AN important piece of Leigh history will take pride of place in the civic regalia display at Leigh Town Hall.

A marvellous silver casket containing a celebration scroll was presented a century ago to John Fairclough, the first Mayor of Leigh.

Now it has been presented to the town.

Mrs Ethel Norman decided the casket, which had been handed down to her husband, the late John Holden Fairclough and grandson of the town's first Mayor, should go on public view.

"It has been in the family since the turn of the century," said Mrs Norman, who lives in Culcheth. "But I feel it ought to go be displayed where the people of Leigh can see it."

The casket, containing a ceremonial scroll and inlaid with views of the Leigh Borough coat of arms and Town Hall, was presented by Mrs Norman to the Mayor, Cllr Mrs Evelynne Smith, and Deputy Leader of Wigan Council Tom Sherratt.

Cllr Sherratt, who has played a major role in ensuring civic regalia such as the magnificent Leigh mace and Sir Thomas Tyldesley's portrait are given prominence, said:

"I am delighted. This is an important piece of local history and will be expertly restored and put on display in Leigh Town Hall.

"We are grateful to Mrs Norman for donating it."

Mrs Norman is pictured handing the casket over to the Mayor and Cllr Sherratt. 209/207/2

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