Issue 38 - Summer 2012 - Wigan Council

www.wigan.gov.ukTheLeaderColumnBy Peter SmithLeader, Wigan CouncilPROVIDING value for money and maintaining services to ourcommunity are Wigan Council’s key priorities. And the savings madeby the council last year are helping us to do exactly that.Whilst we remain in challenging economic times, the council andits staff have risen to this challenge. Last year saw a total saving of£24.8million, which exceeded our targets by more than £3million.We have achieved these savings by reviewing our back-officefunctions, streamlining the council’s senior management team andthrough other initiatives such as improving our waste and recyclingrates, which you can read more about in this issue over pages 22 to25.Despite this positive start there is still much to be done. TheGovernment has imposed on us the need to save £66million overfour years, with probably more to come, so we will continue to lookat ways to make savings and provide excellent services.IT was a once in a generation chance for our borough to shine and itdid so with pride. The Olympic Torch relay came to Wigan Borough inMay and thousands of people lined the roads and streets wavingunion flags and cheering on the runners.And whilst there were undoubtedly some very exceptional peoplewho were chosen to carry the torch through our borough, the realstars of the show where those members of our community who tookthe time and made effort to put on a show, decorate their house,hold a party or just celebrate this unique occasion. I’d like to thankeveryone who took part in the day’s events, you really did ourborough proud. You can see some of the best action from the day’sevents on pages 6 and 7 of this edition.HELPING our young people to the very best start in life is somethingthat everyone at Wigan Council is committed to. Which is why it isgreat news that we have succeeded in our quest to create 100 newapprenticeship posts for young people in 100 days.The truth is we have smashed our own target by creating wellover 100 new positions in less than the allotted 100 days. The key tothis success has been a partnership between the council and theborough’s business community who have been keen to get on boardand are already realising the benefits of employing an apprentice.And there’s more to come because the council has committed anextra £100,000 to provide more apprenticeship places for youngpeople over the next year. We believe it is an investment, not only inour young people but in the future prosperity of our borough. Youcan find out more about some of the individual success stories onpage 10.STAYING on the subject of opportunities for young people, this editionof Borough Life is a bumper one because we’re delighted to say thatwe’ve teamed up with the Wigan Warriors to bring you an eight-pagespecial all about the exciting new Central Park Training campus.This new centre on the site of the former PEMBEC school, NorleyHall, is the product of a unique partnership between the council andthe Warriors to give young people in our borough access to world classtraining and education facilities.It’s an ambitious venture that’s sure to serve generations of youngpeople in our borough well.Summer 2012This edition packed with news, plus...Torch Relay “flaming fantastic” 6&7Future Steps starts job hunt early 15Join the recycling boom 24-27Stars out for jazz spectacular 29Borough Life is published by WiganCouncil and distributed to all households inthe borough. This edition was published on21 June. Distribution should be complete by5 July.The magazine is printed on paper fromrenewable resources. It is written and editedby Wigan Council’s Media andCommunications team, designed bySmith Davis Press and printed by PCP.If you have any comments or feedback –or if would like to write a letter forpublication – please contact:CONTENTSCOVER PICTURE:800m runner JennyMeadows, whotrains at Robin Park,hopes to representthe borough andTeam GB at the2012 Games.See page seven.The EditorBorough Life,FREEPOST NWW3502A,Wigan WN1 1XZ.Tel: 01942 827823Email: boroughlife@wigan.gov.ukIf you are a resident of Wigan Boroughbut haven’t had a copy of Borough Lifedelivered through your letterbox, please letus know.Copies of individual articles may beavailable in other languages on request.Large print and audio versions can also beprovided. Please phone 01942 827823.BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 3

‘First’ onadoptionunveiledWIGAN is one of threeNorth-west councils whohave teamed up to delivera shared adoption service –the first of its kind in thecountry.Wigan, Warrington, andSt Helens councils havelaunched WWiSH to buildbridges between childrenseeking adoption andpeople wishing to adopt.The Ofsted-registeredservice will widen thechoice for people seekingto adopt children – andspeed up the localadoption process.The new approach willalso encourage morepotential adoptive parentsand give them bettertraining and support.It will increase the choiceof placements offered tochildren by bettermatching their needs,provide better value formoney and reduced coststhrough a morestreamlined service.Across the threeboroughs there areapproximately 1,050children in local authoritycare. Last year, nationallythe number of lookedafter children who weresuccessfully adopted fell byfive per cent. The averagewaiting time for a child inlocal authority care to beadopted is two years andseven months.Wigan Council CabinetMember for Children andYoung People, Cllr SusanLoudon, said: “Adopting achild takes incredibleresponsibility but it is alsoa hugely rewarding,life-changing event.“We feel sure that thenew shared adoptionservice will give prospectiveadoptive parents theassurances they need tomake contact and find outmore. We are lookingforward to working moreclosely with colleagues inSt Helens and Warringtonon this exciting project.”■ To find out more visitwww.wigan.gov.uk andsearch for ‘adoption’.Meet the right honourableteenagersMEET Jilly McKiernan andDaniel Gilmore – Wigan’s newMembers of Youth Parliament.Jilly and Daniel representthe views of the borough’syoung people not only locallyand regionally, but also at anational level as part of theUK Youth Parliament.Daniel, 18, from Wigan,attends Winstanley Collegeand studies Maths, FurtherMaths, Physics and Geography.He said: “This is a greatopportunity to get involvedand to help people. I amthrilled to have been elected.Our main focus this year willbe youth unemployment and Iam very much looking forwardto getting started.”Jilly McKiernan, 17, fromAshton, studies Law, Biologyand Photography at CarmelCollege. It is her second termas an MYP after beingre-elected.She said: “I have met somany great people and havebeen able to get involved withso much during the past fewyears, so I am really happy tobe re-elected.“I want to carryon withsupporting the young peopleof Wigan Borough.”They will be supported bytheir deputy, 18 year old ObiOderinde from Wigan whostudies Public Services atWigan and Leigh College.All three of the UKYPrepresentatives have beeninvolved with a host of youthgroups, youth councils andfocus groups to date as theyare passionate about WiganBorough.The Members of YouthParliament (MYPs) will act asany regular MP would,representing their constituentsand taking the views of theborough’s young people todecision makers at a local,regionalandnationallevel.Eachyearthe£100k high street boostWIGAN Council haswelcomed a cash injectionof £100,000 aimed at highstreet regeneration. This is aboost on top of the MaryPortas Town Team projectwhich the council is alsobidding for funding from.Chief Executive, DonnaHall, said: “Wigan has donecomparatively well duringthe current economicdifficulties.“We have managed tomaintain footfall in ourtown centres but thisfunding will enable us tocontinue many existingschemes and develop newideas to support our localeconomy.“We’re particularly keento focus on the role ofyoung people in oureconomy.”The government hasaccepted most of therecommendations ofshopping guru Mary Portasin her review. They haveMYPs attend the annualsitting of the UK YouthParliament, which will be heldin Nottingham in July for2012.The UK Youth Parliamentalso attend an annual debateon the famous green benchesof the House of Commons.As part of their work, Jilly,Daniel and Obi will alsoaccompany the borough’sYouth Cabinet to Angers inJune to meet with theirFrench Youth Councilcounterparts.There they will discuss thefindings of healthquestionnaires carried out ineach town, compare the resultsand see what they can learnfrom one another.To contact Jilly, Daniel orObi or to find out about howto join your area’s YouthCouncil call Wigan Council’sYouth Service on 01942486256.pledgedto cut planning redtape and entice motorists tothe town centre.4 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

Website topromoteour talentsDESIGNERS, artists,photographers, models,composers, singers… thelist goes on.Wigan Council isintroducing the world tothe wealth of talentedpeople in our boroughthrough the power of theWorld Wide Web.www.creativewigan.com isa new online directorywhich gives global access tothe borough’s brighteststars across the range ofcreative, digital and mediaindustries.The aim of the website isto give local businesses andorganisations theopportunity to find theright person for the jobquickly and easily, as wellas encouraging WiganBorough based businessesto work with each other,rather than usingbusinesses from outside ofthe area.Creative Wigan is beingbacked by some high-profilelocal people includingShadow Secretary of Statefor Health and Leigh MPAndy Burnham and themaverick designer behindtop bands Oasis and TheVerve’s album covers BrianCannon.Wigan Council’s DeputyLeader, Cllr David Molyneux,says: “Wigan Borough hasgot plenty of local talent tocelebrate and we want tolet the world know.“The creative industriesare an exciting andgrowing sector and wewant people from ourborough to be at theforefront when it comes tobringing new business andopportunities to ourborough.“Creative Wigan willenable us to put businessesin touch with these skilledpeople, which supports ourBuy Local campaign andhelps strengthen our localeconomy.“We’re looking forwardto local talent beginning toshine thanks to CreativeWigan.”Rugby internationals hailamazing facilitiesLEIGH Sports Village hasbeen hailed as “worldclass” by a topinternational coach whoserugby league team will visitthe borough for next year’sworld cup.Tonga Rugby LeagueDirector of Operations DannyLigairi-Badham took the tourof Leigh Sports Village – thehome ground of the LeighCenturions – to see whatfacilities will be on offer tohis players when they makethe 10,330 mile trip fromtheir South Sea Island.Dressed in the traditionalTongan Tupenu, Danny said:“I’m blown away.“I’ve seen many of thevenues that are going to beused as part of thetournament and this is thebest by far.”Tonga will clash withScotland and Italy as partof the biggestcelebration of RugbyLeague in the world.Wigan Councilalong with partnersWigan Leisure andCulture Trust, LSV,Wigan Warriors andLeigh Centurions,successfully bid to hostsome of the games duringnext November’s competition.Tonga will not only play atLSV but use its state-of-the-arttraining facilities to preparefor their big match.As part of the World Cup’seducation programme, WiganBorough schools could begetting a visit from some ofthe Pacific giants, to talkabout their island culture.“The welcome I’ve receivedhas been fantastic,” saidDanny. “The passion forThe tournamentwill involve 14 nations:Australia, Cook Islands,England, Fiji, France, Ireland,Italy, New Zealand, Papua NewGuinea, Samoa, Scotland, Tonga,USA and Wales. The first gamesand opening ceremony willbe played on SaturdayOctober 26 and thefinal on SaturdayNovember 30.A new vision to create a state-of-the-artUniversity Technical College (UTC) in Wigan isbeginning to take shape.Backed by Wigan based multi-millionairebusinessman, Martin Ainscough, with supportby sponsors at Wigan and Leigh College andthe University of Central Lancashire (UCLan),the new Wigan UTC aims to blend modernday curriculums, a greater emphasis on workplacement and state-of-the-art facilities.The college’s work ethic will be reflected inthe core hours with the UTC operatingRugbyLeague isclear andonce I’ve reported back tothe boys I’m sure they’ll beeager to get here. It makesme wish I was pulling myjersey on for thetournament.”The big man predicts athree way tussle for the tophonours in the championshipswith New Zealand, Australiaand England all in with ashout, but he added: “My jobTonga RugbyLeague Director ofOperations DannyLigairi-Badhamvisits Leigh SportsVillage.is to get Tonga to thesemi-finals and if we can getthat far, who knows what willhappen.”Leigh Sports Village ChiefExecutive Simon Toon says:“Tonga is our adopted teamand we’re really lookingforward to welcoming them.“It’s great to seeinternational stars come hereand appreciate what we haveto offer. Danny’s reallyconfirmed what we alreadyknow, Leigh Sports Village is aworld class venue.”Work ethic drives forward learningbusiness hours rather than school hours.Aimed at 14 -19 year-olds, each studentwill have their own individual learning plancovering a full range of academic andvocational qualifications.A site on New Market Street, near Wiganand Leigh College (Parson’s Walk), has beenprovisionally identified as a potential site forthe UTC which will accommodate 500students and is proposed to open in 2013.■ To find out more visit the Wigan UTCwebsite www.wiganutc.co.ukBOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 5

SHE’S been all around theworld: the USA, Morocco,Singapore, Beijing; but to trainfor the London games, Guam’sMaria Dunn came to Wigan.Maria is training with RoyWood at his Aspull Gym. She’sthrilled to be working with awrestling legend. “It’s great towork with a top name,” shesays. “Roy has welcomed meand helped me to a place inthe 2012 Olympics.”The wrestler is a celebrity inher Pacific island home andwill be carrying her nation’sflag at the opening ceremony.Maria, who also competed inthe last Olympics in China, willbe joined there by Roy, whoachieves a lifetime ambition bycoaching an Olympian.“I have coached under 21sand rugby stars, but to lead anOlympian out in front of theworld is superb,” says Roy.“Maria is the perfectprofessional, a dedicatedathlete.”Locally, Roy needs littleintroduction. But outside theclose knit wrestlingcommunity, Wigan’s distinctivecatch-as-catch-can disciplineremains under many people’sradar. With a nomination lastyear for BBC SportsPersonality, and having carriedthe Olympic Torch throughAbram, Roy hopes to keepspreading the word.Roy Wood trainsGuam wrestlerMaria Dunn.Top name trainswrestling hope“Wrestling was one ofthe top sports in theancient OlympicGames,” he adds. “Let’smake it one again.”Maria startedwrestling aged 11 afterthe Guam nationalteam came to herschool. “My PE teacherintroduced me to thenational coach,” shesays. “I wanted achallenge so I watchedand learned – but had towrestle boys at school asI was the only girl.”Maria was awarded ascholarship and attendedMissouri Valley Collegewhere female wresting isa major part of sportinglife. She agrees with Royabout it not being seen asmainstream: “America isa cult place for wrestling– it’s the main collegesport, more than footballor basketball. But thereare still places wherewomen’s wrestling is notallowed.”Maria’s years ofdetermination and Roy’slifetime of experience gotthem there and hopefullymedals will follow. “Maria’strained so hard andthoroughly deserves this,”he says. “It’s been apleasure to coach her.”Flyingthe flag forWigan.6 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

HindleyScoutmaster NormanBrown, 59, carriesthe Torch throughthe town centre.RESIDENTS really put out the flags for the Olympic Convoywhen the Torch came to town last month.The route has been chosen by the London OrganisersLOCOG and promoted heavily so people could choosetheir spot to enjoy the day. And choose they did, withhuge crowds at all the key locations and a typicallywarm welcome from residents and communityleaders – especially as the wet weather held off.Leader of the council Lord Peter Smith metthe first Torchbearer on Winwick Lane inLowton. “We have a great tradition of sportand of course a reputation for friendlywelcomes,” he said. “And we are proud tobe a part of the route chosen by theLondon organisers.”In Wigan, television presenter KirstyGallacher brought the Torch up Wallgate.Kirsty’s Tweet on social media echoedmany people’s experience of that day:“What fantastic warmth from thepeople of Wigan – what anexperience!”Lots offun on thebig day.Europeanand World medalistJenny Meadows.Jenny’sgoldendreamEUROPEAN and World medallistJenny Meadows is hoping to beat the London Olympics.“All these years Wigan hasdone me proud,” said the800m star.“There’s world classfacilities at Robin Park. Inever found Wigan hasn’tprovided me with what Ineed.“I also use all the localspaces, Haigh Hall,Worthington Lakes whereI have a brilliant 1km loopwhich helps with myendurance, and I do quite alot of runs around Ashton’sViridor Woods.”Jenny helped launch thepublicity last year about the OlympicTorch route which the Londonorganisers had selected through thestreets from Lowton to Hindley.She pays tribute to the communityspirit of borough residents: “All thelocal people know me and sometimesif I am on a training session and I feela little bit tired, someone only has tosay to me, ‘Come on Jenny, bring thatGold back’, and all of a sudden I havea spring in my step – it’s really nice.”Jenny added: “I love Wigan –people are down to earth and there’sa nice community feel.”Type ‘Jenny Meadows Wigan’ intoYouTube for a longer interview.BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 7

Meeting all ourhealth needsSIGNIFICANT changes areunderway to both healthand social care services inour borough.HealthWatch will havekey role in making surethat the voice of localpeople and the views ofthe people who actuallyuse services are properlyheard. It’s important forall of us that newarrangements for healthand social care are easyto access and friendly andeffective.Clinical CommissioningGroups: CCGs are madeup of local GPs and otherhealth professionals.They’ll be responsible forassessing local healthneeds and planning theright kinds of servicesthat will work for localpeople.Health & WellbeingBoards: Members of theboard will be drawn fromthe ClinicalCommissioning Groupsand HealthWatch (seeabove), local councillorsas well as peopleresponsible for runningthe services.The main job of theboard will be to developa ‘health and wellbeingstrategy’. To do this theywill talk to patients andmembers of the public tounderstand more aboutwhat people expect fromthe services that areoffered and how theycan be improved.HOSPITAL chiefs in Wigan have launched acampaign to raise awareness aboutpressure ulcers and how to prevent them.It is not a glamorous topic but pressureulcers are a very real problem. Often calledbedsores, they can cause a lot of pain andserious harm to patients.Wrightington, Wigan and LeighNHS Foundation Trust (WWL) isworking with the national YourTurn campaign to tackle thepainful subject.In the last two years,nurses at WWL have reduced8 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012Residents drive forwardCHANGEHEALTH and social care HealthWatch will be to give Early consultation work toservices in Wigan citizens and communities a seek local views on these newBorough arestronger voice to influence arrangements is nowchanging… and residents arebeing offered a new chanceto help make the changeshappenIt’s part of a nationalinitiative to give people whoand challenge how health andsocial services are providedwhere they live.”HealthWatch will continuemuch of the good work of theexisting Local Involvementunderway. The messagecoming across strongly is thatlocal people feel passionatelyabout the quality of servicesand want to be able to havetheir say on how things work.use health and social care Network (LINk) but will have That’s not always aboutservices a greater say in how extra responsibilities and making a complaint – it’s alsothey are run.greater powers.about giving constructiveIt gives patients andIt will receive independent feedback and opinion to helpservice-users a direct role in funding to employ its own guide people responsible forhelping to shape and improve staff to work with volunteers running services.the services we all benefit to improve health and social HealthWatch will have afrom.care services. All of its work vital role to play in helpingIt all starts next April when will be public.top plan and shape futurethe borough’s new Local“Most importantly it willservices in the Borough asHealthWatch body will be up hold the borough’s health andwell as checking currentand running.social services to account,”arrangements.“HealthWatch will be a said Cllr Cunliffe.A steering group has beenconsumer champion for“It will act on the public’sset up to help support thehealth and social carebehalf and have the power tointroduction of the newservices,” explained Wigan investigate complaints, makesystem from April 21013.Council’s Cabinet Member for recommendations that willIf you want moreAdults and Health, Cllr Keith help ensure that local peopleinformation about what’sCunliffe.get the highest quality healthplanned or you think you’d“It will be an independent and social care services.”like to get involved directlyorganisation that will provide HealthWatch will have itsan influential and effective own management Boardthen now is the time to get invoice for the general public made up of members fromtouch:in health and social care across the Borough – patients ■ For more information onservices. The aim ofand public alike.HealthWatch visit:www.wigan.gov.uk/Services/HealthSocialCare/HealthwatchCampaign to reduce risk of ulcersFor moreinformation go tothe Your Turn websitewhich has moreinformation on pressureulcers and theirprevention.Visit:www.your-turn.org.ukcases of pressure ulcers by 85 per cent. Notonly has this prevented patients fromsuffering but it has also saved more than£400,000 a year. The Trust’s aim is to noweradicate the problem completely.Gill Harris, Deputy Chief Executive, WWLsaid: “I am personally passionate about andcommitted to reducing preventablepressure ulcers across the whole ofWigan and this campaign givesus an excellent opportunity toreally educate our communityabout the risks of pressureulcers and how to avoid them.”■ To find out more or to takepart in the discussions pleasecontact: Wigan Council’sPeople Directorate, PO Box100,Wigan, WN1 3DS.■ For more information onWigan ClinicalCommissioning Groups,you can visit:www.wiganboroughccg.nhs.uk■ For more information onWigan Local InvolvementNetwork, you can visit:www.healthandcaretogether.co.uk

Want to see regeneration in action? Then…Before and after photos show howRenewal Area status has improved thebuilt environment at Plank Lane in Leigh.Walk the “Plank”AN area of Leigh has been given anew lease of life thanks to amajor council makeover.Last year, leaders with Wigan Councildecided that improvement works wouldstart in the borough’s latest ‘RenewalArea’ along Plank Lane in Leigh.Wigan Borough has already seen eightsuch renewal projects and the aim ofeach one is to improve the economy,environment, housing and the overallquality of life.A decision was made to invest£750,000 on environmental and housingimprovements along Plank Lane overseveral years. The work includedresurfacing alleyways and giving homesAT one time the chink of glasseswould have been a familiar sound onLord Street in Leigh.But now residents are saying‘cheers’ for a different reasons thanksto the disused bar on the street beinggiven a new lease of life as a set ofaffordable luxury flats.The former Woodies bar on LordStreet had lain empty for more thantwo years before the landlord decidedto turn the premises into flats.And thanks to a partnershipbetween the owner, WiganCouncil and social lettingagency, Wigan HousingSolutions the Lord Streetflats are now fullyoccupied.Wigan Council’sCabinet Member fora facelift through cleaning, re-buildingand replacing doors and windows.Leader of Wigan Council Lord PeterSmith, local ward councillors and councilofficers reached an agreement with theHomes and Communities Agency (HCA)that it would fund the majority of thework. But this came with the conditionthat work be completed by March of thisyear.“This was quite a challenge,” saysLord Smith. “But thanks to a greatprivate sector housing team and someluck with the weather we have managedto see some quite dramatic changes tothe area in a relatively short space oftime.Former bar is toast of new tenantsHousing, Cllr Chris Ready, said: “Theend result is six stunning apartmentsthat meet the borough’s housingrequirements.“They have helped six people getgood quality homes and maximisedthe landlord’s returns.”One happy Lord Street tenant said:“I was living with family after movingout of my own property due todisrepair issues. There was a lot offriction and I could only be thereon a short term basis.“The council pointedFor more informationvisit: www.wiganhs.org,www.wigan.gov.uk andsearch for ‘private sectorhousing’ or contact theHousing Strategy Teamon 01942 489205 or01942 489209.me in the direction ofWigan HousingSolutions. I think theservice is brilliant. Ihave been placed ina really nice propertyand I love it.”“The work along Plank Lane was notonly much-needed but it complementsearlier improvements we have made inthe nearby Firs, Heathside and MarshFields Renewal Areas.“It is also in-keeping with thetransformation of the old BickershawColliery Site where 650 new homes willbe built along with new opportunitiesfor business and leisure activities.”So what’s been going on along PlankLane? Many of the homes are century-oldterraced houses – much of the brickworkhas either been re-built or cleaned andpointed, whilst roofs have been replacedand windows and doors repaired.Homes have also been fitted with newdouble-glazing to reduce traffic andother noise on this busy route. Boundarywalls have been re-built along with newiron gates and railings.Drainage has been improved andmany of the alleyways have beenre-surfaced.Security has been improved with theintroduction of lockable ‘alley gates’ tothose alleys where it was appropriate.This has also stopped them from beingused as ‘rat-runs’ by motorists.As the pictures show, the results reallydo speak for themselves.Lord Smith says: “We are delightedwith the results of this makeover whichhas given this important area of ourborough a fresh look.“As a council we take pride in ourborough. We believe that if we are toimprove the local economy, make WiganBorough an attractive place to investand improve the opportunities availableto our residents then we have to start byaddressing quality of life issues. PlankLane is a great example of this.”BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 9

Apprenticeships pay off for Borough’s young peopleIN February, Wigan Council vowed tohelp more of the borough’s youngpeople to get on that crucial first stepon the jobs’ ladder by signing up to anational scheme to create moreapprenticeship opportunities.The council’s 100 in 100 campaignaimed to do exactly what it said on the tin– create 100 new apprenticeship posts foryoung people in our borough in 100 days.No mean feat given the currenteconomic climate and an increasinglyfragile-looking jobs’ market, but that’sexactly why the council decided it wastime to act.Deputy Leader Cllr David Molyneux,who is the authority’s lead on theeconomy, explains: “Youth unemploymentis high both nationally and locally whichis why we are investing more resources inour young people to help them to accessthe new opportunities they need tosucceed.“Unfortunately the old adage ofneeding experience to get a job, can oftenring true, which is why an apprenticeshipis a fantastic choice for a young person. Itgives them the on-the-job training andexperience they so desperately need. Italso teaches the value of hard work andthe rewards for a job well done.”The council campaign saw the authorityworking with some of the borough’sbiggest business names such as MartinAinscough, chair of the Wigan Forwardboard, and Wigan Warriors’ ChiefExecutive Ian Lenagan, who acted asambassadors, encouraging local firms toswitch-on the benefits of taking anapprentice on.More help came at budget time amonth later when the authoritycommitted an extra £100,000 to supportthe drive for young apprentices.So has it paid off?Well, with less than the 100 days gone thecouncil and its partners have smashedtheir own target! In the 16 to 18 year agegroup 128 new apprenticeships have beencreated and amongst the 25’s and over astaggering 278!“It’s a fantastic start but there’s stillmuch more to do,” said Cllr Molyneux.“One of the biggest challenges facingBritish industry is closing the skills gapand this sort of on-the-job training is anideal solution.“Clearly many local employers arealready realising the benefits of taking onan apprentice.“It’s a great way to harness new talentand bring fresh ideas into your business.“Our ultimate aim is an ambitious onebut we would like to provide anapprenticeship opportunity to everyyoung person in our borough who wantsone and to see those apprenticeships growinto jobs.”FIX-IT celebrates decade of training successTHE car’s the star for one group of motormadyoung Wiganers who’ve used theirkeenly-honed mechanical skills to bringan ‘old-banger’ back to life.Working with Wigan-based Fix It thegroup has lovingly restored this Suzukimotor to become a courtesy car forcustomers of their community garage andtraining company.For nearly a decade, Wigan-based Fix Ithas trained 14-19 years olds in motorvehicle studies, giving vital skills,inspiration and hope to youngpeople who don’t enjoytraditional classroombasedlearning.“It’s a win/winsituation foreverybody,”explained IanTomlinson,ProgrammeDirector ofFix It. “FixIt providesthe youngpeoplewith anopportunity to excel using a hands-onapproach to learning rather than theacademic route which does not suiteveryone.“At Fix It, they can learn at their ownpace in a safe and secure environmentwhere they receive encouragement andsupport to boost their confidence andimprove their job prospects.”But it isn’t just the students who gainfrom the scheme. Local peoplecan also benefit from carmaintenance and repairs whichoffer real value for money.Fix It has opened acommunity garage to generate additionalincome to keep the charity going.Customers can have their cars serviced,repaired or prepared for the MOT, and usethe courtesy car which has been paintedby the students to look like a race car.The project is also supported by WiganCouncil and the Three Sisters racetrack.Wigan Council’s Cabinet Member forChildren and YoungPeople, Cllr SusanLoudon, said: “Byproviding positivelearning experiencesuch as this onewe can make areal differenceto the livesof youngpeople.”10 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

GOING FOR GOAL!: The Bedford High School SportsApprentices in action. Pictured are Iain George, 19, DayleGreen, 18, Mike Hargreaves, 19, James Mahon, 19, BenBloodworth, 21, with Neil Gamewell and VenessaShakespeare from Bedford High.School gives learners aSPORTING CHANCEWHEN Neil Gamewell of Leighbasedsports coaching companyActive Synergy came on boardwith the council’s 100 in 100 campaignhe ended up interviewing 118 hopefulyoung people... for just fiveapprenticeship posts.The company entered into apioneering partnership with Leigh’sBedford High School to give youngpeople the chance to shine as SchoolSports Apprentices.The scheme sees the young peoplereceive training and the chance to gain aqualification together with that allimportantexperience of actuallyworking in the field.Neil, who is the programme managerfor Active Synergy, explained: “We areworking with the school to employapprentices who will help with thedelivery of PE and school sport. In thiscase our young apprentices are firstworking with the PE department atBedford before going out to the school’sfeeder primary schools.“It’s a new approach in which theyoung people get a mixture of formaltraining and then the chance to putthese skills into practise in the actualschool environment.”Active Synergy had already workedwith a number of different schools usinga similar model and were delightedwhen Bedford came on board.“It’s fair to say its success has farexceeded our expectations and wherever“”It’s a new approach in whichthe young people get amixture of formal trainingand then the chance to putthese skills into practise in theactual school environment.one of our apprentices has beenappointed, it has led to them becomingan integral part of the schoolworkforce,” said Neil. “Beyond theapprenticeship our learners will havethe option of pursuing careers asteaching assistants or get jobs in thesports and leisure industry.”The company is now planning toexpand the programme to includeschools across the North West and someof the borough’s most high-profile sportsclubs, such as the LeighCenturions, have alsobecome involved.One of thesuccessful Bedfordapprentices, BenBloodworth, 21,believes the role isan all-importantone.“It gives us achance thatotherwise we maynot have got,” hesaid.If you are a youngperson looking for anapprenticeship opportunity oran employer keen to find outmore about the benefits to yourbusiness of taking on a youngperson, you can visit:www.apprenticeships.org.ukTo find out more about ActiveSynergy, you can visit:www.activesynergy.org“I’ve always been interested in sportand fitness so when I saw the advert Ijumped at the chance.“Sport and sports coaching are reallyimportant, particularly with children.They can help to tackle things like poorhealth, get children active and helpreduce problems like childhood obesity.Wigan is well-known as being a sportingplace so we could even be working withfuture football, rugby league stars oreven Olympic athletes!”And of course Bedford High, a collegeof Business and Enterprise with AppliedLearning, is also playing a key role.Assistant Headteacher VenessaShakespeare said: “We are really pleasedto be part of this great programme.“We believe in giving young peoplethe chance to explore new opportunitiesand we want to help them to reach theirfull potential.“We also believe in supportinglocal businesses so it’sgreat to be workingwith a training companybased in Leigh.“Our students andthe pupils in ourprimary schoolcommunity willbenefit from somegreat extra sportscoaching and we wishthe young apprenticesall the best for a brightfuture.”BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 11

Missionis to helpNOBODY should have tolive on the streets in2012.That’s the mission of anew campaign to makesure that anyone whofinds themselvessleeping rough will beoffered support quicklyto get into safeaccommodation and onthe road back torecovery.Greater Manchestercouncils have teamed upwith the Riversidehousing group toprovide a 24-hour phoneline which can takereferrals from anymember of the public.One local-rate call to0345 112 8128 or anon-line referral via:www.riverside.org.uk/nsnogm ensures that atemporary place to stayand on-going supportwill be offered to ahomeless person fromany area.Think ofa nameTHERE’S still a bit oftime to suggest a namefor the brand newSaddle Junction reliefroad.It’s now underconstruction and by theend of the year will beready to take traffic outof the town centretowards Newtown.We’ve had dozens ofideas from readers –including someimpressive examples oflocal history and famousconnections to the Pierarea.Many ideas are verysimilar to, or duplicateexisting road names soit’s a good idea to flipthrough the A-Z becauseall new road namesmust be unique.For full details, type‘Saddle Name’ into thesearch box on:www.wigan.gov.ukAll kinds of artistssee green oasis asINSPIRATIONIWandered Lonely As ACloud… For WilliamWordsworth, it was theinspiration of the Lake Districtthat helped him create some ofthe most memorable poems inthe language.But there’s no need to headnorth on the M6 when the musecan be found right here inWigan Borough.The Greenheart RegionalPark is just waiting for walkers,horse riders plus budding poetsand photographers to enjoy ourborough’s open spaces.Earlier this year, theGreenheart board chose theirfavourite poems from versespenned by the public about theborough’s countryside.Laura Taylor’s poem “ANorthern Delight” begins:“Where once the foundries,mills and mines/scarred andscorched this earth/a landscaperises, built anew/a hope, a joyfor all.”Bethany Whittle’s poemspeaks of the canal with “waterlike sweet wine that soothes thetown’s soul”.The winning entry, fromlecturer Helen Kay, is printed infull here.John O’Neill, chair of theGreenheart Board, said: “Twothirds of our borough iscountryside. We worked closelywith the organisers of this year’sWords Festival to celebrateWigan’s unique countryside.“We hope you all enjoy thewinning poem.” John and thejudges want to keep that gentlecompetitive spirit going andhave a twist on last year’sphotographic calendarFor more inspiration, goto www.wigan.gov.uk andtype ‘walking’ into the searchbox. The top item is a list ofhealth walks leaflets for you todownload and take out forinspiring strolls aroundBickershaw, Top Lock,Borsdane Wood and manyother local areas.IT’S ALL IN THE GREENHEART: Whetheryou’re out for a duck, walking the dog,watching the wildlife or snapping thescenery, Greenheart has it all!competition. They want to seeyour nature pictures of the localarea – but using inspirationfrom the poems in the WordsFestival. Read them online at:www.visitgreenheart.com“Send us your high qualityphotos of nature,” added John.“Flowers, wildlife, birds orcountryside scenes from localareas showing areas like WiganFlashes, Haigh Hall, PenningtonFlash and AmberswoodCommon. The best will be usedto promote our countryside nextyear.”Email jpegs (under 1megabyte file size) to:greenheartcalendar@wigan.gov.uk before 30thSeptember with yourname and the shot’slocation (two entriesmax per person).If your image ischosen, we’ll askyou for a higherresolution versionand send you twocopies of the 2013Greenheartcalendar.12 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

Pennington FlashPlaster on a grazed landscapeStretches too small; at frayed edgesStoned scab, weeds weep.A rash of thrown crumbs soothes the itch of circling ducks.After the deep cut of mines, men crouch in hidesand learn to merely watch swallows darn winter branches.Gulls sew earth to water and both to air.We lick ice creams, scan cold waves eroding the past.Pulling a thin thread from the far shore, we takecomfort in edges. They define futures.No time yet for biblical floods.Trees herd water in, hold out crowds,Heal the ground. We crunch flaking cones,leave, pacified as rehab visitors.Helen KayEverything in thisgarden is bloomingTHEY started as the year began – and now theircrops are bearing fruit, the hens are laying andthe education programme has started.But we don’t mean they just planted a fewseeds, because the Worsley Hall AllotmentSociety began by digging the very first sod on apatch of empty ground in January. They nowhave a thriving community space withpolytunnels, raised beds and a huge sense ofpride.Jack Atherton is vice chairman. At 87, he’sseen a lot of changes in the area, but the rapidtransformation of the derelict garage site giveshim a lot of pride. “We’ve done marvellous,” hesays. “With funds from the Big Lottery’s LocalFood grant scheme and the Esmee FairbairnFoundation, it’s amazing to see what’s beenachieved.”The rubbish and brambles have gone, and thesite has been transformed, with 12 privateallotments, a car park, raised beds and a largecommunity allotment with demonstrationgardens, plus a pond and herb gardens. Thegrant means that Phil Swift is being employedas a tutor to deliver education sessions.He’s working with other community groupsto establish new allotments across the borough,including providing assistance with training,practical advice and securing funding. Phillaughs: “People say, ‘I’ve got a plot, what do Ido with it?’ The answer is ‘lots’ and I’m here tohelp.”The allotment is open to the public everyweekday with education and play sessions forschools and nurseries. Plans are afoot to build astraw bale classroom and composting toilet thissummer.Chairman Norman Strickland pays tribute tothe little group with the big ideas. “This site isfor locals and the wider community,” saysNorman. “We’re hoping that the Worsley Hallsite will soon become one of many across theborough.”The Conservation Volunteers are workingwith Groundwork and Wigan Leisure andCulture Trust to deliver a strategy for allotmentssimilar to the Worsley Hall project. Log on towww.wiganallotmentnetwork.org.uk for adviceand to register interest.BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 13

JUST THE TICKET!HERE’s a first glimpse ofhow a vital newtransport link betweenWigan Borough, Salford andManchester city centre mightlook.Preparations for the £68mbusway are under way andtransport officials have nowreleased these visions of howit might look.The 21km (13 mile) routewill link Leigh, Tyldesley andAtherton with Salford andManchester city centre. A 7km(4.3 mile) stretch betweenLeigh and Ellenbrook will be‘guided’; this means that onlyspecially adapted buses willbe able to use it, avoidingother traffic.The rest of the 14km (8.7mile) route will run on normalroads but will use dedicatedlanes for large sections of theroute and have priority overother traffic at junctions. As aresult it is anticipated that thebusway will cut the travel timebetween Leigh andManchester city centre to lessthan 45 minutes.Leader of Wigan CouncilLord Peter Smith says thebusway will play a vital role inhelping to boost the localeconomy and make WiganBorough a more attractiveplace in which people can liveand invest.“The busway will givepeople from Wigan and Leighquick and easy access toSalford and Manchester CityCentre which means they cantake advantage of a greaterrange of job opportunities,”says Cllr Smith. “With a majoruniversity en-route it alsomeans that people from ourborough will be able to accessa greater range of educationaland training facilities. We alsobelieve it should encouragefurther investment along theroute and support thedevelopment of Leigh as acommercial and businesscentre.“Don’t just take my word forit,” adds Lord Smith. “Anindependent study has rankedthe busway the third mostimportant of all suchschemes for itseconomicimpact.”Once thebusway iscomplete,there willbe atleast fourbuses anhour toand fromLeigh andManchester city centrebetween Monday andSaturday.There will be at least fourbuses an hour to and fromAtherton which will join theguided section at Tyldesley.This means a total of at leasteight buses an hour frombetween Tyldesley andManchester at peak times.There will be park and ridefacilities at Leigh, Tyldesleyand Worsley, and stops on theguided section will beaccessible to all, willhave shelters andYou can find outmore about the buswayat the Transport for GreaterManchester website:www.tfgm.com/buswayAlternatively, there is a team ofpeople available to help with anyquestions you may have – youcan ring the project enquiryline on: 0300 123 1177 oryou can email:busway@tfgm.comAn illustrationof the TyldesleyInterchange.be coveredby CCTVcameras.Areasaroundthe routewill beimprovedwith apathalongsidethe guidedsection for walkers andcyclists.Transport for GreaterManchester, who are workingwith the council on theproject, have already clearedsome sections of the route andwill continue to makepreparations for the start ofconstruction in 2013. This willhelp to ensure that the workhas no impact on the localwildlife habitats.It is expected that work onthe ‘bus priority’ measures onthe A580, which will alwaysmaintain at least two lanes forgeneral traffic, will beginshortly and there may be somediversions in place in Tyldesleylater this year or early next year.The busway will be fullyoperational in 2015.Lord Smith says: “Once acontractor is appointed laterin the year I think we canexpect to see the busway cometo life quite rapidly.“The Greater ManchesterCombined Authority sees thebusway as a priority becauseof the benefits it will bring tothe community and the localeconomy.“It is important that peoplein Wigan, Leigh and Tyldesleysee this as their busway,something that will providethem with the potential tomake the most of fantasticopportunities and will improvethe areas where they live.“Along with Transport forGreater Manchester we willcontinue to keep our residentsinformed and up to date withprogress on this excitingscheme every step of the way.”14 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012Part of the 21st century buswaywhich will link Wigan Borough,Salford and Manchester.

POSITIVE SIGNS:Future Steps studentZosia Durrington atthe training centre.Stepping into workIT’S never too early to start thinkingabout a future career.Which is why Wigan Council hasintroduced a new service that aims to getyoung people with a range of disabilitiesthinking about the direction they want totake from the age of 14.But the new Future Steps service offersa lot more than advice, it’s all aboutchanging your outlook, broadening yourhorizons and helping you to startplanning your future.Based at Leigh Sports Village, FutureSteps can provide young people withhelp in getting qualifications, learningnew skills, improving confidence andself-esteem, taking an active role in theircommunities, find work experience andeven getting a job.The Future Steps Learning Centre hasa fully accessible computer suite whereyoung people can learn the basics of ITbefore being let loose on the worldwideweb and fast-moving world of socialnetworking.The centre provides helps with literacyand numeracy and can even introduceyoung people to new social activities suchas sports and social clubs and gyms.Working with the council’s SupportedEmployment team, Future Steps canprovide work placements for youngpeople in a range of job roles from hairand beauty and sports and leisureFuture Steps worked for DanielDaniel Kerr, pictured, hasbeen going to FutureSteps for two monthsnow and he’s enjoyinglearning new skillsaimed at helpingimprove hisindependence.With the support ofhis Future Stepsworker he has beentravelling independentlyand getting out and about inhis local community.He’s also experiencing the world of workwith a placement at The Park Inn Hotel, Leigh.“I love my work placement,” said Daniel. “Ihave learnt so many new skills and it hasmade me realise I would like to continue thiskind of work.”Daniel’s mum Janet is equally thrilled withher son’s progress. She said: “I havebeen overwhelmed by the supportand encouragement our familyhas received from all the staffat Future Steps. I wouldrecommend the service toany parent with a childwith a disability. It helps tofurther their life skills andknowledge whilstconstantly supporting them.”through to mechanics and health andsocial care.The centre is also working closely withWigan and Leigh College to provideaccess to a greater range of courses thatcould lead to all important qualifications.Wigan Council’s Cabinet Member forChildren and Young People, Cllr SusanLoudon, says: “Future Steps is a greatnew service that puts young people withdisabilities firmly in the driving seatwhen it comes to deciding what path theywant to take.“When young people first come to thecentre they sit down with a member ofstaff to decide what areas they need helpwith and what level of support will helpthem to achieve theirgoals. It’s also abouthelping young people toTo find out moreabout Future Steps youcan visit the web pages:www.wigan.gov.uk/futuresteps email:futuresteps@wigan.gov.ukor call the centre on01942 487854.develop their charactersby helping to buildconfidence and socialskills. One of its majoraims is to make our youngpeople ‘work ready’,which is extremelyimportant in today’sclimate.“I would urge anyyoung people ortheir parentsand carers whoare interestedto get intouch andfind out more.It could bethe first step toa bright future.”BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 15

Protecting children from the perils of the WebPartnerscast thesafety ‘Net’WHEN Jenny met anew boyfriend atschool, she thought itwas the real thing.Five weeks into therelationship and everythingwas fine, they spent lots oftime together and when theywere apart they sent eachother lots of texts.The mobile phone was agreat way of staying in touch –it was something that just theyshared, that no-one else couldsee.So when 15 year-old Jennydecided to send an intimatephotograph of herself to herboyfriend’s phone, sheintended it for his eyes only.But a few weeks later wheninevitably the flame ofteenage infatuation began towane, Jenny was in for ashock.After breaking up, Jenny’sex-boyfriend decided to sharehis ‘special’ photo with hisfriends. Pretty soon it was allaround school.The embarrassment was toomuch for the young girl to bear.She was forced to take timeoff at a crucial moment in herschool career. With examslooming large it could haveserious consequences for herfuture plans.But that wasn’t all becauseonce the photo had beenshared; it just kept going. Soonit was on the internet andfacebook and what started outas a secret moment suddenlyhad a global audience…Jenny may not be the younggirl’s real name but thetraumatic events that unfoldedare and worryingly it’s thekind of tale that’s becomingincreasingly commonplace.In Wigan, the council andother partners who make upthe Wigan SafeguardingChildren Board (WSCB), aretrying to protect children andyoung people from the darkerside of internet and mobilephone use.The board’s businessmanager, Kath Vereycken,says: “Cases such as this areon the increase and theconsequences can be muchworse.“Abuse over the internetand social networking sitesand mobile phones is on theincrease.”The Wigan team iscommitted to tackling thescourge of child sexualexploitation and it’s a sign ofthe times that almost half ofall the cases they deal withnow involve a link with theweb, phones and socialnetworking.“Many of the cases we dealwith involve young peoplebeing ‘groomed’ online,” saysKath. “Using internet chatrooms and social networkingsites they think they aretalking to people of their ownage. Often the person they aretalking with will suggest theymeet up and it’s only whenthey do the young personrealises that the other personis much older than them andthey really only have oneintention.”The mobile phone version ofgrooming has earned the nickname ‘sexting’ – which givesyou an indication of what it’sall about.“Groomers can be verypatient and sometimes mayhave communicated withtheir intended victim formonths before arranging tomeet up,” says Kath.“They know all about thedifferent websites and chatrooms and use the sameinternet slang andabbreviations that youngpeople do.“They can send gifts andtry to make the young personfeel special.“When we find evidence ofthis we work to support theyoung person and we will nothesitate to prosecute thosewho prey on young peoplebut we believe the key tostopping this lies witheducating children and theirparents about the potentialdangers and how to takeprecautions.”FIND OUT MORE:There are a number of usefulwebsites that can provide moreinformation on all aspects ofinternet safety. A good startingplace is the police online SafetyCentre: www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centreA good site for parents andcarers is: www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents/For tips on how to tackle cyber(or online) bullying visit WiganLeisure and Culture Trust’s LincOnline pages:www.wlct.org/WLCT/youngpeople/bullying-top-tips-to-beatcyber-bullies.htmlPARENTS: what you can doINTERNET and mobile phone safety covers manythings – bullying, contact from strangers,inappropriate or illegal images and websites.“Whatever the risk may be, it is important thatyou understand how your child uses the internet,”said Kath Vereycken.“The technology may seem daunting becausethings move so quickly but a few common-senseguidelines can really help.”ASK: Take an interest in your child’s internet use. Askthem about the websites they use and what socialactivity they are engaged in. You can then visit these sitesand spaces on your own to find out more about them.PRIVACY PLEASE: The Internet is a very publicglobal market-place, so photos you post on socialsites like Facebook can easily be copied and pastedelsewhere. Sites like this come with privacy settingsthat prevent anyone from seeing your content, get toknow them and encourage your child to use them.FRIENDS: People don’t always tell the truth onlineand can create fake identities. It is important thatchildren understand this and learn not to trust virtualfriends in the same way they would their actual friends.PARENTAL CONTROLS: Web browsers, mobilephones and games consoles all come with controlsthat prevent children viewing inappropriate content.These are often easy to set up but if you need helpcontact your internet provider.TALK: Tell your child it’s ok to talk about what theysee online or on their phone. By making it easy forthem to communicate they are more likely to let youknow if they have any concerns.16 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

Business event back for third yearGOOD business is where you find it. And thisautumn the best place to find more than 100good local businesses will be the WiganBusiness Expo Twenty12.Wigan’s biggest gathering of localentrepreneurial talent is back for a third yearand will take centre stage at the DW Stadiumon Friday October 12.The event, which runs from 8am until 3pm,offers access to some of the best business-brainsin the North west through a programme ofseminars.There will be a chance to get connected withbuyers from big companies and organisations –BRIGHT FUTURE: Janetand Derek Green ofDOC Solar at theWigan Business Expo.It worked for us!WHEN it comes to home grown businesssuccess stories DOC Solar andElectrical is a shining example.The company supplies and installs energysavingsolar panels to homes and businessesacross the region. The firm began life in 2010and has installed more than 100 solar panelunits.The company, which has recently movedinto new premises at Wigan’s CricketStreet Business Park, exhibited at theBusiness Expo for the first time lastyear.DOC’s Solar’s Director ofBusiness Development Janet Greensays: “The response at last year’sexpo was tremendous. We willdefinitely be exhibiting again thisyear and hope to make many morecontacts this year.”As a result of last year’s event DOCincluding Wigan Council. New to this year’sevent is Meet the Experts – which offers aface-to-face encounter with some of the topminds in the fields of finance, procurement,legal, health and safety and creative.Wigan Council’s deputy leader Cllr DavidMolyneux says: “Wigan has a thriving businesscommunity with a loyal local customer base inspite of today’s difficult economic climate.“Since it was launched in 2010, the Expo hasprovided an excellent platform for boroughbusiness to network, showcase their servicesand has helped raise Wigan’s profile as one ofthe key business locations in the region.”made new contacts and generated new business.The company is now looking forward to a brightfuture.“We are offering our customers a range ofnew renewable technologies,” says Janet. “Wehave also opened our own Education Centrewhere you can learn all about the benefits ofinstalling renewable energytechnologies.”■ If you would like to showcaseTo keep up with all thelatest Expo developmentsplease join us on Facebook(facebook.com/wiganbusinessexpo), Twitter(@wiganexpo) and LinkedIn(Search ‘Wigan Business Expo’).You can also visit the event’sofficial site at www.wiganbusinessexpo.co.ukStands forthe event canbe booked at:www.wiganbusinessexpo.co.ukyour business and exhibit atthe Expo, packages areavailable from just £300.The cost will coverfurniture, access to powerand Wi-Fi, as well as yourcompany logo on publicitymaterial and theopportunity to attend anetworking event onThursday October 11.Caringservicehelps indifficulttimesWIGAN Council haslaunched a newservice to help localpeople through theoften difficult processof bereavement.Tell Us Once is anational initiativethat supports thosewho are recentlybereaved byinforming all thoseagencies that need toknow about thedeath, at the sametime.Previously a personwould have to notifyup to 28 individualorganisations anddepartments aboutthe death. But nowCouncil Tax, theDVLA, the PassportService, ElectoralRegistration andmany more will all beinformed at the sametime.The service isoffered via theRegistrar when adeath is registeredand the council willcontact the necessaryservices anddepartments.Wigan Council’sChief ExecutiveDonna Hall said: “’TellUs Once’ provides asimple, yet invaluableservice to thosegoing throughbereavement.“The new servicereduces contact withthe government tojust one occasion,reliving pressure atone of the mostdifficult times of theirlives.”To find out moreabout this serviceplease visitwww.wigan.gov.ukand search for ‘Tell usOnce’.BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 17

KNOW YOUR COUNCILLORCOUNCILLORS are elected to represent their communities and are here to help you with any local issues youmay want to raise. Three councillors represent each of Wigan’s 25 wards, and a picture of each appearsalong with their phone number and email address. Currently there are 63 Labour members, sevenIndependents, two Liberal Democrats, two Standish Independents and one Conservative.Contacting your councillorCouncillors hold regular surgeries where you candiscuss matters in confidence.Surgery details are published on our website at:www.wigan.gov.ukYour councillors can also be contacted directlyby phone or email*ASHTONMartyn Smethurst (Lab)Tel: 01942 205255M.Smethurst@wigan.gov.ukABRAMEunice Smethurst (Lab)Tel: 01942 736228E.Smethurst@wigan.gov.ukCarl Sweeney (Lab)Tel: 01942 864328C.Sweeney@wigan.gov.ukASPULL-NEW SPRINGS-WHELLEYNigel Ash (Lab)Tel: 01942 736216N.Ash@wigan.gov.ukJoel Haddley (Lab)Tel: 01942 487689J.Haddley@wigan.gov.ukBill Clarke (Lab)Tel: 01942 487673B.Clarke@wigan.gov.ukRon Conway (Lab)Tel: 01942 486853R.Conway@wigan.gov.ukJohn Hilton (Lab)Tel: 01942 736215J.Hilton@wigan.gov.ukChris Ready (Lab)Tel: 01942 736218C.Ready@wigan.gov.ukASTLEY-MOSLEY COMMONATHERLEIGHBrendan Bowen (Lab)Tel: 01942 873773B.Bowen@wigan.gov.ukJoanne Platt (Lab)Tel: 01942 487672Joanne.Platt@wigan.gov.ukBarry Taylor (Lab)Tel: 01942 486854B.Taylor@wigan.gov.ukMark Aldred (Lab)Tel: 01942 894262M.Aldred@wigan.gov.ukSusan Loudon (Lab)Tel: 01942 897240S.Loudon@wigan.gov.ukPam Stewart (Lab)Tel: 01942 486855P.Stewart@wigan.gov.ukATHERTONBRYNKaren Aldred (Lab)Tel: 01942 894262K.Aldred@wigan.gov.ukNorman Bradbury (Ind)Tel: 01942 895671N.Bradbury@wigan.gov.ukDOUGLASJamie Hodgkinson (Ind)Tel: 01942 487679Jamie.Hodgkinson@wigan.gov.ukDon Hodgkinson (Ind) Ann Rampling (Lab)Tel: 01942 776252 Tel: 01942 486856Don.Hodgkinson@wigan.gov.uk A.Rampling@wigan.gov.ukGary Wilkes (Ind)Tel: 01942 736478G.Wilkes@wigan.gov.ukGOLBORNE AND LOWTON WESTJoy Birch (Lab)Tel: 01942 736233J.Birch@wigan.gov.ukMike Dewhurst (Lab)Tel: 01942 736247M.Dewhurst@wigan.gov.ukShirley Dewhurst (Lab)Tel: 01942 736247Shirley.Dewhurst@wigan.gov.ukGed Bretherton (Lab)Tel: 01942 736232G.Bretherton@wigan.gov.ukStuart Keane (Lab)Tel: 01942 487683S.Keane@wigan.gov.ukYvonne Klieve (Lab)Tel: 01942 275808Y.Klieve@wigan.gov.ukHINDLEYHINDLEY GREENJim Churton (Lab)Tel: 01942 522734J.Eccles-Churton@wigan.gov.ukJim Ellis (Ind)Tel: 01942 736258James.Ellis@wigan.gov.ukJames Talbot (Lab)Tel: 01942 736256J.Talbot@wigan.gov.ukBob Brierley (Ind)Tel: 01942 736259R.Brierley@wigan.gov.ukFrank Carmichael (Ind)Tel: 01942 487687F.Carmichael@wigan.gov.ukKier Stitt (Lab)Tel: 01942 486857K.Stitt@wigan.gov.uk18 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012*Please note this edition of Borough Life has gone to press before all the new councillorsphone numbers may be in operation. This process will be completed by mid-June.

INCELEIGH EASTJanice Sharratt (Lab)Tel: 01942 487682J.Sharratt@wigan.gov.ukDavid Molyneux (Lab)Tel: 01942 495083D.Molyneux@wigan.gov.ukJim Moodie (Lab)Tel: 01942 776184J.Moodie@wigan.gov.ukAnita Thorpe (Lab)Tel: 01942 487681A.Thorpe@wigan.gov.ukKeith Cunliffe (Lab)Tel: 01942 736251K.Cunliffe@wigan.gov.ukFred Walker (Lab)Tel: 01942 897278F.Walker@wigan.gov.ukLEIGH SOUTHLEIGH WESTKevin Anderson (Lab)Tel: 01942 736250K.Anderson@wigan.gov.ukJohn O’Brien (Lab)Tel: 01942 677148J.O’Brien@wigan.gov.ukCharles Rigby (Lab)Tel: 01942 736206C.Rigby@wigan.gov.ukSusan Greensmith (Lab)Tel: 01942 736204S.Greensmith@wigan.gov.ukPeter Smith (Lab)Tel: 01942 604496P.Smith@wigan.gov.ukMyra Whiteside (Lab)Tel: 01942 776273M.Whiteside@wigan.gov.ukLOWTON EASTORRELLJames Grundy (Con)Tel: 01942 601488James.Grundy@wigan.gov.ukJames Cowley (Lab)Tel: 01942 486858J.Cowley@wigan.gov.ukPEMBERTONPam Gilligan (Lab)Tel: 01942 487680P.Gilligan@wigan.gov.ukKelly Ready (Lab)Tel: 01942 487675Kelly.Ready@wigan.gov.ukDavid Arrowsmith (Lab)Tel: 01942 486859D.Arrowsmith@wigan.gov.ukStephen Murphy (Lab)Tel: 01942 487688Stephen.Murphy@wigan.gov.ukSHEVINGTON WITH LOWER GROUNDBarbara Bourne (Lab)Tel: 01942 736235B.Bourne@wigan.gov.ukJeanette Prescott (Lab)Tel: 01942 736242J.Prescott@wigan.gov.ukSTANDISH WITH LANGTREEPaul Prescott (Lab)Tel: 01942 736242Paul.Prescott@wigan.gov.ukMike Crosby (Lab)Tel: 01942 486860M.Crosby@wigan.gov.ukPaul Collins (Lab)Tel: 01942 487684Paul.Collins@wigan.gov.ukTYLDESLEYDamian Edwardson (Lab)Tel: 01942 487674D.Edwardson@wigan.gov.ukPicture notavailable attime of goingto pressGareth Fairhurst (Standish Ind) George Fairhurst (Standish Ind)Tel: 0845 900 2882 Tel: 01257 407078Gareth.Fairhurst@wigan.gov.uk George.Fairhurst@wigan.gov.ukEmma McGurrin (Lab)Tel: 01942 486861E.McGurrin@wigan.gov.ukRobert Bleakley (Lib Dem)Tel: 01942 897560R.Bleakley@wigan.gov.ukPaul Valentine (Lib Dem)Tel: 01942 486862P.Valentine@wigan.gov.ukStephen Hellier (Lab)Tel: 01942 896616S.Hellier@wigan.gov.ukWIGAN CENTRALWIGAN WESTLol Hunt (Lab)Tel: 07766 478296L.Hunt@wigan.gov.ukGeorge Davies (Lab)Tel: 01942 486864George.Davies@wigan.gov.ukMichael McLoughlin (Lab)Tel: 01942 487686M.McLoughlin@wigan.gov.ukSteve Dawber (Lab)Tel: 01942 776281Steve.Dawber@wigan.gov.ukPhyll Cullen (Lab)Tel: 01942 736257P.Cullen@wigan.gov.ukTerence Halliwell (Lab)Tel: 01695 628386T.Halliwell@wigan.gov.ukWINSTANLEYWORSLEY MESNESPhil Kenny (Lab)Tel: 01942 487677P.Kenny@wigan.gov.ukClive Morgan (Lab)Tel: 01942 486880C.Morgan@wigan.gov.ukRona Winkworth (Lab)Tel: 01942 736229R.Winkworth@wigan.gov.ukPhil Kelly (Lab)Tel: 01942 487678P.Kelly@wigan.gov.ukLynne Holland (Lab)Tel: 01942 736255P.Holland@wigan.gov.ukBilly Rotherham (Lab)Tel: 01942 495091W.Rotherham@wigan.gov.ukBOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 19

The new Mayor of WiganBorough holds twothings dear to her heart– hard work and the benefitsthat only education can bring.In becoming this year’s firstcitizen, Leigh West councillorMyra Whiteside has alreadymade history – she is the firstwoman ever from Leigh tohold the borough’s highestcivic office and she’s rightlyproud of it.It’s a remarkableachievement for the Leigh lasswho left school at 15 with noformal qualifications andentered her early 20’s as asingle mum during an erawhen opportunities for womenin the workplace wereconsiderably more limitedthan they are today.A past-pupil of HeskethFletcher Girls School, CllrWhiteside has spent her lifeliving in Leigh and Athertonapart from a 20-month stint inthe Yemeni seaport of Aden aspart of her RAF father’soverseas posting.Her time in the Middle Eastmeant she missed the thentypical induction into workinglife in Leigh with a job at oneof the town’s cotton mills.“I came from a cottonfamily,” she said. “All myfamily had worked in the millsand it was the accepted thingto do. You left school on theFriday and started at the millon the Monday. It was too latefor me when I came back toLeigh, so I had to findsomething else to do.”On her return, Myra’s firstforay into the world of workwas a stint as a shop assistantat popular milliners Rachelle’sfrom here she moved toanother Leigh institution –Ward and Goldstones.Cllr Whiteside’sgrandmother helped to takecare of her two youngchildren, Colin and Lorraine.She said: “Thanks to her Iwas able to continue to tryand improve my prospects.“I had always realised howimportant a good educationwas but at that point I had noskills or qualifications at all. Ihad always been keen onadministration so reallywanted to pursue this.”So when a friend suggestedshe ‘signed on at the ‘Tec’,REGULAR gym trips coupled with a weekly ‘hoedown’make sure Cllr Whiteside is ‘fit’ to be the Mayor.For the past 15 years she has enjoyed weekly linedancingsession and attends East Leigh Labour Club andthe Rose Club, Hindley.Cllr Whiteside has chosen to support thework of Wigan and Leigh Pensioners LinkTo find out moreabout supporting CllrWhiteside’s charityappeal visit WiganCouncil’s website:www.wigan.gov.ukand search for‘Mayoralty’.Pride of the First LadyOF LEIGHThe Mayor of Wigan,Councillor MyraWhiteside and herConsort, Mr JohnHurst.Mayor dances to fitnessthrough her Mayoral Charity during heryear of office. From its base at AllanTaylor House, Charles Street, Leigh,Wigan and Leigh Pensioners Link providesa range of services for older people,including drop-in activities and exercise classes,art classes, holistic therapy sessions and regularCoffee Club social gatherings.there was hesitation.First came five ‘O’ Levelsthen an Ordinary NationalDiploma in Business Studies.This enabled her to furtherher studies at Bolton College,where she eventually gainedher Higher National Diploma.She was pleased her hardwork paid off when, havingfinished her studies, CllrWhiteside got the job she washoping foratanother much-loved Leighinstitution, the Post Office onSilk Street.It was an organisation shewould work for over the next25 years, rising through theranks as she went.Eventually Cllr Whitesidewas moved to the main officein Bolton and it was here thatshe was asked to become thean administrationrepresentative for theCommunication Workers’Union (CWU). Taking to therole Myra soon found herselfan area representativecovering the North West ofEngland.“I strongly believed inhelping and fighting for therights of working people. Thiswas a good chance to putthose principles into practise,”she added.It was through her role withthe union that she becameinvolved with local politics inher home town and was askedto stand as a candidate in a byelection in 2002, becoming thenew people’s representativefor the Leigh West Ward.During that time she hasserved the council in varioushigh-profile positionsincluding chair of theOverview and Scrutiny Paneland Leigh Town CentreManagement Committee. Sheis also a member of the Wiganand Leigh Housing Board.But it is helping out inthe town she loveswhere she is most athome.“I becameinvolved with localpolitics to helpothers and that’swhat I love doingthe most,” shesaid.“I am reallyproud andhonoured to havebeen named Mayor ofthe Borough of Wiganand I intend to make it avery special year. After that Iintend to serve my ward, thecouncil and the town of Leighfor as long as I can.”20 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

Helping residentsBEAT THE COWBOYSA council-backed service that provides older The team can even draw up a schedule thatpeople with access to trusted workers to help will tell your builder exactly what to do. Theywith home repair and DIY jobs has been can also help directly with many repair jobshailed as ‘excellent’.from dripping taps to broken gates at a smallThe Wigan Borough Care and Repaircost of £15 per visit, plus the cost of anyService has received an ‘Excellence inmaterials.Commissioning Home ImprovementAgency Services’ Award for itsoutstanding contribution to thecommunity.Part of the larger ManchesterCare and Repair, the service isbased at Pennyhurst Mill in Wiganand sends a team of skilled workersto homes all over the borough.The service offers free expert advicethat can help with everything from what todo to stop those small repair jobs from gettingworse, right through to choosing a builder andhow to avoid the cowboys.A summer campaign whichencourages young people tostay safe and out of troublewhilst having fun over theschool holiday period isback.safe4summer encouragesyoung people to think aboutthe impact of antisocialbehaviour, as well as thedangers of starting deliberatefires or the effects of makinghoax calls to the emergencyservices.The project is apartnership betweenGreater ManchesterFire & RescueService, WiganCouncil, GreaterManchesterFor moreinformation, visit:www.wigan.gov.uk/safe4summerPolice and variouscommunity groups.As well as signpostingyoungsters to positiveactivities, the campaignalso gets them toconsider some of theissues that are importantto them, from healthyeating and alcoholconsumption to sexeducation and bullying.And it encouragesyoung people to checkout things to do – fromlearning new skills totaking part in a raftof free sports,Care and Repair began life inWigan Borough just over a yearago and now has more than 100regular clients on its books.The service was presentedwith its award by Leigh MP andShadow Secretary of State forHealth Andy Burnham.Mr Burnham said: “We need toget word out about this service whichprovides that key ‘little bit of help’ to ourolder residents. This service helps reduce theisolation of older people with practicalassistance.”To find out moreabout Care and Repairyou can visit the website:www.careandrepairwigan.org.ukor callthe service on01942 239360.Summer safety campaign launchedactivities andvolunteeringopportunities.Help forwhen thenoiseannoysWIGAN Council and itspartners have pledgedto help peoplesuffering with theworst noisyneighbours.In one case in theBorough, a womanwas subjected to morethan eight years ofantisocial behaviour bya raucous neighbourwho regularly shoutedverbal abuse andplayed loud music intothe early hours of themorning.This bad neighbourwas recently handedan AntisocialBehaviour Order fortwo years, stoppingthem from usingabusive, aggressive orinsulting language orbehaviour.And if they don’tabide by these rules,they could faceprosecution.It’s a positiveoutcome but it stillcame at a cost – yearsof heartache for theperson on thereceiving end.In this case, thevictim was unaware ofthe support availableto those who live infear of this type ofintimidation andharassment.So what can you doif you’re the victim ofa nuisance neighbour?● For advice and helpwith unacceptablelevels of neighbournoise, members of thepublic can call thecouncil’s EnvironmentalProtection Team on01942 827110 forWigan and 01942733349 for Leigh.● Council tenantsshould contact Wigan& Leigh Housing on01942 705040.● You can reportantisocial behaviour bycalling 01942 404364.BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 21

Facilities abig hit withthe publicTHE Life Centre has wowedthe experts but its alreadyproved to be a big hit withthe people of WiganBorough.Latest figures show thatsince opening, more than100,000 have been throughthe doors of the HealthyLiving Zone for a swim,more than 78,000 have usedthe gym, 19,000 have let offsteam in the sauna whilstmore than 12,000 havebanded together for groupfitness. In fact, the numberof people using leisureservices offered at the LifeCentre has increased by 10per cent each month.There are 22 local schoolsusing the facility alongsideboth Wigan swimmingteams.On the other side of thetown hall the Communityand Learning Zone, whichopened to the public inJanuary, has seen more than21,160 people visit the siteto use the library or thehost of public, voluntaryand community services onoffer.The new ways of workingat the Life Centre meansthat people get the helpthey need quickly. Forexample, more than 88 percent of people who have aquery about benefits get ananswer immediately orwithin 24 hours. Customersatisfaction is running at 99per cent – beating thetarget the council set itselfof 90 per cent.Leader of Wigan Council,Lord Peter Smith, said: “TheLife Centre has given ourborough a new civic heartand is already proving to bethe catalyst to revitalisingthe town centre andmodernising the linkbetween the council andthe people it serves.“We are delighted thatthe project has beenrecognised with such amajor industry-leadingaward. Just as important isthe number of people whoare using the Life Centre,getting the help they needquickly to take the steps toimprove their lives and theopportunities available tothem.”AND THE WINNER IS… THE WIGAN LIFE CENTRETOP DOG AT THE‘OSCARS’WIGAN Borough’s mostgroundbreaking impressivepublic services property‘hub’ The Wigan Life Centre,has been hailed as the bestin the North West in theregion’s annual property‘Oscars’ awards.The twin buildings eitherside of Wigan Town Hall hasreceived the RoyalInstitution of CharteredSurveyors (RICS) prize forthe best ‘Regeneration’project anywhere in theNorth West this year.RICS judges toured theLife Centre complex earlierthis year to find out moreabout the project and theeffect it has had on localpeople.They were looking for thereasons behind the creationof the Life Centre, whatproblems it has helped toovercome and what thelong-term benefits will be.The Life Centre battled itout against 39 of theNorth West’sprojects to pickup the award.TheRegenerationaward went toWigan LifeCentre for whatthe judgesdescribed as one ofthe most ambitiouscouncil projectsever undertaken in thecountry. Developed inresponse to local residentswanting improved access topublic services, the£200million one-stop shophas brought much-neededjobs and investment into thetown and features threezones – Healthy Living,Information and Learningand Neighbourhoods, whereresidents can get access to awide range of amenities andservices.Facilities include a stateof-the-arthealth and fitnesssuite with swimming poolsand a comprehensivelibrary withcomputers and learning areas.RICS judges said WiganLife Centre offers all thepublic services you dependon in a modern, friendlyenvironment – making lifeeasier and more enjoyablefor residents.Jane Thompson, Chairmanof the RICS regional judgingpanel said: “Wigan LifeCentre is an outstandingexample of regenerationwhich illustrates the talentand skills of our region’sproperty professionals.”The Life Centre now goesforward to representWigan Borough inthe national versionof the RICS awardswhich will be held inSeptember.22 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

WINNERS ALL: Latics and ladies together, pictured are (back row) Amy Garratt ,Lindsey Winstanley, Rachael Taylor, Maynor Figueroa, Adrian Lopez, Antolin Alcaraz,Mohamed Diame, Michelle Hunt, Jane Jackson.(front): Charlotte Moss, Holly Flynn, Danielle Brookwell,Katie Greenhalgh and Alex Bradshaw.Latics lend a handPLAYERS from the Premiership club recently met with members of Wigan AthleticLadies Football Club, adding their own endorsement to the campaign.Local teacher, Rachael Taylor has played for Wigan Athletics Ladies FC for twelveyears. She says: “There are too many examples of young girls being subjected tosome form of domestic abuse in their relationships, and it's not acceptable.“There is help available, confidential advice and practical support, so don't be afraidor ashamed to ask. There is hope, and life really can change for the better.”Setting the goal for asafer summerTHIS year promises a legendary summer said: “Competitive tension and increasedof sport! As fans of the beautiful game alcohol consumption can provoke abuse andwait to see who lifts the UEFA Euro violence within the home.2012 trophy, racquet addicts watch in“We urge victims, their friends andanticipation to see if the reigning champions families not to wait, but to seek help andsuccessfully defend their Wimbledon titles. advice immediately before the abuseMeanwhile, the London 2012 Olympics is escalates. As partners, we will ensure thatsure to keep us glued to our sets as we cheer specialist domestic abuse services areTeam GB on.available to all those regardless of gender, asBut whilst sport can bring communities well as to children and young people.together, it can also generate passionate “Support services are also available forrivalry and worse, adrenalin-fuelledoffenders to seek help, but if they choose toviolence.become violent or abusive then action willAdding alcohol into the mix makes for an be taken to bring them to justice.even more potent combination.“Our priority is to protect victims andSadly, it’s a cocktail which is oftenchildren.”associated with a sharp increase in incidents Cllr Kevin Anderson, cabinet portfolioof domestic abuse.holder for safer neighbourhoods, added: “ByThat’s why community safety chiefs, supporting this campaign, we are sending acharities and third sector organisations clear message to perpetrators that domesticacross the borough have been gearing abuse is not acceptable under anythemselves up to tackle the anticipated rise circumstances.in hospital admissions, emergency service “There are no excuses. Offenders will becall-outs and referrals to specialists.held accountable for their actions and madeHard-hitting posters will be displayed in to face the consequences. We also hope thepublic buildings, doctors’ surgeries and campaign reminds victims that they are notlicensed premises urging domestic abuse alone.victims, their friends and families, as well as “There are local services which offerthose committing abuse, to seek help over compassionate, practical and confidentialthe summer.advice designed to help them find courage,Chief Superintendent Shaun Donnellan of move forward and rebuild their life. PleaseGreater Manchester Police (Wigan Division) don’t suffer in silence.”Useful contacts:For more information aboutservices available to help stopdomestic abuse, call:0161 636 7525 or visit:www.endthefear.co.ukChildline: 0800 1111www.childline.org.ukFree national helpline forChildren and Young Peoplein danger or distress.Victim Support:0845 30 30 900DIAS: 01942 495230WAVE: 01942 262270National Stalking Helpline:0808 802 0300advice@stalkinghelpline.orgHonour Network Helpline:0800 5999 247Freephone 24 Hour NationalDomestic Violence Helpline:0808 2000 247womensaid.org.ukBroken Rainbow 0300 999 5428brokenrainbow.org.ukLesbian, Gay, Bisexual andTransgender.Those committing abuse canalso get help to stop bycontacting the Respectphoneline: 0845 122 8609. Inthe event of an emergencyplease dial 999.BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 23

What goes where?BLUE BIN: cardboard, clean browncardboard, cartons (such asTetrapak), long life milk cartons,office paper, junk mail, catalogues,brochures and directories,newspapers and magazines,envelopes, greeting cards (withoutglitter), kitchen and toilet roll innertubes.BROWN BIN: Cans, tins andaerosols, glass bottles, glass jars,plastic bottles, yoghurt pots,household plastic pots, and tubs,clean plant pots only.GREEN BIN: Grass, leaves, twigs,small branches (less than 15cmdiameter), weeds, food waste (onceyou’ve received a leaflet and yourcollection calendar), cardboard,soil.BLACK BIN: anything you throw inhere will not be recycled but willbe sent for costly disposal. Pleaseonly put things that can’t berecycled in your black bin. Nobanned items. These can be foundat: www.wigancouncil.gov.uk/recyclingIt’s time to join Wigan’sRECYCLINGREVOLUTIONPUT the date Monday September 3 in black bin is for rubbish that cannot be So, how’s it going to work?your diary now! Why? Because that’s recycled and is sent off for treatment or It’s simple really – the currentwhen Wigan Borough Recycling disposal. It’s costly, it hurts thearrangements see your green and brownRevolution officially begins.environment and it’s no longer an option bins emptied once a fortnight and theAlthough many people in the borough are for the future.blue bin (or paper sack) emptied oncealready eco-friendly and waste-conscious, Wigan Council’s Cabinet Member for the every four week.Monday September 3 marks the launch of Environment, Cllr Kevin Anderson, said: “The only real changes are that youWigan Council’s new bin collection“Over the past decade the amount ofwill be able to dispose of almost all yourarrangements which puts recycling right at rubbish collected from black bins hasfood waste in your green bin, and thethe very top of the agenda.fallen by a third, whilst the amount weblack bin will now be emptied everyMost households in the borough will now recycle has risen by 35 per cent, so we’reother week as well,” said Cllr Anderson.have the new food waste collection service already doing really well.along with blue and brown bins.“Residents in our borough realise the“We appreciate that this change willThe council is now collecting food and importance of recycling and we want totake a little getting used to but it shouldgarden waste all year round to helpmake it even easier for them to do this. actually make things easier in the longtermby minimising the number of binsresidents slim their bin and improve the “We believe our new collection regimeborough’s composting rate.will help us all to achieve our target of you have to put out each week andThe big change will be that your black ensuring that half of all the waste we reducing the number of bins that clutterbin will be emptied every other week. The produce is recycled by 2020.”up the pavements on collection day.Officers will be on hand to advise in run up to theIN the run-up to September’s RecyclingRevolution, a council task force will be onhand to help.Officers from Neighbourhood Teams willbe making sure all households know whatgoes in each bin, and how to follow simplerules that make sure they are managingtheir waste properly.The education teams will also be visitingstreets where some residents are notmanaging their waste properly. Forexample, where bins are left out betweencollection, where wheelie bin fires occurand escaped waste is causing problems forthe community.Sally Wolstencroft, Head of Safer,Cleaner, Greener Neighbourhoods,explained:“We’ve introduced a range ofnew recycling services now, and they areproving very popular with most residents.However some residents are confusedabout what can go in each bin. When thisconfusion leads to contamination the costto the council and the tax payer is veryhigh indeed.“Some residents are also causingproblems for themselves and theirneighbours. We understand there are quitea few different bins to manage. So we areoffering different solutions – small binsand sacks for the paper collection, to makesure everyone has a solution that meetstheir household’s needs.”Waste and recycling rules are based onthe law and also help to make sure thatbin collection day goes without a hitch.They are printed on waste and recyclingcalendars and can be viewed on thecouncil’s web-site. The main things toremember are:● Put your bin(s) out on the correctcollection day by 7am● Take them back in between collections● Don’t put out any extra waste at the sideof your bins● Make sure your bin lids are closed● Make sure your bins are not too heavy● Put the right things in the right colouredbinProblems will be logged by crews andeducation officers – and households whoregularly break the rules are likely to get avisit. If they keep doing the wrong thingsand ignore advice a formal Notice wouldbe issued. If all else fails and the resident’sactions are causing a nuisance to others,enforcement action will be considered.24 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

Residents are being urgedto try home composting,and food recycling.“In the future it’s a questionof remembering that one weekyou will put out your greenand brown bin, whilst the nextweek it will be just your blackbin or your black and bluebins, depending on the week.”Remember – Green andBrown, then Black and Blue(every four weeks). “If you’restill unsure the council’swebsite has all theinformation you need,” saidCllr Anderson.Over the next few pages wewill be looking at the wholewaste and recycling issue inmore detail…big switchMs Wolstencroft added:“The enthusiasm andsupport of most residentshas been brilliant – and weare recycling more thanever.“In the run-up toSeptember – and beyond –our Neighbourhood Teameducation officers will beout and about working withcollection crews to identifyproblems and work withhouseholds to resolve them.“We want to stress thatthe role of the officers willbe to educate and adviseresidents, not to imposesanctions.”MEET the Heatons… theymay be the very model of atypical Wigan Boroughfamily, but the Heatons andothers like them are helpingto build a brighter future forour borough thanks to theirshared passion for recycling.The Heatons, fromPennington in Leigh, admitthat they create their fairshare of waste each week,just as you would expect ofany young family.But dad Chris, 33, mumRachael, 30 and son Leo,three, are determined tomake a difference by makingsure that the vast majority ofthe waste they produce doesnot go to a huge hole in theground.With a full complement ofbins (black, brown, green andblue) as well as the handycaddy for recycling foodwaste, the Heatons arearmed with everything theyneed to meet the challengesof the council’s newcollection schedule.FAMILY VALUES: recyclingis a way of life for Rachel,Chris and Leo Heaton.Family affair as Heatonsrise to recycling challengeOh, and probably the mostimportant aspect of recyclingfor the Heatons is that itactually makes life easier.Mum Rachael explains:“We have the four bins fordifferent waste and the chartto tell us what type of wastegoes in which bin and that’sit. It couldn’t be simpler! Thedifferent bins make it easyfor us to manage our wasteand it gives us more roomwithout having to overloadour black bin.”By doing this the familyreckon that now at least 80per cent of the householdwaste they produce eachweek is recycled.“It’s much better,” says dadChris. “Now we can easily gofor three weeks withouthaving to put our black binout. We use all our bins andit gives us a great feeling toknow that what we throwaway is being recycled andgiven a new lease of liferather than being harmful tothe environment.”Don’t mix it...USE THERIGHT BINS!RECYCLING works bestwhen we follow the rules.And the golden rule is –don’t mix up your waste.It can be easy to throwthe odd ‘wrong’ bit ofrubbish in the ‘wrong’ binbut this type ofcontamination is thebiggest cause of wastebeing rejected forrecycling and sent tolandfill instead.Wigan Council’s Headof Safer, Cleaner, GreenerNeighbourhoods, SallyWolstencroft, says: “Agood example of this wasat the beginning of thegreen waste season. Thequality of green wastebeing collected was verypoor despite our bincrews checking for thewrong items being put inthe bins.“It meant that a lot ofthe waste we collectedwas of unacceptablequality for compositingwhich is a real shame. Butwe have worked hard totackle the problem.“The crews are checkingbins and even listening tothem as their contents areemptied into the back ofthe lorry. If it makes thewrong sound they’vesifted through the wasteby hand to get rid ofwrong stuff! We’ve alsobeen out and spoken toresidents to find out whatthe issues are and whatproblems they face.”Sally added: “Now, withmore bins and morechances to recycle we’rehoping that it will reduceeven further.”DID YOU KNOW – We’vefound toys, clothes evenan old TV in people’sgreen bins and they aremeant for garden waste!Even the humble carrierbag wrongly put in yourgreen bin can lead towhole loads beingrejected. The green wasteis used by famers ascompost so just oneshredded carrier bagrenders it useless.BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 25

Waste Education Officers Rebecca Hill andEllen Belshaw and children from BritanniaPrimary help you to spot the right bin.Wigan Borough currentlyrecycles 36% of its waste and we aim toget this figure to 50% by 2020. We simply can’tafford not to reduce, re-use and recycle whereverpossible. Not making these changes will costthe taxpayer an extra £14 millionby 2020.Landfill cancost the earthIT’S so much cheaper to recyclethan the send our waste tolandfill or treatment.Every tonne of waste thatgoes in a hole and is not recycledcosts us at least £64 per tonneextra in landfill tax, and this taxwill rise every year up to 2014when it will be £80 a tonne –costing Wigan Council anadditional £375,000 per year ifwaste to landfill is not reduced.Sticking with the currentarrangements would cost thecouncil and council tax payers£14M more between now and2020. The council needs to makeat least £66M worth of savingsover the next four years and themoney saved by recycling willhelp to support those vitalfront-line services people inour borough rely.New blue!WITH the blue bin servicebeing rolled out across theborough residents can nolonger put clean browncardboard in the green bin. Alltypes of paper and card needs togo in the blue bin.We get income for the paperand card we collect whilst itcosts more to compost the greenand food waste collection andthe type of process our green binrecycling goes through doesn'tallow cardboard – it's classed ascontamination. So please help ussave money!26 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012Calling all theBorough’s HerIS it a can? Is it plastic bag?No, it’s Wigan Borough’s veryown superhero WasteWarrior and his faithfulcompanion Scoop.Faster than a busy bin lorry,more powerful than a trashcompactor, able to leap tallwheelie-bins with a singlebound!More importantly these funand loveable characters arehelping to win the hearts andminds of the nextgeneration ofTo findout more visit:www.wigan.gov.ukand search for‘Waste Education’recyclers withtheir regularvisits toclassrooms at schools acrossWigan Borough.Today Waste Warrior andScoop are at Britannia BridgePrimary School in Ince for awhole school assembly all aboutrecycling.It’s clear that they’ve instantlycaptured the imagination oftheir audience as young eyesacross the room light up withexcitement as the two heroestake centre-stage.And it’s that imagination andnatural enthusiasm that WiganCouncil’s EnvironmentalEducation team are hoping toharness to make ourborough a greener place forfuture generations.Waste Warrior and Scoop areaccompanied by anotherdynamic duo on their schoolvisits, Environmental EducationOfficers Rebecca Hill and EllenBelshaw. Between them, theteam visits more than 60 schoolsa year, spreading the recyclingmessage.“We work with the children toimprove their understanding ofreducing, re-using and recyclingmaterials,” says Rebeccca. “Weencourage them to do this bothin school and at home. We findthat the children are really keenRECYCLERSUNITE! JoiningWaste Warriorand Scooop intheir bid to makeWigan a greenerborough areBritannia Bridgepupils Josh,Thomas, Morganand Mason.

oes!to pick up the ideas and takenaturally to the idea of recycling fora greener future. What we reallyhope is that they then take thismessage home and encourage theirfamilies to do the same.”So far the team have succeededin helping 91 per cent of theborough’s schools achieve EcoSchool status and more than aquarter have received the covetedGreen Flag Status.“Our aim is to get as manyschools as possible to achieve thisand now we’ve got Waste Warriorand Scoop to help, we’re prettyconfident we can do it,” says Ellen.Following assembly the childrenat Britannia Bridge take part inclassroom work all about waste andrecycling led by Rebecca and Ellen.Headteacher Damon Donaldsonis a big fan of the team.“It’s great that we now havecharacters like Waste Warrior andScoop to help to make it more funand to bring the message to life,”he says. “We have a very strongrecycling ethos at the school andour children really do understandwhy it is important that we cutdown on waste for a better future.Thanks to initiatives like this Iwould say that our children are notthe next generation of recyclers,they already are recyclers.”New caddies givefood for thought toboost recycling‘CADDY’ On Recycling...we’ve got black, we’ve gotbrown, we’ve got blue andwe’ve got green.Different bins fordifferent typesof waste,each doingits duty aspart ofWiganBorough’sRecyclingRevolution.But nowthere’s anew kidon theblock andwhilst it mightbe small, we’rehoping it’s goingto be a big-hitterin the war on waste.The latest, smart newaddition to Wigan’srecycling family is thekitchen caddy and it ishere to gobble down yourfood waste!Dumping our rubbish ina hole in the ground mayhave seemed like a goodidea at one time but it’s nolonger an option. Landfillcosts are spiralling andthere just isn’t enoughroom to go on buryingwaste. It’s bad for theenvironment and we couldbe storing up problems forfuture generations.Which is why WiganCouncil has introduced theKitchen Caddy.This sleek silver box cantake five litres of foodwaste and comescomplete with asupply ofcompostableliners to makerecycling cleanand easy.Householdswith green binswill be givendishwasher-friendlycaddies andcompostable caddy linersto put their food waste inbefore transferring it tothe green bin.Wigan Council’sCabinet Member forthe Environment, CllrKevin Anderson said:“Food waste currentlycounts for about a fifthof all the rubbish goinginto black bins. Insteadof sending it to landfill,we want to make it as easyas possible for people tocompost it.“It is a much cheaperalternative and at a timewhen we are having tomake £66million worth ofcuts, measures such as thiswill help us to cut costsand help save £14millionwhich can be put towardsessential front-lineservices.”And if you haven’t got agreen bin, don’t panic! Allhouseholds will be gettingthe same caddy and linersbut those without a greenbin can request a largeroutdoor caddy to put theirfood waste in ready forcollection.These homes will havehave the same every otherweek collections, using thesame crew and vehicles asthose with green bins.The combined food andgarden waste will be sentto regional waste disposalfacilities, where it willcreate quality compost foruse on agricultural land.“The proposals alsomake environmentalsense,” adds Cllr Anderson.“Sending lesswaste tolandfillmeansfewerproblemsdown theline forourchildren,naturalhabitatsprotected notpolluted, fewergreenhouse gases and evenmore waste recycled intonew products.”To help householdersunderstand the newservice, a special fiveminute instructional videois available online at:www.wigan.gov.uk/recyclingSafetyFIRST!ONLY put your bins outfor 7am on the day theyare due for collection.DON’T overfill your binsor leave loose rubbisharound them.DO store your binswithin your boundarybut away from theproperty (between1-2metres), and awayfrom windows anddoors.DO keep your bins outof sight of opportunistswho may target them.DANGER TO YOUWheelie bin fires canspread causing dangerto the public andproperty.DANGER TO THEENVIRONMENTToxic fumes and smokefrom bin fires pollutethe environment.COST TO US ALLWheelie bin fires costthe fire service and theauthority – andultimately the tax-payer– dearly. Almost all firescould be prevented byfollowing these simplerules.BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 27

BOROUGH CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF WIGAN AND LEIGH HOUSINGWHERE were you in 2002?Brazil lifted the World Cup,NASA began to map thesurface of Mars and tremorsfrom an earthquake that hitthe West Midlands were feltthroughout the country.And in 2002, Wigan Boroughhad its own seismic event withthe birth of a new organisationdedicated to managing andimproving the council’s stockof social housing.Wigan and Leigh Housing(WALH) was formed an ‘arm’slength managementorganisation’ to look afterboth the day-to-day runningand the long-term future ofthe borough’s 22,600 councilhouses and flats.The move brought about a‘quiet revolution’ in themanagement of social housingwhich put the tenants in thedriving seat when it came tomaking the big decisions.Working alongside localcouncillors and independentWALH board members, it’s thetenants who have been thedriving force behind a wholehost of improvements over thelast decade.A major council houseimprovement and renovationprocess has resulted inpositive moves such as we havenow replaced 12,000 newboilers, improved insulationand the installation of 1,200solar panels. Energy savingmeasures such as these havesaved £1M a year which hasbeen re-invested in furtherimprovements.Majorie Marsden, a tenantfrom Shakerley, has beeninvolved in the running ofWigan and Leigh Housingfrom the start.She says: “As tenants wehave a big influence in theimportant decisions includingthe setting of rents and thenhow our rents should be spent.“Our homes, estates andhousing services have beentransformed and we now haveone of the best housingservices in the country.“The legacy we want toleave to the Borough is ahousing stock whichuses as littleenergy asCHANGING LIVES:Vice Chair of Wigan andLeigh Housing Board, MarjorieMarsden with tenants at the latestbatch of new homes on ChathamSt in Leigh. This was part of thefirst new build programme inWigan Borough in thelast 25 years.possible and, where we can,we generate renewable heatand energy locally.”Whilst chair of the Wiganand Leigh Housing Board,former Wigan MP Neil Turner,adds: “It was a bold move bythe council to create Wiganand Leigh Housing.“The first ten years havebeen a success. What aboutthe next 10 years?“We have alreadyestablished ourselves as aquality house-builder but wewant to build many morehomes for local people.“Energy improvements willcontinue and we are nowlooking at furtherimprovement works. Thiswill help the localeconomy and createtraining and jobs forlocal people.”Leader of WiganCouncil, LordPeter Smith, says:“It was a bigdecision to handthe council’s stockof housing over to amanagement companyand create Wigan andLeigh Housing but one thatwe are really glad to havetaken.“The initial move came witha massive injection ofinvestment money from thegovernment which has servedus well but Wigan and LeighHousing’s success goes farbeyond this and continues tothis day.“In every measure takenthe satisfaction of WALHtenants just keeps going upand the real beauty of theproject is that it has managedto include the tenants in thedecision-making processabout their lives every step ofthe way. We’re now lookingforward to the next 10 years!”28 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

Festival 2012:An ‘Incredible’ Line-upAllthatjazzHOLLYWOOD arrangerand hugely successfulcomposer, GordonGoodwin will headline thisyear’s Wigan InternationalJazz Festival.With a GRAMMY award in2006 for his instrumentalarrangement of “Incredits”from the film The Incredibles,three Emmy Awards andthirteen GRAMMYnominations, Mr Goodwin willbe one of the biggest musicnames to play at WiganInternational Jazz Festival inits 27 year history.Festival organiser IanDarrington said: “Every yearwe endeavour to fill ourprogramme with the world’sbest jazz musicians butGordon Goodwin’s appearanceis especially pleasing foreveryone who loves music. Hehas a wonderful ability to fusejazz excellence with manymusical styles that transcendthe musical spectrum.”The 27th WiganInternational Jazz Festivalkicks off with a trailblazerJazz Festival 2012 at a glanceWEDNESDAY 11 JULY – TRAILBLAZEREVENT: Celebrate the start of the 27thWigan International Festival with a specialJazz Ball within the spectacular settings ofWigan’s most historic venue, Haigh Hall.Enjoy a sumptuous four course dinnerlistening to the smooth and popular soundof AJ Brown. Reserve a place at Haigh Hallon 01942 832 895. Tickets cost £35 and theevening starts at 7.30pm.THURSDAY 12 JULY: 8pm: Wigan YouthJazz Orchestra directed by David Little withspecial guest James Morrison fromAustralia. Tickets £18 / £16 conc.FRIDAY 13 JULY: 12.00pm: Munch ManshipOctet – Playing 1950’s West Coast Jazz.2.45pm: Apitos.8.00pm: Alan Price and His Band. Tickets£18/ £16 conc.event with A J Brown onWednesday 11 July with themain programme taking placebetween Thursday 12 July andSunday 15 July 2012. WiganYouth Jazz Orchestra directedby David Little with specialguest James Morrison fromAustralia will trumpet in thecelebrity evening concerts onThursday 12 July at LowriBeck Celebration Hall, RobinPark Indoor Sports Centre.On Friday afternoon musicfans can enjoy the joyfulsounds of Latin America withSATURDAY 14 JULY: 12.00pm: DoncasterYouth Jazz Orchestra (Alumni) directed byJohn Ellis MBE2.45pm: Daryl Sherman with John Hallamon saxophone and bass8pm: An evening of music from GordonGoodwin. Wigan Jazz Club Reunion BigBand featuring some of the biggest namesin big bands from the USA. WayneBergeron on trumpet and Eric Marienthalon alto sax. Tickets £25 / £22 conc.SUNDAY 15 JULY: 12.00pm: Ryan QuigleyQuartet.2.45pm: Chris Dean’s SYD LawrenceOrchestra. Tickets £18 / £16 conc8.00pm: National Youth Jazz OrchestraGuest musical director Ian Darrington MBETickets £18 / £16 conc.For more information about festival eventsvisit: www.wlct.orgthe music of Apitos.The evening session will seeformer organist with “TheAnimals” Alan Price – whosehits included “House of theRising Sun” and “Don’t LetMe Be Misunderstood” – andhis band will take to the stage.On Saturday DoncasterYouth Jazz Orchestra directedby John Ellis MBE willperform just after middayfollowed by Daryl Shermanwith John Hallam onsaxophone and bass. GordonGoodwin will perform with theWigan Jazz Club ReunionDream Band on Saturdaynight. Including a stunningline-up with Wayne Bergeronon trumpet and EricMarienthal onalto sax.ChrisDean’s SYDLawrenceOrchestraand theNational YouthJazz Orchestrawill bring the curtaindown on the festival onSunday.Ticketsnow on sale fromQuay Tickets. Visit:www.quay.it/wiganjazzIan added: “Jazz has helpedto put Wigan on the map forall the right reasons for thelast 27 years and we hope ifpeople haven’t been for awhile then 2012 will be theyear they return.”BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 29

Summer 2012What’sONFor full details of all special and regular eventsand festivals, pick up a What’s On brochure atyour local library or visit www.wlct.org/whatsonArts and FestivalsMon 9th Jul, 1pm-2pmFAMILY HISTORY WORKSHOPLeigh Local Studies, Turnpike CentreStart your family tree and discoverthe resources available in LeighLocal Studies. Use online sourcesincluding ancestry.com and meetthe volunteers. Booking essential.Telephone 01942 404559. £5Wed 25th Jul,10:30am-2:30pmWINNER TAKES ALLMesnes Park, WiganThe Youth Heritage Action Teamwill be organizing a family event inMesnes Park to celebrate Wigansport in this Olympic year. Therewill be lots to do, fun, games andthings to make. Come along andjoin in! FREESat 28th Jul, 11am-2:30pmSUPER SATURDAY:OLYMPIC GLORYTurnpike CentreCome along to the Turnpike Centrefor fun, family-friendly activitiestaking place throughout thebuilding. Free. No need to book,just drop-in on the day. For moreinformation call 01942 404420. FREEAll the fun of thefair coming to AstleyPark in Tyldesley.Mon 6th Aug to Tue 21st AugSUMMER HOLIDAYCRAFT DAYSThe Craftwork Studio, Rear 22,Preston Road, Standish.For further information contactElizabeth 07904931003 emailelizabeth@thecraftworkstudio.co.ukwww.thecraftworkstudio.co.ukSat 30th Jun to Sat 8th SepBEASTLY MACHINESTurnpike GalleryJohnny White’s interactive sculpturescombine new technology withmechanical ingenuity. Using foundand recycled junk, he createshumorous and imaginative mythicalcreatures and animals often inspiredby current affairs. FREEGreen Spaces11am-5.30pmMINI FUN FAIR FOR CHILDRENHaigh Hall Country ParkOpen Every Weekend and every dayin School Holidays.Sun 15th July 11am-5.30pmCHILDRENS FUN FAIRAstley Park, TyldesleyChildren must be accompanied byan Adult. All rides £1 (exceptinflatables).Sun 15th Jul, Noon-3pmSIX-IN-A-BAR WITH ROSIEMesnes ParkClassic Jazz Band – part of WiganInternational Jazz Festival atMesnes Park, Wigan. For moreinformation/details contact: 01942245369Sun 22nd Jul, 5am-10amIRON MANPennington FlashEarly morning visitors toPennington Flash can see theswimming and start of the cycle racein this endurance triathlon. There willbe no vehicle access during thistime. See www.ironman.com forfurther details.Haigh Country ParkFri 20th Jul, 7pmCHARITY LADIES NIGHTEnjoy a 3 course dinner with allyour friends before beingentertained with live music and anIRON MAN:Triathlon competitoremerges from thewater at PenningtonFlash.extra special DJ act! Tickets only£27 with money going to BreastCancer Care. A great cause for youto come out and enjoy yourself!7pm for 7.30pm dinner. Ladies onlyI’m afraid gents! For furtherinformation and to book telephone01942 832895. £27.00Sun 22nd Jul, 1pmHAIGH AFTERNOON TEAAfternoon Tea taken in thesplendour of the Douglas Suiteaccompanied by pianist.£9.95 adults. (Children’s optionsavailable). Served from 1pm. Forfurther information and to booktelephone 01942 832895. £9.95Heritage EventsFri 20th Jul, 10am-11amCARVED IN STONE WALKSHindley CemeteryDiscover stories about some of theborough’s past residents, including30 BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012

ave and infamous individualsinterred in local cemeteries. We meetat the gates of Hindley Cemetery,Danes Avenue entrance. The walk isnot suitable for wheelchair users dueto uneven surfaces and steps.Booking essential. Telephone 01942828020. £2Sat 21st Jul, 11am-2:30pmSUPER SATURDAY:GOING FOR GOLDMuseum of Wigan Life. FREETue 24th Jul, 10am-NoonCARVED IN STONE:INCE AND WIGANInce CemeteryWe meet at Ince Cemetery,Warrington Road entrance. Thewalk is not suitable for wheelchairusers due to uneven surfaces andsteps. Booking essential. Telephone01942 828020. £3Mon 30th Jul, 1pm-2pmSUPER SUMMER:TELL US A STORYMuseum of Wigan LifeChildren love stories, come and sitin our Discover Corner and listenand learn about things thathappened a long time ago. Suitablefor children up to 5 years. FREELibrariesTue 24th JulCLAY MODELLINGLeigh Library10.30am-11.30am and 2pm-3pm.For ages 12 and under. Bookingessential. For further informationtelephone 01942 404404. £1Thu 26th Jul, 2pmOLYMPIC GAMESAFTERNOONLamberhead Green Library.For further information telephone01942 705060. FREETue 31st JulRECYCLED MATERIALS CRAFTLeigh Library10.30am-11.30am and 2pm-3pm.For ages 12 and under. Bookingessential. For further informationtelephone 01942 404404. £1Sports andHealthy LivingSat 21st JulGOLD CHALLENGE IN A GYM(INDIVIDUAL CHALLENGE)Wigan Life CentreTeams of 4 people aged 14 yearsand above are invited to be part ofthe challenge whilst raising moneyfor charity. Various start times areavailable on a first come firstserved basis. The challenge involvesteams completing the followingchallenge: Walk – 500m • Cycle –10km • Row – 2km • Run – 2.5km• Swim – 400m. Teams can splitthe distances or activities betweenmembers. For further information orto sign up to the challenge contactr.smith@wlct.org or 01942 488480Sat 21st Jul, 11am-2:30pmGOING FOR GOLDSUPER SATURDAYMuseum of Wigan LifeJoin our Olympic countdown partyat the museum! Bring in yoursporting medals and trophies andhave your photograph taken withthem on our podium. Make yourown London 2012 winners’ medaland handle sporting medals andtrophies from the museumcollection. Take part in an Olympicjackpot and predict which BritishOlympians will win Bronze, Silverand Gold at the games. All correctpredictions will be entered into afree prize draw. FREE, no need tobook. Suitable for families and allages. Some activities may have asmall charge.Tue 31st Jul, 1pm-2:30pmSUPER SUMMER: OLYMPICMANIAMuseum of Wigan LifeLet’s look at sport in Wigan, how itused to be a long time ago andwhat is happening today. There willbe fun activities, things to make,lots to see and do. Suitable forchildren from 4-11yrs. Bookingessential. Telephone 01942 828128.£2.50Plenty ‘afoot’in Mesnes Parkthis summer.Tue 31st Jul, 1pm-2:30pmOLYMPIC MANIAMuseum of Wigan LifeLet’s look at sport in Wigan, how itused to be and what is happeningtoday. There will be fun activities,things to make, lots to see and do.Free but some activities may havesmall charge. For further informationtelephone 01942 828130.Olympic events atthe Museum ofWigan Life.Tue 7th Aug, 1pm-2:30pmOLYMPIC MANIAMuseum of Wigan LifeLet’s look at sport in Wigan, how itused to be and what is happeningtoday. There will be fun activities,things to make, lots to see and do.Free but some activities may havesmall charge. For further informationtelephone 01942 828130.Tue 14th Aug, 1pm-2:30pmOLYMPIC MANIAMuseum of Wigan LifeLet’s look at sport in Wigan, how itused to be and what is happeningtoday. There will be fun activities,things to make, lots to see and do.Free but some activities may havesmall charge. For further informationtelephone 01942 828130.Tue 21st Aug, 1pm-2:30pmOLYMPIC MANIAMuseum of Wigan LifeLet’s look at sport in Wigan, how itused to be and what is happeningtoday. There will be fun activities,things to make, lots to see and do.Free but some activities may havesmall charge. For further informationtelephone 01942 82813.Sat 11th Aug, 1pm-3pmBMX OLYMPIC JAM EVENTAlexandra ParkBMX JAM Event – Competition. Agecategories are under 12’s, 12-16yrs,16-19yrs, Semi-Professional riders.Prizes to be awarded by judges forparticipants who demo’s best tricks,skills, etc. For further informationtelephone 01942 487093.BOROUGH LIFE Summer 2012 31

MEET Adam, Rory and Edd – Boomin – thebig noise band with big hearts.Over the last six years, they’ve done therounds of local clubs, graduated tosupporting the likes of Craig David and PixieLott, and this summer release their debutalbum.“We’re going to give it everything we’vegot,“ says bass guitarist Rory O’Grady. The 26year old is looking forward to a busy time whenthe album is out. “The hard work starts now andwe just want to carry on doing what we aredoing.”Boomin headlined the borough’s Britain inBloom launch this spring with a gig in thetown centre. The council’s Chief Executive,Donna Hall, thanked them for being partof a big day for all the residents’ andtenants’ groups who support ecoprojects.Pubs and clubs sign up forSAFER NIGHTSTHE sign saysyou’re in for agood time…and a safe one.That’s the aim of anew campaign toprove that Wiganpub and clubs simply are thebest… bar none.Best Bar None is a nationallyrecognised scheme designed toreduce alcohol-related crimeand disorder in Wigan TownCentre.It promotes responsiblepub and club managementand recognises and rewardsthose who put the safety oftheir customers first.And more importantly, witha proven track record ofimproving standards andreducing crime linked to thenight-time scene, it reallyworks.To get the Best Bar Nonemark, pubs and clubs mustmeet strict standards,particularly when it comes topreventing nuisance andpromoting public safety.The scheme is backed byWigan Council, GreaterManchester Police, governedby the British Institute of InnKeeping and approved by theHome Office. Best Bar Noneco-ordinators are nowbusy encouraging puband club managers tosign up to thescheme.The badge is onlyawarded to those whohave proved they comply witha strict set of criteria,including making sure doorstaff are licensed, whatmeasures the venue hastaken to mitigate the impactof noise and litter and whatprocedures are in place forstaff to follow if drugs arefound onthe premises.Those that reach thestandard will be allowed toenter a special awardsceremony that will recogniseoutstanding achievement,later in the year.Cllr Kevin Anderson, thecouncil’s cabinet member forsafer communities, says: “Byensuring our town centrepubs, bars and clubs run safebusinesses, we will not simplyhelp to reduce crime but alsocut down on alcohol-relatedhospital admissionsattributed to illness andinjury.”The scheme has alreadyreceived the backing of someof the borough’s majorALL THE BEST: Launching ‘Best Bar None’ at Wigan Little 15 are: GreaterManchester Police Supt. Andrea Jones; Greater Manchester Fire andRescue Service, Wigan Borough Commander Steve Sheridan; WiganCouncil’s Senior Trading Standards Officer Terry Gregson; Publican TonyCallaghan; Wigan Council’s community safety manager Paul Whitemoss;Best Bar None co-ordinator Joe Curran and Carol Lyons from the council’sDrug and Alcohol Team.players in the pub trade.Tony Callaghan, who ownsthe InnTheBar pub chain,has been looking forward tothe scheme being introducedin Wigan for some time.“Smaller, independentoperators can really benefitfrom Best Bar None becauseit gives themaccess tofree, expertadvice andsupportfrom allthe variousYou can findout more at:www.bestbarnone.compartnership agencies.”He added: “Best Bar Nonegives licensed premises aperfect opportunity todemonstrate that they areprepared to go that extramile when it comes toensuring they run aresponsible business in theinterests of customers andcommunity safety. I’mdelighted that the scheme isbeing introduced in Wigan,and look forward to it beingrolled out to other parts ofthe borough.”