A retro round-up of Wigan shop launches pictured in the 1990s

By Michelle Adamson

Published 19th Nov 2025, 15:45 GMT

Shop openings have always made the news, especially if they’re selling something unusual or a celebrity or two have been drafted in to give the launch some extra sparkle.

Here is a selection of such Wigan events pictured in the 1990s.

1990 The opening day at Wigan RL club theme shop

1. RETRO

1990 The opening day at Wigan RL club theme shop Photo: staff

Wigan RL star Nigel Wright gives the thumbs-up to the new PDSA (People's Dispensray for Sick Animals) shop, on Bradshawgate, Leigh, after he officially opened it. He is pictured with Paula Atherton, shop manager, and Bandaged Barney, alias her husband Mark!

2. RETRO

Wigan RL star Nigel Wright gives the thumbs-up to the new PDSA (People's Dispensray for Sick Animals) shop, on Bradshawgate, Leigh, after he officially opened it. He is pictured with Paula Atherton, shop manager, and Bandaged Barney, alias her husband Mark! Photo: NICK FAIRHURST

1990 - Large crowds queue for the opening of the Wigan Rugby League club theme shop

3. RETRO

1990 - Large crowds queue for the opening of the Wigan Rugby League club theme shop Photo: staff

1990s Pier Aquatics staff at Great George Street, Wigan, left to right Jeff Smith, Neil Woodward, Ian Taylor, Claire Leyland and Joan Smith.

4. RETRO

1990s Pier Aquatics staff at Great George Street, Wigan, left to right Jeff Smith, Neil Woodward, Ian Taylor, Claire Leyland and Joan Smith. Photo: staff

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