UNITED Utilities have thanked residents for their tolerance while work has been going ahead on a major sewer scheme.

The work to replace 2km of pipes, which has affected homes in Lowton, Golborne and Wigan, is set to be completed by the end of the month.

The £700,000 project, which began in October, has taken in hundreds of homes.

Project manager, Dawn Harrison, said: "We want to thank everyone for their patience while the work has been in progress.

'The work carried out should mean that there are no unexpected problems, such as sewer collapses, which if they do occur in a built-up area of this kind can cause disruption to local business and community life."