MILL owner Les Yates has been praised for his vision in transforming the Ena Mill site.

The Atherton businessman, owner of the grade two listed mill and QS Fashions, has retained the lodge and brought the grounds back into use - in support of the town's Cleaner Greener Campaign.

Appreciative Leigh MEP Terry Wynn and members of the group, pictured below, this week visited the site to congratulate Les on his vision.

Mr Wynn said: "I am very impressed with the mill and surrounding area. It is good that a grant from the European Regional Development Fund made all this possible."

The Flapper Fold Lane mill was brought back into use by grants from Europe and Atherton Building Communities and there are now small and big businesses based on site - all employing local people.

Les, who lives in Atherton, said: "I am proud to be able to help local people back into work and to have such an impressive building is an added bonus."

Cllrs Mark Aldred, Reg Holmes and Susan Loudon said: "We are proud to thank Les personally for what he has contributed to the life of Atherton. The mill is an exceptional building and was well worth investing in. The area is always well maintained and is a credit to Les and his workforce."