FOLLOWING the much-anticipated coronation of King Charles, crowds came to bask in the Leigh sunshine today to join in with the national celebrations.

With millions of people watching the Royal coronation yesterday, local residents were invited to celebrate the ‘Big Coronation Lunch’ outside Leigh Town Hall today (Sunday, May 7), with Civic Square adorned with bunting and dozens of red, white, and blue flags.

Organised by Wigan Council, there was something for everyone at the event and families flocked to get involved in the celebrations.

Taking place from 11am to 4pm, there was an array of stall holders that gave people the oppportunity to get involved in arts, crafts, and Royal face-painting, while rock climbing and children’s entertainment were also on offer.

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Leigh Journal: Street performers were busy taking pictures with families all dayStreet performers were busy taking pictures with families all day (Image: Leigh Journal)

Leigh Journal: Getting involved in the national picnic initiative Getting involved in the national picnic initiative (Image: Leigh Journal)
With tables laid out in front of the huge Pete Shelley mural on the Turnpike Gallery car park, families also got involved with the national picnic initiative while enjoying live entertainment from acts such as Leigh Community Choir, drum percussionists, and local singers.

Residents could also take a minute away from the Royal celebrations to observe the ‘Climate Emergency’ exhibition inside Leigh Turnpike Gallery, have a go on the fun-fair rides, or enjoy some of the food, drink, and ice cream on offer.

Leigh Journal: Enjoying the celebrations in red, white, and blueEnjoying the celebrations in red, white, and blue (Image: Leigh Journal)

Leigh Journal: Mayor of Wigan Marie Morgan at the event Mayor of Wigan Marie Morgan at the event (Image: Leigh Journal)
Blessed with some Bank Holiday sunshine, there were smiles all around at the well-attended event, which brought families and people of all ages together in the community.

The ‘Big Coronation Lunch’ is part of a two-part programme put together by Wigan Council to celebrate the historic coronation in both Wigan and Leigh.

Leigh Journal: Getting involved with the face painting and crafts!Getting involved with the face painting and crafts! (Image: Leigh Journal)

Leigh Journal: Another family in the Royal spiritAnother family in the Royal spirit (Image: Leigh Journal)
Leader of Wigan Council, Councillor David Molyneux MBE, said: “We saw how our borough came together last year and we would like to encourage everyone to do the same again for the Coronation.

“It’s another historic event that will have the eyes of the world on the UK so we would like our residents to feel part of the celebrations and make it a weekend to remember.”

“These occasions are an ideal opportunity for us to showcase our civic pride and highlight what’s great about Wigan Borough’s communities.”

Leigh Journal: The Big Coronation Lunch in full flowThe Big Coronation Lunch in full flow (Image: Leigh Journal)