ISSUE 58 SUMMER 2018 - Wigan Council
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ISSUE 58 SUMMER 2018 THE MAGAZINE FOR WIGAN BOROUGH RESIDENTS
2 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Welcome
The Leader’s column
W
elcome to the summer edition in the North West into creating good
of Borough Life magazine. employment opportunities right here in
This is my first column in the borough.
Borough Life as leader of Wigan Council I also promise to have a listening
and I would like to start by saying how leadership and take the views of all sides
much of a privilege it is to serve you as – while we all won’t hold the same views
council leader. we do all hold one thing in common
I have served as a councillor for quite and that is we want the very best for our
some time – being first elected in the borough.
Ince ward in 1982 – and have been I have the honour of going out around
deputy leader for the past ten years to the country and speaking to people
the previous leader Lord Peter Smith. about Wigan Borough.
Peter served the borough with great People are constantly surprised by all
distinction as leader for 27 years. I that Wigan has to offer.
promise to continue the great work that This edition of Borough Life magazine is
Peter did and put the interests of the testament to that.
people of the borough first in all the The cultural offer we have in the
decisions I make. borough is outstanding but we really
I’m especially passionate about the need to shout about it more.
future prospects for our children and I hope these pages which showcase the
young people. cultural events taking place this summer
This starts from the early years, through inspire you to get out and enjoy the best Cllr David Molyneux
one of the very best education systems of what the borough has to offer. Leader, Wigan Council
Extra content is available at
www.wigan.gov.uk/boroughlife
Even more great photographs can be
found at On the cover
Our front page is designed
and created by Wigan Council
Borough Life is published by Wigan Council and
distributed to all households in the borough. graphic designer Mel Edwards.
This edition was published on 25th June 2018. Each item is linked to themes
The magazine is printed on paper from
and stories in the edition and has
renewable resources. It is written, edited and been hand-created by Mel using
designed by Wigan Council’s Public Relations coloured paper.
Team. Her stunning three dimensional
If you are a resident of Wigan Borough but designs have then been
haven’t had a copy of Borough Life delivered photographed to create a unique
through your letterbox, you can pick up a retro-feel front cover to celebrate
copy from several locations including the Life
Centre or view it online at www.wigan.gov.uk/ our Summer of Culture.
boroughlife Earlier this year Mel’s talent was
You can now receive a new monthly Borough
showcased internationally when
Life e-newsletter. Sign up by emailing she won a design competition to
boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk display her work in Times Square,
For general comments email: New York.
boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk
Find out more about how Mel
created the designs on page 39.
Borough Life / Summer 2018 3
Contents
34 14
30 25 9
4&5 NEWS IN BRIEF 17-24 WHAT’S ON 34 WIGAN’S SPITFIRE
Latest news from around the borough. A bumper edition eight page pull-out The tale of Wigan’s spitfire and its
guide to this summer’s events and missing pilot!
6,7 & 8 ART IS IN OUR HISTORY activities.
Delve into the work of five local 35 PIER WE GO
inspirational artists. 25 NEW ART ON SHOW A bright future for Wigan Pier.
Talented students see their work come
9, 10 & 11 WE’VE GOT SOUL to life at The Turnpike Gallery this 36&37 THE SHOW MUST GO ON
We’ve got our dancing shoes on ready summer. Beyond Wigan Pier wows its audience.
for the Northern Soul revival.
26&27 THE CULTURE CLUB 38 WE LOVE LIONEL
12&13 FROM WIGAN TO WEST END We find out what inspires the young We were dancing on the ceiling when he
TV and broadway star Ibinabo Jack people in our borough. visited Leigh in June!
shares her journey to fame.
28&29 HEART OF THE COMMUNITY 39 COMPETITION
14 HISTORY MAKERS Spend a week going behind the scenes Could your dog be on the next cover of
Take a trip back in time for International in our libraries. Borough Life?
Women’s Day.
30&31 HITTING THE RIGHT NOTES
15 HISTORY BOYS For 32 years Wigan International Jazz
Why we’re commending two men who Festival has been entertaining crowds
made their mark on Wigan’s history. from far and wide.
16 THE WAY TO CENTRE STAGE
A new theatre in Atherton is drawing the
crowds.
32&33 PROTECTING OUR HERITAGE
Three projects which aim to protect and
celebrate some of our iconic buildings.
21
To keep up to date with news and events, follow Wigan Council at:
4 Borough Life / Summer 2018
News in brief
Dancing on the Wigan Pride returns for 2018
ceiling! Wigan Pride, a celebration of equality, This year, the theme for the event
diversity and acceptance led by the is ‘growth and community’ as Pride
Congratulations to the competition borough’s LGBTQ+ community, will aims to encourage everyone in Wigan
winners from spring Borough Life return to Wigan town centre this year borough to get more involved in their
who bagged tickets to see Lionel on Saturday 11th August. communities.
Richie in action at Leigh Sports The family friendly event will start with To get the latest news on Wigan Pride
Village in June. a colourful ‘flower power’ themed 2018 visit: www.wiganpride.com
Well done to Nicola Hitchmough, parade from Mesnes Park.
Siobhan Cunney, Lesley Ollerton,
David Blinkhorn and Kim Farnworth.
See photos from the gig on page 38.
Want to be in the Leader steps down after 27 years
driving seat? In May Lord Peter Smith announced he
was stepping down as Wigan Council
A community transport service is leader after 27 years.
recruiting new volunteer drivers. He served as leader since 1991 and
Driven is a new service for people was made Lord Smith of Leigh in 1999
who are isolated and want to get out. in recognition of his work in local
Driven volunteer Don said: “I’m government.
retired, it gives me something to As a big sports fan and supporter of
do and helps people. It’s nice to do Leigh Centurions rugby league club,
something for the community. If Lord Smith led on the development
you’re thinking about volunteering, of Leigh Sports Village and oversaw
just come along – you’ll be shown the the building of the DW Stadium, Robin
ropes and you’ll enjoy it.” Park and The Grand Arcade shopping
Your expenses are covered, and you centre.
choose when you drive. If you don’t He is passionate about improving
have a car you can drive one of the health and social care to ensure the
accessible minibuses or be a driver’s vulnerable and elderly get the best
assistant. care and will continue to be involved
Volunteer now by contacting in this across Greater Manchester.
01942 409602 or Cllr David Molyneux has been
enquiries@bedriven.org appointed the council’s new leader.
Borough Life / Summer 2018 5
News in brief
Get involved with Umbrella Arts In the picture
Wendy Bowyers, Gemma Unsworth offers an extensive range of arts Do you have a passion for
and Lyndsey Sawhney formed activities including painting, knitting, photography?
Umbrella Arts after experiencing life textiles, sewing, sculpture and If so, this is the perfect opportunity
as carers themselves. Now they’re printing. to bring one of your photographs to
encouraging anyone who might The Sculpture Makers project is due a wider audience.
previously have struggled to get to run again in September (Thursdays In partnership with Wigan Libraries
involved in their community to come 10am-12pm). The ten week course we are looking for the best images
along and give some of the arts will offer the chance to create outdoor which show off our borough at its
activities on offer a go. sculptures from recycled, clean waste best.
Wendy said: “We understand that and will be displayed in outdoor It could be of our beautiful natural
sometimes things happen in life that spaces in the borough. areas, historic heritage or even
mean you might find yourself a bit Both groups meet at LEIGHWay, Gas showing a more modern side.
isolated. So we wanted to offer some Street, Leigh, WN7 4PD. Three winning images will be
opportunities for people to get out For more information, please email selected to go on the new library
of the house and meet others in a info@umbrella-arts.org or call 07517 cards to issue to library members
really informal, friendly environment. 846 695. throughout the borough.
Whatever your situation, you will be This work is supported by The Deal for The winning images will also be
made welcome.” Communities Investment Fund, Wigan displayed in Wigan Libraries and
The Wednesday Makers arts group Borough Community Partnership and featured in the next edition of
(weekly in term-time 10am-12pm) LEIGHWay. Borough Life magazine.
To enter simply email your images
to: boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk (no
larger than 5MB)
Any photos you submit must have
been taken by you and you own full
copyright. Full terms and conditions
online at www.wigan.gov.uk
Join the Free travel for Waspi women
Community Book Women affected by changes to the created a dedicated webpage to help
state pension age are now entitled to women find out if they’re eligible.
Do you want to see what’s on in free off-peak travel on bus, train and To find it search: ‘The Women’s
your community? Or rediscover old tram. Concessionary Travel Scheme.’
interests or discover new ones? You The Women’s Concessionary Travel Applying can be done by post or via a
can sign up to the Community Book Pass caters for women who, because TfGM Travelshop.
for free to find hobbies, groups or of the change in the law in 2011, will To find out more about the Women
events near you. have to wait longer to receive their Against State Pension Inequality
It’s a fantastic way to find out what’s pension. (WASPI) campaign contact your local
going on in your local area with lots Women who were born between 6 group.
of local organisations and groups October 1953 and 5 November 1954 Leigh: Pat Morgan on Leighwaspi@
advertising events and volunteering and who currently live in Greater gmail.com and Wigan and Makerfield:
opportunities. What are you waiting Manchester can apply. Jan Fulster on wiganwaspi@gmail.com
for? Transport for Greater Manchester have
Sign up now! www.communitybook.org
6 Borough
Borough Life
Life // Summer
Summer 2018
2018
Art history
Art is in our
history Harry Walder,
died 1992
Wigan,
d first
al de r gr ew up in Wigan an
We have a rich history of successful Harry W quodale
d at Le yl an d Motors, McCor
worke ills. He
artists. It was difficult to choose an d W igan Rolling M
Prin tw or ks er Bombers’
ed to m an uf acture ‘Lancast
help
which ones to profile but, with the during World W
ar 2.
rfecting
ou ld sp end months pe
help of the Museum of Wigan Life Wal de r w ly a small
pa in ti ng an d so there are on
one is art
or ks available. H
and Wigan Archives Service, we’ve num be r of hi s w
Wigan’s landm
arks from
m an y of
reco rd s d historical
selected five local artists whose su ch as Central Park an
hist or y, igan Lane
in g the Battle of W
work still inspires today. scen es in cl ud his paintings
ra nd Ce nt ra l Station. All of
and G suring 20
e ex ac tl y th e same size, mea
wer ed.
ches when fram
inches by 16 in
Wigan Pier. Harry Walder
Borough
Borough Life /Life / Summer
Summer 2018 2018 7
Men’s health
Wigan Arms. James Isherwood
James Lawrence Is
herwood, Mary Pownall, Leigh, died 1937
Wigan, died 1989
The Pownalls were a famous silk manufacturing family
James Isherwood from Leigh, who once lived at Pennington Hall.
was born in Wigan
spent most of his and
life there. He was Pownall achieved success with her bronze life-size and
cobbler by trade bu a
t had always pain ‘head and shoulder’ sculptures. She was educated and
for his personal en ted
joyment and bega exhibited work in Paris, Frankfurt and Rome and went
painting professio n
nally in his 50s. on to exhibit across the UK including the Royal Academy
He painted many in London. Pownall produced pieces for many famous
landscapes and po
scenes but rebelle rtrait
d against the Obsc people of the time including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Publications Act of ene
1959, painting pict (creator of Sherlock Holmes) and Queen Mary.
featuring sexual im ures
agery and nudity
time in the 60s. He for a
also achieved noto
by painting surreal riety
caricature-style
paintings of the ce
lebrities of the tim
including Tommy
Steele, Cilla Black
e Roger Hampson, Tyldesley, died 1996
Dusty Springfield. and
Roger Hampson was born in Tyldesley. A pupil of
Leigh Grammar School, he went on to get a degree
at Manchester School of Arts and later became Vice
Principal of Bolton Art College and President of
Manchester Academy of Fine Arts.
He painted many Northern scenes, particularly of
Tyldesley, Leigh and Bickershaw. He exhibited across
the UK, with a notable exhibition of more than fifty
paintings at Manchester’s Tib Street Gallery in 1973.
8 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Art history
Theodore Major, Appley Bridge, died 1999
Theodore Major left school at 13 local children and factories and He held onto his work, buying the
and worked in a tailor’s shop whilst was not interested in painting to house next door to use as storage.
attending evening classes at Wigan make money or to achieve fame. He Major has paintings in Manchester
Art School, eventually studying there refused to sell paintings to ‘the rich’ City Art Gallery and Salford Art
full time and going on to teach some and instead aimed to create work Gallery. You can see his painting,
adult education classes. that would make people think and Autumn Flowers, on display in the
He was proud of his Northern roots, ‘disturb and extend consciousness in Museum of Wigan Life this summer.
painting scenes of Wigan streets, the mind of the viewer.’
Autumn Flowers. Theodore Major
Now to the present...
Laura Quinn Harris is a contemporary artist who lives in Swinley. She is well
known for her lifelike paintings of people and animals and was a finalist in
the Sky Arts TV series, ‘Portrait Artist of the Year’ with her portrait of Sir Ian
McKellen (right). She has paintings in the Royal College of Music and the
National Portrait Gallery in London.
Laura says: “I always find it inspiring to look at art from the past. There is no
one artist who has influenced my style but I constantly get ideas and inspiration
from all sorts of historical art. I do like Isherwood’s work and my husband and
I are lucky enough to own one of his paintings. Whenever I am in Wigan I find
myself surrounded by artists, musicians, writers and crafters, there’s certainly a
great deal of creativity coming out of Wigan!”
Borough Life / Summer 2018 9
Northern soul
We’ve got soul
10 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Northern Soul
“The atmosphere was electric...
I
t was a music and dance movement stage and balconies it hosted famous increasingly popular, some records
that rocked the North and Wigan was DJs and live acts including Jackie were starting to chart and were
at its centre. Wilson and Betty Wright. being played in the youth clubs and
The famous Wigan Casino, which Dean McDonald, aged 61 from discos. This is why I, and many of my
opened in 1973, is the first place that Springfield, has been a Northern Soul generation, got into it.
springs to mind when Northern Soul is DJ in the borough since 1971 and has “DJs started playing more obscure
mentioned in the region, and it was an been heavily involved in the scene American soul records but with a
iconic place to be. since the mid-sixties. similar dance beat which eventually
As the Grand Ballroom doors swung Dean said: “In the mid became known as ‘Northern
open for the first time at 2am on to late sixties, Soul’.
Sunday 23rd September, the room Motown was “Northern Soul was,
quickly filled with people wanting to becoming and still is for some,
listen to the great music and dance the a way of life. Music,
whole night through. fashion, friends,
The Casino was in the right place at the clubs, it was a
right time and brought the movement driving force for
to life. Kitted out with a dancefloor, me and many
Dean’s top five Northern Soul records:
1. Salvadors - Stick by me baby
2. Tomangoes - I really love you
3. Carstairs - It really hurts me girl
4. Eddie Parker - Love you baby
5. Bettye Swann - Kiss my love goodbyeBorough Life / Summer 2018 11
Northern Soul
. everybody was there for the music”
others in the 70’s.” then eventually the doors would and gigs at The Old Courts continue to
Partygoers travelled from across the reopen and we would scramble ‘keep the faith’ in Wigan.
country to visit Wigan Casino. upstairs, show our memberships and Dean said: “The venues hosting soul
“People would travel down from pay at the desk. nights are great for my generation to
Scotland just for the night”, said Dean. “Many would then change into dancing meet up, hobble around the dancefloor
“I suspect that most of the punters at shoes and vests and within an hour the and reminisce.
the Casino weren’t locals.” club would be like a furnace. “But also there is a growing interest
“I first attended the Wigan Casino all- “I would spend quite a lot of time amongst younger people ‘Wigan Young
nighter in 1974 when I was 17. perusing records in the front bar and Souls’ and others who weren’t into
“Most of the northern towns had soul the rest mostly on the dancefloor. The Northern Soul at the time, but may
DJs and disco nights, but the place to atmosphere was electric, everybody have heard the tunes, seen the films,
hear the biggest and latest tunes was was there for the music, it was friendly read the books, and want to see what
Wigan Casino and a trip there was very and safe.” it’s all about.
exciting. The passion for the Northern Soul “We certainly get many ‘first-timers’
“We would queue outside whilst the movement is still felt strongly across at the Old Courts, and it’s fantastic to
last of the early session punters left, the borough from people of all ages see!”
Northern Soul key milestones
1973 1978 1996 2003 2018
Wigan Casino opens Beat Studio 54 as ‘Soul survivors, The A stage play by Mick Wigan Casino would
its doors with the Billbord Magazine’s Wigan Casino story’ Martin ‘Once upon have celebrated its
capacity of around Best Disco in the book written by a time in Wigan’ 45th anniversary
1,200 World Russ Winstanley and debuted at the
Dave Nowell was Contact Theatre in
published Manchester, and has
toured nationally
since
The Old Courts Northern Soul night takes places regularly with resident DJ
Deano and other guest DJs playing classic records from 7.30pm-11.30pm.
For more information please visit www.theoldcourts.com12 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Theatre
From Wigan Critically acclaimed actor and Broadway
star Ibinabo Jack tells us how sheer
to West End determination and passion have been the
catalyst to her success.Borough Life / Summer 2018 13
Theatre
agent. The first was an offer from The
Bodyguard UK Tour, and six minutes
later I was offered the role of Lorrell
Robinson in Dreamgirls! That day
changed my life forever.”
In 2017 BroadwayWorld named Ibinabo
‘The Best Supporting Actress in a New
Production of a Musical’ for her role in
Dreamgirls.
W
hen you have The Lion King, for the role, I called the casting director Ibinabo is currently working on the
Dreamgirls, The Bodyguard and told her that I would be attending popular ITV crime drama Vera, playing
and ITV’s Vera on your the recalls the following day. I didn’t Detective Constable Jacqueline (Jac)
showreel it’s certainly something to be have an agent then. Williams.
proud of. “I borrowed the train fare from my “I started on the show in series eight
Originally from Billinge, Wigan, brother and got the first off-peak train last year making my screen debut. I
35-year-old Ibinabo has worked hard to to London. can’t wait to get back into Jac’s shoes
establish herself as a successful actor. “I gave that audition everything I had for series nine later this month.
After leaving St. Peter’s R.C. High and a few weeks later I was offered the “It’s such a great show with incredibly
School in 1999, it was while studying role, playing the part of Nala in The talented, passionate people working on
Performing Arts at Winstanley College Legend of the Lion King, directed by both sides of the camera.
that her passion for acting truly began. Craig Revel Harwood for Disneyland “There’s no single route that you need
Ibinado explains: “My first big break Paris! My hard work was finally paying to take in order to succeed as an actor,
was in 2004 when I was invited to off.” but it’s important to challenge yourself,
my third professional audition. After In 2015 Ibinabo, whilst still living at work hard, stay focussed and stay in
the initial audition on the Monday, home in Wigan, auditioned for roles the moment. Do what you love and
recalls were due to take place on the in Dreamgirls and The Bodyguard UK love what you do, but hold on to your
Wednesday of that week. Tour, at the same time as working three integrity. Believe in yourself!”
“By Tuesday evening I hadn’t heard part-time jobs.
anything but, knowing that I was right “I got two phone calls from my
Do you dream of being on the big screen?
Ibinabo’s advice for aspiring actors…
1. Keep your physical, mental and emotional health in check.
This industry is tough and the knock backs can sometimes
get you down.
2. Have people around you who will encourage and support
you but who will also tell you the truth. I’ve struggled with
episodes of stress, anxiety and depression, but I am so
lucky to have an amazing support network of family and
friends that keep me positive and inspired.
3. Have a ‘side hustle’; something that you can do to earn
money when you’re ‘resting’. I’ve worked as a waitress,
sales assistant, cleaner, teaching assistant, the list goes on!
4. Challenge yourself and be prepared to work hard.
5. Believe in yourself and never stop working on your craft
and improving.14 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Suffragettes
The history
makers
We took a trip back in time to
1918 on this year’s International
Women’s Day to celebrate 100
years of the suffragette.
L
ucky school children and residents visited
Sunshine House Community Centre in Scholes
to mark the pivotal 100th anniversary of women
getting the right to vote.
Guests were wowed as influential men and women
took to the stage to share their stories.
Stars of the show were 84-year-old Pit Brow lass Rita
Culshaw and Kate Fussell who was the first female
surgeon to work in the borough.
Along with original archives displays, food from the
past (good old rice pudding!), there were brilliant
performances from On The Go theatre company and
Wigan and Leigh Youth Dance company (WigLe Dance).
Amy Burdon, from WigLe Dance, said: “The event was
a fantastic celebration to mark 100 years of women
having the vote. We brought along six of our youth
dance company who performed their piece ‘Daughters
Daughters’, a celebration of the suffragette movement.
“The day gave us chance to reflect and learn more
about the suffragette movement and to appreciate
how far the women’s rights movement has come. It WigLe Dance is a dance development organisation that
was a brilliant, enjoyable, interesting day - especially aims to inspire children and young people to be happy,
dressing up!” healthy and socially engaged through dance. There are
a number of programmes available for young people to
get involved with.
Find out more about the Believe in Her campaign Find out more at www.wigledance.co.uk
at www.wigan.gov.uk/believe15 BoroughLife
Borough Life//Summer
Summer2018
2018 15
Blue plaques
The history boys
Two of the most pivotal men in Wigan’s history
have been formally recognised with blue plaques to
commend their contribution to the borough.
Thorley Smith
Women’s rights activist
and politician, Thorley
Smith, was the first
parliamentary candidate
to stand for women’s
suffrage.
Local historians Tom Walsh
and Yvonne Eckersley
unveiled Smith’s plaque, at
Wigan Town Hall, as they
have both dedicated their
time to tracing his career
and bringing his career to a wider audience.
Tom Walsh said: “Yvonne and I have thoroughly enjoyed
working together to piece together Thorley’s life so the
people of the borough can appreciate what a pioneer
George Orwell he was for women’s rights. I have been passionate about
Thorley’s life being recognised and am really glad to see
the council honour him with a plaque during this year
George Orwell penned the famous ‘The Road to Wigan especially.”
Pier’ book, which focused on the plight of the working
class in 1930s England.
Orwell, whose real name was Eric Blair, researched his
book in Wigan Library, now the Museum of Wigan Life.
Wigan Archives and Local Studies holds a visitors book
containing the signature of ‘E. A. Blair’ from 1936.
His plaque rightly sits in the Museum of Wigan Life and
was officially unveiled by his son, Richard Blair at a
ceremony commending his
father.
Richard said: “My father’s
book was one which
highlighted the social issues
across Great Britain in the
1930s. He was very fond of
the people from Wigan and
seeing how much support
the council and local
community have given to
the legacy of my father is
touching.”16 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Theatre
The Way to centre stage
We go behind the curtain with the newest theatre in town.
W
hether you want to get accessible, exciting, professional school where you can develop the skills
involved in developing theatre theatre to Wigan Borough. It’s the final and resilience you need to work in
yourself, train to work in element that means we can now offer the theatre and a programme of both
the industry, or just enjoy watching every experience of the theatre here. amateur and professional summer
professional productions, there’s “Children right through to older people performances including stand-up
something at The Way Theatre for can learn about acting and production comedy, music and drama.
everyone. skills, build their confidence, make
The theatre group took over a space at friends and choose whether they
Victoria Mill in Atherton last year and ultimately want to be involved in
have since developed an exciting offer creating, watching or working in the
of opportunities for the whole family. theatre.”
Artistic Director, Will Travis, said: Opportunities include the already well
“My vision has always been to bring established, ‘A Will and A Way’ acting
For more information on the acting school: www.awillandaway.co.uk
For the summer programme of performances:
Facebook @TheWayTheatre
Twitter @StolenThreadCICBorough Life / Summer 2018 17
Welcome to the
summer of culture
It’s set to be a sizzling summer with a little ones busy, we’re celebrating the
whole host of activities, events, shows, wealth of creativity, innovation and
exhibitions and festivals planned. heritage we have on offer. You told us
Whether it’s entertainment for the you wanted more events in the what’s
whole family, food festivals to enjoy on section, so we have created an eight
with friends, art exhibitions to inspire page bumper pull-out guide for you to
you or children’s activities to keep the enjoy all summer.
For the latest events visit
www.wigan.gov.uk/summerofculture18 Borough Life / Summer 2018
What’s on guide
Town centres
We want our town centres to be This summer is no different with to show your support for a good
thriving, vibrant places where people the continental food market serving cause, then don’t miss the Wigan 10k,
come to shop, eat, socialise and enjoy up delights from across the globe organised by Joining Jack, or the
brilliant events. There’s a jam-packed and Wigan Pride festival back and Leigh Community 10k. And of course
calendar each year for Wigan and bigger than ever. If you’re looking for family favourite Titan the robot makes
Leigh with something for everyone. a sporting challenge, or just want a popular return!
Wigan town centre Diggers festival
Annual festival to celebrate Gerrard
Leigh town centre
Interactive Zany Cavemen Winstanley. Leigh Community 10k
The popular return of interactive 8th September 12th August
animatronic T-Rex and Triceratops.
21st July Wigan 10k Summer Street Entertainment
Organised by charity Joining Jack Interactive animatronic T-Rex,
Woodcock Square transforming 9th September Triceratops, Baby Dinosaur & Egg /
to Strawberry Square! Interactive Zany Cavemen.
Strawberry-themed fun including plant Titan the robot returns! 18th August
your own strawberry, a strawberry trail, 4th August
music, pottery and bake off. Titan the robot returns
Monday 23rd July to Friday 31st August 25th August
– The Galleries Continental street market
Wigan Pride Grab a tasty treat from a selection of
11th August international traders.
First week of September
Continental street market
Grab a tasty treat from a selection of Leigh for All Heritage Day
international traders. 8th September
First week of September
All information correct at time of going to press. Please contact the venue in advance to confirm details.
#SummerOfCultureBorough Life / Summer 2018 19
What’s on guide
Foodie guide
Local food blogger Claire
Thomas, who runs She Eats,
shares her top spots for foodies.
I love my borough, and am constantly Fur Clemt
finding new things to eat and drink have a café in
here, so I thought that I would share Montrose Avenue
some of the reasons that this foodie and various satellite sites. They are
loves Wigan. part of The Real Junk Food Project,
When you enjoy your morning brew, and work on a pay as you feel basis,
did you know that Leigh’s Tank meaning that you can enjoy an ever
Coffee ethically source coffee beans, changing and affordable array of fresh
then roast and grind them to order? food. Similarly The Bridge at Leigh
So you can order the coffee you like, is another community café diverting
the grind you need and it will be perfectly good food back into the
delivered directly to your door. Add in the breads and cakes from All community to address both food
You Knead, beer from Two Left Feet waste and food poverty issues.
and a Holdens ice cream and you have I am always looking to try
the ultimate picnic! Once a month new places, so if there
during the summer months, Foodie is anywhere in the
Friday welcomes some of the region’s borough that you
finest street food traders to Haigh think deserves a
together with the site’s resident food visit, I would
producers for a night of food, drink and love to know!
live entertainment.
Also in Leigh you can get amazing fresh Never let it be said that all tastes and
sushi made by a talented Japanese budgets aren’t catered for here. The
chef at Koi Japanese Cuisine. As a Coven is a very popular vegetarian
regular I recommend a sushi platter bistro in Wigan Town Centre with a
and a selection of small dishes to share cute hidden garden, which can also
between friends. cater for vegans and gluten free diets.
When I lived in Wigan, I loved walking
to work in the morning; especially on
the days that they were making curly
aniseed at the William Santus factory!
Even now on the odd day that I catch
the smell in the air it raises my spirits
no end.
Over at Haigh Woodland Park, the
traders in the courtyard take pride in
the food and drink they are making.
The chocolate is all handmade at
Luisco and Cook and Foragers care
for their rare breed pigs, which is
reflected in the tasty meat.
She-Eats.com
Twitter / Instagram: She_Eats_Blog
For the latest events visit
www.wigan.gov.uk/summerofculture20 Borough Life / Summer 2018
What’s on guide
Libraries Sunshine House, Trencherfield Mill
Scholes
Steaming Sundays
Visit on a Sunday to admire the giant’s
immersive size and more importantly,
experience it working in action as it did
all those years ago!
Trencherfield Mill is one of the oldest and
largest mills in the UK. The steam engine
is one of the finest working examples
of its type and, built over 100 years ago,
was regarded as a feat of industrial
engineering.
Churning out a massive 2,500
horse power to feed the machinery
of Trencherfield Mill, it played an
instrumental role in Wigan’s industrial
Sewing Club development.
Tuesdays (weekly)
10am - 12pm, Golborne Library With the help of a successful Heritage
Lottery Fund bid and restoration project,
WI Knit and Natter Group the engine has been restored to its
Every 2nd Tuesday of the month former glory.
2pm - 3pm, Golborne Library
Summer dates:
Evening Reading Group
Wednesdays (every 6 weeks) Sunday 29th July
Atherton Library Sunday 5th August
Sunday 19th August
Dementia Reading Group Sunday 9th September
Thursdays (weekly) Sunday 23rd September
Atherton Library
The guided tour takes place from 1pm
Drawing Group Creative Sunshine Writers Group and doors open 15 minutes before.
Thursdays (weekly) with Louise Fazackerly
10am - 12pm Mondays (weekly) Adults £4, children under 12 and
Golborne Library 1pm - 3pm concessions £2, family ticket (two adults/
£5 per class two children) £10, group bookings - 20%
Book Chat discount for parties of more than 15
Last Thursday of the month Watercolour classes by people.
12pm - 1pm, Golborne Library Tony Bretherton - beginner,
intermediate and advanced levels More information online:
Dementia Café Tuesdays (weekly) www.wigan.gov.uk
An event to support people living with 10:30am - 12:30pm
dementia and their carers. £5 per class
Every 3rd Friday of each month Thursdays (weekly),
Atherton Library 10:30am - 12:30pm
£5 per class
Find out more about the libraries on
page 28 & 29. Watercolour classes by Lea Nixon
– intermediate and advanced
levels
Fridays (weekly)
10am – 12pm
£5 per class
Machine Embroidery Group
Every 1st Sunday of each month
All information correct at time of going to press. Please contact the venue in advance to confirm details.
#SummerOfCultureBorough Life / Summer 2018 21
What’s on guide
Wigan STEAM The Old Courts
Wigan S.T.E.A.M is an arts organisation offering exciting learning opportunities, Gerrard Winstanley House, Crawford
workshops, and exhibitions for young people and children to explore science, Street, Wigan, WN1 1NA
engineering and technology through creative activities.
The Old Courts is a multi-arts centre
which aims to bring innovative art,
music, comedy, dance and spoken
Summer of Star Wars! Art Lab Workshops: Making a Mob word to Wigan and the surrounding
There’s a whole host of activities with Anna FC Smith areas. They have a packed calendar
happening this summer including a Wednesday August 15th, Wigan STEAM, of live music gigs, various children’s
Summer of Star Wars activities across the 7pm - 9pm shows and interactive activities,
borough, including their base on Library Bookable via website, £2.00, 16+ visual arts exhibitions, touring and
Street, Wigan, along with Fur Clemt at Saturday 8th September, Wigan Diggers local theatre events, comedy and a
Central Park and The Diggers Festival. Festival, drop in all day, £2.00 whole lot more. For the latest events
Morning workshops: 10am-12 Suitable for all ages, under 8s may need visit www.oldcourts.com
Afternoon workshops: 1-3pm. adult assistance
Full day: £16 Wednesday 12th September, Wigan
Half day: £8 STEAM 7pm - 9pm
Workshops are suitable for age 6+ unless Bookable via website, £2.00, 16+
specified otherwise. Children aged under
eight need to be supervised by an adult. Code Up: Introduction to Python
Booking is essential so don’t miss out. Wednesday 19th September, 7pm – 9pm
Full list of summer camps and booking Wigan STEAM, Library Street, Wigan
details are online. Booking essential
Live Lounge: Open Mic
Creative Tech: E-Textiles Creative Tech: Drone Coding Tuesdays (weekly)
Wednesday 25th July, 7pm - 9pm Wednesday 26th September, 7pm - 9pm The Old Courts, Wigan
Wigan STEAM, Library Street, Wigan Wigan STEAM, Library Street, Wigan
Booking essential Tallula Vintage Does Wigan
Exhibition: Natus Residency, An evening of dressing up and getting
Wigan STEAM Gallery For a full list of events visit festival ready with Tallula Vintage! They
Tuesday 14th August – Saturday 1st www.wigansteam.co.uk specialise in unique, one-off garments,
September accessories, retro style pieces and
pre-owned and reworked customized
We Fight for the Future of Our fashion.
Nation, Anna Fc Smith Exhibition Thursday 2nd August, 4-11pm.
Sunday 9th September - Sunday 29th Every Thursday of the month.
September The Bailiff Bar, The Old Courts
Wigan STEAM, Library Street, Wigan
Free admission Wigan WOL Open Mic Poetry
At Write Out Loud Wigan Open Mic
people crowd in to listen to bawling,
drunken, old, young, new and subtle
poets. Some funny, some melancholy,
some political and some absurd. Come
on down, all welcome!
Thursday 9th August, 8-10pm
Deeper Purple
You’ll be treated to Hush, Black Night,
Speed King, Child in Time, Strange Kind
of Woman, Fireball, Demon’s Eye, Smoke
on the Water and many more!
Friday 24th August, 7:30pm, The Grand
Vault, The Old Courts, Wigan
For more details and to book tickets visit
www.theoldcourts.com
For the latest events visit
www.wigan.gov.uk/summerofculture22 Borough Life / Summer 2018
What’s on guide
The Turnpike
Marvellous Maps
Get colourful and creative to create your
own ‘journey drawing’ whilst exploring
Dave Pearson’s artwork (right). Free
family friendly tour and workshop for
children aged 4 yrs+.
Saturday 21st July, 12:30pm - 2pm
Creative Club
Join us in the summer holidays for three
mornings of arty fun, creating individual Thursdays (weekly) Soapbox Youth Theatre
artworks and exploring big ideas. 1pm - 3pm, 50p donation (includes a cup Our youth theatre is friendly, informal
Workshops take place during school of tea) and lots of fun. Open to all 6-18 year olds,
holidays and support young artists aged it is a great way to develop skills, build
7-13 to develop their creative skills in a Expression Leigh: Fallen Angels confidence and meet new friends.
range of media. Dance Theatre Every Saturday during term time:
Monday 30th July – Wednesday 1st Dance and movement workshops for 10am – 11:30am (ages 6 - 12)
August anybody in recovery from addiction or and 12pm – 1:30pm (ages 13 - 18)
adversity. All abilities welcome.
Art Tea Afternoons Fridays (weekly)
Work with an artist to develop your skills 10:20am - 12:30pm, free admission.
in this relaxed and sociable workshop.
Bringing people together
through film
For Leigh Film Society, screening trips back to Hollywood’s golden
cinema is about bringing people era.
and communities together. The volunteers are all fully dementia
The team of volunteers making trained, providing a vital social Toy Story
up the not-for-profit organisation service. Saturday 28th July
have reached out to a huge range of Leigh Film Society is this year Leigh Parish Church
residents who find the multiplexes developing its link with True Colours Airplane!
don’t cater for them. and will be screening Laurel and Friday 27th July
After starting out by bringing Hardy short movies at this summer’s Turnpike
arthouse and foreign-language films autism festival at Pennington Flash.
to Leigh the society really found its The commitment to the borough 24 Hour Party People
community stride when it started its was recognised by national Friday 31st August
Classic Cinema Club. organisation Cinema For All which Turnpike
Now dozens of people attend The sent its best community prize back
Turnpike in Leigh and The Pelican to Leigh. DownsizinFriday
Centre in Tyldesley for the monthly 28th September
Turnpike
Afternoon Classic Cinema
Club
Screenings of classic and older films
for a more mature audience.
Last Friday of each month.
Films usually start at 1pm
For more details and to book tickets,
visit www.leighfilmsociety.com
All information correct at time of going to press. Please contact the venue in advance to confirm details.
#SummerOfCultureBorough Life / Summer 2018 23
What’s on guide
Haigh Woodland Park
Alice in Wonderland musical
adaptation Pictures in the Park Series 2018
Wednesday 25th July
Tickets £7.50, family ticket £15, under 3s Sing along a Grease Sing along a Mamma Mia
for free Friday 7th September, Haigh Saturday 8th September, Haigh
Woodland Park Woodland Park
Haigh Foodie Friday Tickets £6 adult and concession (5-15 Tickets £6 adult and concession (5-15
Friday 27th July, 6-10pm years/65 years and over) £5 - please years/65 years and over) £5 - please
note: no under 5s allowed. note: no under 5s allowed.
Picnic brass with music from
Golborne brass band
Sunday 29th July
The Adventures of Peter Rabbit
and Friends musical adaptation
Tuesday 31st July
Tickets £7.50, family ticket £15, under 3s
for free
National Play Day
Wednesday 1st August
Pizza & Pint night
Friday 10th August, 6-10pm Artisan market Haigh Foodie Friday
Sunday 19th August Friday 31st August
Jack and the Beanstalk
Tuesday 14th August Picnic brass with music from Old 40s Day at Haigh
Tickets £7.50, family ticket £15, under 3s Hall brass band Sunday 9th September
for free Sunday 26th August
What’s On
Activating Archives Exhibition Leigh Canal Festival 1:30pm
Saturday 14th July – Saturday 4th August Celebration of the canal and its heritage Museum of Wigan Life, Wigan
- Wigan Library, Wigan Friday 31st August – Sunday 2nd Booking essential. £2.50 per person
Saturday 11th – Saturday 25th August - September (includes tea and coffee)
Leigh Library, Leigh Twist Lane, Leigh
Friday 31st August – Saturday 22nd RAF Military Band Performance
September - Cross Street Arts, Standish Big Summer Festival 2018 Sunday 16th September
Saturday 1st September 12pm - 4pm, Band Stand, Mesnes Park, Wigan
Solo exhibition by Jo Guile Jubilee Park, Ashton
Sunday 5th – Monday 27th August Colour Run
Cross Street Arts, Standish Proms in the Park Sunday 16th September
Saturday 8th September Pennington Flash Country Park, Leigh
Wigan Auction House Artisan Pennington Hall Park, Leigh
Market Heritage Open Weekend
Saturday 11th August, 10am – 4pm Wigan Auction House Artisan Saturday 15th – Sunday 16th September
Wigan Auction House, Miry Lane Market Damhouse, Astley
Saturday 8th September, 10am – 4pm
Proms in the Park Wigan Auction House, Miry Lane Lancashire Evening with hotpot
Saturday 1st September supper
6pm - 10pm, Mesnes Park, Wigan Royal Children in Ancient Egypt: Saturday 29th September
talk by Dr. Campbell Price 7pm, Damhouse, Astley
Thursday 13th September, 12:30pm -
For the latest events visit
www.wigan.gov.uk/summerofculture24 Borough Life / Summer 2018
What’s on guide
Sports fixtures
Super league
Wigan Warriors Vs Warrington Wolves
Friday 6th July 2018: 20:00
Wigan Warriors Vs St Helens
Thursday 19th July 2018: 19:45
Wigan Warriors Vs Catalans Dragons
Friday 27th July 2018: 20:00
Championship
Leigh Centurions Vs Swinton Lions
Sunday 22nd July 2018: 15:00
Leigh Centurions Vs Sheffield Eagles
Sunday 29th July 2018: 15:00
Summer fun at Three Sisters Circuit
Give yourself, your friends and the kids some race track fun this summer!
It’s the place to be for speedy karting lessons, special events, even races.
Sunday 5th August Tuesday 21st August
The ever popular Drift days where you Bike Attack - Road legal bikes for full
can take part by way of a taxi ride, or licence holders. £10.00 for 10 laps
watch the action. round the circuit.
Sunday 12th August Monday 27th August
Track Attack - Take your road legal Family Day Arrive ’n’ Drive Karting
car on the track in 10 or 30 minute for ages 8+. Different circuits and
sessions (all sessions are 10 minutes karts for different age groups. £25 per
but can be purchased in 10 or 30 person.
minutes).
Monday 20th August
Road Car Track Day for 16+ years.
The perfect introduction to track
day driving. £89 per person (drivers More events online –
require a full licence and passengers www.threesisterscircuit.co.uk
must be 16+ years).
All information correct at time of going to press. Please contact the venue in advance to confirm details.
#SummerOfCultureBorough Life / Summer 2018 25
Art
New art
on show
Budding young artists will see
their work come to life as they
exhibit in The Turnpike Gallery.
I want to build their confidence in
their own work and so that they feel
comfortable going to art galleries
W
e went to visit talented and realise they aren’t just places for
students at Bedford High, older people.”
who have been working 12 year old Luke Stowell, from
with artist Alan Birch to create their Leigh, said: “I wouldn’t say I was
own artwork to be displayed at The talented at art but I like working
Turnpike Gallery this summer. with a professional artist as it makes
In 2008, artist Dave Pearson died me feel good and I’m interested
leaving an amazing collection of in learning how to print. I never
drawings, paintings, prints and imagined I would ever have anything
sculptures, including the spectacular in a public show.”
Byzantium paintings (right). Jessica Thomas, 12, from Leigh,
These huge, jewel coloured can’t wait to see her artwork
paintings, which were originally alongside the work of professional
created for The Turnpike in 1994, will artists. “It’s exciting because I’m
make their return until August. learning something new and you
The young people’s work has been want people to see your work and
inspired by Dave Pearson’s paintings understand what you’ve actually
and will be displayed at the same done. I’m really happy it’s going to
time. be exhibited.”
Artist Alan says: “I love passing on Students from Fred Longworth High
skills and introducing young people School, Shevington Vale Primary
to different artistic styles as it’s such School and Millbrook Primary
a great opportunity for them to see School will also have their work on
their work exhibited at a young age. display.
Visit the Sea of Ink exhibition at The Turnpike Gallery until the 4th August26 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Young people
The culture ‘I lived in Spain for 9 years
club
before I came to Leigh
Art and culture are so and there’s still something
important to young people in about Spanish music that I
really love. It makes me feel
their future years. But what art peaceful and happy. It calms
and culture are inspiring young me down when I’m angry
in Wigan Borough? and it makes me sleep well.’
Nicoleta, 13, Leigh, previously
from Spain, originally from
Romania
‘I’m inspired by my
art teachers at school
because they’re very
good at drawing. They
bring in flowers and
things from nature
and they introduce us
to artists they think
will inspire us. I find
drawing very relaxing.
I like to draw random
shapes.’
Isaac, 12, Ashton
‘I love the artist Jeff Hardy. I first discovered him as
a wrestler then I found out he also does paintings
of abstract faces, they’re so bright and colourful. My
‘I love the actress Lauren ambition is to own a Jeff Hardy painting but I’m too
McQueen from Hollyoaks. poor at the moment! He also has a band and writes
I admire her because her lyrics. Everything he does is so different and unique and
character has gone through I aspire to be like that.’
some difficult issues and she
shows that really well. It tells Oskar, 15, Ashton
me I’m not the only person
to go through difficult things
and I find that reassuring.’
‘I’m not really inspired
Danielle, 16, Garswood by anyone else but I
do love to draw. I draw
people mostly and
copy things from my
environment. I find it
really peaceful.’
Leo, 12, Leigh, originally
from PortugalBorough Life / Summer 2018 27
Young people
‘I’ve chosen the film, ‘The Greatest Showman’. It makes
me feel more confident to see people not let their
insecurities and differences get them down. It makes
me think I should lighten up and be ok with who I am.’
Chenice, 14, Standish
‘I really like singing so the artist that
most inspires me is Dua Lipa. She’s a
really good singer but I also like the way
she dresses and I mainly admire her
confidence because I’m quite shy.’
Jena, 10, Wigan
‘I love going to the theatre to escape. My favourite ‘My favourite film is ‘My Neighbour Totoro’. I like it because
show is Wicked because it’s about an outsider it’s a film with no conflict in it. Normally most films have lots
and people don’t want to be friends with them of conflict so it’s nice to watch something more peaceful. I’ve
because of a misunderstanding. I think that can watched it 2 or 3 times and it makes me happy.’
happen a lot when you’re young. I also love Adele
because I sometimes struggle with the way I look Euie, 13, Wigan
but Adele reminds me it’s all about confidence.’
Sam, 15, Ashton
Schools put our borough on the
regional stage
Young people from Fred Longworth from acting to writing, sound, lighting
High School in Tyldesley, Bedford and marketing.
High School in Leigh and Oakfield “It’s all about breaking down barriers
High School in Hindley, were selected between young people and theatre’,
to take part in ‘projEX’ at The Royal says drama teacher Ben Turner, from
Exchange Theatre in Manchester this Fred Longworth. “Theatre traditionally
year. attracts white, middle class, older
Each school was tasked to put on a audiences but many theatres are
production about their community. aiming to change that to make sure
The project aims to engage young there is wider appeal. ProjEX aims
people of varying ages, abilities and to bring fresh new audiences and
backgrounds in all aspects of theatre, creators to the Royal Exchange.”28 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Libraries
In the heart of
the community
There’s much more to our libraries than awkward
silences and bookshelves! We go behind the scenes
to see what happens each week.
At Atherton Library –
Time for a natter and a knit
3
The Knit and Natter group meet
once a week for a couple of hours
t a n
in a private room at Atherton
Library. It’s free to attend, the
library provides lots of biscuits, hot
drinks and a friendly welcome but
Monday
K n i
4
the natter is brought by those who
Ge t on
come along!
Pat McKiernan has been coming
to the group since it first started
almost ten years ago. “It’s really Tuesday
good fun - it’s so popular, we’ve had
am
Mo n d ay 10.30
5
to add another table!”
Wednesday Yo u t h
At Wigan Library –
Explore the internet
6
Thursday
Ne w
7
Graham attends the session to learn
how to use his iPad, set up emails
o o k
and navigate himself online so he
B
doesn’t have to depend on others.
“The staff are really helpful and it is Friday
stuff I’ll remember on my own.”
Tue s d ay
10am
8
SaturdayBorough Life / Summer 2018 29
Libraries
At Ashton Library –
The future generation
Meeting at Ashton library every
Wednesday, the Makerfield Youth
Voice group gives young people
11-18 years of age the chance to
get involved in their community
and have their say about how to
improve Ashton.
We dne s d ay 4p
m
a t t e r At Standish Library –
nd N
Support for new mums
At pram club parents can socialise,
introduce their babies to new
environments and make friends.
n li ne
Andrea Brown has been coming with
her son Jack for ten months. “Each
week is different. There are a lot
of sensory activities and it’s really
informal. It’s a good opportunity
p
to meet new people and chat with
g r o u
other mums. We’ve become good
v o ic e Th u rs d ay 10am
friends and always go for lunch
afterwards!”
m u m s At Leigh Library –
Book club
A Dementia Friendly reading group welcomes
people living with dementia, their carers,
c l u b friends or families. Newcomers are welcomed
k
with open arms. The group have developed a
supportive and warm social group and even
go on the occasional trip.
For a full library programme visit
pm
Fr id ay 2
www.wigan.gov.uk/libraries30 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Jazz festival
How our fantastic
rich heritage is
being protected
and celebrated.
Hitting M
usic has the power to connect “It’s for young people, couples, older
people from across continents people and families to get a real
and cultures. experience of live music.
the right
And for 32 years the Wigan “It’s a truly international event that
International Jazz Festival has done brings acclaim to the borough.”
just that. The festival was established in 1986
Bringing the biggest names in jazz thanks to the success of the Wigan
notes from across the globe to Wigan is some
achievement but co-founders Ian
Darrington MBE and Peter Fletcher are
not resting on their laurels.
Youth Jazz Orchestra and growing
audiences for jazz and big band music.
Traditional big band jazz which had
been popular in the dance halls of
For more than three They are still as enthusiastic and Wigan in the 1940s and 50s was being
passionate about the festival as ever taken on by a new generation.
decades the Wigan – driven to give the people of Wigan The first festival, based at the Mill at
International Jazz festival Borough the opportunity to see top the Pier, sold out and it was an annual
has brought the very best class live music by the very best success from there.
musicians around. The reputation of the festival
musicians from across the “I think it’s an event for everyone,” said grew with word spreading among
world to the borough. Ian. musicians that Wigan Jazz festival hadBorough Life / Summer 2018 31
Jazz festival
friendly, appreciative audiences and, Peter added: “It’s fortunate enough to and the reduction of public funding
importantly, they would get paid what attract the big names, musicians really meaning finding regular sponsorship is
was promised. want to play here.” a continual challenge for Ian and Peter.
In the 1980s and 1990s its reputation The festival has also brought many The festival is now run by their own
grew, becoming one of the biggest jazz community and social benefits to the community interest company, the
festivals in Europe. borough with jazz being performed Music Continuum.
Artists who have performed over the in open spaces, libraries, pubs and They are optimistic about the future
years including Arturo Sandoval, Art schools and workshops in colleges with a successful established venue
Blakey, Diana Krall, Paquito D’Rivera, and schools projects capturing the at Robin Park Indoor Sports Centre
Maynard Ferguson, Ray Brown, Bobby imaginations of thousands of children. and sponsorship from the likes of
Shew and of course Jools Holland Peter said: “For many children it is the Manchester Airport and Edge Hill
who was joined on stage last year by first time they have experienced live University.
surprise guest Peter Kay and this year’s music. Ian said: “We are always on the look out
festival headliner was Curtis Stigers. “We want to encourage children and for more supporters and sponsors and
“It is absolutely worldwide. We adults who have never been involved in of course the festival relies on people
regularly have people wanting to music before to experience it, enjoy it attending and buying tickets.
perform from Australia, USA, New and appreciate the value of it socially.” “It’s amazing to think how far it’s come.
Zealand, South Africa, South America, The road hasn’t always been smooth We are very proud of it.”
Russia and all over Europe,” said Ian. with the closure of the Mill at the Pier
For more on Wigan International Jazz Festival visit: wiganjazzfest.co.uk
If you are interested in sponsoring the Wigan International Jazz fest contact: iandarrington@gmail.com
Images courtesy of Sefton Samuels.32 Borough Life / Summer 2018
Heritage
Protecting
our
heritage
How our fantastic
rich heritage is
being protected
and celebrated.
Photo John RowbothamBorough Life / Summer 2018 33
Heritage
Saving an iconic landmark
Lancashire Mining Museum at Astley shame if it was to be demolished a filming location for season four of
Green Colliery is the proud home of due to a risk to safety, so we’re doing popular TV show Peaky Blinders with
the last remaining 98 foot headgear everything we can to ensure the viewers able to spot the impressive
and winding engine in the Lancashire headgear and surrounding area is headgear in the background.
coalfield. brought back to a suitable condition In 2020 it will be 50 years since the
But as the Red Rose Steam charity to accommodate visitors. pit closed in 1970 and the group is
explains, it is at risk of being lost “We’re hoping to extend our lease for already working on plans to mark the
forever if the funds aren’t raised to a longer period of time, which will occasion.
restore it. enable us to apply for much-needed
Trevor Barton MBE Chair of Trustees grants that can help secure the To support the project or find out
said: “As the only remaining headgear headgear’s future.” more visit
in Lancashire and one of six left in the The museum attracts visitors from far www.lancashireminingmuseum.org
whole country, it would be a huge and wide and was chosen recently as
Historic mill gets new lease of life
Sitting just outside of Leigh town goal is to open the mill building up
centre, the Leigh Spinners Mill is the for the public to enjoy in a range of
beating heart of Leigh’s industrial ways. We’re also developing our links
roots. with the Lancashire Mining Museum
Leigh Building Preservation Trust has at Astley Green, which is located just
been working with Leigh Spinners across the canal, to strengthen our
Limited (a local company based at offer and give people the opportunity
one of the mills) and the council to of tours.
bring the deteriorating building back “Coal, cotton and canals are the
into use. springboard of the industrial
The group plans to repair the roof revolution, so it’s fantastic that we
of one of the buildings and convert have the museum a stone’s throw
its six floors into a multi-use space, away so we can offer the hattrick to
including a sports area for table visitors.”
tennis and indoor bowling, an art
exhibition space and offices for small For more information about the
businesses. project contact
Peter Rowlinson, from Leigh Building info@leighspinnersmill.co.uk
Preservation Trust said: “Our end
A new vision for the archives
An exciting project is underway to storage to protect the collection, in
revamp Wigan and Leigh’s 800-year- turn, transforming the archives base
old archives collection. and restoring part of the town hall
A café, contemporary museum, building.
archive exhibition space and a new The plans also include a new café
public search room are just a few of space in Leigh Town Hall and
the plans for the Wigan and Leigh conservation facilities to catalogue
Archives service. and digitise collections making them
The service is based at Leigh Town more readily accessible.
Hall and has recently had a £1m cash The grant also includes a two-year
boost from the Heritage Lottery Fund. temporary exhibition programme with
Three vacant Leigh town hall shop residents and archives volunteers
units will be converted into new given the opportunity to shape the
exhibition space and additional plans.
shop units will be used as specialist
Alex Miller from the Archives & Local Studies ServiceYou can also read
