’s what we found:

£

The Economy business and employment:

Business - There's no doubt that the credit crunch followed by the recession has had an impact on the borough.

The startup of new businesses has stalled, with numbers worse than the national average. However, since December 2009, 470 new businesses have been created meaning Wigan’s figures have gone up as those across Greater Manchester have declined.

Jobs - Currently almost three quarters of the working age population have jobs (72.9 per cent). This represents a slight drop since the start of the economic downturn, but it is better than the regional average. And the signs look bright - since the beginning of 2010,

business

unemployment has fallen by nearly 17 per cent and in August, Job Centre Plus posted a record number of vacancies in 1,917.

Health and wellbeing: Life expectancy - Wigan residents have a shorter life expectancy than the national average. Tackling the biggest health problems in our borough that lead to shorter life spans is a key priority for us.

Social care - The council and its partners are helping more people with additional needs than ever before to live independently. Through personalised budgets, people who need care now have a greater say in the services they need and how they are delivered. The proportion of Wigan residents receiving a personalised budget is significantly better than the national average.

Alcohol abuse - This remains a cause for concern in our borough. The number of people admitted to hospital for alcohol-related problems is much higher than both the regional and national averages.

Education: School achievement School achievement - The number of children gaining five or more A* to C grades at GCSE (including Maths and English) has steadily increased in recent years. In fact nearly half of all pupils (48.7 per cent) now achieve this, which is in line with the national average. However the challenge remains to improve results for children from the borough's more deprived areas and for vulnerable children.

With just under half the borough's young people (44 per cent) achieving two A-Level standard or equivalent qualifications this year, grades are improving but are still below the national average.

The Environment: When it comes to recycling, we're all getting greener. As of June this year the amount of waste the borough recycled had grown to a third. It's a great start, but this

recycling

is less than the national average so there's much more to be done. Nearly every household now has a brown bin and trials of blue bins for paper recycling are now underway.

Our streets are getting cleaner. This year just 12 per cent of the borough's roads and streets were assessed as having unacceptable litter problems.

The council is working hard to identify areas that have persistent problems so that we can further improve on these figures and bring our performance in line with the national average.

Crime and antisocial behaviour: Domestic abuse - Domestic abuse - As you can read elsewhere in this edition of Borough Life, on pages 1213, domestic abuse is a problem in our borough. This year there were nearly 1,400 such incidents reported to the police but due to the nature of domestic abuse the real figure could be even bigger. The council and its partners are about to launch a borough-wide strategy to tackle this difficult area entitled - No More Excuses, It's Got To Stop!

Burglaries to homes - A real success!

There has been a 45 per cent reduction in house burglaries over the past five years.

The Verdict?

ACCORDING to the council's Citizen's Panel - a focus group made up of local residents from all parts of the borough and walks of life - 83 per cent of people are satisfied with where they live. However the council and its partners are not complacent and there are plenty of challenges that face the borough in the years ahead.

What Do You Think?

WE’D like to know whether you think we are still addressing the issues which are important to you locally. Please have your say at www.wigan.gov.uk/haveyoursay

BOROUGH LIFE Winter 2010

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Borough Life 26-27

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Enterprise CULTURE – Coaches bring big commercial boost to b Recycling People

Success in a roundabout way EILEEN Horrocks knows a thing or two about people.

When the experienced community worker was made redundant three years ago she wanted to continue to use her people skills to help others.

So there was only one option – set up her own social enterprise.

Working out of Bramble House Community Centre in Worsley Hall, Eileen has helped to create a new business model called Circles @ Bramble – which not only brings old, unwanted goods such as small household items and clothing back into use, but also gives people in the local community a means of finding work and learning new skills.

“The idea is to take any old unwanted items and then renovate them to bring them back into use,” says Eileen.

“Then we will hold sales at the community centre and any money we make is then ploughed back into the business.

“It’s providing a necessary community service but it’s also paying for itself as well.”

Eileen benefited from Enterprise Coaching by being put in touch with other social enterprise groups through Liverpool SSE to learn more about how to set up her own.

If Circles @ Bramble is the success that Eileen and others hope it will be, she hopes to use the model to set up other social enterprises in different areas of the borough and beyond.

Just the b

BEING your own boss. It’s a dream that many people will share. But starting your own business doesn’t mean you have to become the stereotypical ruthless entrepreneur, always ready to put profits before people.

In Wigan borough a project is helping to create a new generation of business people who are discovering that working for yourself can also mean working for the community you live in.

The Neighbourhood Enterprise Coaching scheme has been set up to help local people in our borough realise the dream of starting their own business. It is funded by the Community and Local Government’s

Fashion conscious

Support helps fashion designer Pele play a blinder TALENTED Pele Jack is is hoping to make it big in the highly competitive world of fashion design.

But the former Wigan and Leigh College student also wants to help others along the way.

The 22 year-old from Billinge found he had a flair for design and now wants to make it his life’s work.

His fledgling company Kindy Print,

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BOROUGH LIFE Winter 2010

will create personalised t-shirts, hoodies and other items of clothing for the youth market.

Pele also wants to branch out into designing unique football and other sports’ strips for local teams.

After finding out about the Enterprise Coaching, Pele was able to get funding help through the Prince’s Trust.

Now he is looking for printing

equipment and premises but for Pele it’s more than just a good business idea.

“I’ve been given some good chances and I really want to do the same for someone else,” he says.“Being in business is not just about making money, it should be about making a contribution and giving something back.”

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o borough communities Phil can fix it

business

STARTING UP...

Phil Taplin, Pele Jack and Eileen Horrocks – with Enterprise Coaches Julie Baxendale and Paul Carroll in the background.

Working Neighbourhoods’ Fund and the Northwest Development Agency’s (NWDA) North West Coalfield Communities Regeneration Programme (NWCCRP).

As part of the project managed by BCT Regenesis, Julie Baxendale, based at Groundwork and Paul Carroll at Age Concern, have become the borough’s first Enterprise Coaches.

They work with people who may have a great business idea but need a little bit of help to get things moving.

Julie Baxendale explains: “We want to help people to get the skills and confidence they need to become their own boss but not only that, we want to help those who have ideas that could also help their local community and employ local people.”

“We work with people who have an idea and want to set up their own business but may need a little help,” says Julie. “This could be with practical skills like planning,

doing the accounts and marketing the business right through to finding out what grants, funding, training courses and help from other business support agencies might be available.”

Julie and Paul work in the very heart of the communities they serve and regularly set up their stalls at community centres, children centres, schools and other community venues.

So far they have had plenty of takers and are already helping some to take those exciting steps to become self-employed and starting their own business.

Borough Life spoke to three of Julie and Paul’s ‘star pupils’ to find out more: ● For more information on the Neighbourhood Enterprise Scheme you can contact Julie Baxendale on 07810 123 900 and/or Paul Carroll on 07960 873686 or visit: www.way-to-work.co.uk

Dent Meister is the man for mobile repairs MILD-mannered mechanic Phil Taplin has a daring alterego.

The 45 yearold is all set to transform into The Dent Meister as he prepares to launch his very own mobile car bodywork repair service.

Phil, who hails from Abram, found himself unemployed after years of working for a major contractor and at first it was a daunting prospect.

The family man had concerns about whether he would be able to make ends meet when he was first laid off over the summer.

A few short months on and he is ready work for himself.

“I had always had an interest in cars and mechanics,” says Phil. “So I thought I could make this work for me. I had the idea of setting up my own car dent repair business.”

Phil’s system takes away the dent without the need for re-painting.

He has identified the gap in the market, had the skills and knowledge to do the job but it was on the technical side of running a business where Phil needed a bit of help.

After being referred to Enterprise Coach, Julie Baxendale, he soon found what he needed.

“I was able to get training to help me put a business plan together and how to keep accounts, which has been really useful. The thought of being my own boss is great and for the future I would ideally like my own premises but am happy to start off going out to help others.”

You can find out more about Phil’s service by calling 07540 612747.

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Borough Life 28-29

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The 26 hectare site was given to the Urban District Councils of Hindley, Aspull and Westhoughton in gifts from Mr RD Leigh of Pemberton and Mr Wilcox of Hindley in the 1930s.

At the same time, the Borsdane Wood Joint Committee was founded to oversee the management of the woodland.

Since 1974 Borsdane Wood has been controlled by Wigan Council and managed by Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust. In 1986 it became the borough’s first local nature reserve.

Fed up with festivities?

THEN GET WALKING! ET’S face it, there’s probably going to be a mince pie or three eaten over Christmas, perhaps an extra portion of turkey on the works’ do and then at the family party the following week, and maybe a tempting mountain of sweeties to scoff. And why not?

But before we all fret about those extra pounds, spreading waistlines and ominous New Year’s resolutions, how about a rewarding and cheap bit of exercise close to home?

This year, Borough Life has reported from around Greenheart, the new regional park at the centre of our borough which offers accessible countryside and recreational opportunities.

And Graham Workman, Wigan’s very own ‘countryside king’ and friend of David Bellamy, tell us where’s best to walk off that festive paunch.

“It’s still the case that many locals don’t realise that just behind the rows of terraces are miles of great countryside,” says Graham. “More than two thirds of Wigan is open space and you’re never far from a great walk.”

Graham takes us to one of his favourite sites, Borsdane Wood in Hindley. We start at Mill Lane, just on the Aspull/

L

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Walks through picturesque Borsdane Wood are marked by the broken red line.

Westhoughton border, but another good place is Hindley Mill Lane, off the A58 north of the centre of Hindley.

“It’s an easy walk through,” says Graham, “You can keep to the flat bits along the riverside if you have pram or wheelchair wheels – but there are some steeper steps to be careful on for those wanting a longer or more circular trip.”

With the majority of the site being a wooded valley, it’s easy to presume the site is unchanged in millennia, but in fact Borsdane Wood is designated as Ancient Semi Natural Woodland, which means it is believed to have had continuous cover since Elizabethan times. The ‘natural’ look is carefully managed to ensure invasive species don’t overrun the woods.

“It’s great to stroll, and we don’t mind dogs either,” adds Graham, “But don’t forget that Borsdane is a living habit for a diverse group of mammals, birds and invertebrates. So look out for deer, squirrels, birds like dippers and

© Crown Copyright 100019578 2010

even some slightly unusual trees planted in the 19th century as well.” ● For more information visit www.visitgreenheart.com and watch our video on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVfqjttW38s

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Best foot

FORWARD HRISTMAS is a time for miracles!

If you need proof then look no further than Dave Hanbury.

Three days before Christmas Day 2007, he was involved in a near-fatal road accident. His motorbike was clipped by a car on a miserable, wet night on the M6. “I remember hitting the ground and then feeling like I was in a tumble dryer – images flashing through my mind. It was the car behind that ran over me and left me with a fractured femur and broken collar bone.

“I remember looking at my leg thinking it was not supposed to be in that position,” said Dave.

His thigh bone fractured, Dave underwent surgery in

C

Warrington to implant a pin and three screws in his leg.

It was several months before the former mental health nurse made a full recovery.

Fast forward a few years and Dave has been recognised for what he loves best and something, in those dark days after the crash, he thought he might never do again – taking the people of Wigan and Leigh walking around our fabulous borough. The 60-yearold from Atherton was awarded Natural England’s Walking For Health “Shining Star Award” earlier this year in recognition of his commitment as a volunteer walk leader for Wigan’s active living team.

Walking for Health is a free programme of walks to get people in Wigan and Leigh

active. Walks are suitable for Getting folk fit and healthy people of all abilities and take is the main aim of the walks place at some of the borough’s but Dave, who even in most beautiful spots including retirement continues to work Pennington Flash, Three for the Alzheimer’s Society, is Sisters and Haigh Hall. also interested in their “When I first started as a potential mental health walk leader one person turned benefits. up. Now we regularly have “There’s a lot of research at between 80 and 90 people the moment that suggest attending the walks at walking six miles a week or a Pennington Flash and on six mile a day does delay the occasions this year more than onset of dementia. I believe a hundred – which is walking does help for a lot of phenomenal” says Dave. other mental health problems, “Our walks bring together especially people with people of all ages and depression.” abilities. When I was on The active living team’s crutches after the accident Health Walks programme is friends used to bring me and supported by Wigan Leisure I’d walk a little way because I and Culture Trust, Lancashire missed it so much.

Wildlife Trust, Natural “I couldn’t wait to get England, and back and be able to Ashton, Leigh To find out walk the full distance.” and Wigan NHS. more call 01942 488 481 or visit www.wlct.org/ activeliving

Walk on: Dave Hanbury directs walkers at Pennington Flash.

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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

Community events Tue 14th Dec, 7:45pm WIGAN RSPB St Annes Church Hall, Shevington.

The Biggest Twitch - an illustrated talk by Alan Davies and Ruth Miller.

For further information visit www.rspb.org.uk/groups/wigan Non members £2 Wed 15th Dec, 9:15am WIGAN RSPB A visit to local bird sites. For further information telephone Tom Morton on 01942 832383.

Fri 17th Dec LEIGH ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Derby Room, Turnpike Centre, Leigh.

Florida - An illustrated talk and excellent photography by Stuart Meredith. For further information telephone 01942 606531.

Fri 17th Dec, 8pm (doors open 7,15pm) VOICES AT THE DOOR MIDWINTER SONGS AND CAROLS Wigan Parish Church. Tickets £12.50 in advance or £15 on the door. Wonder in the delights of powerful and distinctive performances during the festive period. For tickets phone 01942 824291. Tickets are also available from The Coven Delicatessen and Cafe, 43 Hallgate, Wigan (two minutes from the Parish Church.)

Sat 18th Dec, 9am WIGAN RSPB Pennington Flash.

For further information telephone Jimmy Meadows on 01942 209304.

Fri 31st Dec, 7:30pm - 1am NEW YEARS EVE DANCE St Josephs Hall, Leigh.

Welcome drink on arrival. Supper, canapes, champagne at midnight.

Large car park on site. For tickets telephone Phil on 07872 146896 or email phil@hurstdance.co.uk £17.50 Fri 7th Jan LEIGH ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY

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Derby Room, Turnpike Centre, Leigh.

Islay Queen of the Hebrides - An illustrated talk and excellent photography by Gordon Yates. For further information telephone 01942 606531.

Sat 8th Jan, 8pm WIGAN PHOENIX - OPEN NIGHT St Wildrid’s Parish Hall, Church Street, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0JT. Over 45s, Wigan Phoenix has an Open Night, single or married all are welcome to a sequence & ballroom dance with a little bit of Line. Our aim is to bring people together in a safe, relaxed and friendly atmosphere. There is no bar so bring your own food and drink and make it a party night. Smart dress please. No admission after 9.15pm. For further information visit www.wiganphoenix.co.uk £2.50 (member) £3.50 (visitor) Tue 11th Jan, 7:45pm WIGAN RSPB St Annes Church Hall, Shevington.

Sights & Sounds of British Wildlife A presentation with a difference by David Tolliday. For further information visit www.rspb.org.uk/groups/wigan Non members £2 Wed 12th Jan, 9:15am WIGAN RSPB A visit to local bird sites. For further information telephone Tom Morton on 01942 832383.

Fri 14th Jan to Sat 29th Jan, 7:30pm GOODY TWO SHOES Wigan Little Theatre, Crompton Street, Wigan, WN1 3SL. Written & directed by Bill Collins, Co-Director Christine Armstrong.

Musical Director Joan Bond.

Choreography Jayne Quinlan.

Pantomime fun for all the family!

WLT’s winning formula of slap-stick comedy, romance, music, dancing and a struggle between good and evil in the typical traditional style.

Matinees on 15th & 22nd Jan at 2.15pm (no evening performances on these dates). Telephone the Box Office on 01942 242561.

Parks Events Sun 12th Dec, 1:00pm - 3:00pm HAIGH YULETIDE LOGS Haigh Country Park.

Create a beautiful yule log with natural seasonal foliage and a crafty card to take home. Suitable for ages 5 years + accompanied by an adult.

Booking essential. For further information and to book telephone 01942 832895. £5 per log.

Sun 19th Dec, 1:00pm - 3:00pm CHRISTMAS AT MESNES PARK Mesnes Park, Wigan.

Join the rangers in the Pavilion Café to make a Christmas table decoration from natural materials.

Also, come and join Father Christmas and enjoy some musical entertainment. Booking for decorations is essential. For further information and to book telephone 01942 245369.

Sun 19th Dec, 1:00pm - 3:00pm WINTER BEGINS… Pennington Hall Park, Leigh.

Join the Friends of Penington Hall Park and Coppull and Standish band for an early Christmas celebration! You can make a decoration for your home with the rangers, sing along with the band as well as meeting Father Christmas. Booking essential. For further information and to book telephone 01942 605253.

Sun 16th Jan, 1:00pm - 3:00pm FEED THE BIRDS Haigh Country Park.

Join the rangers as we make wooden bird feeders and fat cakes for our feathered friends. Suitable for children aged 5 years + accompanied by an adult. Booking essential. For further information and to book telephone 01942 832895. £2.50 per bird feeder

Sun 23rd Jan, 1:00pm - 3:00pm RESOLUTION RAMBLE Haigh Country Park.

Don’t break those New Year resolutions! Join us on a steady ramble around Haigh Country Park to help work off those extra pounds. You will need stout footwear and warm clothing, bring your waterproofs. Suitable for ages 8+. Booking essential. For further information and to book telephone 01942 832895. FREE.

Haigh Country Park – Events tel. 01942 832895 Every Sunday in December CHRISTMAS SUNDAY LUNCH Treat yourselves and your loved ones to a traditional festive Sunday lunch. Includes three course meal, coffee and mince pies. £16.95.

Booking essential.

Sat 11th Dec, 7:00pm - 1:00am CASINO PARTY NIGHT An opportunity to enjoy fun gambling. Casino tables will be open after the meal. ‘Fun Money’ supplied so you can gamble without breaking the bank. Tables include roulette, black jack, stud poker. Includes 4 course dinner. £35 Sun 12th Dec & Sun 19th Dec, 11:00am - 3:30pm SANTA SUNDAYS Situated in the magnificent setting of Haigh Hall, come and visit Santa and receive a special gift. Why not stay for a special Christmas Sunday lunch? 01942 832895. £4 per child.

Mon 13th Dec, 7:00pm EVENING OF CLAIRVOYANCE WITH DAVID TRAYNOR Haigh Hall is delighted to welcome

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back David for a festive appearance.

There is no reserved seating available for this performance. Starts at 8pm. Booking essential. £13 Wed 15th Dec, 6:30pm CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT We are proud to present The Cathedral Choir of ‘Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral’ in an evening of contemporary and traditional music for Christmas.

With a full supporting programme, the Choristers will perform a full evening of music with selected readings and thoughts for Christmas. Early Booking is essential. Please note late comers may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance.

Price includes mulled wine on arrival. £15. Booking essential.

Thu 16th Dec, 7:00pm - 1:00am FATHER TED The number one UK Theatre Touring Company hits Haigh Hall. Once settled with a drink, the evening starts with Father Jack’s funeral and a service of rememberance. Things just get crazier and zanier with lots of surprises! Enjoy Father Ted’s confession box, the Priest’s cabaret and ultimately finishing with Mrs Doyle’s River Dance class and the Craggy Island disco. You’ll be blessed forever if you book for this party!

Includes 4 course dinner. £37.50.

Booking essential.

Fri 17th Dec & Sat 18th Dec, 7:00pm - 1:00am CHRISTMAS STAR TIME WITH JOSH ADAMS You’ll have an incredible time as you unwind this Christmas. Our entertainment stars Josh Adams, one of the most popular vocalists in show business. From soulful classics to swing; smooth in his style and good looks; you’ll celebrate Christmas in style.

Includes 4 course dinner. £37.50.

Booking essential.

Fri 31st Dec, 7:00pm - 1:00am NEW YEAR’S EVE BALL Ladies get out your best dress, Gents wear your black tie for an evening of great food, and fabulous surroundings in Wigan’s very best event venue. Haigh Hall New Year’s Ball features fabulous 5 course dinner and dancing until the early hours. £39. 01942 832895.

Booking essential.

Fri 21st Jan, 8.00pm GOURMET SPANISH WINE EVENING Discover what constitutes a ‘fine’ wine and how to spot the tell-tale clues. Sample our delicious menu and find out how to select the perfect wine accompaniment for any meal. Includes reception drink and five course meal. £28.95.

Booking essential.

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Heritage events Sat 18th Dec, 12:00pm - 3:00pm WARTIME CHRISTMAS Museum of Wigan Life, Library Street, Wigan.

What was Christmas like during wartime? Were presents rationed?

Feel all Christmassy as we go back to 1942 for a day! Join us for object handling, arts & crafts and a special story time for under 5s. For further information telephone 01942 828128. FREE. Tue 21st Dec, 344-A STORY OF THE PRETORIA PIT DISASTER Museum of Wigan Life, Library Street, Wigan. Inspired by a Mother’s Tale. Local author and history enthusiast Jane Finney will tell us about her book which is based on her Great-Great Grandmother’s diary and accounts.

Booking recommended. For further information and to book telephone 01942 828128. FREE Wed 19th Jan & 26th Jan, 11:00am - 12:00pm WE LOVE TO BOOGIE! UNDER 5S DANCE CLASS Museum of Wigan Life, Library Street, Wigan. An interactive family dance session exploring movement, music and dance - with not a nursery rhyme in sight! Mums and dads and carers of all ages - bop along to your favourite tunes and help the little ones have fun in this friendly dance session. For further information telephone 01942 828128. £2 per child Thu 27th Jan, 1:30pm HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY Derby Room, Turnpike Centre, Civic Square, Leigh.

Join us as we remember the injustices of the past through readings and performances.

Everyone welcome. Refreshments included. FREE. 10.15am – The Atrium, Wigan Town Hall. 1.30pm – Derby Room, Turnpike Centre, Leigh.

Thu 27th Jan, 6:30pm - 7:45pm A LANCASHIRE GARLAND Museum of Wigan Life, Library Street, Wigan.

An evening with Sid Calderbank, Lancashire dialect performer. A history of Lancashire in songs and poems. Light refreshments included. Booking recommended.

For further information telephone 01942 828128.

Leisure Venues – Events Fri 10th Dec, 8:30pm - 12:00am

NORTHERN LINK SINGLES CHRISTMAS PARTY Monaco Ballroom, Hindley.

Tuxedo and Tiaras Theme. Prize for the glitziest dancers on the floor.

Modern sequence, Ballroom, French Jive and Latin with DJ Rex. £6 (members) £7 (guests) Fri 24th Dec LEIGH PHOENIX - CHRISTMAS EVE DANCE Formby Hall, Atherton.

Christmas Eve buffet dance for members only of NCDSW. Admission by ticket only. To book your tickets telephone 01942 222537 or visit www.leighphoenix.co.uk £8 Fri 24th Dec, 7:30pm - 12:00am CHRISTMAS EVE DANCE Monaco Ballroom, Hindley.

50/50 social dance evening.

Welcome drink on arrival. Spot prizes and hot supper. Tickets in advance only. Please note that ticket numbers have now been reduced so even more room to dance. For tickets telephone 01942 777627. £10 Fri 7th Jan, 8:00pm - 11:30pm LEIGH PHOENIX - GLITZ & GLAMOUR NEW YEAR BALL Formby Hall, Atherton.

Sequence, Ballroom, Line & Rock’n’Roll. Over 45, divorced, separated or widowed. Our aim is to bring people together to make new friends in a safe, relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Smart dress please. No admission after 9.30pm.

For further information telephone 01942 222537 or visit www.leighphoenix.co.uk £2.50 (member) £3.50 (visitor) Fri 14th Jan to Sun 16th Jan APPLE PLAYERS PRESENTS… Monaco Ballroom, Hindley.

Mirror, mirror on the wall, where is the funniest panto of them all? Join is at the Monaco Ballroom for our spectacular, fun-packed, family pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. With comedy, singing, dancing, audience participation and stunning sets and costumes, this year’s Apple Players family pantomime promises to be our biggest and best panto ever!

Book your tickets now for what promises to be the most magical show of the year. Telephone the ticket hotline on 07831 436429.

Fri 21st Jan, 8:30pm - 12:00am

NORTHERN LINK SINGLES Monaco Ballroom, Hindley.

Modern sequence, Ballroom, French Jive and Latin with DJ Rex. £5 (Members) £6 (Guests)

Libraries – Events Tue 14th Dec, 10:00am - 11:00am

PHYSIBODIES Wigan Children’s Library, opp Argos, The Galleries, Wigan.

Special Christmas fancy dress party.

For further information telephone 01942 828104. FREE Tue 14th Dec, 10:30am - 12:00pm A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Atherton Library.

Brought to you by ‘Friends of Atherton Library’. Talk and slide show featuring a magic lantern show. For further information telephone 01942 404817. £1 on the door.

Thu 16th Dec, 6:00pm - 7:30pm CHRISTMAS BOOK AT BEDTIME Wigan Children’s Library, opp Argos, The Galleries, Wigan.

This free fun family event is for all ages and includes Storytime for under 5s and Christmas story game for 5-11s. Pyjamas and teddy bears welcome. Booking essential. For further information and to book telephone 01942 828104. FREE Tue 21st Dec, 2:00pm COFFEE & CHATS - CHRISTMAS TABLE DECORATION Standish Library.

Come along and make a Christmas table decoration. Small charge to cover the cost of materials. Limited places available. For further information and to book telephone 01257 400496.

Thu 23rd Dec, 2:00pm - 3:30pm CHRISTMAS PARTY Leigh Library.

Under 12s. For further information and to book telephone 01942 404404. £1.

Tue 4th Jan, 10:00am - 11:00am SPECIAL MONTHLY STORYTIME Wigan Children’s Library, opp Argos, The Galleries, Wigan.

‘Completely and best Charlie and Lola Storytime’ come along and join in the fun with stories, crafts and fun. For further information telephone 01942 828104. FREE. Sun 23rd Jan, 10:45am - 11:45am CHILDREN’S CRAFT CLUB Standish Library. Limited places. For further information and to book telephone 01257 400496.£1 Tue 25th Jan, 10:00am - 11:00am

PHYSIBODIES Wigan Children’s Library, opp Argos, The Galleries, Wigan.

For further information telephone 01942 828104.

Standish Library will be opening for extra hours on Christmas Eve and New Years Eve. The opening times will be 9.30am12.30pm & 1.30pm-3.30pm.

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