THE Rugby League World Cup has reached its conclusion and although results didn’t go England’s way in the latter stages of the men’s and women’s competitions, we can reflect on a successful tournament as a host venue.

As I highlighted in my previous column, we were treated to some great matches at the LSV and all three tournaments – the men’s, women’s and wheelchair competitions – were an amazing festival of rugby league.

In particular, I would like to congratulate the England Wheelchair team, who claimed victory in a thrilling final against France.

I hope many of you enjoyed the Frost Fest celebrations in Leigh town centre last weekend, including the Light Night lantern parade and annual Christmas Lights switch-on.

It really does signal the start of the festive season and so I would like to highlight that the free weekday parking offer (after 3pm) has returned and will remain in place until January for local authority car parks in the town centre.

This is in addition to the free weekend parking scheme that remains in place through until March next year.

Please take the opportunity to support our local business community and independent traders at this important time of year.

For full details, and to see where council owned car parks are located in the borough: wigan.gov.uk/carparking

Now that the weather is getting colder and with the rising cost of living, we know heating your home can be challenging.

I’m proud that we have been able to open a network of warm, welcoming spaces you can visit to stay warm this winter.

Each of these spaces are different in what they offer, but if you do visit, you’ll be met with warmth, kindness and a friendly welcome.

You can find out more about the spaces which have opened their doors, including Leigh Library, Turnpike Gallery and Bookcycle Leigh, at wigan.gov.uk/HereForYou

Earlier this month it was a privilege to attend the Our Town Awards that recognised many of our borough’s extraordinary individuals and groups who contribute so much to their communities.

The Young Rising Star award went to Evie Blackburn, a volunteer for local dance troupe WigLe dance.

Other winners included Kerry Cunningham who took home the community leader award and Alison Ball who was awarded the climate champion award.

Well done to everyone involved, it was a fantastic evening.