HAG Fold residents have been recognised for helping neighbours address alcohol issues in their community.

A group of volunteer alcohol health champions has been trained on how to make a difference to their local area by tackling alcohol misuse as part of Communities in Charge of Alcohol programme running across Greater Manchester.

The scheme encourages communities to look at ways to reduce harm in the area caused by alcohol.

This can include getting involved in licensing as well as talking to family and friends about the impact of booze can have.

They can also support people to find healthier alternatives, reduce their drinking or guide them to specialist support from Healthy Routes and Addaction.

The first champions, who are being supported by Wigan Council and Addaction, are now using their knowledge to train up others in the community on issues such as the impact alcohol can have on physical and mental health and  ways to help people reduce their intake.

They’re also hosting drop-in sessions in the community and pop-up stalls at events in Hag Fold.

Cllr Keith Cunliffe, Wigan Council deputy leader, presented the first trainees with their level two award in understanding alcohol misuse from The Royal Society of Public Health.

He said: “It was an honour to present the first of the alcohol health champions in Hag Fold with their certificates and hear about how they are using their training to make a difference to where they live.

“Empowering people and giving them the skills to address issues which affect their community is what ‘The Deal for Health and Wellness’ is all about.

"We know that support from friends and family makes a huge difference in addressing health issues such as alcohol misuse and people are more likely to take on help and advice from someone they know.”

To get involved or find out more about the scheme visit Hag Fold In Charge of Alcohol page facebook.com/HFAHC01.