EVELYNE SMITH will be Mayor of Wigan.

She will continue the duties throughout the remainder of the civic year following the death of husband Bill.

And the Mayoress will be her daughter, Elaine Stevenson.

Evelyne, Mayoress of Wigan and Hindsford Councillor, will be installed as Mayor at a special council meeting on October 18.

Over several painful weeks Bill was unable to carry out official duties due to the deterioration of his health and he was represented by Evelyne and Deputy Mayor, Ernie Swift.

Wigan has no precedent for replacing a Mayor in such sad circumstances. But, because Evelyne is a councillor in her own right, she is permitted the top honour.

The idea was suggested by Peter Smith and Tom Sherratt, Leader and Deputy Leader of the Council.

A delighted Peter Smith said: "Everyone seemed to think it was a good idea. It is a tribute to Bill.

"It allows continuity and recognises Evelyne's own personal contribution."

Tom Sherratt added: "Deputy Mayor Ernie Swift proved an excellent deputy and deserves the honour of a full year in his own right."

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