Artistic waste management employee creates VE Day plaque for Wigan recycling centre

Chris Richards has made the impressive piece depicting a World War Two plane, which is on display at the household recycling centre on Slag Lane, out of recycled materials.
The artwork at the Slag Lane household recycling centreThe artwork at the Slag Lane household recycling centre
The artwork at the Slag Lane household recycling centre

FCC Environment had planned to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day at all three of its sites in the borough but the current public health emergency meant the idea was put on hold.

However, team leader Chris decided to use his creative talents to honour those who fought and died in the conflict between 1939 and 1945.

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FCC Environment contract manager Barry Elder said: "Over 75 years ago, during the Second World War, our veterans defended our country on the front line and home front. Today, our soldiers are our key workers across the country, committed to protecting our nation during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The plaque Chris has created is very meaningful, commemorating VE Day 75 as a tribute to everyone who served so courageously in World War Two. By using recyclable materials, it is symbolic of how our staff continue to play their vital part in keeping the country going and protecting public health,"

Staff working at the borough's household recycling centres have also received kind messages from Wigan residents during the coronavirus pandemic.

Ian Burns, waste disposal and strategy manager at Wigan Council, said: "Covid-19 has turned our world upside down, disrupting normal life for all of us. There are some things that just remain unchanged, however, such as our deep respect for those who fought in the Second World War.

"As we battle now with this current coronavirus crisis, we are strengthened throughout by the overwhelmingly positive community spirit and support towards our front line key workers,