LEIGH'S heritage has been firmly put on the map, thanks to The Journal.

On Monday the the first of a series of new signs was unveiled welcoming visitors with a reminder of the town's culture and sporting achievements.

And the first sign will also be a memorial to 35-year-old council signwriter Andrew Cannon who died suddenly shortly after completing it.

The sign was the brainchild of Bedford/Astley councillor John Lea and he was supported in the funding by cash from the 'Brighter Borough' initiative and £2,000 from The Journal .

But it was a fight for Cllr Lea to get council backing for his project.

"And I want to thank my local colleagues for their support when there was some opposition."

Dedicating the sign on the Marsland Green/Leigh boundary to Mr Cannon's memory, Cllr Lea said a plaque on the reverse side would be a reminder of his craftsmanship.

"This sign is a symbol of our heritage and the evolvement of the town," said Cllr Lea.

Journal editor Malcolm Ryding (right) is pictured handing over £2,000 sponsorship for the signs to Cllr Lea while councillors and officers look on.

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