ATHERTON residents, who in 1997, strongly protested against the construction of a new crematorium at Howe Bridge, now say that it is a real asset to the area and welcome its services.

Some of the original protestors have used the facilities during family bereavement.

Peter Howard explained: "As a local, living near the then proposed crematorium, I was one of the protestors against it.

"But on visiting the crematorium, due to the recent death of my wife, I was amazed at the transformation of the area, the peacefulness and serenity. None of the things we protested about have materialised!"

Another of the original objectors, Fred Taylor said: "In late 1997 we were very worried when we saw the plans. Some people were concerned that it would devalue houses and the traffic it might generate was another concern for us."

A petition was signed by people in and around the area in a bid to halt the project. Strong objections were voiced at a meeting with Wigan Council officials but, despite this, the plans went ahead and the building was completed in the summer of 1999.

Howe Bridge Crematorium has now been operational for about a year. Many locals have begun to relax about it, and are even enjoying the tranquil grounds. Mr Taylor said: "It has been peaceful over the last year. It is a beautiful setting, very tasteful, and a haven for wildlife. They have planted hundreds of trees and I understand there will be more.

"They are developing the landscape all the time, it is a credit to the district. The advantage is that nothing industrial can be built there now. There is a real possibility that it adds value to property."

All the locals who spoke to the BEN agreed in their new found appreciation of the peaceful 10-acre site at the Atherleigh Way/Lovers Lane junction.

Duncan McCallum, Regional Manager of the Crematoria Management Limited, which owns the crematorium said: "At Howe Bridge we are trying to create a parkland environment where people can return to and spend worthwhile time to walk, sit and remember happier times."

The unique 'family gardens' - individual flower beds where up to five cremated remains of family members can be interred -- are proving to be very popular. The random beds are generously spaced in tidy lawns among carefully selected trees. This will eventually develop into a natural leafy glade. The informality of this setting bears a strong contrast to the regimented graves of Victorian-style cemeteries. Duncan has a strong horticultural background which he puts to good use at Howe Bridge. He can often be found, sleeves rolled up, working outdoors in the Remembrance Garden, which is a labour of love and a welcome break from the office.

He explained: "Memorials can help relatives and friends focus their grief. In the past, people would have talked of taking flowers or tending the grave. With cremation, there are more options."

Managing Director, Peter Wilson, who has over 39 years of experience in the business said: "We provide a sensitive service in keeping with local values, meeting the needs of all sections of the community, matching our operation to their requirements and respecting the people we serve.

"We provide an atmosphere where families can grieve in peaceful surroundings and treasure the memory of their loved ones, amongst gardens, flowers and beauty."