Local Life - Wigan - November 2018

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Mark Mennell, who specialises in decorative
screening panels and metalwork, to create the sitespecific
piece. ‘We wanted something hardwearing,’
Phil continued. ‘It’s going to be outdoors, so the
mural has to be able to withstand all types of
weather’.
The pupils involved have enjoyed workshopping
with Mark, drawing out ideas for the piece and
thinking about how it will be arranged. Once
funding is secured, they aim to host a full-day
workshop where the design will be finalised.
One of the Newfold Primary pupils involved said:
‘It’s fascinating to see all our work showcased here
for future generations’.
The school artwork project is part of a wider series of
station renovations, headed by the Friends of Orrell
Railway Station and the group’s organiser Bernard
Lundy. Along with a new gravel garden placed by
the station entrance, a group of around 18 regular
volunteers meet every Sunday from 12pm-2pm to
weed, plant flowers, and tidy up the station. Anyone
who wants to get involved and help out with the
renovation efforts is welcome to head down and
lend a hand.
Ruth Tickle, one such volunteer, said: ‘The station is
already looking a lot better. We’ve even placed a set
of access steps down the grass verge so that people
can get to the flowers more easily, as it used to be
quite dangerous heading down there!’
The Friends recently received a donation of £500
from the Orrell Proms, hosted by Orrell Cricket Club,
which will go towards the renovation efforts.
Once completed, the installation will not only
showcase a selection of Orrell’s history, but become
part of it. Future generations will be able to see their
ideas put back into the community and share it with
their own children in years to come – a fitting future
tribute to Orrell’s past.
For more information about Friends of Orrell
Railway Station, check out their Facebook page or
go along on a Sunday to get involved.
Class From The Past
Thanks to David Halliwell, who sent in this photo
of Miss Twist's Class at King Street School, Wigan,
1961.
Maybe you can spot a familiar face? Remember, if
you have a photo you’d be willing to share, email
wigannews@locallife247.co.uk