A NEW scheme to raise coaching standards across Wigan has been launched. Wigan Active Coaching Association hopes to inspire casual coaches across the borough to further their development and qualifications. For more information call WACA on 01942 404 980.
SHOPS COULD face a cigarette ban if they are caught selling them to children in Wigan. That’s the stark warning from Wigan Council after an undercover trading standards operation revealed many are still illegally selling to under 18s. Working with a 16 year-old volunteer, officers targeted shops in Hindley, Atherton and Tyldesley. The volunteer went into 17 shops to buy cigarettes and in six cases was successful.
SCHOOLS INSPECTORS Ofsted have recognised New Greenhall School as one of the most outstanding education providers in the land. The Atherton school, which caters for young people with special educational needs, was ranked alongside the best primary, secondary and special schools across the whole of England by the chief inspector of Ofsted.
CALLING drivers who passed their test over 30 years ago: another of the borough road safety forum's popular and free refresher courses for the more mature road user comes to Wigan Investment Centre on 14 October. Contact Sheila on 01942 488250 to book.
SOUND ADVICE from Wigan Council and its partners could be helping more people to stay in their homes during these difficult economic times.
Government statistics have revealed that the number of repossession orders being granted through the borough’s court for the first quarter of this year has fallen by 55 per cent compared to the same period last year.
WIGAN COUNCIL chief executive Joyce Redfearn has been awarded the CBE in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours. Joyce, who joined Wigan in 2005, was given the award for services to local government.
CIVIC leaders in Wigan have sent congratulations to the borough’s fastest woman, Jenny Meadows, after she took third place in the 800m finals at the World Athletics’ Championships in Berlin.
The popular athlete was the face of the borough's sport, health and physical education campaign when it was launched in 2007 and earlier this year she was crowned Sports Achiever of the Year at Wigan's annual sports awards.
HOUSING TENANTS are celebrating money savings and warmer homes thanks to a major programme of investment from Wigan and Leigh Housing. Around 8,000 tenants with electric storage heaters, coal fires and gas boilers over 15 years old will benefit and so far, some 250 tenants across the borough have had new boilers installed.
TAKE a bow Milltown Chorus, a newly formed ensemble of female singers aged from 15 to 70 plus, who rehearse every Wednesday night at Parkside Rugby Club in Rivington Avenue, Golborne. The ladies are keen to attract new voices. If you’re interested contact Helen on 01744 882420.
CONGRATULATIONS to John Moores of Astley, who won our summer edition jazz competition. John scooped two tickets to see Broadband, the acclaimed all female big band at the Wigan Jazz Festival.
WIGAN Town Hall is the venue for a fantastic Wedding Fayre on Sunday 1 November from 12 to 4pm. Loads of exhibitors will be on hand to help you with your wedding. Details from 07870 975125, 01942 824063 or wigan Weddings (external link)
