WHEN Andy Burton upped sticks to Ashton-in-Makerfield, he had no idea what to expect.
Having grown up in inner city Salford before serving in the Army, he is a man who has seen a lot.
But since moving here three years ago, he hasn't looked back. He has thrown himself into his new community, setting up a business in the heart of the high street and becoming an avid follower of the local football team.
He's not the only one to have been seduced by Ashton, a small town four miles south of Wigan. Over the last 12 months, house prices have soared and have seen the town recently named as Greater Manchester's property hotspot of 2023.
House values in the WN4 postcode area increased by 12pc over the last year - far more than in any other part of the region.
The average home sold for £208,257 in the 12 months up to December 2023, which is up from £185,941 in the year prior.
Historically known for being a coal mining district and a centre for the manufacture of locks and hinges, Ashton-in-Makerfield is quietly carving out a new reputation.
With a flourishing street lined with an ever-growing number of independent shops, bars and restaurants, the town is shedding its industrial past and emerging as a popular destination for families and professionals.
Its strong road connections are a big part of its pull. Equidistant between Manchester and Liverpool city centres, Ashton is just minutes from the busy East Lancs Road.
The M6 motorway runs past the town, meaning the drone of traffic is never far away. Several bus services also pass through Ashton, providing links to neighbouring towns such as Wigan, Leigh, Bolton, Warrington and St Helens.
Mr Burton, a huge City fan, is not surprised to hear the town is in high demand. For him, the soaring house prices only show that Ashton is going from strength to strength.
"Ashton is on the up," he declared.
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