Moving to Preston, Lancashire... How is social life there?

Hello everyone :-)

Looking to meet nice new people in Preston / Manchester, as I will move there for a new job!
Would very much like to hear everything and anything about this area :-)
Coming from Holland and anxious to meet new friends and people to hang out with.

How is the experience for the people on this forum ?
Any good advice on how to go about this?

Thanks in advance!

wild, involving loads of beer.