A COMMUNITY centre for older people has been given a facelift.

A refurbishment of Astley Pensioners Hut on Manchester Road has paved the way for a modern kitchen to be installed along with new windows and a fresh internal decoration.

The volunteer-run centre, which is managed by Marion Latchford, was provided funding by Wigan Council's The Deal community scheme to carry out the work.

Astley and Mosley Common Cllr Barry Taylor said: “Me and my fellow ward councillors Christine Roberts and Paula Wakefield are very pleased to see the transformation of this valuable community asset.

"Wigan Council is committed to preventing loneliness and isolation in older people.

"Astley pensioners now have a modern working venue where they can continue to enjoy social activities and be provided with a nourishing meal.”

Wigan Council operations manager David Calland led the project, which encountered asbestos problems, with the installation of the kitchen and windows as well as the decoration work completed by Scott Howarth and his team including modern apprentice Anthony James.