Famous Wigan sweet company to be honoured with 125th anniversary exhibition

Wigan is to be given the chance to celebrate a proud local institution and explore how a greengrocer’s side-line became a global phenomenon.
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Discover how the Santus family created one of confectionery’s best-known characters and toffees, and took a taste of Wigan around the world with Uncle Joe’s Mint Balls.

The Dorning Street-based company is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year and so the council is laying on a special exhibition at the Museum of Wigan Life on Library Street.

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It will run from later this month until February next year (the museum being opened from 10am to 4pm, Tuesdays to Saturdays.

John Winnard, co-director of Wm Santus and Co which makes the sweets, said: “This is a chance to get up close to never-before-seen objects and learn how the perfect mint ball is made.

"We particularly think that schools will be interested in showing their pupils a fun and fascinating slice of local history.”

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