Photo-a-Day  (Thursday, 11th October, 2018)

When I was growing up in Wigan Drumcroon was the house and surgery of Dr Talwyrn-Jones and his wife Dr Henrietta Talwyrn-Jones. He was Welsh, as his name implies, and a rather gruff, dour character. I never knew his Christian name. Henrietta was a delightful Irishwoman who, I'm told, cured me of potentially fatal whooping cough with an early, experimental antibiotic.

It's good to see the building being used instead of rotting away. The glass building next to it only serves to enhance the architecture and solidness of it.

Its thanks to Martin Ainscough, Bill Ainscough and Dave Whelan that this lovely old house is like it is.

Come in Cyril

At one time Drumcroon was used by the local Authority and was used as an Art Centre. I seem to recall this as I worked in schools.

Dr Jones was our family doctor till he retired in the mid 70's, I remember the waiting room, rather dark with a chair that was carved to look as if it was made of logs. Would be worth a fortune on Antiques Roadshow nowadays. I also remember the reception window with ancient bottles of medicines at the back, probably predated the NHS.

My hubby was taken there to be diagnosed with Diptheria when he was about five years old,had to go back home with his Mum and Auntie to wait for the ambulance to take him to Hospital.

It is a shame that it couldn't have been left as the ground breaking art and design education centre and gallery, it was unique to Wigan, and always looked cheery and colourful. It now looks a sad, empty building, especially with the grey window frames and doors, a bit like the owners, eh Mick.

The Guardian Obituary for Keith Walker who was the original Art Education Officer at Drumcroon can be read here:

https://www.theguardian.com/education/2015/dec/09/keith-walker-obituary

The grey window frames and doors are not rotting away now and the roof isn't leaking like they was before

What is going to happen with it? I didn't realise it was empty even though the paintwork is diabolical -,at least it's secure. There are so many lovely buildings like this in Wigan- it's tragic that they are not used!

Apparently it not empty and is now one of the nationwide centres of Hop Skip and Jump Foundation who provide immediate and flexible respite care for children and young adults with disabilities and SEN.

Their web site says that they are able to cater for up to 60 children a day, providing a variety of groups and activities for them to engage with, indoor and outdoor play facilities, all with an emphasis on self-development and discovery.

Our Centres are equipped with sensory rooms, soft play facilities and art rooms in order to provide a safe and secure space that enriches the lives of disabled children whilst their parents receive a much needed break.

Where on Parson's Walk is this?