16 enthralling pictures from Wigan's social scene in the 1970s

By Michelle Adamson

Published 15th Nov 2025, 15:45 BST

Nights out in Wigan have changed quite a bit in the last half century as these pictures, taken by Observer photographers, demonstrate.

We raise a glass to both then and now!

Silverwell pub regular Jack Ellison aged 79.

1. 1970s

Silverwell pub regular Jack Ellison aged 79. Photo: Frank Orrell

Flamboyant Conservative MP, Sir Gerald Nabarro, famous for his handlebar moustache and controversial views pictured with local bewhiskered gents Fred Hewitt, Malcolm Salmon and landlord, Vincent McGowan, during a visit to the Shepherd's Inn, Lowton, in October 1971. Nabarro died in 1973.

2. 1971

Flamboyant Conservative MP, Sir Gerald Nabarro, famous for his handlebar moustache and controversial views pictured with local bewhiskered gents Fred Hewitt, Malcolm Salmon and landlord, Vincent McGowan, during a visit to the Shepherd's Inn, Lowton, in October 1971. Nabarro died in 1973. Photo: Frank Orrell

A game of dominoes for members of Standish Ex Servicemen's Club on Church Street, Standish, in November 1971.

3. 1971

A game of dominoes for members of Standish Ex Servicemen's Club on Church Street, Standish, in November 1971. Photo: Frank Orrell

Sloopies disco on the corner of Dorning Street and King Street West in May 1971.

4. 1971

Sloopies disco on the corner of Dorning Street and King Street West in May 1971. Photo: Frank Orrell

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