On September 8, work will begin on removing existing trees, shrub vegetation and weeds from the areas surrounding St John's Church, on Church Street, Pemberton.

Japanese knotweed will also be removed and the existing entrance to St John's Church will be opened up as all existing vegetation is removed and new trees are planted.

Several other improvements will also be taking place to improve the appearance around the churchyard and stop youths from gathering near the site.

Rev Colin Oxenforth said: "Young people have been pushing over gravestones and partying at 2am, which we hope will be put to an end. Once the work is completed the area should look very tidy and presentable.

"We hope that this will deter people from wrecking the work that has been carried out.
"I must say that of late, problems have eased as the police have been doing all that they can.

"But anti-social behaviour still causes concern for the church's members."

The money has become available for the work via the Transport Corridors Programme, part of the Foundation Economic Development Zone.

Martin Purcell, principal planning officer for Wigan Council, said: "Everyone within the planning department and the local community are expecting see a vast improvement in the appearance of the greenland surrounding St John's Church.

"Because of the work, other issues, such as anti-social behaviour, have been brought to light and should be eased."
Coun Paul Prescott said: "Wrongdoing within the churchyard has been an issue for some time as young people gather in areas where they are difficult to identify.

"But, because of the work that is due to take place, areas where they meet will no longer be cast in shadow or covered by trees.
"If these areas are made more visable it makes the jobs of local police officers all the more easier."
The work is due to finish on September 19.