History of Wigan   (Help with ancient and recent history.)

Hello all !

I've been reading these forums for years. I moved here nearly 9 years ago now and I am constantly blown away by the pint of history here. Even just around the corner behind Beech Hill in the woods and "The Valley".

I've walked around there many times but my imagination can not produce the image the information I have to create a picture as to what it looked like.

Being 33, coal mines were on their last legs as I was popping out of the womb and I've always said I was born 40 year too early.

I'm looking forward to learning about the Whelley Loop Line, local coal mines but especially the history around the woods behind Beech Hill. It blows my mind.

Out of interest, would anyone know of a shaft/ ventilation system around Ashfield Park Drive and Birch Avenue ?

My other half's Dad has been asking about it and I can't find any information about it.

Thank you all for your help that you never knew you give.

Tom.