A LEIGH councillor has joined the front line to help tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

Father-of-two Charles Rigby has been appointed to represent Wigan Council on the Greater Manchester Police Authority.

Cllr Rigby, 51, who took up the post last month, has been a Labour councillor since 2000 and represents Leigh South ward.

A joiner by trade, he has been a member of the Children's Services Panel, the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Performance Panel.

When not occupied with council and local community matters he enjoys reading.

Cllr Rigby said: "I am pleased to represent the people of Wigan and Leigh on the authority. I am hopeful I can achieve the best possible policing service that will enable people to feel safe and secure in their homes and on the streets.

"It is important that the Police Authority and Greater Manchester Police work closely together as both organisations are committed to reducing crime and tackling anti-social behaviour."

Cllr Rigby joins the independent watchdog body during a period of considerable change and modernisation for GMP, whose performance it monitors.

It is also responsible for ensuring that GMP's annual budget of more than £500 million is used to deliver the most effective police service possible.