Borough Life Summer 2006: Rare bird is no flash in the pan
For the borough's large army of birdwatchers, it's the Holy Grail... the first ever photographs of one of Britain's rarest birds making its home in Wigan.
Wildlife and countryside manager Graham Workman managed to snap these pictures of the bittern at Wigan Flashes, including an astonishing shot of the shy and reclusive bird in flight.
Said Graham: "We're keeping our fingers crossed that before long the bittern will breed at the Flashes. We've been working hard to create the right conditions, building extensive reed beds.
"If and when this happens then it will confirm Wigan Flashes as one of the most important wetland habitats in the country. It's a tribute to the work of the council, the leisure and culture trust and Lancashire Wildlife Trust."