ATHERTON residents noisily voiced their concerns after hearing that Hag Fold estate has been earmarked as a refuge for political asylum seekers.

They weren't happy at being told the first arrivals were expected next week destined for homes on the Spa Road area of the Atherton estate.

Wigan Council feels Hag Fold could offer suitable sanctuary for some of the thousands of people from poorer countries who seek help in Britain.

In 1988 there were 4,000 applications for asylum - already this year there have been 44,000 and Wigan is preparing to accept suitable applicants who pass Government entry control.

Last week locals descended on local authority representatives at a meeting at the estate's Dorset Road Community Centre.

Wigan's assistant housing manager Mike Simpson told anxious locals the newcomers would include families and single people from various countries.

On Monday and Thursday of this week various agencies met at workshops held in the community centre. They are busy making preparations for the new arrivals and reassuring apprehensive residents.

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