Wigan Borough Environment & Heritage Network
Present:
Mary Pennington (Wigan Archaeology Society),Tom Price (Civic Trust), Joe Taylor
(Billinge History Society), Geoff Jones (Astley Green Colliery Museum), Glenys
McClellan & Marge Harrop (Leigh Family History Society), Richard Sivill
(Atherton Heritage), Neil Forshaw (George Formby Society), Ken Barston (Stubshaw
Cross Residents Group), Avis Freeman (Leigh Soroptimists), John O’Neil
(Greenheart), Peter Spenser (Wigan Family History Society), Lynda Jackson (Wigan
MBC).
Apologies:
Peter Taylor (Civic Trust), Allan Roberts (RSPCB), Alex Miller (Wigan MBC),
Peter Goodwin (Tradition Films), Derek Wilde (Wigan Family History Society),
David Shallcross (Leigh Ornithological Society),
Avis Freeman chaired and welcomed attendees to the meeting.
Minutes of the last meeting: True and accurate.
Matters Arising: John will arrange a visit to the Masonic Lodge in Wallgate with Ian Rowan.
Members Reports:
Joe reported on the festival held at Greenslate Community Farm, the meeting at the People’s History Museum in Manchester concerning the Peterloo Massacre and the meeting at Manchester Metropolitan University with Voluntary & Community Sector groups, such as us, and campaigning groups, such as 38 Degrees.
John updated progress with the Wallgate refurbishment project, the Cultural Partnership & a proposed Arts Council, Greenheart, Haigh Hall and the essay competition. It was suggested that our meeting 16th November would be the best time for the presentations to be made.
Glenys & Marg. There has been some disruption due to the relocation of the archives but family history society help desk will be back in action as of 7th September.
Lynda. The museum has been busy over summer and will remain so with the upcoming Egyptian Exhibition, among others.
Geoff reported that the big steam engine is now able to be fired-up and will let us know when this will occur so that those wishing to do so can visit.
Tom inquired about a number of proposed housing development proposals, particularly the one at Kirkless Industrial Estate.
Ken. An inter-denomination church service was held at the heritage gardens and Wigan Council has offered another volunteering day to help with park maintenance.
Peter. Wigan Family History Society continues transcribing births, deaths & marriages and assisting with family history inquires.
Richard reported that the Atherton group continues to meet monthly and that there is concern regarding Formby Hall being sold off, as well has the library and town hall.
Mary distributed the archaeology society newsletters and brought us up to scratch with work in progress.
Neil. The George Formby Society held a gathering at the Isle of Man, 25 July, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of No Limits. They have also been involved in other projects, including local WW1 memorials.
Avis can’t be here for the next meeting and recommended Leigh For All Heritage Day 12th September.
Date next meeting: 5th October 2015