The biggest and the best Community Day ever staged by Wigan Rotary Club had the centre of Wigan buzzing with activity. Following a very successful Community Day last year, on Saturday 7th July this year, 2018, under perfect weather conditions Standishgate once again vibrated to the sound of the Wigan Intermediate Jazz Orchestra, the Really Awful Orchestra followed by entertainment organised by The Old Courts which included students from ALRA. All along the street approximately 80 representatives of many local charities, who had been brought together by the Rotary Club of Wigan, were in full flow telling the shoppers about their good causes, seeking to recruit volunteers and passing on information to fellow sufferers. Others raised much needed funds so their good work can continue. There was a great atmosphere and the Mayor, Cllr Sue Greensmith, accompanied by her husband, toured all the many stalls chatting to the participants. It was agreed by all that it had been a fantastic day.

Wigan Rotary Club President, John Wright said “We have been very impressed by the number of organisations who responded to our invitation.” He continued “We were so pleased to welcome the new Mayor, Cllr. Sue Greensmith and her husband to the event especially following on from the signing of a new Charter for Twinning with Angers. This added to the atmosphere, which was quite unique’’.

There was a really tremendous atmosphere this fifth year. Wigan Rotary also had their own stall manned by Wigan Rotarians to promote the work that they do. It was a very worthwhile experience and one which the Club hope to repeat next year. Once again it would be open to all local charities, local branches of national charities and recognised good causes, at no cost to them. The Wigan Rotary Club thank the Wigan people for their amazing support.

New President of Wigan Rotary Club 2018-2019

The handover took place at a club meeting recently and Rotarian John Wright became the new President of Wigan Rotary Club. He joined Rotary in an attempt to give back to the Community some of the help and assistance afforded to him during a lifetime spent in Wigan. John is a widower and has two children who are both teachers.

He worked in and around Wigan all his working life. He retired from Wigan and Leigh College in 1997 as Assistant Principal - Estates after 35 years service. His ties with the Wigan College still remain as he now serves as a Foundation Governor.

His interests are wide and varied. Described as a cricket fanatic, chairing cricket at Wigan Cricket Club for15 years and a longstanding member of Lancashire County Cricket Club.

He loves music of all genres, particularly live music and musical theatre and is an avid supporter of musical and theatre groups throughout the North West.

The Club looks forward to an interesting and exciting year under his presidency.