I AM writing in reply to a recent letter sent in by a resident from Breightmet headed “No funding for flowers”.

The writer was praising the floral troughs on display in Astley Bridge, Bromley Cross, and Egerton, and thought they were funded by the council or local area forums. This isn’t the case.

The flower troughs in Astley Bridge are funded by the Friends of Astley Bridge which was specifiically formed to generate revenue for the enhancement to the quality of life for residents 12 months ago.

Astley Bridge In Bloom commenced last summer with some initial pump prime funding from the Area Forum but it is now self financing, and it is planned to make sure the troughs have flowers displayed in them throughout the full year.

The flowers are certainly enjoyed by everyone who sees them and a big thanks must go to local residents, and the businesses who look after the troughs.

Friends of Astley Bridge group comprises of representatives from residents, businesses, organisations including churches, scouts, and schools, plus the three local councillors.

Councillor Paul Wild Astley Bridge Ward Thornham Drive Astley Bridge