TWENTY-SEVEN years of specialised care has put Tyldesley's Fourways Centre in a unique position.

Since it opened - unofficially in autumn 1974, but officially by then Prime Minister Harold Wilson on March 14, 1975 - Fourways has assessed and helped rehabilitate younger, disabled adults.

Nowadays Fourways focuses mainly on 18-35 year-olds and their rehabilitation after traumatic injury.

The centre caters for the whole of Wigan and some neighbouring authorities and caters for up to 50 individuals, but also has residential facilities for 15 students plus three respite beds.

Principal Ian Earnshaw explained: "We are always looking at the need to change. Over the years we have adapted well to demands and needs.

"We are meeting new challenges all the time."

A proportion of Fourways' work centres on working with road accident victims, preparing them for the future, and showing brain injury survivors how to cope.

Over the years Fourways and its skilled staff has built up a wealth or resources, offering after-care service and genetic counselling.

Staff feel especially pleased with their work when past students return to relate success stories.

Mr Earnshaw said: "A lot have benefited from their time here. One student, a cerebral palsy sufferer, did 'A' levels and went on to get a degree. He was a most determined young man and now works for Greater Manchester Police.

"Fourways is a place made up of individuals; we aim to give them confidence."

The centre is interactive with Wigan Council Social Services and County Palatine Housing Association. It is ever-improving, thanks in no small part to the backing of The Friends of Fourways charity group and a supportive community.

The Friends group was formed 10 years ago by former Fourways Principal Kathleen Bruce.

Present chairman Peter Lloyd, Dave Bond, Johnny Packard, Margaret Gartside and Red Lion (Sale Lane) landlord Terry Daley made up the original band of backers.

And Trevor Barton has been an unstinting helper and adviser.

Founder members Peter Lloyd and Margaret Gartside are still involved.

And nowadays the line-up includes treasurer Andy Parr, secretary Denise Ashworth, Frank Hayes, Trevor Lloyd and Linda McLoughlin plus helpers Paul Neal and Sister Barbara Bodie.

An annual Friends' favourite fund-raiser is the 60-mile Manchester to Blackpool cycle ride.

And how those pedallers have added milepower to the Friends' fund-raising efforts!

For eight years the turnout averaged 15-16 riders - now it's up to 34 competitors who in 1997 raised around £1,600.

Over the years the Friends' efforts have provided two specially-adapted vehicles - an Escort chairman transporter and a mini bus - plus a holiday in Spain, a holiday home on the Fylde, a special bed, hoists and resuscitation equipment.

Now all efforts are being directed at installing a Snoezelen Room at Fourways to provide therapeutic relaxation.

Friends' chairman Peter Lloyd and Mr Earnshaw echoed their gratitude to Fourways' well-wishers: "We'd like to say a big 'Thank You' to everybody in the community. Nothing we have done would have been possible without you."

Mr Lloyd continued: "Over the years we have had tremendous support form Rotary and Round Table groups. We have been welcomed to a variety of venues like The Rendezvous, Atherton Sailors' and Soldiers' Club, the Botanical Gardens, Paddy's, Tyldesley Labour Club and the Formby Hall.

"We have had tremendous support from the local community and companies. Rather than simply ask for donations we like to try to show our gratitude for their support and organise something they can enjoy."

The next event is a 70s' night featuring Hollywood Flarez and a disco on January 23 at Atherton Formby Hall. For tickets call Fourways on 01942-870841.

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