TWO supermums from Journal-land are to help manage the borough's education authority.

Tyldesley mother-of-seven Sharon Cunliffe, aged 42, who is a parent governor at Shakerley Juniors, and mum-of-four Anne Farnworth, 31, a parent governor at Rose Bridge High School are to join Wigan Council's Lifelong Learning Panel.

It is the first time parents of schoolchildren have been represented on the governing bodies of their schools for a number of years, say education chiefs.

Sharon, of York Avenue, a housewife whose seven children are aged between six and 24, will represent the interests of the parents of primary school children.

She said: "I care deeply about our society and the young people who will be its custodians in the future, and I feel that this opportunity for parents and their representatives to be involved in decision making about education is a very exciting and positive move."

Anne, who is also attends the council's strategy meetings, will speak up for parents of secondary school children.

She is also a housewife and her four children are aged between five and 15.

"This is a first for both Sharon and myself so as representatives of both local parents and of the many parent governors, we need people to tell us how best we can speak up for them.

"We now have the right to voice opinions, our opinions and yours, where it matters.

"When the big education issues come up as they will, I want to cast my vote in the way that you want me to."

The cabinet member for lifelong learning Cllr Brian Wilson said they are very happy to welcome Sharon and Anne to the panel "Parents who are also school governors will do a lot to "earth" our discussion in the future and help us to make better child centred decisions."

Both Sharon and Anne have been given special phone numbers on which parents or other parent governors can contact them. Sharon can be reached on 01942 888321 and Anne on 01942 776445.