 Market Place, Wigan |
Despite their Manchester connections most Wiganers still regard themselves as Lancastrian.
The pleasant town centre was rebuilt in the early part of the 20th century and was enhanced in the late 1980's by the addition of the Galleries shopping centre.
Another recent addition to the town is the Robin Park sports centre, which includes the JJB Stadium, home of Wigan Rugby League and Wigan Athletic.
The town's proximity to an extensive motorway system, and available work force, make it an attractive proposition for new investment.
One of the regions largest employers is H.J. Heinz who opened a factory at Kit Green in 1959. Other large companies are, JJB Sports, Shearings Holiday bus and coach company, Patak's Indian sauces and chutneys, Townsend Cycles and Great Universal Stores.