Soak up these sunny summer Wigan events pictured in the 1980s

By Michelle Adamson

Published 18th Jun 2026, 04:55 BST

The summer of 2026 may be misfiring at the moment, but here is a reminder of seasonal events the Wigan Observer was picturing four decades ago in the 1980s.

They won’t have you reaching for the sun cream but might put a smile on your faces.

Retro 1989
Guides and scouts gather at Haigh Hall for a summer gala parade

1. RETRO

Retro 1989 Guides and scouts gather at Haigh Hall for a summer gala parade Photo: Gary Brunskill

Retro 1989 - Guides and scouts gather at Haigh Hall for a summer gala parade

2. RETRO

Retro 1989 - Guides and scouts gather at Haigh Hall for a summer gala parade Photo: Gary Brunskill

Retro 1989 - Soccer skills at St John's summer fair Hindley Green

3. RETRO

Retro 1989 - Soccer skills at St John's summer fair Hindley Green Photo: Gary Brunskill

Retro 1981 - Wigan's firefighters launch their Viking themed raft ready for the summer raft races

4. RETRO

Retro 1981 - Wigan's firefighters launch their Viking themed raft ready for the summer raft races Photo: Gary Brunskill

News you can trust since 1853

© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Terms and Conditions Privacy notice