Mayoral event to be held in Leigh to celebrate mayor's year in office

For many years, the council's main mayoral civic function has been held in Wigan to celebrate the current mayor and their string of achievements.

While this will still continue, a more informal event is being held at Leigh Sports Village this November, in conjunction with Leigh Rotary Club, to celebrate current mayor and Leigh South councillor Kevin Anderson.

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Mayor Anderson marking the official opening of Pennington Flash (Image: Wigan Council)
Born in Leigh and a former St Joseph's primary and St Mary's high student, Cllr Anderson has worked in the social housing sector with his wife Samantha Lloyd for more than 60 years combined.

Huge Leigh Leopards fans, Kevin and Samantha both support a range of community and voluntary groups, and like to attend horse racing and music events.

Cllr Anderson was first elected to Wigan Council for the Hope Carr ward in 1994, and has been re-elected to this ward and subsequently, after boundary changes, the Leigh South ward on nine separate occasions. He has served in the council’s cabinet since 2001. 

The councillor has also been active in his trade union UNISON all of his working life, and is also the vice-chair of the St Helens local government branch.

At the plaque of architect James Prestwich in Leigh (Image: Wigan & Leigh Archives)
Cllr Anderson said: "It’s been a busy year so far as borough mayor. The highlight has to be my trip to Wembley to see Leigh Leopards win the Challenge Cup.

"I have also been blown away by how many people in the borough give their own time to help others and their community.

"From visits to schools, fates, community groups and parks I am very proud of our Borough and consider it a great privilege to serve as borough mayor."

Mayor Anderson at the Astley Youth Band Awards Presentation (Image: Cllr Kevin Anderson)
With Kevin proudly wearing the original Leigh chains of office when attending official functions, it has been decided that a major event should be held in Leigh to reflect the character and success of the town.

Planned to be held at Leigh Sports Village on Friday, November 10, the challenge cup will be on display at the event while funds will also be raised for the Mayor's chosen charities of Samaritans and Manleigh.

There will also be live entertainment, raffles, speeches, and a three-course meal involved in the event, with tickets priced at £48.

Tickets and sponsorship can be booked can be booked through Peter Rowlinson, Rotary Club of Leigh, on 07443 496911 or Rowlinson.p@sky.com.