Wigan 10K Running for charity

Big thanks to all our sponsors from Cllrs Chris Ready and Ron Conway Michael Ready, Martin Wildman and David Coop

Great event cant wait for next year

 

Wigans answer to the X Factor, Lisa Nandy and friends

Good Luck Abi really exciting social enterprise



Music Services in Wigan and the surrounding ages, for people aged 0 - 100 years of age!!
Our aim is to inspire and enrich lives, through music!!

Mission

Our aim is to inspire and enrich lives, through music!!

"I think music in itself is healing. It's an explosive expression of humanity. It's something we are all touched by, no matter what culture we're from, everyone loves music." Billy Joel

Description

We are SO excited to tell you all about our new Academy!!



We will have all kinds of activities starting over the next few months, for all across the age ranges 0 - 110!! Keep checking our page for updates of what's happening, when - where and how ... we'd love to see you, your family, your friends!!  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wigan bake off 24th August

'On Sat 24 Aug 2013, The Good Life Show will be hosting The Great Wigan Bake Off at Haigh Hall. If you love home baking then this is your opportunity to see baking in action

There will be two amateur categories being judged:

Category One is for 12 Years - 17 Years

Category Two is for 18 Years +

If you would like more details,  please email: wiganbakeoff@gmail.com
Or tel: 07825 512989'

Facebook - www.facebook.com/TheGreatWiganBakeOff & Twitter - @TheWiganBakeOff

Miniature railway is back on track at Haigh Hall

Miniature railway is back on track


16 August 2013

GET your engine running with a ride on Haigh Country Park’s restored miniature railway!



The vehicle, which has been out of operation for two years, is back in action thanks to the sterling efforts of rail enthusiast and engineer Derek Moss.

Derek, from Appley Bridge, said: “I’ve visited Haigh Country Park since I was knee high to a grasshopper and can remember when the miniature railway first opened back in the 1980s so this is something close to my heart.

“I’ve got the locomotive working and repaired enough of the track to allow me to offer a service between the two stations on site. I’m now hoping to continue work on the track so I can reopen as much of the complete loop as possible.”

Derek has worked closely with leisure and culture provider WLCT to develop the project, which is also supported by the Friends of Haigh Country Park.

Stuart Murray, Chief Executive at WLCT, said: “Derek has done a fantastic job in restoring the miniature railway and I’m delighted that it is running again. I’d encourage families to take a trip to Haigh Country Park during the summer holidays, have a go on the train and experience some of the other attractions we’ve got on site.”

Cllr Chris Ready, Cabinet member for leisure and culture, said: “It’s great to see the miniature railway come to life again. The train was always a popular feature and now a new generation of visitors can get on board to enjoy a ride through this beautiful country park.”

The miniature railway is open at weekends, during school holidays and on bank holidays between 11am-4pm. Cost is £1 per person.

Fracking is not the answer

The policy only allows Fracking if it can be demonstrated there would be no unacceptable adverse environmental impact.

In my opinion Fracking is not suitable for Wigan with our mining background.

 Maybe there would be no need for Fracking if Thatcher hadn't closed all the mines.
 let's hope Cameron doesn't follow Thatcher and go for short term gain at the expense of the community at large.

Fracking's Aftermath: Wastewater Disposal Methods Threaten Our Health ...

 switchboard.nrdc.org

Licences to exploit oil and gas are granted via the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC). There are three Petroleum Exploration and Development Licences that we are aware of which cover parts of Wigan borough – EXL 273 (Alkane Energy Ltd), PEDL 165 (Cuadrilla Resources) and PEDL193 (IGAS PLC). Details of these licences can be found on the DECC website at https://www.gov.uk/oil-and-gas-licence-dataWigan Council, as the Local Planning Authority, only becomes involved if there is a need for a planning application or related planning issues. At present we have received no applications for companies to carry out hydraulic fracturing (aka "fracking") in the borough."

Friends of Haigh Country Park Festival 25th August 11 till 4

A big thank you to the friends of Haigh this should be a fantastic day lets hope the weather smiles on us see you all there



Daniel Dawoud a truly inspirational person

I first met Daniel at last year’s Sports Awards. I knew straight away that there was something special about him as I couldn't get a word in for 10 minutes - which is unusual for me. Daniel has brittle bones and is dependent on his wheelchair but this does not deter him from leading a full life.

Daniel says “Chris and I have become good friends. We meet up for lunch and connect on Twitter on a regular basis. We both share the same passion for sport and everything Wigan and once I knew Chris was doing the 10k I couldn't resist the challenge, plus if Chris gets tired he can jump on the back of my chair”!

Daniel started playing Wheelchair Rugby roughly 18 months ago. He says “In my short time in the sport I have experienced some great success winning the Domestic League in my first season and most resonantly winning a European Club Competition in Amsterdam.

Due to the increased interest in the sport since London 2012 the club West Coast Crash formed a second team named West Coast Burn. The governing body for the sport in this county GBWR, also formed a second division due to more clubs being created across the United Kingdom. In the Second Division our team, West Coast Burn, came 2nd and also won promotion into the first division for next season. Our first team, Crash, came 3rd in the League and also 3rd in our Nationals Cup Competition which is our highest ever finish. Both teams also competed in a German club competition this year finishing strong in 5th and 6th positions.”

I've also included our club website for you and the National Governing Body's site for you for more information if needed. If there is anything else you need please let me know. 

inspirational

http://www.westcoastcrash.co.uk

Haigh Hall the place to be

Fun in the sun on National Play Day


Issued on 08/08/13

MORE than 4,000 people visited Haigh Country Park to enjoy a jam-packed programme of free activities on National Play Day.

The event yesterday, aimed at children aged five-13, offered everything from giant junk modelling and pond dipping to Victorian games and crafts, plus a range of sports and dance activities all on site. Entertainment also included birds of prey displays, face painting and a climbing wall.

Stuart Murray, Chief Executive at leisure and culture provider WLCT, said: “I’m really pleased with yesterday’s event. The weather was perfect, the turnout was fantastic, and everyone looked like they were having a really great time. We had the opportunity to showcase a range of activities for children against the wonderful backdrop of Haigh Country Park, which is a great place to hang out and play.”

Cllr Chris Ready, Cabinet member for leisure and culture, said: “It’s really important that we provide outdoor play opportunities for children and yesterday’s National Play Day celebration achieved this on a grand scale.”

There’s plenty going on this summer at Haigh Country Park, Haigh Hall and across Wigan. To find out more about WLCT events, please visit www.wlct.org



JoiningJack

After spending the day at Haigh Hall at the Play Day event look who I bumped into the JoiningJack mascot who wished me luck for the 10k which I will need 

Training for Wigans 1st 10 k run

My First 10 k training session with the help of my new training colleagues, and Alison from the active living team. 

It was very hard but great support from all the team it will all be worth it for joining jack, joseph goal, and Wigan and Leigh Hospice,

 

Wigan parks go green

Parks fly the flag for excellence!


Issued on 29/07/13

THREE Wigan parks have once again been awarded Green Flags, heralding them as some of the best green spaces in the country.

Pennington Hall Park in Leigh, Alexandra Park in Newtown and Jubilee Park in Ashton will fly the flags, which are a sign to visitors that they are well-maintained and well-managed with excellent facilities.

Stuart Murray, Chief Executive of leisure and culture provider WLCT, which manages the parks on behalf of Wigan Council, said: “A lot of hard work goes in to making the borough’s parks quality green spaces that can be enjoyed by local people and visitors alike.

“Well done to all those individuals and groups, from WLCT staff to Friends of parks, for their sterling efforts, which really make a difference in the community.”

Cabinet member for Leisure and Culture Chris Ready said: “I am delighted that we have retained our Green Flag Awards. People in Wigan are extremely proud of their local parks and this accolade recognises the commitment shown to maintaining these spaces for the benefit of all visitors.”

This year a record-breaking 1,447 parks and green spaces across the country are receiving a Green Flag Award.



Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd said: “We are thrilled to announce yet another record-breaking year for Green Flag Award parks and green spaces.



“A Green Flag Award provides national recognition for the hard work and dedication of all the parks managers, staff and volunteers who have helped to create these fantastic places for all to enjoy.



“Quality green spaces are absolutely essential to happy, healthy communities. They are fundamental to our quality of life, whether in cities, towns or villages. That is why it is so significant that we have given out more awards than ever before.

Wigan 10K

Councillors say “count us in for the Wigan 10k”



They’re used to running for public office but now a group of councillors are in training for a very different kind of run.



They’ve signed up for Wigan’s first ever 10k road race, which takes place on Sunday 8 September. The energetic group of elected representatives, who are more used to competing against their political opponents, have come together to run the race for charity. And they’ve vowed to complete the course without any filibustering or political points-scoring.



It means the politicians in charge of the borough’s public services will be running round the town’s streets with the public. Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for sport and leisure, is one of those who’ve signed up. He said: “As a politician, I like to win. As a runner, I’m just hoping to finish. I’ve been training hard and there are still a few weeks to go. I might not be Mo Farrah but I reckon I can manage this.



“It’s going to be a great day for the whole of the borough. Even if you’re not taking part, you should get down to the town centre to enjoy the atmosphere and cheer on the runners. Hopefully a lot of money is going to be raised for good causes. And hopefully I won’t do any lasting damage to my body.”



Councillor Ready is raising money for local charity Joseph’s Goal and Wigan and Leigh Hospice. His training partner is Councillor Ron Conway, ward councillor for Aspull, New Springs and Whelley. Councillor Conway is an experienced cyclist, who regularly rides 100 miles a week. However, he is a less experienced runner. He said: “I’ve never run 10k before. I’m quite active and have been doing some runs to get ready. It’s shame I can’t do it on my bike but as long as I beat Councillor Ready, I’ll be happy.”



Councillor Paul Kenny, ward councillor for Winstanley, Councillor Joel Haddley, ward councillor for Aston, Councillor Jim Moodie, ward councillor for Ince and Councillor Ged Bretherton, ward councillor for Golborne and Lowton West are all running the race for the Mayor’s charity, which this year is Heartbeat 2 which raises funds for the Coronary Care Unit at Wigan Infirmary.



The Mayor of Wigan Borough, Councillor Billy Rotherham, said: “I’m really grateful to the councillors who are doing the race on behalf of my charity. I’ve used the unit at Wigan Infirmary myself and know first-hand the fantastic work they do. The money raised will be going to a great cause.



“Sadly, my running days are behind me but I’ll be there on the day to cheer everyone taking part. This is going to be a great occasion and the council, Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, Greater Manchester Police and charity Joining Jack should be congratulated for making it possible.”



The Wigan 10k Run is being organised by Joining Jack, the charity set-up by former Wigan Warriors player Andy Johnson and his wife Alex. They launched it last year when their five-year-old son Jack was diagnosed with rare condition Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The charity is raising money to pay for research into the condition. Runners pay an entry fee that goes to the charity but they can raise money for a cause of their choice.



The run will follow a route around Wigan town centre and is the first of its kind in the borough. There will be a special festival in the town centre on the day of the run featuring bands, a food market and children’s rides.



Places are filling up fast but there are still some spaces for runners. A host of rugby league stars have agreed to take part and TV presenter Kirsty Gallacher has signed up too.



Councillor Paul Kenny said: “I have run a 10k before but that was five years ago. I’m feeling pretty good about this one, though. The people of Wigan Borough love anything sport-related so I expect there will be lots of spectators lining the route cheering on the runners and looking out for any red-faced councillors.”



Councillor Jim Moodie said: “There’s a healthy rivalry between the councillors doing the race. Politicians are naturally competitive people so that’s to be expected. Personally, I don’t mind where I come as long as I beat Councillor Ready.”



Councillor Ged Bretherton said: “I think all the other councillors reckon I’m really fit and going to run a really fast time. I’m looking forward to proving them wrong on both counts. The training has been getting easier though. Now it takes me less than a week to recover after I’ve done a run. That’s progress.”

Haigh Hall throws open its doors

Haigh Hall throws open its doors

24 July 2013

DURING this summer’s school holidays, visitors to Haigh Country Park are invited to visit Haigh Hall and step inside the historic Georgian mansion house.
There will be no admission fee for visitors who, once inside, will learn about the hall’s Anglo Saxon roots and the first Haigh Hall built in 1173, retrace the steps of Lady Mabel and her forebears - the Earls of Crawford and Balcarres - and see the dining table of the West Library as it would have looked at the turn of the century.
Lisa Lamari, Business Operations Manager at WLCT, which manages Haigh Hall, said: "Many people visit Haigh Hall to attend events such as weddings or conferences, and many local people just see the outside of the building when walking through the estate. This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to come inside and experience the hall’s varied and colourful heritage."
Haigh Hall will be open to the public from 9am – 4pm on days during the school summer holidays when there are no private events taking place within the venue.
The open days are part of a programme of activity to make the hall and its history more accessible. Haigh Hall already hosts popular history and supper tours and is planning to showcase some of Lord Crawford’s collection of books.
"We have welcomed more than 500 people so far this year as part of group history tours of the building and we hope that the open days will welcome as many people again," said Lisa.
Cllr Chris Ready, Cabinet member for leisure and culture, said: "I’d encourage anyone who has not experienced the inside of this wonderful building to come along for a visit and learn about the history right on our doorstep."
Visitors wanting information on the dates of the open days and information on forthcoming group history tours can call WLCT Contact Centre 01942 832895.

Kestrel's halt work on Local Church

Work at St Elizabeth's Church Aspull was delayed when kestrel's were spotted in the church yard

 

 

 They were discovered a couple of weeks back that we had Kestrels nesting in the gutters on the North side of the building so that area could not be started as they are protected. The work on the south and West has started this week, and as it looks like the birds have now flown the nest the North side will be started a bit later.

 

 

 

 

Cash boost for local church

St Elizabeth's Church funding boost from local Cllrs

Cllrs Ready, Conway ,Hilton gave the church £1000 pounds through their brighter borough fund

 

This donation helped them secure £20,000 form Viridor, as the church  had to give them £2,000 as per the rules of the Land Fill Scheme.

 

 This money will pay for the complete renewal of all the gutters and down spouts all  around the church from top to bottom. These will be as per the originals in cast iron in keeping with the English Heritage grant for a Grade II listed building. This part of the overall job, which is over £200,000 in total should have ben completed by now. However their was slight slippage in the work and this did not start on time.

To add to the problem it was discovered a couple of weeks back that we had Kestrels nesting in the gutters on the North side of the building so that area could not be started as they are protected. The work on the south and West has started this week, and as it looks like the birds have now flown the nest the North side will be started a bit later.

Crazy Golf At Haigh Hall

Crazy golf returns to Haigh Country Park

VISITORS to Haigh Country Park can now enjoy teeing off at the transformed crazy golf course!

A project spearheaded by Friends of Haigh Country Park volunteers has seen the site spruced up in time for the summer holidays.

John Hulme, Chairman of the Friends group, said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to get the work finished before the schools break up. We are aiming to have the facility open every day over the holidays so that as many people as possible can have some fun playing on the course!”

Work that has taken place to re-vamp the site included clearing of vegetation, re-felting the crazy golf surface and re-painting the obstacles.

The project was supported by leisure and culture provider WLCT; Proco, removed the original obstacles; Jewson Building Supplies and Longmate’s in Hindley Green who supplied materials at a reduced cost; and local councillors who awarded the group £1,000 Brighter Borough funding.

Cllr Chris Ready, Cabinet member for leisure and culture, said: “This is a fantastic achievement and shows that, when the community works in partnership with local organisations, a real difference can be made.”

Louisa Bibby, Parks Activities Officer at WLCT, said: “It’s wonderful to have such a passionate Friends group on site and we’ve been really pleased to support them in refurbishing the crazy golf course. There’s a lot going on at Haigh Country Park and I’d encourage families to come along this summer to enjoy the activities on offer and experience a great day out.”

The Friends of Haigh Country Park formed in 2012 and already have more than 170 members. They are working with leisure and culture provider WLCT, which manages the estate on behalf of Wigan Council.

If you would like to become a Friend of Haigh Country Park please visit www.friendsofhaighcountrypark.org.uk or call 07776 350831.
Pictured With Friends chaiman John Hulme with members of the freinds group
Louisa Bibby Cllrs Chris Ready  Ron Conway and John Hilton

Aspull in Stitches

 

Need uniform or other Haberdashery needs   then look no further then Aspull newest business situated above the Butchers at Moorside Aspull

Aspull Village Embroidery

 

pictured with Angela the owner are Cllrs Ready & Conway with pupils from the local school

 

 

 

 

New Springs keeps growing

New Springs Allotments Society celebrate their annual awards evening With Cllrs Ready and Conway.

Eco School

Our Lady's School Aspull celebrate international eco schools status.

HRH puts Aspull in party mood

Residents at Frenchwood Court Aspull recently celebrated 60years on the throne by HRH