First Wigan St George's Day parade to be held in three years

The pandemic put paid to the English patron saint’s ceremonials in both 2020 and ’21 – but with normality returning and a Queen’s platinum jubilee looming, it is hoped that participants and onlookers will make up for lost time.

At least 300 representatives of uniformed organisations, plus marching bands will take part in the event which begins at Wigan Parish Church on Sunday April 24 at 11am.

The parade goes down Market Street, along New Market Street, turns onto Mesnes Street and then heads up Standishgate where the Mayor, Coun Yvonne Klieve, with her cadet, takes the salute, before ending back at the church for a half-hour service at which promises are renewed.

Organiser Allan Foster, from Wigan District Scout Council, said: “After all the disruptions it would be great if we had some fair weather and a good turn-out.”