We have been walking the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath, but did not look forward to the length through Wigan.

However, the Wigan flashes are now recovering from the iron and coal industry. They are largely green, and we saw more birds and butterflies there than in many rural areas. They are home to the willow tit too.

And I crossed the canal footbridge to witness Wigan Athletic's Premier League struggles at the JJB Stadium, but also enjoyed four trips to Wembley.