REWIND: pictures from Wigan's Heinz and Uncle Joe's factories in the 1970s and '80s

Two of Wigan’s most famous employers are HJ Heinz and Wm Santus and Co, makers of Uncle Joe’s Mint Balls. Both have long connections with Wigan and here are some pictures from our library taken of the two workplaces and their staff in decades past.

By Charles Graham

Published 31st Aug 2023, 04:55 BST

They date from the 1970s and ’80s.

1. At work in the Uncle Joe's factory on Dorning Street in 1971. Production techniques have changed little since then

. Photo: sub

2. Princess Anne visits the Heinz factory in 1986

. Photo: Gary Brunskill

3. Retirements from the Heinz factory in 1981

. Photo: Gary Brunskill

RETRO 1971 A documentary film crew arrive at Wigan's Heinz factory in May 1971.

4. A documentary film crew arrives at Wigan's Heinz factory in May 1971.

RETRO 1971 A documentary film crew arrive at Wigan's Heinz factory in May 1971. Photo: UGC

Uncle Joe Wigan