Fifty Days and Counting for The Way We Were

Wednesday 31st October 2007

Families across the North West are being urged to experience a day out with a difference one last time before Wigan Pier's The Way We Were closes on Thursday 20th December.

It's now just 50 days until the award winning heritage attraction will open its doors for the last time as part of the regeneration of the Wigan Pier Quarter.

To entice old friends and new visitors to the famous site for a final visit The Way We Were is offering entry at a special discounted rate of just £2 for all visitors. Those taking up the offer can experience 1900s life on the coal face, sample a tale from a pit brow lass and enjoy the rigours of the famous Victorian schoolroom.

Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust's Executive Director for Heritage Pete Gascoigne said:

"The Way We Were has been a hugely successful heritage attraction. In its day it was a pioneering facility that rightfully won countless tourism and education awards. I know many people treasure their memories of The Way We Were. We would like people who haven't been before to enjoy the experience for themselves before we move on."

Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, who manage The Way We Were, is currently working in partnership with Wigan Council and Drumcroon arts education service to finalise plans for a new arts and heritage learning centre at Wigan Pier Quarter.

Pete continued: "We are looking to the future with determination and enthusiasm. The spirit of The Way We Were will live on in the new developments at the Wigan Pier Quarter. We will continue to offer an educational experience that will enhance the excellent reputation synonymous with the name Wigan Pier."

A project team is currently finalising plans for the new £4 million plus facility which will include the world famous Trencherfield Mill Engine as its heritage centrepiece. Plans for the new centre also include a large gallery space, workshops and artists studios.

In addition, a flexible 106 seat theatre space will give performers the opportunity to work in a professional space that could also be used to show local films or art-house cinema. This will complement Wigan Council's partnership with Wigan and Leigh College who are planning to create a 300-plus seat venue at The Linacre Theatre.

Following closure, the building housing The Way We Were will be handed back to Wigan Council who are currently seeking expressions of interest from prospective new tenants.

The Way We Were at Wigan Pier is open Monday to Thursday 10am to 5pm and on Sundays 11am to 5pm. The £2 offer extends to all visitors with the exception of special activities and entrance to the Trencherfield Mill Engine. Visit www.wiganpier.net or call 01942 323666 for further details.