THE work of Wigan & Leigh Young Carers organisation has been boosted by a donation of £636.20 raised from Lowton WI's annual coffee morning.

Peter Wild from the organisation was presented with a cheque for the amount during the WI's latest meeting and was said to have been 'overwhelmed' by the amount raised. The money will go towards a Christmas party or presents for the young carers.

The group's speaker for November was John Winnard who along with his brother is the co- owner of the factory which makes Uncle Joe’s Mintballs.

They are also the great nephews of Willian Santus who started the company in 1898 so are keeping the traditions and the secret recipe in the family.

After sampling the mint balls and a talk about how the company was founded, the WI members had a virtual tour of the factory showing how the mint balls are made.

John then went on to talk about his visit to Buckingham Palace to receive his MBE and of the then Prince of Wales visit to the factory.

December's meeting will be the group's Christmas Party.

Lowton WI meets on the first Thursday of the month at 7.15pm in Lowton Social Club on Newton Road and is looking for more members. For details, phone Val Barrow on 7419335330.