Writer and broadcaster Stuart Maconie, rugby league legend Billy Boston and John Winnard, one half of the team behind Uncle Joe’s Mintballs have been honoured as three of Wigan’s most famous sons. They have had their names immortalised in a Hollywood-style Walk of Fame at the Wigan Life Centre.
They are the first stars to be placed on the Walk of Wigan Life at the new North site that includes a new library and facilities for voluntary organisations and public services.
Wigan Council hopes that other famous Wigan locals will join the men on the Walk of Wigan Life.
Billy said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to have the star. Wigan’s a wonderful town with the best people in the world.
“People keep saying about what I have done for Wigan, but really it’s what Wigan has done for me. The new Life Centre is a lovely facility, and it’s fantastic for the town.”
Stuart said: “I’m particularly pleased to see the new library, which is a subject very close to my heart. I believe passionately that libraries empower people, and I remember as a child the library seemed a magical place. It’s fantastic to have the star, and particularly nice for my family and parents, who are Wiganers born and bred.”
John, who recently received an MBE, said: “I’m very proud and honoured, and it’s especially nice to be recognised by the local community. To be alongside Stuart and Billy is absolutely fabulous. The new facility could be a heartbeat for Wigan, it reminds me of the sort of one-stop shop the Investment Centre was years ago.”