THE MPs of Leigh and Atherton are looking ahead to another busy year after an eventful 2017.

Labour’s Jo Platt became Leigh’s first female MP following June’s snap General Election while Conservative Chris Green regained his seat for Bolton West, which includes Atherton.

With the dawn of a new year they are reflecting on a tragedy-hit 2017, with the Manchester Arena terror attack in May and the Grenfell Tower fire the following month claiming a large number of lives.

They also referenced the impact Brexit has had, and continues to have, on politics and their constituents in their New Year round-ups and vowed to continue to give their all to improve the towns they represent.

Miss Platt said: “The honour of being elected by the people of Leigh to represent them makes 2017 a year I’ll always remember.

“I will continue to make sure our town’s voice is heard and I will push to protect our small businesses, jobs and workers’ rights.”

Mr Green added: “Although I am sure many people are hoping 2018 will have a little less politics, we do have important local elections to look forward to.

“I look forward to continuing to wave the flag for Atherton.”

Miss Platt praised the ‘tireless work’ of community groups in Leigh, such as the Leigh constituency and surrounding areas’ branch of the national Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign, and backed Leigh Centurions rugby league club to recover from their relegation to the Championship.

“Our town will see Super League rugby again in the very near future,” she said.