Pennington Flash

I took all these photographs in one day, Tuesday 27th March, 2007.

A "flash", in this context, is a body of water formed as a result of mining subsidence.

In the mid 19th century, Pennington Flash did not exist.

As the underlying mining tunnels began to collapse, the land sank and water began to settle. By 1905 a large lake had formed.

In the mid 20th century the land was a desolate mess, but during the 1960s and 1970s plans began to emerge to develop the site as an area for wildlife and recreation.

In 1981 Pennington Country Park was opened. It is 200 hectares in size with the 70 hectare flash at the centre.

Among the facilities are:

• An information point;
• 7 bird hides;
• Picnic and recreation areas;
• a nine hole golf course, described as "challenging";
• sailing and windsurfing with Leigh and Lowton Sailing Club;
• fishing;
• horse riding.

Many family events are arranged, especially in summer.

Well worth a visit.