THE summer may have only just come to an end, but some nature lovers are already thinking of spring.

Bulbs are being planted by gardening enthusiasts around the Wingates estate and at Howe Bridge Crematorium and Cemetery.

Members of the Wingates Residents Association have bought 17,000 spring bulbs - £1,000 worth - with a grant from the Westhoughton Neighbourhood Panel.

The daffodils and crocuses are being planted on land around the Wingates estate in Westhoughton, including grass verges on Chorley Road, The Croft, Bamber Croft and Holden Lea.

But residents are looking for some help to plant the bulbs before the end of November to ensure that they are in full bloom next spring.

A thousand bulbs have also been planted in a crematorium memorial garden at Howe Bridge.

Neighbourhood group the Howe Bridgers took part in the work as part of its week of environmental events.

This has included health and fitness days, the chance to sample organic produce and a Fairtrade campaign.

Cllr Susan Loundon, who organised the event, said: "We have held this annual event for the last six years and it has been very successful.

"The flowers will brighten the entrance up in the spring."

Today, a memorial tree at the crematorium will be rededicated to a pilot who died in 1971.

A youth club in the Isle of Man planted the original tribute for John Greene, who died in an accident when he was in his early 20s. That tree was blown down by wind and a new tree was planted last year.

To offer your help to the Wingates group, contact 01942 790694 or 01942 811600.