VILLAGE green hopefuls have until next spring to qualify for Countryside Commission cash.

National Lottery funding totalling £10 million has been awarded to the Commission to help create at least 250 Millennium Green breathing spaces by the year 2000.

Millennium Greens adviser for the north west Anna Righton explained:"We have had all sorts of proposals from derelict sites in the middle of cities, to farm land on the edge of a small parish, an old sand quarry, a derelict coal tip and even an unused bus turning circle.

"I'm sure there is a suitable area somewhere in and around Leigh, but we need to hear by Spring 1998."

The official definition of a millennium green is an open space to be enjoyed permanently by the local community. A place where people can relax, children can play and everyone can enjoy nature.

Locals decide how they want to develop the site and the Countryside Commission can provide 50% of the costs of its purchase and creation.

And the Commission can advise on raising the other 50 per cent, through grants, fund-raising, sponsorship, donations and voluntary labour.

Wigan Council has responded to criticism that no bids for cash had been submitted from within the borough.

A spokesman said:"We are very supportive of this idea and are working with a number of community groups at the moment.

"The Council can't submit bids itself - they have to come from within the community. Anybody who has an idea should contact our Resource Procurement Team on 01942 705720.

"We are hoping by Spring at least two projects will be submitted - but the more the merrier."

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