Despite of the appalling weather Standishgate once again vibrated to the sound of the Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra supported by other local groups who entertained visitors to the Annual Community Day sponsored by Wigan Rotary Club.

This is the third year for the event and all along the street representatives of many local charities were in full flow telling the shoppers about their good causes, seeking to recruit volunteers and passing on information about their charity. Other raised much needed funds so their good work could continue. There was a great atmosphere and the event was supported by the Mayor, Cllr Ron Conway along with his wife, the Mayoress, who visited every stall.

These ranged from Age UK to the Cansfield School Uganda project, Haigh and Aspull Show to Pensioners Link and the MS Society to the Sea Cadets. Everyone, including the Rotary Club itself, who had a stall this year, enjoyed the opportunity of meeting the shoppers and others who had made the special effort to visit Standishgate.

Following the Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra on the stage were performances from the Smith’s Academy, the Willpower Theatre Group along with Wigan Youth Zone. Their efforts were very much appreciated by the crowds who gathered around during the afternoon in spite of the continuous inclement weather!

Wigan Rotary Club President, Maureen Bilsborough, said “We have been very impressed by all those who responded to our initial invitation.” She continued “We were so pleased to welcome the new Mayor, Cllr. Ron Conway and the Mayoress to the event. There has been a really good atmosphere this third year. I feel sure Wigan Rotary will be holding the event again next year which will be open to all local charities, local branches of national charities and recognised good causes, at no cost to them”. She thanked everyone for their support.