A LEIGH duo who served the community for nearly half a century have joined the ranks of Wigan's top dogs.

Retired politicians Jimmy Jones and John Hession received one of the borough's highest honours on Wednesday night when they were installed as Honorary Aldermen in Wigan Town Hall by the Mayor Cllr Joan Hurst.

Ex-Mayor and Higher Fold resident Jimmy Jones and his former council and Labour colleague John Hession both retired in Spring after lengthy public service

Mr Jones, 73, of Lowther Drive won a seat on Leigh Borough Council in 1972, but in 1975 -- after local government reorganisation -- he lost his Wigan Council seat.

He won it back in 1979 and represented Bedford Astley ward through until his retirement this year.

The former colliery worker was Mayor in 1987-8.

Mr Hession served on the Council's housing, social services, establishment, public protection, planning and development and police liaison bodies.

He chaired the local transport users' group and was area delegate on the regional ROSPA accident prevention group and played a major part in securing a door-to-door Ring and Ride bus service.

Tyldesley-born Mr Hession, of Eva Street, Leigh who represented voters in Hope Carr and Leigh Central wards is dedicating his commemorative scroll in memory of his late wife, Barbara.