THE MOTHER of a son with learning disabilities is hoping to start a group for adults with the same problem -- but needs volunteers to make her vision work.

Widow, Mrs Frances Raftery, aged 59, plans to open a Gateway club at The Orchards Centre on Chatham Street and is searching for helpers and people interested in joining.

The club will be for adults aged 18 and over, and Mrs Raftery, of Gloucester Street, Atherton said she will be putting in as much time and effort as possible to make the venture successful.

She said: "There are 700 Gateway clubs in the country, but not one in Leigh. I think it is needed and I want to bring the club here.

"I will get things up and running as soon as I find volunteers and people interested in being a member, but I can't do it without them.

"I am willing to put in every bit of effort I can to get it started, but l need help. I need committed people who are willing to put in a couple of hours, one night a week, perhaps 7 to 9 pm on a Wednesday."

Day services manager, Helen Skargill gave Mrs Raftery permission to use the purpose built Orchards Centre, which she said was fantastic news.

She said: " It's beautiful, there are lots of rooms and kitchens for cooking. It's a perfect centre in which to hold the Gateway club, and with the right people I hope to make it a great success."