The letter from an Orrell reader in our last edition, claiming that Borough Life was “complete drivel” and a “waste of taxpayers’ money”, provoked a number of our readers to write in with a different point of view.
Keeping us informed
Sir, – Having recently returned from living abroad I was pleased to receive the publication through my letterbox. I understand the need to use Borough Life as a portal for keeping the local community informed. It has certainly helped my family and I re-orientate ourselves with Wigan. It is keeping the public informed of how the Council is spending the precious “taxpayers’ money”, something that councils are often accused of not doing.
Pleased of Swinley
Not a waste
Sir, – In my opinion Borough Life is an excellent outlet for publicising the work of the community volunteers.
I would tactfully suggest that your correspondent considers those members of our community that are house bound. Borough Life is one of the very few ways that keeps these vulnerable people in touch with what going on in their town. Is that really and truly a waste of money – I don’t think so!
John Shaw, Whelley
Astley gripe
AS a resident of Astley I go from cover to cover to try to find an article on my village but to no avail as we never get a mention. In fact we seem to be the forgotten village of the borough. Maybe someone in the know could explain why this village does not get the same treatment as other parts of the borough?
Chris Nelson
Switchover advice
Switchover mascot DigitAL
Sir, – I would like to remind all Borough Life readers that the date for the switchover to digital TV in the north west is approaching fast. The Winter Hill transmitter group, serving the borough of Wigan, will start switching to digital on 4 November 2009, concluding on 2 December.
However people need to think about converting all their TV sets before the 4 November deadline. It needn’t be expensive nor does it mean a monthly subscription.
For all the options visit www.digital.co.uk – or you can call 08456 50 50 50.
Jo Waters, Regional Manager, Granada TV region
Seven out of ten TV retailers are now providing accurate advice on switchover, according to new research. Our next edition will include a feature on what the switchover means – and how you can avoid being ripped off.
Making a difference
Sir, – There’s been a noticeable difference in some parts of Lowton, much less litter than any other time in the last few years. Talking to two workers, they told me they had filled 20 plus bags within 800 metres of Lane Head along just one side of the East Lancs. They also told me that under a new initiative Wigan had been divided into zones, Lowton being one, with two litter pickers in each.
I can’t understand why I’ve not seen any publicity spreading this good news.
Hopefully this will discourage people who drop litter. Well done to all concerned and keep up the good work.
David Hoult
Choir did us all proud
Sir, – Parkside Colliery Male Voice Choir recently went to Wigan’s twin town Angers, representing the arts of the whole borough. We should be proud of them and those responsible for voluntarily making the event a success.
The choir performed with great skills and enthusiasm in the magnificent Church of La Trinité to mark the twentieth anniversary of the twinning. We are celebrating our own anniversary too.
Originally a colliery choir 40 years ago, our doors are open to anyone interested in singing. We travel widely, give concerts for charitable purposes and have a social programme open to friends and partners too.
No previous experience is asked for, there’s no age limit and no obligation on anyone who wants to give it a try. We meet every Monday at 7.30pm at Ashton in Makerfield Congregational Church on Hilton Street.
If you want further details, you can ring Alex 0151 430 0105, Alwyn 01942 492588 or Kevin 01942 749755. And visit our website to hear us: Parkside Colliery Male Voice Choir (external link)
Frank Halliwell, Leigh
Editor’s note:
We know from our own surveys that most people do find Borough Life useful and interesting – over 80% of you in fact – but we also know that in a diverse borough of more than 300,000 residents not everyone will agree. We will continue to try and produce a magazine which includes information about all parts of the borough, even though we can’t cover every community in one single edition. Our thanks to everyone who has given us their opinion – whether it’s good, bad or indifferent we want to know.
