Rewind: May Day Galas at Haigh Hall in years past

By Sian Jones

Published 21st Apr 2024, 04:55 BST

With May Day almost upon us, we look back at one of the many Wigan events celebrating this bank holiday with its sometimes political connections.

The May Day Rally and Gala at Haigh Hall was a very popular event for thousands of Wiganers and many a Labour Party grandee appeared there over the years.

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Following the crowds to The May Day Rally at Haigh Hall Photo: John Leatherbarrow

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May Day Gala at Haigh Hall in 1986 Photo: Gary Brunskill

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Yes Minister Ian McCartney drumming up support with the lads from the Red Rose Jaz Band who entertained at the May Day Rally at Haigh Hall Photo: JOHN LEATHERBAROW

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MP Roger Stott puts the squeeze on a Maggie Thatcher effigy during the May Day show at Haigh Hall in 1986. Photo: STAFF

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