Sponsored by
Parades to make comeback
Wigan's St George's Day Parade and church walking days are to return.
A meeting held yesterday at Wigan Town Hall has brought an agreement which will see more than 50 events go ahead.
The traditional walks have been dogged with health and safety problems over the past two years, and police declined to continue organising road safety, arguing that under new Highways Act legislation, responsibility had passed to the Metro.
That left churches, Scout and Guide groups and community clubs facing huge costs for self-marshalling, expensive road closures and legal notices.
But after yesterday's meeting with the police, the council, churches and community groups, all sides emerged united, with guarantees that this year's parades will be "safe, successful and the most professional yet".
The first will be the hugely popular St George's Day Parade on Sunday, April 26, with almost 50 walking days and events planned throughout the summer, culminating in the Remembrance Day Parade in November. Rector of Wigan the Rev Ray Hutchinson said he was delighted with the new partnership.
He said: "The churches have been encouraged by how the council and police have supported us.
"These marches are important local traditions and we want them to continue."
Last year some walks went ahead but with smaller and less complicated alternative routes.
Coun Chris Ready, cabinet member for improvement, said: "We have worked hard to ensure all parties know their roles and responsibilities. And we will be working with marshals and organisers to make sure all events pass off safely."
If you are planning a walk contact the council's traffic team on 01942 404314 at the earliest opportunity.
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Wigan
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 23 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
