ISSUE 63. SPRING 2020 - Wigan Council
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ISSUE 63. SPRING 2020 THE MAGAZINE FOR WIGAN BOROUGH RESIDENTS
2 Borough Life / Spring 2020
Welcome
The Leader’s column
Welcome to the Spring issue of Borough We’re hoping our celebrations will be a
Life. In this very special edition we’re focal point for the entire region.
marking the 75th anniversary of VE Day in There will be family attractions, military
honour of those, past and present, who bands, wartime singing and a military
have served in the armed forces and, of parade making its way through the town
course, their families. centre.
In our VE Day pull-out, from page 10, we We hope you can join us to celebrate and
take a look back at what life was like across honour our armed forces community.
the borough during the war years. In other news we’ve recently announced
We’re incredibly proud to have a dedicated the investment projects included in the
facility that offers such superb support to second phase of the council’s Believe in
the forces community in the Wigan Borough Leigh campaign.
Armed Forces HQ. New youth facilities in the town centre,
On page 20 we share the story of one young improvements at Pennington Flash –
veteran who has benefited from the hub. including a visitor information centre – and Cllr David Molyneux
To mark the VE Day anniversary we’re refurbishment at Civic Square are all in the Leader, Wigan Council
planning a fantastic two-day event in plans.
Mesnes Park on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 May. For more information, turn to page 5.
Extra content is available at
www.wigan.gov.uk/boroughlife
Even more great photographs can be
found at
www.flickr.com/boroughlife
On the cover
Borough Life is published by Wigan Council
and distributed to all households in the
borough. This edition was published on
VE Day (Victory in Europe
9th March 2020. Day) marks the day
The magazine is printed on paper from
renewable resources. It is written, edited and towards the end of the
designed by Wigan Council’s Public Relations
Team.
Second World War when
If you are a resident of Wigan Borough but fighting against Nazi
haven’t had a copy of Borough Life delivered
through your letterbox, you can pick up a Germany came to an end
copy from several locations including the Life
Centre, your local library or view it online at
in Europe. This year it will
www.wigan.gov.uk/boroughlife be celebrated across the
You can now receive a monthly Borough
Life e-newsletter. Sign up by emailing country with three days of
boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk
For general comments email:
commemorative events from
boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk Friday 8 to Sunday 10 May.
COUNCIL O
F THE YEAR
Borough Life / Spring 2020 3
Contents
7 26
18 16
4-6 NEWS IN BRIEF how it was done in 1945. Bosses at the world famous Uncle Joe’s
Your latest news round-up. 18-19 ONE DAY NEARER mark VE Day in a special way.
7 CLEANER, GREENER A story of wartime romance told through 28-29 MAKING A DIFFERENCE AT THE
The ambitious steps being taken to fight the letters of a local couple. ARMED FORCES HUB
against climate change. 20 HOLIDAYS AT HOME Support services on offer for the
8-9 LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Travel is restricted as part of the war borough’s veteran community at Armed
Does that scene look familiar? Here effort. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of Forces HQ.
are the borough’s selection of famous holiday activities across the borough. 31 MORE THAN WORDS
filming locations. 21 EAT FOR VICTORY How residents living with disability are
10 WALL OF FAME A lookback at the wartime restaurants expressing themselves through art.
Local school children are helping to add set up everywhere to serve tasty grub at 32-33 SPOTLIGHT ON ASHTON
a splash of colour in Leigh. affordable prices. There’s plenty going on in this busy town.
12 NEWS IN BRIEF 22-23 RATIONS AND RECIPES 34-35 OUR TOWN: RHYME AND
A news round-up from across the We cast a culinary eye over wartime REASON
borough during the war years. food, including some dishes that remain Is there something in your community
13-15 AT HOME AND ABROAD a favourite in the present day. you love so much you want shout it from
An insight into the war effort at home in 24-25 BERNARD THE ‘DESERT RAT’ the rooftops? Why not enter this writing
the borough and overseas. Brave veteran recounts his war exploits competition.
16-17 VE DAY CELEBRATIONS in the one of the Army’s most famous 36-39 WHAT’S ON
How we are marking the 75th divisions. An extended round-up of all that’s going
anniversary of VE Day and a lookback at 26-27 PRESERVING A LASTING LEGACY on this Spring around the borough.
To keep up to date with news and events, follow Wigan Council at:
4 Borough Life / Spring 2020
News in Brief
The final Getting active
countdown Standish Leisure Centre opened its
doors in February.
The countdown to the Women’s The state-of-the-art gym hosts 70
Euro Championships is officially on. pieces of the latest Technogym kit,
February 23 marked the 500 days with the best cardio and strength
to go milestone with LSV set to host equipment on offer.
three group games and a quarter- Find out more at
final in July 2021. new.standishleisurecentre.org
Securing global tournaments like the WIN: For a chance for you and a friend
Euros will be a huge boost for the to receive a month’s free membership,
economic future of our town centres answer the following question.
and local business with visitors Q: Including the new Standish leisure
bringing much needed spend to the centre, how many Inspiring healthy
borough. lifestyles leisure centres are there in
With LSV just one of nine venues the borough?
across the country to be holding Email your answer along with
games, residents have a fantastic your name and contact details to
opportunity to watch the world’s boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk by 31st
best female footballers live. As part May 2020.
of the build up to the tournament
kicking off, we are urging everyone to The winner of last issue’s Alberts
take part in the 500 kick-up challenge. competition was Ann Confrey.
Have a go, post your videos on social
media and tag in @WiganCouncil so
we can share.
Baking a difference
A voluntary organisation providing Alex Ashall, from Platt Bridge, founded
free birthday cakes to children is the group with her mum and sister.
celebrating its first anniversary. Alex said: “Over the past year we have
Set up in March 2019, Free Cakes for been working hard to recruit a bank of
Kids Wigan is run by volunteer bakers amazing volunteers with a passion for
for families struggling to provide a baking and helping others. We believe
cake for their child’s special day. every child deserves a birthday cake.
There are 17 bakers from across the To join the bakers or if you’re from
borough who have baked 30 birthday a professional organisation/charity
cakes. and would like to make a referral
contact the group by emailing
freecakesforkidswigan@outlook.
Anyone wanting to purchase tickets com or find them on Facebook and
for the tournament, can register their Instagram @freecakesforkidswigan
interest here: www.thefa.com
Boosting local business
Grants of up to £2,000 are available He said: “I’d definitely recommend
for start-ups and small independent speaking with the council because they
businesses as part of the council’s have really helped my business to grow.
Business Booster. If I’d done this completely on my own,
Plus loans of up to £10,000 are it would have taken me much longer to
available for existing businesses reach the position I’m in now.”
trading for up to 24 months. All small, independent businesses and
Independent travel agent, Ben Hughes, new start-ups located in Wigan and
owns Go Ben Travel. He has been able Leigh town centres and most district
to provide three job opportunities, centres are eligible.
buy new equipment and relocate to a For more information about the fund,
larger premises in Ashton thanks to the please visit
funding. www.wigan.gov.uk/BusinessSupport.
Borough Life / Spring 2020 5
News in Brief
Creating a sporting legacy Support for
The first spade is in the ground as Village with cash injections intended gambling
construction starts on a brand-new to create a lasting legacy for the whole A man from Leigh has shared his
community clubhouse for one of the of the borough. story for a new video which he
borough’s most successful amateur Work will provide players and the local hopes will help people who have a
Rugby League clubs. community purpose built new pitches gambling problem.
Shevington Sharks has been granted and a community clubhouse they all David Smith was a gambling addict
funding for the development because can enjoy. for 30 years and is now working with
of Wigan Borough’s successful bid to In total, clubs in the borough will the council to promote the support
be a World Cup host in 2021. benefit from £230,000 of the Rugby on offer across the borough.
They are one just one of six clubs League World Cup’s CreatedBy legacy David said: “I used to bet every day
in the borough to benefit from the fund. and the bets were getting bigger. It
tournament coming to Leigh Sport was an awful existence. On one day
in 2008 I lost £3,000 and that was the
beginning of the end.
“I went to a meeting and I’ve never
looked back. I now sleep at night
and can hold my head up high. When
you’re in recovery and you look back
at things you did, you look at them in
a whole new light.”
If you think that gambling is having
a harmful effect on you or someone
you know, there is information,
support and free counselling
Exciting plans for Easter bin available.
Visit www.wigan.gov.uk/gambling for
Leigh collections support and to watch David’s video
or call 01942 901233.
Multi-million pound plans for a town There are changes to your collections
centre youth hub, a visitors centre over Easter. Please refer to your
at Pennington Flash and further calendar or visit:
investment at the market hall have www.wigan.gov.uk/recycling
been unveiled for Leigh.
The development programme is
the second phase of the Believe in
Leigh fund, addressing priority areas
highlighted by residents.
Improvements to Civic Square, a new
canal bridge and an action plan to
tackle anti-social behaviour are all Top honours for Dave and Brian
part of the plans. Congratulations to Dave Lyon award, I’m receiving this on behalf of
The exciting proposals have been and Brian Seddon who were both all the amazing people I work with.”
identified ahead of the Women’s honoured with a British Empire Medal Brian Seddon has dedicated his life to
Euro Championships and the Rugby (BEM) in the New Years’ Honours list for the Atherton community, organising
League World Cup coming to Leigh services to the local community. groups and events for 13 years. He
in 2021. Dave Lyon has worked for the council runs a weekly community café at
A further consultation detailing the for 38 years. He began his career as Dorset Road Community Centre, a
longer-term economic development an apprentice and is now assistant youth club at Atherton Fire Station and
masterplan for the town centre will director for environment. He was also summer camps for local children.
follow later this year. a professional rugby league player and Brian said: “When I saw the letter I
was selected in the Great Britain squad thought it was a tax demand. It was
in 1985. He later moved into coaching, a big shock for me. I am absolutely
with positions as head coach of delighted and honoured to be
England Academy and assistant coach nominated. I am just an ordinary guy
to GB rugby league. Dave said: “This is from the Hag Fold estate, things like
not about a council officer getting an this do not happen to us.”
6 Borough Life / Spring 2020
News in Brief
Paws and Pick it up
Local dog owners are being asked to
‘paws and pick it up’ in a new initiative
designed to encourage residents to
clean up after their pets. As part of
the initiative, free bag dispensers
and torches are being distributed in
libraries across the borough.
A recent consultation found that the
vast majority were in favour of dog
fouling enforcement across public
land and for owners to always have
poo bags at the ready anytime they
walked their pooch.
As a result Public Space Protection
Orders (PSPOs) are now in place
across play areas in public parks,
meaning dogs are not allowed to be
walked on children’s play areas and
sports pitches, while also kept on their
leads in defined areas.
Residents can always report instances
of dog fouling via the Report It app.
For more information,
visit: www.wigan.gov.uk
The results are in! Impower list
Young people across the borough have borough more environmentally friendly. Wigan has been listed as one of the
been voting for their next Member of Thirteen young people were brave top 15 performing councils for Adult
Youth Parliament. Congratulations to enough to stand for election and over Social Care. The IMPOWER INDEX
Lucy Coleman, 15, from Abram, and 13,000 young people voted in the youth for adult social care used publicly
Adila Badri, 16, from Wigan, who have elections. available data to evaluate council
been elected as the new members of Daniel Short, 16, and Sam Boffey, 14, productivity, measured as outcome
the UK Youth Parliament for Wigan and were elected as Deputy Members and value per pound spent.
Leigh. Sky Corcoran, 14, was chosen as the
Lucy and Adila will now represent local group’s Campaigns Co-ordinator.
11-17-year olds at regional and national The young people will be supported
meetings of the Youth Parliament, by Wigan and Leigh Youth Cabinet. If Library books
including their annual national sitting
at the House of Commons in November.
you’re aged 11-17 and would like to get
involved in representing young people’s donated to
Adila is passionate about addressing
young people’s worries about body
views, email Wigan Council’s Targeted
Youth Support Services on tyssweb@
Australia
image and Lucy hopes to make the wigan.gov.uk Nearly 2,000 books from Wigan
Library have been sent to Australia
following the devastating bush fires
earlier this year. The books have
been donated to a primary school in
Victoria which was left with nothing
following the blaze.
Borough Life / Spring 2020 7
News in Brief
Budget boost for Brighter Borough and climate change
Households across the borough are set fund community projects in their ward your local ward councillors.
to benefit from a number of measures – will be increased by more than £500 In addition to these measures, £10k
revealed in this year’s budget. to £6k. has been allocated to the Wigan and
In addition to setting one of the lowest If you have a project or initiative that Leigh Youth Cabinet for the first time to
council tax rates in the country and could benefit from Brighter Borough help fund youth projects and initiatives
extending the free weekend parking backing, you are encouraged to contact across the borough.
scheme (see below), a new fund to
combat the impact of climate change
has been established.
An increase to Brighter Borough
spending limits and free one-off bulky
waste collections are also part of the
financial plans for the next 12 months.
The £250k annual climate change
fund will support council initiatives to
reduce its carbon footprint and create
a cleaner, greener environment.
This is in addition to the projects
already underway to help meet the
target of becoming carbon neutral by
2038 or sooner.
Scrapping fees for bulky waste
collections is hoped to boost recycling
rates across the borough with an extra
collection team also being funded.
Brighter Borough funding – allocated
annually to each elected member to The Leader of Wigan Council and Ince Ward Councillors donate £1,500 to St. Patricks Rugby Club
to pay for new kits and to make improvements to their clubhouse.
Free weekend parking to continue No further cuts
It’s great news for shoppers as free The offer has been continued and council tax
weekend parking on council car parks
in Wigan and Leigh is extended for a
after positive feedback from local
businesses and residents and to boost frozen
further 12 months until March 2021. footfall in the local town centres. There will be no increase to general
The leader of the council made the Visit www.wigan.gov.uk/carparking for council tax in the borough for the
announcement when setting this a list of council car parks. seventh year running. Bills will only
year’s budget. be increasing by 2 per cent to cover
additional adult social care costs.
The council also had the option to
increase bills by a further 3 per cent
FREE
which it has not done.
The council is in a different position
to lots of other authorities who are
struggling with their finances.
At its meeting in March the council
also approved this year’s budget and
Weekend Parking revealed that no further efficiencies
to frontline services will need to be
made this year.
When austerity began in 2010 the
Extended until council was the third worst affected
March 2021 by cuts. This has all been possible
through The Deal and by working
differently with residents, businesses
and communities.
8
A cleaner, greener borough
The next decade will see a number of ambitious steps taken
by the council as it launches its climate change emergency.
As the planet faces growing challenges among some of the first to put a spade highlighting the dangers.
in the fight against climate change, in the ground. The borough has also made huge
councils across the country are looking It was part of wider plans that will see strides forward on recycling rates with
for ways to be forward-thinking and 6,300 trees planted in Ince - equating to 9,000 tons of plastic recycled between
innovative in their response. as one for every person under 18-years- 2017 and 2018 – helping to increase the
Wigan Council is not long into its old and over 65-years-old within the borough’s overall recycling rate from 42
environmental journey but its ward. per cent to 53 per cent.
intentions to be cleaner and greener But there is no quick fix by declaring a As part of a developing a Climate
were signalled last year after it climate emergency, investments and Change Strategy, the council will ensure
announced a climate emergency. commitments continued to be made. young people are heard and have a
The aim is to be carbon neutral by 2038 Walking and cycling infrastructure will platform to voice their opinions.
and this can be attained by a move to a prove to be vital and last year cyclists This year will see the latest eco-schools
circular economy, boosting household got to reap the benefits of an improved conference that builds upon the
waste recycling rates to 65 per cent Bridgewater Canal Towpath – the debut success of previous ones and looks to
over the next 15 years and embracing project in Greater Manchester’s Bee bring together pupils to learn about
new ways of operating. Network, the largest-ever investment pollution, the green challenge facing us
The next 10 years will see big in the city region’s walking and cycling and why they should take an interest.
commitments to sustainable policies, network.
none more so than last month’s pledge Furthermore, there are plans to make
to plant one million trees by the end the council’s Makerfield depot carbon-
of 2030, with 80,000 in the first year - a neutral in the next 18 months and the
tree for every person aged under 18 in vehicle fleet fully air quality compliant
the borough. by the end of 2021.
Trees will be planted across the Anti-idling campaigns encouraging
borough’s parks, nature reserves and people to not keep their engines
green spaces as part of the council’s running while outside schools have
biggest ever tree-planting programme. also been put in place with a winning
The campaign was kickstarted by poster design by five-year-old Abbie Abb ie Boon
children from Ince Primary School who Boon erected outside various schools
hool
Ince Primary Sc
Borough Life / Spring 2020 9
An environment to be proud of
Lights, Camera, Action!
Wigan Borough is becoming a filming hotspot. Have you
spotted any of these shows on the big screen?
World On Fire The Bay
Wigan joined locations including Prague and Paris for the In 2019 the cast and crew of The Bay took over the Civic
filming of the BBC drama, World On Fire. Centre and parts of Millgate and Library Street in Wigan town
With its rows of terraced houses, Kendal Street in Gidlow centre, filming for the second series of the hit ITV drama. The
was the perfect location for the show’s creators to inside of the building was transformed into a police station.
replicate an authentic 1940s street. Series two is due to air in 2020.
Image © Wigan Today
Image © ITV
Brassic Peaky Blinders
Now in its fifth series, Peaky Blinders is a hugely popular
The gritty northern comedy BBC2 drama centred around a criminal Birmingham
is set for a second series in family empire. Two Wigan Borough locations featured in
2020 featuring Haigh Hall as a the fourth series of the show, Lancashire Mining Museum
backdrop for some scenes. at Astley Colliery and also Eckersley Mill in Wigan.
Image © SKY
10 Borough Life / Spring 2020
Vibrant town centres for all
Wall of Fame
School-children have been using their arty skills to
transform their hometown as part of a new project
Famous faces from Leigh are to light Leigh St Mary’s primary schools to “Our thanks go to the children who
up the town centre as part of a unique design the colourful and striking created the wonderful drawings for
urban art feature. plaques. the designs and to Leigh Local Studies
The prominent figures have been Big names such as Pete Shelley, Archives for their support.”
chosen by schoolchildren as part of Thomas Burke, Georgie Fame, Heather Susan Gredecki, LNP chairperson, adds:
the concept organised by the Leigh Fredrikson and Kathleen Mary Drew “Not only is this project a fantastic
Neighbours Project. Baker and Tommy Sale all feature. opportunity to recognise those people
The Wall of Fame will be installed on Martyn says: “It’s great to be who have made a contribution to our
the wall of a car park off Leigh Road, involved with Leigh Neighbours and town, it also reminds us to give a shout-
celebrating those who have made an working with local people to make out for all the unsung heroes who
impact in the worlds of music, art, improvements to the area through art devote their lives to making a positive
science, literature and sport. in public spaces. difference in our community today.”
Lead artist Martyn Lewis has worked “Art can inform and inspire and I think The plaques will be installed at the
with pupils from Sacred Heart and this latest project does just that. start of April.ISSUE 63. SPRING 2020
THE MAGAZINE FOR
WIGAN BOROUGH RESIDENTS
75
VE DAY 75TH Anniversary
Edition12 Borough Life / Spring 2020
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
To mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day, we wanted to take a look back at what life was like in
the borough during the war years and to celebrate and acknowledge the sacrifice thousands of
people made. In this special Borough Life pull-out we explore key events from 1939 to 1945,
share stories from local residents and see what support is available to our veterans today.
NEWS IN BRIEF ‘EVERY
What would have been in the news in 1945? During the war years the
government produced propaganda to influence people towards supporting
HOUSEWIFE
the war effort. These included posters, leaflets and radio broadcasts. ENCOURAGED
Let’s see how these ideas have evolved for today’s culture.
TO ATTEND’
There were regular public cookery
RECYCLE MORE, DIGGING FOR demonstrations in the borough
for people to learn how to be
RECYCLE RIGHT VICTORY economical and cook a complete meal
using as little gas and food as possible.
In the 1940’s recycling wasn’t good With food shortages, people were Odds and ends soup, savoury
for the planet – it was good for the also encouraged to grow their own pancakes and economical
war effort. People were encouraged fruit and vegetables in gardens gingerbread were on the
to save and donate newspapers, and allotments. This became menu. Recipes these
books, scraps of metal, bones from known as a scheme called ‘Dig For days might be more
food, and rags each week. In the face Victory’. Sound familiar? The current adventurous but being
of climate change, it’s now equally as Incredible Edible project supports environmentally friendly
important. people to grow food in public is still on the agenda.
spaces, with many groups across the
borough taking part.
VOLUNTARY
LAND CLUB
When increased crops were available
Voluntary Land Clubs formed to
organise additional weekend work.
Farmers would pay workers and
any leftover profit would go to war
charities. With more than 500 local
groups in the borough, we’ve never
been short of community spirit.
CHARITY EVENTS
Social occasions would keep spirits up
and offer opportunities for local people
to get together. All charity events
were in aid of the war effort. A music
concert was held at Queen’s Hall in
Wigan town centre in 1941 when three
musicians from the Royal Academy of
London performed. Just around the
corner The Old Courts has become a
popular culture hub.PB Borough
Borough LifeLife / Spring
/ Spring 20202020 15
VE DAY 75TEXT
TH
ANNIVERSARY
THE WAR AT HOME AND ABROAD
1939
The German invasion of Poland began on September 1, 1939, marking the
beginning of World War II. The UK and France formally entered the conflict
on September 3.
In the borough, local preparations had been well underway. Residents were
advised to start lighting restrictions at night to provide ‘blackouts’.
In Leigh, an air raid precaution display held in a field behind Firs Mills in
mid-August attracted 2,000 people.
A police chief issued stern guidance about the
use of gas masks.
Speaking at Wigan Borough Police Court, Air raid preperations
Gas mask?
and defences in Leigh
Supt H Rigby said: “It’s absolutely essential
that everyone should carry their gas masks
wherever they go, from the members of the
magisterial bench through to the prisoners in
the dock.”
TIMELINE 1939 1940
1940
The Battle of Britain was raging as the
Luftwaffe had been directed to achieve air
superiority over the Royal Air Force.
Germany’s subsequent failure to break Britain’s
air defences was a turning point in the conflict.
Britain’s success, reducing the threat of a
German invasion, prompted Prime Minister
Winston Churchill to deliver the line: ‘Never
was so much owed by so many to so few’ in a
speech to the House of Commons.
In the borough, residents were doing their bit.
Wigan and Leigh launched respective Spitfire
Plane Appeals in the summer of 1940 with a
£6,000 target. In their early days it was
reported that they had ‘received a satisfactory
response’ and a ‘splendid send-off’.
Wigan (left) and Leigh (right) spitfire appeal clippingsPB
14 Borough Life / Spring 2020 Borough Life / Spring 2020 1
TEXT
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
1941 1943
With plans to invade mainland Britain shelved, German commanders surrender to Soviet forces at
1941 saw the German command shift resources east. Stalingrad early in the year and Italy surrenders to
Before the end of the year, the Japanese attack on the the Allies in September.
United States naval base at Pearl Harbour in Hawaii With the tide turning in Britain’s favour, authorities
saw the US enter the war. were starting to turn their attention to post-war
At home, a campaign was launched to recruit more planning.
women volunteers to help the war effort. A parade In October, a housing committee meeting heard
through Wigan town centre was followed by a series proposals for the purchase of 160 acres of land in
of speeches in Market Square. Pemberton to provide post-war housing.
The crowd were told ‘we are living in an exceedingly The town clerk was tasked with ‘obtaining the best
critical period in the history of the world’ and valuation terms’.
everyone’s contribution was required to assist in
‘smashing Nazism’.
Ex-mayoress Annie Fairhurst
said: “Without the women
in overalls the war effort
could not be kept going for
five minutes.”
Anne Fairhurst
1941 1942 1943
1942
The Germans suffer setbacks in major battles at
Stalingrad in Russia and El Alamein in Egypt.
Meanwhile, American naval victories mark a turning
point in the war in the Pacific.
In November, churches across the borough, including
those in Poolstock, Up Holland, Hindley, Standish and
Leigh, were encouraged to ring their bells in
celebration of the victory in the Battle of Egypt.
An article featured in the Wigan Observer reads:
“In June 1940 that the government imposed a ban on
the ringing of church bells except as a warning of
enemy invasion and after being silent for nearly two
and a half years the lifting of the prohibition was
most cordially welcomed by the nation”.
As part of the ‘Bells Round Britain’ programme, the
celebrations were also held in ‘blitzed cities’ such as
Coventry and in cathedrals across the land, including
Westminster Abbey, the report adds.
Return of the bells to Wigan Parish church, (Pre War)Borough Life / Spring 2020 15
1
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
1944
The Allies land an invasion force in
Normandy on June 6, known as D-Day.
In the same week the Aspull ‘Salute the
Soldier’ campaign week is launched. Its
aim was to raise £50,000 to fund a new
‘base hospital’. The Earl of Crawford
served as patron.
A report of his address said: “There had
been many parades in Aspull during the
war but he personally thought that the
one held that day was the best he had
witnessed.
It added: “Our soldiers had been
fighting for years throughout the world
and they had been fighting against an
enemy which outnumbered them in an
enormous degree.”
“Whether in defeat or victory our
soldiers had shown a magnificent spirit.”
Inspection of soldiers by Lord Crawford and
Mr Dickson, a local school headteacher, Hindley,
Second World War. They are probably Local
Defence Volunteers, known as the Home Guard.
1944 1945 VE DAY
1945
Victory in Europe Day is met with wide-ranging celebration
plans with His Majesty the King decreeing that the Sunday
following is observed as a national day of thanksgiving.
The King addressed the nation at 9pm on VE Day,
preceded by the Prime Minister who had initially made the
announcement of victory on the radio earlier in the day.
Headlines in the local newspapers include ‘War in Europe
ended’ and ‘Germany delivered into victor’s hands’.
One report added: “After five years and eight months
complete and crushing victory has, in the words of the
King, crowned the unrelenting struggle of the Allies against
Nazi Germany. Hitler has disappeared and the Nazi Party is
no more.”
Street parties and celebrations across the borough in the
days following are hastily arranged with reports of local
dance halls being ‘crowded to overflow’.
VE Day street party16 Borough Life / Spring 2020
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
A TIME TO
CELEBRATE
Hayland Street, Spring View, Ince, Wigan
WHEN THE ANNOUNCEMENT WAS MADE THAT WAR WAS OVER,
THOUSANDS RUSHED TO THE STREETS TO CELEBRATE THE NEWS.
THANKS TO THE LOCAL ARCHIVES SERVICE, WE ARE ABLE TO LOOK
BACK AT THESE MEMORABLE MOMENTS.
Archive material includes extracts from the Wigan Observer and Leigh Journal.Borough Life / Spring 2020 17
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
THIS YEAR’S
CELEBRATIONS
Lessingham Avenue, Wigan
Bedford, Leigh
Mesnes Park will come alive
with the spirit of ’45 as the
borough unites to mark the
75th anniversary of VE Day.
The date of the May Day bank
holiday this year has been moved
to incorporate VE Day meaning a
number of events will be taking place
nationwide between May 8 and 10.
Wigan Borough will be a focal point
for the North West’s celebrations
Newtown, Wigan with a two-day event on Friday 8
and Saturday 9 May.
Just like in 1945, Mesnes Park will be
packed full of fun attractions with a
street party atmosphere.
There will also be a military parade
making its way through the town
centre, military bands and wartime
singing.
In addition to marking the Allies’
victory, the bank holiday will serve as
an opportunity to pay tribute to those
who have served and continue to
serve in the Armed Forces.
Newtown, Wigan18 Borough Life / Spring 2020
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
ONE DAY NEARER
Leigh couple Alice and Abel were married in 1937.
At the outbreak of war, Abel, who worked as a brick
maker at Jackson’s Brickworks, was not initially called up as
this was considered a reserved (essential) occupation.
But in 1942 he was conscripted to the Royal Regiment of
Artillery on the South coast.
There he worked on the anti-aircraft guns that protected
Britain’s shoreline.
Throughout his service he kept a daily diary, dedicated
to Alice, who stayed at home, working at Risley
Ammunitions.
Here is a selection of the entries.
They provide an insight into army life, the impact
of war on the home front and the difficulty of being
separated from loved ones.
Each one is signed, GND 1DN:
Goodnight Darling, One Day Nearer
(to coming home).
1943
27th January - Weather good. Did blitz 13th May - Still mist and rain but cleared
manoeuvres. Sick of the alarms today. after tea. Alarms all day. Gun site near 9th August - A lovely day. Parcel from
Churchill and Roosevelt met. Good luck here bombed. Some killed. 4 weeks to Alice. Thank you love. In action when
to them. wait now love. several Jerries came over so that was
grand. Alice’s cakes are lovely. A taste of
7th February - Officially credited with 22nd May - Heavy storm in the home.
shooting down FW190. Very pleased. afternoon then lovely evening. 10 weeks
Actions all day. Lovely sunshine. gone now darling. Looking forward to 22nd September - The best sleep for
that first kiss dear. 3 months. How lovely to wake up and
25th February - Weather lovely. One find my darling beside me. Went on Leigh
more week sweetheart, then in your 12th June - It’s like a lovely dream to be Market. Alice bought a lovely new winter
arms again. home again. Painted bathroom. Saw ‘Talk coat. But she would be lovely to me even
of the Town’ at The Palace. Plymouth in rags.
4th March - Left camp at 6.30am, home bombed and I missed it. Just my luck. But
at 8pm. Alice ok and glad to be with her it’s nicer here with Alice. 28th September - Nice but a cold wind
again and grand to be in love with her. blowing. Feeling very homesick. First
178 killed in London shelter crush. 19th June - Alice and I parted at 9.20, letter from my darling. She is ok but so
God knows it was terrible. She is so obviously lonely as am I.
13th March - Left home at 7.30. Back brave at these times but why should
here 10pm. Alice was very brave. God it be? Got back to Plymouth at 20.15.
bless her. It was awful to leave her, but Feeling lonely already.
she was smiling as I like her to.Borough Life / Spring 2020 19
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
1944 1945
29th January - Weather dry. Had pig this time. I don’t know what Alice 7th-9th May - VE DAY. All over in
afternoon off, sent parcel off to Alice. will think but I hope she doesn’t take it Europe at last. Now we can soon be
Miners in Leigh still on strike. Hope they too hard. together for always, darling. 3 years today
soon go back. 6 weeks gone now. It since I was called up. 4 of us went into
won’t be long now love. 11th September - Our 7th anniversary London and we had a grand old time
darling. The happiest years I have known too. Got a glimpse of the King and Royal
20th February - Still bitterly cold. dearest I have had with you. Only you Family at the palace. Hope you had a
Hope it’s not too bad for you in Leigh, could make it so. God bless you for all good time, darling.
love. 79 bombers lost last night over the love and devotion you have so freely
Germany. given to me. I look forward eagerly to
1946
the life that lies before us as long as I
25th March - Home sweet home. Slept can be with you, my one love.
in but it’s grand. Went to Leigh for
some flowers, came home for tea, then 31st December - Weather bitter again 30th-31st January - Signed my demob
had an hour in The Sportsman. This is but ok when the sun got up. New Year’s papers. Went to Olympia, London, then
the best leave ever. I’ve never felt so Eve and I’ve never spent one like it. All back for final documents and kit. Then off
happy. the blokes were in bed but I waited until for home. Goodbye to army at 2.30. Now
midnight and then woke them all up. It for my darling, home and happiness. This
11th August - I am mad alright for was lousy. Hope you have a better one
after building up our hopes they week has seemed like a dream. I just can’t
than us darling. realise yet that it’s true.
cancelled leave. It’s just about killed my20 Borough Life / Spring 2020
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
SUMMER BREAKS
IN THE BOROUGH
Leigh Canal Cruise
BICC works, Leigh, holidays at home week, 1942.
HOW FAMILIES ENJOYED HOLIDAYS AT HOME
During the early 1940s public services The packed schedule included canal cruises, The borough’s waterways were also a key
had been on a war footing for several exhibition cricket and golf matches, Punch feature with one advertised daily trip from
years and restrictions on travel and Judy shows and dancing extravaganzas, Springs Bridge in New Springs through
remained in place. providing for all the family. to Botany Bay in Chorley ‘transversing a
It means those in need of a break were In Wigan, Mesnes Park and Alexandra Park stretch of the most beautiful countryside of
assessing their options within the borough’s feature heavily as venues for festival style Lancashire.’
boundaries and no further afield. entertainment during the day before the A handout produced by the Holidays-
This is the scenario that saw the focus shifted to the town’s concert halls in at-Home Committee summed up the
establishment of the Holidays-at-Home the evening. reasons behind the scheme: “Its sole aim is
scheme, helping workers to enjoy all the Likewise in Leigh, Pennington Hall Park to advance the war effort by arranging for
perks of a holiday while contributing to the and Lilford Park saw ventriloquist acts and workers to enjoy a satisfactory holiday at
war effort. colliery band concerts as main attractions home, and thus relieve the strain upon the
during holiday weeks. country’s transport services which continue
A programme of events was tabled by to be employed for war purposes to the
borough authorities, many of which remain Meanwhile, angling contests were held each limits of their capacity.”
popular pastimes to this day. day at Leigh canal or Ramsdale’s Flash.Borough Life / Spring 2020 21
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
FOODIE FOCUS FOR HOME
FRONT’S PUSH FOR VICTORY
BRITISH RESTAURANT
AT THE
COURT HALL • KING STREET
Making the most of what was available Corporation to mark the opening of a BR Atherton’s restaurant, on the corner of Bag
was a crucial part of the war effort on at the Court Hall in King Street. Lane and Market Street, opened in March,
the Home Front. It reads: “It is the aim…to cater for all 1942, with a three-course dinner and cup
Food items were subject to strict rationing classes of the community; not simply for of tea for 11d. 320 meals were served on
rules and households were urged to cut the less fortunate members of society, but the first day.
down on vital resources such as fuel. for all who can be attracted to make use of Sample menus are on show in the
Ensuring there was enough tasty grub to the exceptional facilities offered. borough’s archives and provide an insight
go-round was a priority though for local “To make the habit of going to the British into wartime cuisine; what was in plentiful
and national authorities. Restaurant for meals on at least one or supply and what was considered a rare
two days a week is a very profitable way, treat.
Following guidance from the Ministry
of Food, borough bosses set up several too, of eking out the household rations, Some dishes, like Lancashire Hot-Pot and
community eateries known as British and quite the right thing to do!” Cottage Pie are still favourites today.
Restaurants (BR) during the war years. In 1942, Wigan’s venue was joined by Others, such as Tapioca Pudding or
They were established to provide two counterparts in Ince and others in Steamed Rhubarb Dumpling, appear
wholesome meals at economical prices, Atherton and Hindley. By the following to have dropped off the menu in many
so says a booklet produced by the Wigan year, Leigh and Tyldesley were also households.
operating their own versions.22 Borough Life / Spring 2020
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
FEEDING
THE FAMILYBorough Life / Spring 2020 23
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
POTATO DROP SCONES
POPULAR WARTIME RECIPES
You’ll need:
Potato pie for tea tonight? To share the remaining food out fairly
everyone was given a ration book 2oz mashed potato
With food in short supply, housewives
became thrifty and creative. with coupons which they could use to 4oz flour
buy basics such as meat, cheese, milk, ½ oz sugar
People were encouraged to make the butter and sugar.
most of their small rations by cooking 1 gill milk (a teacup or roughly ¼ of a pint)
filling and nutritious meals. Cooks were encouraged to be thrifty
to make the most of what they had. ½ beaten egg
The government introduced food ½ tsp salt
rationing in January 1940. International The common phrase ‘skilful cookery
boats that imported food became a will help towards victory’ was tsp bicarbonate soda
target and local food production was promoted in spirit of the war effort.
low with many working men called up 1. Rub the mash potato into the flour with
to war. the salt added.
2. Make into a stiff batter with the beaten
egg and a teacup of milk and allow to
stand for a time
3. Sift in bicarbonate soda and sugar just
before cooking
4. Cook in spoonfuls in a heavy frying pan
5. Serve with a little jam
FARMHOUSE PUDDING
(serves four people)
Potatoes were cheap and home produced so formed
the basis of many popular wartime recipes.
Would you give this farmhouse pudding a go? The way this recipe uses staple ingredients
was promoted as “a patriotic pudding that will give energy and vitamins”.
You’ll need: 1. Combine main ingredients and roll out
8oz flour into a neat oval shape.
2oz grated raw potato 2. Spread with your chopped vegetables
2 oz suet (any you have), salt and pepper and
either your bacon rasher finely diced or
Pinch of salt gravy powder
Enough cold water to make a soft dough
3. Roll up, either in margarine papers or a
floured cloth and steam for two hours
Optional:
Any leftover root vegetables 4. Or you can boil the pudding in a jam jar
with a margarine paper cover
1 rasher of bacon or sprinkling of gravy
powder 5. Serve with brown gravy or parsley sauce24 Borough Life / Spring 2020
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
‘I AM A BIG
BELIEVER IN FATE,
LUCK WAS ON MY
SIDE THAT DAY’
VETERAN OF THE WESTERN DESERT CAMPAIGN RECOUNTS HIS SERVICE
WITH FAMOUS 7TH ARMOURED DIVISION KNOWN AS THE DESERT RATS
As a young soldier in an army band, Bernard was soon heading for Egypt and “He died instantaneously – which in
Bernard White provided the musical the North Africa campaign as part of the the circumstances was one crumb of
accompaniment for many a comrade 7th Armoured Division – known as The comfort. You never forget moments
heading out to war. Desert Rats. like that.”
But as the conflict headed into its later After the six-week boat trip, his first It was far from the last life and death
years, it was his turn to be shipping out. experiences of service on foreign soil situation he was to experience.
Instead of playing his trombone for were an intense introduction to the Soon after, while standing at the front of
troops boarding at local train stations, he horrors of war. a tank refilling shells, an armour piercing
was heading down south for tank warfare “It was certainly a baptism of fire,” he shell fired by the enemy ripped through
training. explains. the vehicle.
“I felt like I wanted to do more, I would “On the first day I remember our tank It was only for the fact he was lodged
watch all these other men going out to being penned in and us having to make a right into the side of the tank that
war and I felt guilty not doing my bit run for it. Bernard believes he is alive today.
too,” the 98-year-old recalls. “Shrapnel was pinging off the tanks and I He says: “All I remember is a big flash as
can still remember the driver of our tank the shrapnel exploded through and inside
being shot. the tank.Borough Life / Spring 2020 25
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
© IWM (E 16260)
THE DESERT RATS
Crusader tanks returning to camp after being on patrol in Western Desert, 28 August 1942.
The 7th Armoured Division of the
© IWM (E 6724) British Army was formed in Egypt
in 1938.
The division fought in most major
battles in North Africa during WWII,
including El-Alamein.
They were later called into service in
Italy and, following D-Day, in North
West Europe.
Its nickname The Desert Rats
originates from exploits in the
Western Desert Campaign.
The rodent depicted in the divisional
sign is a Jerboa, a native of the hot
deserts in North Africa.
Soldiers ‘adopted’ the animals and
Crusader tanks moving to forward positions in the Western Desert, 26 November 1941. started referring to themselves as
The Desert Rats.
“The shrapnel came right through my He celebrated his 21st birthday while
abdomen, chest, left hip and most of my on active service in Egypt with members
left hand.” of his crew chipping in for a bottle of
The war veteran is eternally thankful whisky.
to the brave medics who provided After the war he was able to return
him with first aid while exposed in the to his musical talents. He performed
open battlefield, drifting in and out of in venues like the Blackpool Tower
consciousness. ballroom.
The successful exploits of the Desert But the Pemberton resident, who is now
Rats in the Western Desert campaign a regular visitor to Armed Forces HQ in
and their contribution to the war effort Wigan, often thinks about the day his life
received widespread plaudits. flashed before his eyes.
And Bernard holds the comradery “I’m a big believer in fate and luck was on
between fellow veterans close to my side that day as I would usually have
his heart. been stood further inside that tank.”26 Borough Life / Spring 2020
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
KEEPING TOMMY’S
LEGACY ALL AGLOW
AN ICONIC WIGAN COMPANY HAS PAID TRIBUTE TO A FORMER EMPLOYEE AND
WAR VETERAN BY CREATING A SPECIAL EDITION SWEET TIN IN HIS HONOUR.
Uncle Joe’s Mint Balls is engrained in uncle) William Santus, decided to write Antony said: “We’ve created two special
Wigan Borough’s cultural history. to the Ministry of Labour in an attempt tins to remember the sacrifice and
Established more than a century ago in to keep hold of him. bravery of the armed forces community.
1898, the proud family business has been He wrote: “Although Bennett is so Tommy’s tin is especially sentimental to
passed through three generations. young, he is at the present time the most us and it felt right to remember him in
vital person I have and his retention in this way.”
To mark the anniversary of VE Day,
current owners - brothers John and his present position is essential for the Once the tins hit the shelves, 20p from
Antony Winnard - have opted to honour continuation of our business.” every sale will go to local and national
former employee Tommy Bennett who Following the plea, Tommy was allowed armed forces charities, including Wigan
spent 51 years at Uncle Joe’s. to remain with the company, training a Borough’s Armed Forces HQ CIC.
Two special edition tins are available woman to undertake his role. After six John added: “We heard that there
filled to recognise Tommy and the armed months, he left Wigan to join the RAF. are around 22,000 residents in the
forces community. He returned to Uncle Joe’s after the war borough who are part of the armed
and continued to work for the company forces community and as born and
In 1942, Tommy was called up to war bred Wiganers, we wanted to offer our
but as the only remaining sugar-boiler he loved. He retired in 1989 after 51
years of committed service and sadly support and do our best by the people
working for Uncle Joe’s, former owner of our town.”
(and the Winnard brothers’ great-great passed away in 2002, aged 78.Borough Life / Spring 2020 27
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
LIMITED EDITION TINS ARE AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE FROM
THE UNCLE JOE’S FACTORY ON DORNING STREET, WIGAN28 Borough Life / Spring 2020
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
‘IF IT WASN’T FOR THE
ARMED FORCES HQ...’
A YOUNG VETERAN BRAVELY SPEAKS OF HOW HE GOT HIS LIFE BACK ON TRACK
WITH THE SUPPORT OF WIGAN BOROUGH’S PIONEERING HUB AND ITS STAFF.
Life in the Grenadier Guards was the During a battle fitness test - where soldiers “After seven months of sick leave, I was
fulfilment of a childhood dream for are required to complete a 10-mile march medically downgraded, meaning I needed
Carl Robinson. in full kit carrying 50kg of equipment - Carl to leave the forces”
From sentry duty at Buckingham Palace to lost his footing in icy conditions.
covering state visits, he had come a long A severely twisted knee and damaged
way from his days at army apprenticeship cartilage meant an uncertain immediate
college in Harrogate just two years before. future. ‘I DIDN’T KNOW
But with a promising career laid out “At the time, it wasn’t too painful. I didn’t WHAT I WAS
ahead of him, the 18-year-old was dealt a realise how severe it was until my leg
devastating setback. locked walking upstairs,” Carl, who lives in GOING TO DO.’
central Wigan, explains.Borough Life / Spring 2020 29
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
As a youngster Carl saw both his Dad “I lost sleep, experienced flashbacks and
and Grandad serve in the armed forces. had nightmares,” he recalls.
Signing up once he was old enough “I lost my job which meant I couldn’t
seemed the natural thing to do. pay my bills and I became homeless. I
“You enter the army thinking you’ve got a wouldn’t ask for help because I didn’t
job for life,” he says. think I needed it.”
“I lived on camp so I had all sorts running Carl turned to drink and drugs as his
through my mind; where was I going to life spiralled. He ended up in court after
live? Would I recover enough to get a getting himself in trouble with the police
new job?” but received a suspended sentence.
He started working in a warehouse on a “It was the break I needed,” he explains.
zero-hours contract. “I saw it as a second chance and I knew
“It was completely different to what I something had to change.”
was used to. I’d adapted to the army A charity helped him find somewhere
lifestyle. Before, I felt like I was doing to live and he received support for
something worthwhile, I had a real substance misuse.
purpose, but the new job really wasn’t And, in November 2018, Wigan Borough
my thing.” Armed Forces HQ opened. He has since accessed courses at Wigan
As he was still coming to terms with and Leigh College and started an IT,
“I’d heard about it from other veterans, Marketing and Events apprenticeship
civilian life, Carl then experienced the so I signed up. I didn’t open up
unthinkable. based at HQ.
straightaway, I volunteered to help out
His dream career had been inspired and after I became comfortable and “I’d either be dead or in prison if it wasn’t
by his father’s service in the RAF and, trusted everyone, things started to turn for the HQ. I would hate to think where
although they had lost contact during around.” a lot of the veterans would be,” he says.
his teenage years, they had reconnected In particular, Carl credits activity “There’s a stigma associated with asking
after he left the army. coordinator Sue Shearer, a recipient of for help, but there really is no shame in
Sadly, in September 2017, Carl found his the Queen’s Gallantry Medal, and mental it. The military is robust in the ‘man up’
father after he had taken his own life. health services manager Vicky Grant with atmosphere and it really sticks with you.
helping rebuild his life. “But the HQ understands that and so do
the other veterans.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE WIGAN BOROUGH ARMED FORCES HQ, FOLLOW THEM
ON FACEBOOK, OR DROP IN FOR A CHAT: MOLYNEUX HOUSE, SCHOOL LANE, WIGAN, WN1 3SE.
VISIT WWW.WIGAN.GOV.UK30 Borough Life / Spring 2020
VE DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY
WE DEDICATE THIS
EDITION TO ALL WIGAN
BOROUGH RESIDENTS
WHO HAVE SERVED OR
CONTINUE TO SERVE IN
THE ARMED FORCES AND
THEIR FAMILIES.
‘THIS IS NOT VICTORY
OF A PARTY OR OF ANY
CLASS. IT’S A VICTORY
OF THE GREAT BRITISH
NATION AS A WHOLE.’
WINSTON CHURCHILL,
1945Borough Life / Spring 2020 31
Communities that care for each other
More Than Words Can Say
How people with disabilities are finding their voice and
expressing themselves through the arts.
Success stories, surpassing expectations specialises in supporting children with
and making life-changing progress are autism and complex needs, will benefit
no strangers to the More Than Words from the new project.
group. Teacher Vicki Pendlebury is looking
The drama-therapy project – based at forward to getting started.
The Edge in Wigan – was formed in 2011 “At Landgate we’ve always appreciated
and continues to grow. the many values the arts can offer young
Its latest venture in partnership with local people with disabilities.
drumming project Bom Ta Bom involves “Our learners have a range of
Vicki Pendlebur
outreach sessions in schools, and is the y & Sue Seager communication abilities, but dance
source of great anticipation. and drama offer everyone new ways to
“We’re so excited about Beyond Words, recognised express themselves.”
our new initiative,” says managing qualifications. Catherine Evans, 25, and James Bishop,
director Sue Seager. The new Beyond Words strand of their 23, are regular participants at More Than
“We’ll tailor arts activities to suit the operation will give school children Words.
needs of schools and the programme across the borough the chance to get “Telling children what it’s like to have a
could see our own students visiting to involved in a programme of bespoke learning disability is important because
host performances, drama workshops drama workshops and cultural activities. they can see that we’ve all got talents
and cultural visits.” “We’re hoping that pupils with special and gifts,” Catherine says.
The group helps members build their educational needs will benefit as “Getting a cultural education shows us
confidence and life-skills through they’ll realise that having a disability and the children we meet that there are
performing arts and accessible sporting isn’t a barrier to enjoying the arts and lots of career options in the arts,” James
activities. they might be inspired to get involved adds.
It also aims to raise awareness of themselves,” Sue says. The Beyond Words project has been
potential career options within the “Young people from mainstream schools funded by Wigan Council’s Community
arts sector and last year it became an might realise just how much people with Investment Fund and Curious Minds.
accredited Arts Awards Centre. disabilities can achieve, so the project Any schools or colleges that are
This designation means students up can help challenge stereotypes too.” interested in taking part should contact
to the age of 25 can gain nationally Landgate School in Bryn, which Sue on sueseager.mtw@gmail.com32 Borough Life / Spring 2020
Vibrant town centres for all
Spotlight on
Ashton
Ashton hosts innovative businesses
and inclusive community projects, led
by thoughtful and driven local people.Borough Life / Spring 2020 33
Vibrant town centres for all
The town has good transport links, a Nick said: “Everyone is welcome here. Each area of The Hamlet is expertly
brand new health centre, a variety of There are so many different types of staffed by young people aged 19-25 with
local shops and businesses, and an people from those who have suddenly additional needs.
award-winning Green Flag park, Jubilee found themselves alone, to those who Gemma Crompton, a teacher at Hope
Park. may have health or learning difficulties, School and now also head of provision
But it’s the entrepreneurial spirit which right through to people who just want to at The Hamlet, came up with the idea
shines through. play bowls, enjoy a quiz and make a few for the project to help the young people
One of the most inspiring projects new friends. gain the skills they needed for work after
is Bowl and Plate at Garswood Hall “It’s a simple idea but it really is leaving school.
Bowling & Community Club. It offers changing people’s lives.” She said: “Every person has something
an opportunity for residents to come Meeting every Friday from 11am until to offer their local community and
together every Friday to bowl, try out 2pm, the venue on Nicol Road has The Hamlet gives young people with
new activities, enjoy a home cooked proved a hit with local people. Regular additional needs a chance to build their
three course meal and meet other member and volunteer, Brenda Mayers, confidence and experience working life
people. said: “The best thing about Bowl and to help them achieve their goals.
Plate is that even if you come along on “It’s amazing to watch how the young
your own, within minutes you can find people grow and get ready for their
someone friendly to talk to.” futures. Five young people have
Member Betty Dietz added: “It gets you already taken up employment in other
out of the house. I’ve made so many new businesses.”
friends here and it’s led to us meeting up And budding entrepreneurs are also
outside the group to socialise.” making their voice heard at a new youth
At Three Sisters Recreation Area in group at Ashton library. The Making
Bryn, is The Hamlet. It combines the Herstory Wigan Girls’ Group invites
pretty Nest Café, which serves fantastic young women to come along and
teas, coffees and cakes, Lakeside develop their own campaigns to create
Printing Services and The Hut gift shop. positive change.
Bowl and Plate
Local residents Brian Griffin and Nick Business is booming
Shaw Came up with the idea for the Along with family favourites, Ashton
project to help address social isolation. is starting to attract a range of new
The two have worked tirelessly to gain businesses.
funding, recruit volunteers and keep the
project moving forward and the group
now attracts an average of 80 people Twisted Vine Ale House,
a week, although new members are Wigan Road
always welcome.
A micro-bar, which offers seven
Nest Cafe cask and three keg pumps, a range
of premium gins, wine and craft
bottles and cans to over 18’s.
Bailey’s Grill and Bar CIC,
Heath Road
Offers home cooked daily specials,
Friday and Saturday breakfasts,
cocktails, monthly arts workshops
and live music.
Go Ben Travel,
Gerard Street
Combines an obsession for
travel and professional customer
service, Go Ben Travel promises to
find you your dream holiday at a
competitive price.You can also read
