Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust’s tourism unit has launched historical tours and walks around Wigan to boost tourism numbers.

The six different tours and walks – approved by the Institute of Tourist Guiding – are part of a package called Pies, Piers and Pilgrim Fathers.

Qualified Blue Badge guides and trained countryside rangers lead the tours, although some are self-guided.

Keith Bergman, tourism development manager for the Trust, said: “The Tourist Information Centre receives more than 25,000 enquiries each year and many visitors ask about guided walks and talks. We have launched a great mix of tours to give people the opportunity to discover Wigan’s illustrious heritage and enjoy its beautiful countryside.”

Tours will take place throughout the year and are available for individual and group bookings. The Trust aims to provide 20 assorted tours in the first year for around 300 people.

In addition, the tourism unit has also released its latest 32-page tourist guide – Visit Wigan.

More than 40,000 copies will be distributed across the UK and internationally over the next two years. Details: www.visitwigan.com