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ISSUE 61. SUMMER 2019
THE MAGAZINE FOR
WIGAN BOROUGH RESIDENTS
ISSUE 61. SUMMER 2019
THE MAGAZINE FOR
WIGAN BOROUGH RESIDENTS
• FOOD & DRINK GUIDE • WHAT’S ON • Escape Rooms
tickets
2 Borough Life / Summer 2019
Welcome
The Leader’s column
Welcome to the summer edition of top fun and games attraction by Trip
Borough Life. Advisor. To celebrate its launch we’re
In the last few months there’s been a lot giving one lucky reader the chance to
of developments in the council and in win tickets to the experience. Find out
our borough. more on page 8.
One of those developments is the In the last edition of Borough Life, we
surge in new leisure attractions, with included a special feature on The Fire
restaurants, bars and attractions Within cultural manifesto. The exhibition,
popping up across the borough. which launched in The Galleries in May,
As part of the Deal 2030 we want to has already been shortlisted for an
support the creation of vibrant town award. If you haven’t yet visited, make
centres which is why this edition of sure you do before August.
Borough Life is dedicated to celebrating Finally, I hope you all have a wonderful
our new, local businesses. You can summer. One thing’s for sure, you
support them too by visiting them over certainly won’t be stuck for things to
the summer. Read more from page 10. do with events taking place across the
Another new attraction that’s opened borough. Find out what’s on for you and
on Wigan’s high street is the Adrenaline the family from page 19.
Escape Rooms. The latest addition to And don’t forget if you have an idea for a Cllr David Molyneux
the town centre has already been voted story get in touch. Leader, Wigan Council
Extra content is available at
www.wigan.gov.uk/boroughlife
Even more great photographs can be
found at
On the cover
www.flickr.com/boroughlife
Borough Life is published by Wigan Council
and distributed to all households in the
borough. This edition was published on
Leafy Creams is a vegan
24th June 2019. bakery in Atherton, ran
The magazine is printed on paper from by local couple Hannah
renewable resources. It is written, edited and Mizen and George Lee. They
designed by Wigan Council’s Public Relations
Team.
contacted us to say they
If you are a resident of Wigan Borough but enjoyed reading the spring
haven’t had a copy of Borough Life delivered edition of Borough Life and
through your letterbox, you can pick up a after looking at their designs
copy from several locations including the Life
Centre or view it online at
and hearing their story we
www.wigan.gov.uk/boroughlife knew they’d be perfect for
You can now receive a new monthly Borough our Summer food and drink
Life e-newsletter. Sign up by emailing edition so we asked them to
boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk
For general comments email:
create some vegan treats for
boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk our picnic shoot. Read more
about them on page 12. If
you have any ideas for a great
article, then drop us a line.
COUNCIL OF THE YEAR
Borough Life / Summer 2019 3
Contents
33 24
22 20
4-7 NEWS IN BRIEF 18&19 SUMMER TIPPLES 32 HOME IS WHERE THE CARE IS
Your latest news round-up. Popular tipples that draw the crowds. How life changed for Sandra and Brian.
8&9 HAVE YOU GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO 20&21 FLOWER POWER 33-35 EVERYBODY NEEDS GOOD
ESCAPE? Our blooming lovely borough gets ready NEIGHBOURS
Wigan’s newest and best tourist for judging. Why neighbours are more than just a
attraction. friendly face.
22&23 HUNTING FOR GHOSTS
10&11 SUMMER FOOD AND DRINK The Old Courts take us on a ghost tour. 36-39 WHAT’S ON GUIDE
GUIDE A bumper guide to see you through
Wigan town centre’s hidden gems. 24&25 LIFE AT THE FARM summer.
Colin shares his story of overcoming
12&13 THE VEGAN MOVEMENT addiction.
Meet the superstar bakers behind our
front cover. 26&27 OUR TOWNS
Spotlight on Hindley and Hindley Green.
14&15 THE PLANT REVOLUTION
Plant-based recipes for the family. 28&29 FINDING YOUR VOICE
The boys from RECLAIM speak up.
16&17 ON YOUR DOORSTEP
Top spots on your local high street. 30&31 URBAN ART COMES TO TOWN
Art hits the streets in Leigh.
To keep up to date with news and events, follow Wigan Council at:
26
4 Borough Life / Summer 2019
News in brief
Can uke believe it?
Wigan Ukulele Club is celebrating its The club has also raised more than
tenth anniversary in July. £10,000 for Wigan and Leigh Hospice.
Formed in 2009 at the Railway Hotel in They meet at Wigan Cricket Club on
Pemberton with 14 players, there are Wednesdays at 7.30pm.
Do the Honours! now more than 70 people in the popular
club performing 50 concerts each year.
The club is looking for new members. For
more information visit:
Every day ‘ordinary’ people make an Gigs include the Southport Flower Show www.wiganukuleleclub.com
extraordinary difference across our and local church fundraisers.
borough. Chances are that you know
at least one who immediately springs
to mind. But have you ever thought
of nominating them for an Honour?
Reading national media you might
mistakenly think that honours are
only awarded to household names.
Yet the reality is that over 70% of
people who receive an honour
are ‘ordinary’ people who have
undertaken outstanding work in their
communities.
These remarkable people can only
Give differently to help the homeless
be recognised if somebody takes the A local charity is asking people to interview.
time to nominate them. Somebody donate differently if they want to do All donations to Real Change go into
who knows the difference that they their bit to help the homeless. one pot which is distributed with the
make. Could that ‘somebody’ be Launched last year in the borough, help of local charities and partners,
you? Real Change Wigan and Leigh helps including The Brick and Jigsaw
The form to nominate a person for an people who are at risk of being Housing, so people can be confident
honour is straight forward, and you homeless to rebuild their lives. their donation is going to the right
can even do it online: Real Change pays for practical items place and will make a difference.
www.gov.uk/honours people need to build independent During 2017 almost 5000 cases of
So, if you know somebody who lives away from the streets. It may homelessness were prevented.
deserves to be recognised, please do provide a deposit for a home, fund a To find out more or donate visit:
the Honours! training course or buy clothes for a job www.realchangewiganandleigh.co.uk
Women’s voice group says “Believe in Her”
A new women’s voice group was Leigh College and the Wigan Observer.
launched in May to look at how The group is led by Wigan Council chief
organisations in the borough can work executive Alison Mckenzie-Folan and is
together to end gender inequality. welcoming new members. Council of the year
The group of local influential women If you’d like to be involved contact
included representatives from the pr@wigan.gov.uk or follow In March Wigan Council was crowned
council, the Soroptimists, Leigh Film #believeinher on twitter ‘Council of the Year’ in the prestigious
Society, Wigan Steam, Wigan and Local Government Chronicle Awards
2019.
The awards recognise excellence in
local government and the Council of
the Year is the top award meaning the
council is the best in the country.
Judges were impressed by the impact
The Deal has had on the borough,
despite being the third worst affected
by cuts in funding from Central
Government over the last eight years.
Find out more about it at:
www.wigan.gov.uk/thedeal
Borough Life / Summer 2019 5
News in brief
National
recognition for
Glenn
A trader known as the ‘Fish Man
of Leigh’ has scooped a national
Gold award for his traditional pork
bangers.
Glenn Furnival entered The Great
British Butcher’s Awards and was
given Gold in the Best Sausage
category.
The Fish Man, who is also a butcher,
received 57 out of 60 points for his
pork sausages based on appearance,
taste, smell, texture, how the
sausages cook and overall appeal.
Although permanently based at
Leigh Market, Glenn also trades in
Praise for good traders
Tyldesley square every Saturday, Local traders have been recognised for customers fairly and honestly.
9am-2pm, in his portable trailer. their excellent service to residents at There are 170 members, from a range
the annual Good Trader Awards. The of different sectors, who are all judged
council scheme was set up in 2008 on the quality of customer feedback
by Trading Standards to promote they have generated in the last 12
local businesses who are trusted and months. To find out more about the
respected in their field of work and Good Trader Scheme visit:
who are committed to treating their www.wigan.gov.uk/goodtrader
The Good Trader of the Year winners
• Winner (Wigan) - Advanced Fencing & Gates Limited
• Winner (Leigh) - Gary Sanderson Carpets & Vinyls
• Highly Commended (Wigan) – Case & Young Limited
• Highly Commended (Leigh) – A & J Kitchen Fitters
• Best Newcomer (Wigan)- DA Electrical Services
• Best Newcomer (Leigh)- Vitreous Windows
Recycling at the touch of a button Join Wigan Pride
Recycling household waste is now individual QR code scanned on site 2019
easier than ever following the within seven days of the permit being
introduction of electronic permits. issued. Everyone is welcome to come along
From July residents can obtain permits Residents are encouraged to to Wigan Pride on Saturday 10th
in a matter of hours online. People download the permit to their device August in Wigan town centre.
with vans and twin axle trailers can ahead of their visit in case they cannot The free, family friendly event
instead apply online via MyAccount for get a signal when on site. celebrates equality and diversity by
a permit. If the application is accepted To create a My Account and obtain bringing together music, a street
they will receive an email with a a permit visit www.wigan.gov.uk/ parade, arts, entertainment and
reference number and a QR code, MyAccount to sign up. For those that positive messages from members
within two hours to attend sites. do not have access to a computer or and supporters of Wigan Borough’s
Residents simply take a mobile device mobile device they can still visit a Life LGBTQ+ community.
which has email or a print out of Centre in Wigan or Leigh or any one of The parade will leave Mesnes Park
their permit to the Household Waste the council’s libraries. at 11am and travel to Wigan town
Recycling Centres and have their centre where there will be music and
entertainment from midday.
6 Borough Life / Summer 2019
News in brief
The Fire Within Stars for local heroes
shortlisted for Rugby legend, Shaun Wane, and and pride people have brought to the
national award prolific businessman, Martin
Ainscough CBE DL, have both received
borough.
Their bespoke paving stones proudly
Wigan Borough’s ground-breaking stars in Believe Square in recognition sit among stars for other local legends
cultural hub at The Galleries for their services to sport and business. including Sir Ian McKellen.
shopping centre, The Fire Within, has The Believe stars are an They were unveiled at the end of June
been shortlisted for a national award. acknowledgement of support toward in a celebration at Wigan Town Hall
The council is the only organisation the local community and acts as a with family and friends.
in England shortlisted for the ‘Best ‘thank-you’ for the positive change
Culture and Arts Scheme’ category
in the Town and City Management
Industry Awards 2019.
Following the successful launch of
the pioneering cultural manifesto,
The Galleries shopping centre in
Wigan town centre has seen a
continuous increase in footfall.
The Fire Within is the borough’s
strategy for the next five years
and aims to make arts and culture
accessible to all. There will be a
different theme focused on each
year until 2023, from new artists to
heritage, theatre, digital and more.
The exhibitions have transformed
the former vacant units into vibrant,
engaging and bright open rooms Making 'Herstory' in Wigan
with interactive displays and
performances. Young women from girls’ group Making campaigning to end period poverty.
Since the launch event in May, there Herstory Wigan have launched a new Programme action officer, Lynda Lilley,
has been a number of performances campaign to help make sure all those from Atherton, explains: “As a club
and events held in the HQ space at who need them can get free sanitary we feel particularly strongly about
weekends and the exhibitions have products. young women missing school because
been open to the public to view for The girls launched their they have their period, which does
free Monday to Saturday from 11am #OurRightsOurEssentials campaign happen if girls don’t have access to
– 3pm. by making up gift bags of sanitary the sanitary products they need. We’re
The units will remain open until at products, which they will distribute via supporting the Red Box project, which
least August to inspire more of the local charities. aims to introduce free sanitary ware
borough’s artists and give them a Nikeisha, 13, from Lowton, says: “We into educational settings. I think it’s
platform to showcase their work – be wanted to help people who can’t brilliant that these young women are
sure to visit it if you haven’t been yet. afford to buy sanitary ware. As women, also doing something about period
For more information about The we know it’s not a luxury item, it’s poverty. It’s good to see younger
Fire Within follow Wigan Council on something you must have.” women recognising adversity and
social media @WiganCouncil One in 10 girls in the UK can’t afford taking action to address it.”
to buy menstrual products and over You can give sanitary products for
137,700 children in the UK have missed the girls’ #OurRightsOurEssentials
school because of period poverty. campaign at either Ashton or Golborne
Tabitha, 13, from Hindley Green, says: Library. You can contribute products
“People who don’t have enough money for the Leigh Soroptimists’ Red Box
to buy sanitary products should get campaign at Morrisons’ Supermarket
them for free. I’m really enjoying being in Leigh.
part of a group that’s just for girls. It If you’re a young woman aged 11-17
helps our confidence and we can all and are interested in joining the
relate to each other.” Making Herstory Wigan girls’ group,
The girls were joined at their please contact Wigan Council’s
launch event by women from targeted youth support services on:
Leigh Soroptimists, who are also tyssweb@wigan.gov.uk
Borough Life / Summer 2019 7
News in brief
Sexual health No longer a muddy mile
walk-in services A section of the canal in Astley, carbon footprint point of view.
known as the ‘muddy mile’, has been “I really enjoy being a commuting
Need support with your sexual improved for walkers and cyclists. cyclist because it gives me an hour to
health? There are now daily walk- There are 0.9 miles of surface relax after work where I don’t have to
in clinics in Wigan and Leigh that improvements as well as better access think about anything at all. I’d really
you can drop in to for friendly and and signage, plugging a vital gap recommend anybody to give cycling
confidential advice. in the Bridgewater Way, as part of a go. Get out on your own or with
Spectrum Community Health is Manchester’s Bee Network scheme. a friend and try out the routes we
based in The Galleries in Wigan and People can now cycle on the canal have across the borough.” For more
offer a walk-in service from 8:30am path all the way from Wigan to Salford. information about the Bee network
to 11:30am Monday to Friday for David Gibson, local resident (pictured) visit: www.tfgm.co.uk/bee
patients of all ages. said: “When I tell people I cycle to
The walk-in service in Leigh Health Manchester and back every day they
Centre is open between 1:30pm to look shocked, but my answer is simple
5pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and – it takes me an hour to get to work and
Wednesdays. on a bad day in the car, it can take me
They can answer any questions you twice as long as that.
might have about contraception, “Cycling is a more predictable mode
STIs or relationships. of transport. I know what to expect, I
Both clinics are also open for know how long it is going to take me
appointments daily which can be and I don’t need to worry about traffic
made by calling 01942 483188. or being late.
For more information about the “Not only that, but there are a whole
services on offer visit : host of other benefits to cycling. It’s
www.sexual-health.co.uk great for exercise purposes and from a
Aspiring athletes in Talent Fund boost
Young athletes from a variety of and equipment costs. Both heading to training camps,
disciplines including Water Polo, BMX Among those being supported are Charlie Meadows, 13, and Bradley
Racing, Archery and Karate are being Karate competitors Rachel Traverse, 17, Metcalf, 15, look to develop their
supported in the latest round of the and Danni Williams, 14, who will both skills in Wrestling. Charlie will also be
Believe Talent Fund. be heading to competitions with the heading to European Championships
The council funding supports talented funding received. this year.
youngsters from the borough with their Harry Dunkerly, 16, will be making Oliver Cope, 14, is racing towards World
development by helping to cover travel, waves with the Junior Water Polo Championships in Zolder and HSBC UK
accommodation, competition, training competition GB Squad. BMX National Series races.
John White, 12, is staying on track and
heading to Speedway National Race
series and Cyclo-Cross National Race
Series.
Looking to stay on target is archer
Hannah Gardiner, 12, who will use the
funding to head to GB Junior Masters
and National Competitions.
Making a name for herself nationally
is Charlotte Edwards, 15, of North
West Triathlon who will be racing off to
National Super Series Races this year.
The Believe Talent Fund, which has
already supported over 60 young
athletes, is open to 11 to 24-year-
olds, with recipients receiving up to
£500 as part of the council’s Deal for
Communities Investment Fund.
Talent fund winners with Councillor Jim Moodie and Councillor Chris Ready.
8 Borough Life / Summer 2019
Vibrant town centres for all
Have you got what
it takes to escape?
The latest puzzle craze to hit the the Minator in Labyrinth or influencing everything in place and have engaged
UK has landed in Wigan. Adrenaline the past, present and future in Lab with community groups, including
Escape is now open in The Galleries in 3436. Leigh Hackspace, and other local
Wigan town centre. Impressively, Stuart and Daniel have businesses to help us get set up. From
A new venture by escape room designed the rooms themselves, the physical build of the rooms to AV
enthusiasts, Stuart Barton and Daniel meaning that Adrenaline Escape is support to the technical elements that
Brooks, it provides a stimulating totally unique and different to any give the ‘wow’ factor, we have worked
experience to groups who need to other escape rooms in the world. closely with a number of businesses,
problem solve while keeping cool Stuart said: “Daniel and I have which not only helps us but also
under pressure. completed just short of 200 escape benefits the borough.
You’ll need to suss out the logical rooms, some in the UK and abroad. “Now we’re open, it’s great to see the
yet cryptic clues around the room, “We know that the best escape rooms customers flowing and watching our
navigating your way through to provide an immersive, totally engaging creations really come to life. There’s
different areas and ultimately escaping experience and to ensure our rooms nothing better than watching a group
within the allocated hour. are unique, we decided to create our of people really enjoy themselves
Since opening they’ve done 200 games own. taking part in something Daniel and I
in six weeks with 600 players taking on “We’ve worked round the clock to get have thought up ourselves.”
If you think you’ve got what it takes to escape, visit www.adrenalineescape.co.uk and book your spot now!
Don’t forget to follow Adrenaline Escape UK on Facebook to find your ‘We escaped!’ photos after the game has ended.
Borough Life / Summer 2019
9
Vibrant town centres for all
Ryan, 29: “Stimulating from start to finish, the Escape Rooms engage
your brain from the moment you step inside and certainly challenge your
problem-solving skills throughout.
“The rooms are interactive and engaging and should make a great addition
to the town. I’d imagine people of all ages enjoying themselves.”
Georgina, 26: “I didn’t know what to expect before taking part in the escape
rooms, but I really did enjoy every minute of it.
“Working together and finding clues made it really exciting! The 60 minutes
flew by.”
Andrea, 42: “I wouldn’t normally have chosen to go to an escape rooms (I
went on a work team building activity) but I really enjoyed it.
“The customer service was excellent, staff were friendly and welcoming
and I was impressed with the level of thought, preparation and clever use
of technology that had gone into our room and the story behind it. A really
interesting experience from start to finish, the hour flew by and I would
definitely recommend.”
Dave, 56: “Escape rooms are something I’ve never really fancied having a go
at, not really knowing what’s involved. However, I really enjoyed it and will
certainly do more if I get the opportunity!”
Think you’ve got the skills to escape? To be in with a chance of
winning tickets for up to six people to take part in one of the
escape rooms all you need to do is subscribe to our monthly
Borough Life e-newsletter.
Email your name, address and postcode to:
boroughlife@wigan.gov.uk to sign up and enter the
competition. Write ‘WIN’ in the email subject line. Closing date
Friday 16th August 2019.
MES ATTR
GA A
&
CT
BER FUN
ION
1
IN W
UM
IG
A
N N
10 Borough Life / Summer 2019
Vibrant town centres for all
Summer
Food
&
Drink
Guide
A taste
of Spain
Plata Tapas is set to open this summer in the up and coming Arches next to
Wigan North Western. David Davies, originally from Manchester, now living
in Ashton-In-Makerfield, got his inspiration whilst travelling around Southern
Spain and has based a lot of his dished on Andalusian cuisine in particular. A
traditional Spanish atmosphere, alongside Spanish beers, wine and sangria
will bring a fiesta to Wigan.
From tapas to real ale,
we’ve visited some of
the new trendy eateries
and bars hitting our
streets and town
centres.
Hideout
There’s been an
explosion of new talent
as business owners
and entrepreneurs
take to the food and
drink business. With so
much on your doorstep
there’s no need to
leave the borough. We Hideout is next door to Plata Tapas, on
Queen Street. This stylish bar offers a
start with Wigan Town wide range of drinks from gin to iced
coffee. Whether you’re looking to relax
Centre, where there’s with a hot drink and delicious slice of
been a surge of new cake or a cocktail and pizza or even a
cheese board, Hideout could be the
restaurants and food place for you.
Opening times:
festivals. Monday-Wednesday: 10am-10pm
Thursday-Saturday: 10am-12am
Sunday: 11am-10pm11
Borough Life / Summer 2019
Vibrant town centres for all
Bailiff Bar
The Bailiff Bar is The Old Courts’ Holding Cell at the rear of the bar. The multi-arts venue featuring a theatre,
basement bar offering a great range of drinks offer has been greatly expanded two music venues, an art gallery,
free live entertainment most Thursdays, too with a range of craft beers, cocktails band practice rooms and a Victorian
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The and an extensive selection of spirits - courtroom for weddings and events.
bar was completely refurbished in the bar stocks 40 gins alone. There is Opening times:
2018, taking inspiration from the urban also support for local artists who exhibit Monday & Tuesday: closed
ambience of Manchester’s Northern their work on the walls. For those who Wednesday & Thursday: 5:30pm-
Quarter. simply want to work on the fly, the bar 11:30pm
The venue hosts fringe-style events, has free Wifi, charging points and a Friday: 4:30pm-1am
stand-up comedy, open mic nights and range of fresh teas and coffees. Saturday: 1:30pm-1am
immersive, alternative events in the new The Old Courts is a not-for-profit Sunday: 1:30-11:30pm
Food Fest
Pop-up
bars, DJ’s,
live music
on the Square and world
dishes - Visit
The Galleries
every third
Saturday of
the month
until October
for Food
Fest on the
Square.12
The vegan
movementBorough Life / Summer 2019 13
Vibrant town centres for all
Young entrepreneurs Hannah and George are baking
their way to success with their tasty vegan treats.
The idea to launch Leafy Creams because we both converted from being like the unique and out of the ordinary
bakery was born two years ago when vegetarians to vegans around three orders that come through.
Hannah Mizen, 23, and George Lee, 21, years ago and we felt there was a lack George continued: “Offering a bespoke
were at university and would hold pop- of indulgent vegan treats. service helps us to create a community
up stalls selling their vegan creations. “Although the vegan industry is getting with our bakes and means that we can
Hannah has always been a keen baker, better, most vegan foods and snacks continuously challenge our skill set.
a passion that has been passed down are very health focused and we wanted “Hannah is great at the creative and
(along with a recipe or two!) from her to give people more options to enjoy.” unique bakes. I love making the
mum. Hannah and George also pride cookies and brownies because they’re
After realising her creative advertising themselves on creating cakes and difficult to perfect so when you do, it’s
degree wasn’t her future, Hannah left bakes that are completely edible, as really satisfying.
education part way through her final well as vegan. “We’re really proud of being so hands
year. George explained: “We don’t like using on too. We do everything ourselves and
Soon after, Hannah was diagnosed things that aren’t edible. You won’t that’s a quality that we’re passionate
with autism. see any plastic or cake toppers on our about. We maintain the website, social
She said: “It made sense, I was cakes! Everything is handmade, mainly media, take our own photos and can
struggling in lectures and didn’t want by Hannah, and is edible, which makes personally deliver our treats too.”
to continue with the course. I just knew the bakes even more impressive.”
I wanted to bake and I wanted to be The couple currently work from home
self-employed.” but are looking to find a larger kitchen
“The diagnosis actually gave me the space.
confidence to set up Leafy Creams. George said: “Although we do have all
“George and I have different skills. the correct hygiene provisions in place,
I love the baking and he’s great at I think my Dad will want his kitchen
talking to people and building those back pretty soon.
relationships!” “We’re going to look at our options, but
Working from their home in Atherton, Leafy Creams is definitely our future.
Hannah and George specialise in “We want to get more involved in larger
completely vegan bakes and create events such as weddings and this is
show-stopping celebration cakes, something we have already started
custom orders, brownies, biscuits and taking orders for.”
more completely from scratch. Leafy Creams provide bespoke bakes
Hannah continued: “We wanted to do for customers. Hannah and George
something that was 100 per cent vegan enjoy being creative and particularly
For more information about Leafy Creams or to place an order, visit www.leafycreams.com14
The plant revolution
Vegan restaurant The Coven share some
of their most popular plant based dishes.
Serves
1
Crawford Street
, Wigan
Buffalo Wings
Ingredients Method the inside.
• Cauliflower florets, 4-6 per person 1. Heat the oil as per deep frying 6. After around 8 minutes carefully
instructions. remove a wing from the oil and test
Flour mixture – 2. Combine the flour mixture with a skewer. If the skewer moves
• 125g gluten free self-raising flour ingredients in a bowl. easily into the centre once you’re
• 1 teaspoon onion powder 3. Combine the batter ingredients and through the crust then they’re done.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder mix well with a whisk. The amount Otherwise give them a couple more
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika of soya milk will vary but you want a minutes.
• Salt and pepper really thick batter that will stick to the 7. Once tender, remove from the oil
Batter mixture – cauliflower and hold the flour mixture. and drain. They will stay crisp in a
• 180g gluten free self-raising flour 4. Dip your florets into the thick batter medium oven for a while if you need to
• 1½ teaspoon onion powder mixture to completely coat. Then fry more than one batch.
• 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder lightly roll in the spiced flour mixture.
This helps with crispiness. Serving
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Serve with salad and a dipping sauce
• Salt and pepper 5. Carefully lower a few wings at a time
into the hot oil. They need to become of your choice. Add mustard and hot
• Soya milk, unsweetened sauce to vegan mayo, perhaps.
• Oil to deep fry golden brown all over and tender on15
Borough Life / Summer 2019
Vibrant town centres for all
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Spaghetti
Ingredients they are beginning to get some colour.
• 6 decent sized mushrooms, sliced 2. Add the garlic and cook gently. You
• Oil don’t want to brown it.
• Black pepper 3. Add a few grinds of pepper, a
• Garlic to taste, freshly chopped, at few shakes of tamari and a few
least one clove per person tablespoons of cream.
• Single vegan cream – Oatly is best in 4. Stir to combine the ingredients, Serves 4-6
my experience and is readily available keeping the heat low. as a starter port
• Tamari (gluten free soy sauce. It’s 5. Add a handful of spinach leaves, ion
milder than other types)
• Fresh spinach
stirring in to wilt them.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Hummus
• Chopped fresh herbs 7. Add your pasta and mix to coat. You Ingredients
• Pre-cooked pasta, 75g dry weight per might need to add more cream as the • 3 x 400g tin chickpeas
person. Or more if you like. pasta soaks up the sauce. If you do • ¼ x large red onion
then taste and adjust the seasoning. • 1 x tablespoon lemon juice
Method 8. Pile in a bowl and garnish with fresh
1. Fry the mushrooms in the oil until • 4 x sun-dried tomatoes chopped
parsley. into small pieces
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ tea spoon black pepper
Serves • Agave
2
• Oil (from the tomato jar is full of
flavour but olive oil is fine). Start with
2 tablespoons
Method
1. Put all together in processor and
blend until you have a coarse paste.
Adjust seasonings to taste.
2. Serve as described below or chill
for up to three days.
Serving
This is lovely with simple flatbread,
tortilla chips or carrot sticks. Or you
can serve it as part of a mezze with
salad, olives, sun-dried tomatoes,
pittas.
Want to try plant
based food?
Regular street food events at Haigh
Woodland Park cook up amazing
plant based street food from across
the region. With live music and bars
all set in a beautiful child and dog-
friendly venue, the event is prefect
for the family.
The Coven is just one of the traders
who appear at these regular events.
Upcoming dates: Saturday 10th
August 6pm-10pm and Sunday 8th
September 12pm-5pm.16
On your doorstep
It’s not just Wigan town centre seeing a
resurgence in food and drink – there are
some great spots right on your doorstep.
Juniper Bar & Kitchen
Nestled in the heart of Shevington, Deceptively small-looking on the are after because we speak to them
Juniper is a small, quaint cottage style outside, the two-storey building is big and build relationships. We change
bar and kitchen serving breakfast, enough to take individual customers our dishes in line with the seasons
lunch, dinner and a range of refreshing while also hosting larger bookings and to ensure quality and freshness but
drinks. parties upstairs. we’re more than a restaurant – we’re a
The building itself is more than 250 And now that summer is well bar as well. Customers are more than
years old but the family business has underway, Juniper is looking into welcome to pop in for a refreshing
only been open since July 2018. hosting barbecues in their outdoor drink any time.”
Originally opening as a wine and seating space, which backs onto a
tapas bar, owner James Matthews, quiet park. 7 Church Lane,
quickly adapted Juniper’s offering after James said: “We’re still learning but Shevington.
speaking with locals. we know that our offer is what localsBorough Life / Summer 2019
17
Vibrant town centres for all
The Twisted Vine Ale House in Ashton
is an elegant micro-bar with seven
The cask and six keg pumps, 40 premium
gins and a range of wine and craft
bottles and cans.
Twisted The business sits on Wigan Road and
is the perfect place to go for a good
quality, relaxed drink.
Vine Ale Stuart Hurst owns the business with
wife Melanie Hurst and business
partner Robert Nelson. He opened
House The Twisted Vine in February 2018
following a five-year career in the
brewery business as owner of
Hophurst brewery.
He said: “It’s great because although
we’re well positioned in the centre of
Ashton, we’re the only independently
owned bar in the immediate area, so
we can provide something bespoke
and personal to customers.”
From live music every Sunday to wine
and cheese nights, gin tasting and
beer tasting, The Twisted Vine caters
for a range of ages and preferences.
15 Wigan Road,
Ashton.
A cosy coffee house just off the main
streets of Lowton, The Lounge offers
a range of luxury hot and cold drinks
complimented with a variety of sweet
treats and baked goods.
Owners Penny and Sean Cullen, from
Lowton, have only been open for
business since early April. They have a
popular selection of locally supplied
cakes and a roaring fire for those wet
and less summery days.
She said: “We’re passionate about
bringing the community together
and promoting social inclusion. We
already have a number of community
groups utilising the space
from a knitting group to a
book club.
“We’ve just finished
building a small car park
and have installed cyclist
parking for those who want
to make the most of the
area’s green space."
The
17 Bradwell Road,
Lowton. Lounge18 Borough Life / Summer 2019
Vibrant town centres for all
Summer tipples
We asked two local bars what drinks are in demand this
summer. From strawberry beer to tropical cocktails and
fruity gins, there’s something for everyone.
Lychgate, Standish
Lychgate in Standish has been under Hendrick’s: A perfect blend of rose
new ownership for two and a half petals and cucumber with traditional
years. The pub underwent a complete botanicals. Mixed with Schweppes
transformation and now presents 1783 cucumber tonic water, served
customers with a cosy traditional pub over ice and garnished with cucumber
with bare brick walls, open fire-places and mint.
and pictures of Wigan to bring out the
heritage. Ophir Oriental spiced: Warner Edwards Victoria’s
These are the drinks that were Inspired by the ancient spice rote Ophir Rhubarb: Using rhubarb cultivated
mustered up for us to try. gin features cubeb, black pepper, on a royal estate this gin is creamy and
ginger and cardamom. Mixed with smooth. Mixed with a 200ml bottle of
Schweppes 1783 cucumber tonic prosecco and garnished with a large
water, served over ice and garnished lime wedge.
with red chilli.19
Gin Lane,
Gin Lane Wigan has been open for little by blending 70% wheat beer with 30%
more than two months after Alison strawberry – perfect for a summer’s
Duncan and her partner decided to take evening.
Wigan on a lifelong dream and start the bar from
scratch. In the short time it’s been open, Aperol Spritz: A fruity Italian aperitif
with a strong orange and mandarin
the bar has already been welcoming
plenty of people through its doors as the flavour. The glass is filled with ice and
pair embark on a new way of life in the 75ml of prosecco. Finished with a dash
world of hospitality. of soda and garnished with a slice of
The new bar co-owner says she expects orange.
the following drinks to be a hit with Gin & Tonic: Perfect for summer
customers this summer. thanks not only to its thirst-quenching
Frulli: A Belgian fruit beer produced at a capabilities but its calorie-busting
craft brewery near Ghent. It’s produced benefits of just 54 calories for a single
measure when mixed with diet tonic.
*Regularly drinking more than 14 units of alcohol a week risks damaging your health.
Visit www.nhs.uk/alcohol for more information and advice.20 Borough Life / Summer 2019
Environment to be proud of
Flower
power
Assistant Wigan Borough In Bloom
judge for the day, Freya Sixsmith
Hundreds of green-fingered volunteers keep our
communities beautifully blooming.
And each year the borough enjoys glittering
success with North West in Bloom.
Last year 28 local community groups bagged
awards for doing their bit to help create an
attractive, clean environment.
One of the longest running environmental
competitions in the UK, each year In Bloom
grows in size as more people get involved with
their communities.
It not only brings people together but
improves the look and feel of our towns and
greenspaces.
The judges for this year’s awards will be visiting
again in July – good luck to the groups taking part.Borough Life / Summer 2019
21
Environment to be proud of
Want to join an In Bloom group?
Visit www.wigan.gov.uk/volunteering
or call 01942 486578
or email inbloom@wigan.gov.uk22
Hunting for
Hunting for ghosts
ghostsBorough Life / Summer 2019 23
Embracing culture, sport and heritage
A historic haunt that is bound to
provide a spine-tingling night.
It might be well-known for its live punishment back in the day, the courts Ian said: “There were 30 witnesses in
music, theatre shows and bars, but The are believed to have been the last port the room to support what happened.
Old Courts in Wigan town centre may of call for many who faced their day of The woman who attended was three
surprise many in the borough for its reckoning. foot in the air. No one could believe
rich history of strange goings-on. Criminals would say their last words what was happening but we are
While the grand old building welcomes before ultimately being hanged. But it’s connecting with bad people who have
people through its doors regularly in the murky past within the cells which been in those courts so it’s dangerous,
the day, it’s at night when it can come spirits are said to haunt. it’s certainly not for the faint-hearted.
alive for some. Ian Wood, who is behind Sixth Sense “Since the age of 16 I have been
Based in Gerrard Winstanley House, Ghost Hunters, has been involved seeing dead people and animals and
the former Country Court building is in mediumship for 38 years and this is why I know everything about
actually the destination for ghost tours does ghost walks in the Old Courts everybody. The tours are the absolute
and a professional medium who is throughout the year. He is in doubt best and we are the best in the
renowned for his ability to chase down that the criminal past associated in business.”
the spirits. the building has led to it becoming the Alex Armstrong, marketing manager
Through the year, ghost-hunting home of ghosts. for the venue, said: “Our resident
sessions take place within Describing his tours as not for the ghost hunter in the past has seemed
underground cells which are suitably “faint-hearted”, Ian says he has had to think the spirits in the parish church
located near the graveyard of Wigan television crews come on walks late gardens were a little keen to see what
Parish Court and said to create the at night and not last more than five was happening in the building and
perfect storm for paranormal activity. minutes due to the unexplainable somehow made their way underneath
Those who are brave enough to events they have witnessed. Crawford Street in their caskets.
interact with the dead can make their The experienced ghost hunter says the “There may still be some ghostly
way through the outer reaches of the strangest moment in his presence was presences in the building, however
former County Court, and willingly at Old Courts when a woman managed the only spirits I’m aware of are in our
sit in the darkened, cold cells and to elevate three foot off the floor from Bailiff Bar.”
communicate with awoken spirits. a lying down position after connecting
Synonymous with crime and with spirits in the cells.
The next ghost walk at the Old Courts is in October and tickets can be purchased from Ian on 07491111281.24 Borough Life / Summer 2019
Embracing culture, sport and heritage
Life
at the
farm
With the help of Greenslate Farm, a people can’t function, well I could.
A community local community farm in Billinge, and “Sometimes I did sleep ins at work and I
farm has become a Addaction Colin (pictured) has turned could leave it for a night. But everything
his life around. was about the next drink.
thriving community Addaction supports people in the “I had an angina attack, got diagnosed
borough with drug, alcohol and mental with epilepsy and I had a heart attack a
hub for people health issues, and is one of the leading couple of years ago. But on top of that
struggling with charities of its kind in the UK. I think it was the mental health, it was
In a unique partnership with Greenslate escalating, my life was terrible.
addiction – and it Farm, they now run a number of “I had to leave work due to ill health
different community rehabilitation and mental health reasons, anxiety and
saved Colin’s life. programmes. other things, it was just taking control
Colin, aged 51 from Platt Bridge, said: of my life.”
“I’d say I have drunk for over 30 years Greenslate Farm in Billinge was created
and slowly it became more of an back in 2012 by utilising a disused
increasing problem. It got out of hand. former council-ran education farm.
“I could function, you know how some The 30-acre site is packed full of farmBorough Life / Summer 2019 25
Embracing culture, sport and heritage
animals including chicken, sheep and education, the tools you learn to get Addaction
guinea pigs. There are allotments your life back on track.”
growing fresh fruit and veg, a café and a Colin is now six months drink free
farm shop. and is giving something back by Addaction was described as
Colin continued: “I started in rehab volunteering as a Recovery Champion “life-changing” at its first Care
with Addaction, to be honest with you, with Addaction. Quality Commission inspection
thinking, why am I here? He said: “Addaction definitely saved in March.
“You think it’s going to be one really my life, it really did. You get a light-bulb The report, which lists all five
boring existence without drink, but moment when you’re on the rehab inspection areas as ‘Good,’
you’re taught and you learn that it’s not course. It can be a few months into it singled out partnership work
like that. and you get this magic moment… that with the local community farm
“Life is absolutely brilliant without you don’t need it. You don’t need drink as an ‘Outstanding’ example of
drink. to be happy, and I’m learning that, and best practice.
“I don’t think I would have stopped I really believe that now.
drinking unless I came here and started “Life is brilliant, life is absolutely For more information
on the Addaction rehab course. It’s the fantastic without drink, and I love it.” about Addaction please
call 01942 487578.26
Hindley &
Hindley GreenBorough Life / Summer 2019 27
Communities that care for each other
Community spirit is not running short in the former
coal-mining towns of Hindley and Hindley Green.
Upon the advent of the Industrial community café for people of all ages welcoming and inclusive place for
Revolution, cotton manufacture was and abilities. Everyone loves a brew anyone to come into. We have people
largely the mainstay of the towns’ and I thought it was a great vehicle to that come in with dementia, who are
economy but like other areas of the bring people together. caring for family friends or just on
UK, Hindley has had to adapt and “I live in Hindley their own but the relaxed
offer more avenues for residents to myself and I environment we have created
appreciate. just wanted to encourages people to attend
Central to this is the Hindley Library help people and enjoy themselves.”
and Community Centre which and make a The ward has also this year
provides a focal point to locals. The difference to welcomed the re-opening
community hub not only presents where I live and of its pool after the council
a place to socialise and grab a brew work, I think pumped significant funding
but also training and workshops it’s needed. into the much-loved facility
for people that in turn improves Hindley has got to ensure it’s safe and clean
Sam Broxton
confidence levels and self-esteem. a lot of social for residents.
Director Sam Broxton has been deprivation, The cash injection has
volunteering most of her life and there is a lot of resulted in the pool and pool
lives locally in Hindley. She spotted isolated people surrounds benefitting from
an opportunity to expand on the that many don’t think of. a deep clean alongside the renewal
community centre’s offering after “This place provides people in the area of inlet pipework to enhance the
nearby day centres started to close. with a purpose and a lifeline. Getting water quality. Major repairs to the air
Three years ago, she put in an through that door is the biggest thing, handling unit have been undertaken
expression of interest request to not what they do when inside. Some to provide a consistent heat source
the council to take the tea rooms people just need a chat with a friendly into the pool halls with the exterior of
over within the centre and bring it face and coming here can offer that.” the building also improved thanks to
back to life. Following that, she was Daniel McGarvey is the project the installation of new signs.
instrumental in a bid for funding which manager and has also seen first hand The opening in January marked
meant the building could turn into the massive difference the centre can another major milestone for Hindley
the Hindley Library and Community make to lives. pool with thousands of residents in
Centre. Daniel said: “We absolutely pride the borough learning to swim in the
Sam said: “I wanted to create a ourselves on being an open, five decades it has been open.
Celebrity residents
Popular canine presenter
Hacker T. Dog is a proud
Wiganer. His hit CBBC TV
show Hacker Time shows him
interviewing celebrity guests
and playing games and he’s
become a well-established
name in many households
across the country. Since
2009 he’s been voiced by
Hindley Green resident and
puppeteer Phil Fletcher.
Photo by Phil Fletcher28
Hamza Tyler
Daniel
Finding
your
voice
Luke Joshua
Ross OwenBorough Life / Summer 2019 29
Best start in life for children and young people
The Reclaim Project is working with young
men in Leigh to encourage them to build their
confidence, get their views heard and develop
positive aspirations for the future. They told us
about the highs and lows of being a boy today.
Tell us more about the Reclaim trampolining. make video games.
Project Ross: I also think that even though Hamza: I want to be a cardiac surgeon.
Keane: It’s helping 12 and 13-year-old both boys and girls do bad things I’ll probably move to Manchester. Or
boys to get our voices heard and be sometimes, boys are more likely to get London. Or America.
more acknowledged by adults who into trouble. Owen: I want to be an engineer and
make decisions. Hamza: I agree. Most boys would work on bridges.
Ross: It’s important because we’ve never hit a girl, you would get into so Keane: I’d like to stay around here and
(hopefully) got around 80 years of life much trouble, but the girls hit the boys make Leigh a better place. I’d like to
left so we really care about how things sometimes. stop knife crime everywhere.
should be in the future. Ross: No-one should hit anyone.
Hamza: Also, we have fresh brains, so Hamza: True. What stresses you out the most?
we can come up with new ideas. Daniel: School life and bullies.
Tyler: It’s not just about changing Do you feel under any pressure to Luke: People calling me tall. I was
things for us, it’s about making things behave in a certain way? smaller but then I had a massive
better for others too. We’re worried Tyler: I think there’s pressure on all growth spurt and everyone was like,
about homeless people or people who kids. With boys, if you cry, some people ‘Wow, you’re really tall.’
are suffering from violence, so we want will say, ‘toughen up’. No-one should be Tyler: Nothing. I’m a really calm
to help change those things in the allowed to say that. It’s ok to be upset person.
future. sometimes. Owen: Other people. Just really
Joshua: It depends on who I’m with. annoying people.
How do you feel about meeting in a With some people I can be myself and Joshua: People calling me bad names.
group that’s just for boys? with others I can’t. Keane: The pressure to get good grades
Luke: It’s good because it gives us a and get into better sets at school.
chance to say our opinion and not be What do you think older people think
over-ruled. There’s no fuss, it’s just of young men? What makes you happy?
about what we think. Tyler: I could understand it if some Luke: Sleeping till midday at weekends.
Tyler: It’s different to school, where people were scared of us if we were in Ross: Fridays.
everything’s in big, mixed groups. I feel a big group. But not every boy is a bad Owen: Cricket.
more able to say my opinion here. person. If you had time to get to know Joshua: Sausage rolls and video
us and learn about what we want to games.
What’s difficult about being a boy achieve you could find out what we’re Tyler: My four-year-old sister. She
today? really like. was born very early, at 23 weeks. The
Ross: For me, it’s the expectations. I Ross: Never judge a book by its cover. doctors said if she’d been born a week
don’t want to feel like I have to play Hamza: Take a second look at us. earlier she probably wouldn’t have
football. I’d rather do rounders or made it. She has lots of problems,
trampolining. Or dance. I could stretch What do you want to achieve in the chronic asthma and a weak immune
to cricket… future? system. But she’s really funny. And it
Hamza: My school lets us do Luke: I either want to be an architect or just makes me happy that she’s here.
Thank you to staff and young men from the Reclaim Project, Leigh.
To find out more about the Reclaim project email Lesley: l.dixon@reclaimproject.org.uk30 Borough Life / Summer 2019
Embracing culture, sport and heritage
Urban art comes
to town
The humble bollard has been given a
modern urban makeover in Leigh to
celebrate the town’s mining heritage.
A number of traffic bollards across Leigh seeing art work by local children.”
have been transformed into artistic Leigh Neighbours is a community
installations as part of a community arts project based in an area of Leigh West.
project inspired by old black and white Funded by £1 million investment from
photographs from the town’s archives. The National Lottery Community Fund,
Year six pupils from Sacred Heart the resident-led project aims to tackle
Catholic Primary School created the local challenges in the community by
designs taking their inspiration from improving the environmental landscape,
history, including landscapes of old addressing issues around social
buildings such as Parsonage Colliery and deprivation, building greater community
scenes featuring the Pit Brow lasses. cohesion and helping to improve the
Martyn Lucas is a local artist quality of life for local people.
commissioned by Leigh Neighbours to The Holiday Craft Club is an initiative
deliver the workshop. He says: “The idea piloted by the group, in partnership
behind the bollard art project came from with Sacred Heart Catholic Primary, and
one of our craft club sessions where the offers children an opportunity to engage
children were asked to consider ways of in crafts, healthy eating, sports, team
improving neglected areas. They created building and other activities.
a range of fantastic designs which we Chair of Leigh Neighbours Susan
then reproduced on vinyl wraps and Gredecki says: “We’re looking for
attached to the bollards. volunteers to get involved in our various
“We’re used to seeing commercial projects, particularly in our activities and
advertising in all kinds of places, events with children and young people.
including around bollards, but it’s The more volunteers we can recruit, the
unusual for these rather unattractive more sessions we can lay on, and the
features to become a concrete canvas for more children and young people we can
the purposes of displaying community engage with. If anybody in the area has
art. an interest in volunteering with young
“It’s a good example of community people, we’d love to hear from you!”
intervention that involves local people
and makes a visual statement on
the local landscape. We hope our
neighbourhood bollards convey a
positive message about the area, inspire
pride in our heritage and evoke delight in Helen Ahmed, Headteacher
of Sacred Heart and Martyn
Lucas are pictured with the
pupils holding another of their
vinyl wraps. Some of the artists
from Sacred Heart RC Primary
School: Alexia, Evie, Jakub
and Josh
Residents who are interested are advised to email
volunteer@lnpb.org.uk for more information.Borough Life / Summer 2019 31 Embracing culture, sport and heritage
32 Borough Life / Summer 2019
Happy Healthy People
Home is where the care is
After husband Brian had a fall last Christmas, Sandra knew
he needed medical help. But like many people, the last thing
she wanted was for him to go into hospital.
Brian was already being supported with before leaving their number and saying recognised that I was the most important
his memory loss but Sandra was worried that anytime I needed them, I could ring, person when it came to Brian’s care - other
about what would happen in the future. and they could come out right away if than Brian.”
Thanks to a new team helping people to needed. It’s brilliant. They were incredibly Brian is now cared for at home and is
stay in their own homes for longer, Brian supportive and showed such dedication. recovering well. He is being supported by
has been able to get the care he needs “Having them at the end of the phone lots of local services including the Memory
without going into hospital. was a real relief. Being able to talk through Service, Embrace and Wigan and Leigh
The borough’s new Community Response what was happening and to support with Carers.
Team is a group of health and social care questions I had!”
professionals that can provide urgent care The team took care of things that could
to people who need it. They can be called make the house more manageable for
by a GP, paramedic or health and social the couple, including a rail for the stairs,
care professional. bathroom and at the side of the bed. Along
After Brian's fall, within two hours of the with Brian’s health the team supported
ambulance service calling the Community Sandra.
Response Team they visited him at home. She said: “They were also interested in
Sandra’s praised the “excellent” ambulance how they could help me, because they
service staff who initially suggested the Vicky
team instead of going to hospital.
Sandra said: “Right from the beginning Sandra praised Embrace and how much
they provided excellent service and advice. the organisation has helped her and
The last thing we wanted was for Brian to Brian. She said: “They put the advert
go into hospital, it wouldn’t have done him out and did the recruitment process
any good. We know it’s so busy and any for Brian’s carer, Vicky. They provided
possible wait and changes in surroundings fantastic advice when I didn’t know
would have been disorientating for Brian. where to turn. I don’t know what I
“The team visited twice daily for a week would do without her.”
The Healthier Wigan Partnership
encourages services, communities
and the voluntary sector to
collaborate to make sure local
people can live happy, healthy
lives for as long as possible;
reinforcing the message that good
health is everyone’s responsibility.
The NHS and Wigan Council are
looking at innovative ways like
Community Response Teams to
ensure everyone, like Sandra and
Brian, can get the best support when
they need it.You can also read
