French Culture Takes Center Stage at Angers Twinning Association’s Wine and Cheese Tasting

The rich tapestry of French flavours and culture took centre stage at the Angers Twinning Association’s annual Wine and Cheese Tasting, a highlight of French Week. Now in its fourth year, this event celebrates Wigan twinning with the French town of Angers, fostering community spirit and cultural appreciation. The evening offered an insightful exploration into the deep-rooted connection between wine and cheese in French culture, … Continue reading French Culture Takes Center Stage at Angers Twinning Association’s Wine and Cheese Tasting

Turnpike Gallery: Ukrainian Photography Reveals the Fragility of Home in War

Ukranian Photography Exhibition at The Turnpike Gallery. A touring exhibition of Ukrainian photographers arrives at The Turnpike presented by the Open Eye Gallery. At the heart of the exhibition are questions about the meaning of home and how we can visualize it. Curated by Max Gorbatsky and Victoria Bavyzina, the exhibition offers unique perspectives on themes such as identity, landscape, experimental art, and folk and … Continue reading Turnpike Gallery: Ukrainian Photography Reveals the Fragility of Home in War

Remembrance Sunday: We Shall never forget their sacrifice

Remembrance Sunday, observed on the second Sunday of November, is a day to honour all those who gave their lives for the peace and freedom we cherish today. Countless men and women made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of liberty, and we have to ensure that their memory endures.This year, Remembrance Sunday was observed on November 10, serving as a day of reflection throughout … Continue reading Remembrance Sunday: We Shall never forget their sacrifice

Mixed Motives and Blackmail in St. Joseph’s Players’ ‘A Murder is Announced’

I had the pleasure of watching St. Joseph’s Players’ production of Agatha Christie’s A Murder is Announced, which ran from October 1st to 5th at St. Joseph’s Hall in Leigh. Originally adapted for the stage by Leslie Darbon, this production was directed by Barbara Myers, a member of the Players. Set in the 1950s in the small town of Chipping Cleghorn, a local newspaper announces … Continue reading Mixed Motives and Blackmail in St. Joseph’s Players’ ‘A Murder is Announced’

Ladies of Leigh: A Thought-Provoking Play Illuminates the Untold History of Women in Leigh

“The Ladies of Leigh,” written by Julie McKiernan and Corrie Shelley, is a dynamic performance that brings the forgotten history of Leigh’s women to life. Julie, a freelance writer, creative writing tutor, and amateur historian, is known for her work on local history through scripts, essays, and books. Corrie, a talented singer, photographer, and composer of local history folk songs, adds her musical flair to … Continue reading Ladies of Leigh: A Thought-Provoking Play Illuminates the Untold History of Women in Leigh

Women of Grit and Grace: The Steel Magnolias Shine in The Turnpike Community Theatre production

Steel Magnolias, written by Robert Harling, is a thought-provoking and sentimental play that highlights the strength of friendship. Inspired by the tragic death of his sister Susan due to complications from diabetes, the characters in the play are close to Robert’s heart. The play was famously adapted into a film in 1989, featuring stars such as Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton, Olympia Dukakis, Shirley … Continue reading Women of Grit and Grace: The Steel Magnolias Shine in The Turnpike Community Theatre production

A rather unusual bookshop: the reopening of Leigh Book Cycle

On June 18th, the beloved charity book shop Book Cycle reopened its doors, marking a new chapter since its closure earlier last year. Previously located in the Spinning Jenny shopping centre, the store holds fond memories for many Leigh residents. However, the end of their temporary tenancy of goodwill with Spinning Jenny meant they had to find a new home. Book Cycle is a UK-based, … Continue reading A rather unusual bookshop: the reopening of Leigh Book Cycle

Creating deep and lasting impressions: The Turnpike Gallery’s Chance Encounter Exhibition

‘Chance Encounter Banner’ by The Turnpike Gallery. On April 20th, I had the pleasure of attending the Turnpike Gallery’s launch of their latest exhibition, “Chance Encounter.” This captivating exhibition features the works of two distinguished artists, Jeanette Orrell and Leonard Green, both hailing from Leigh and boasting impressive international careers. The showcase was lively upon arrival with people gathered to share and celebrate local artists … Continue reading Creating deep and lasting impressions: The Turnpike Gallery’s Chance Encounter Exhibition