JOHN Lea's bid to give visitors to Leigh a colourful welcome have been given the go-ahead.

Just the technical detail has to be worked out before the boundary signs (pictured) - backed by The Journal - can be made.

And The Journal understands other areas in Wigan Borough are hoping to follow John's lead.

John, councillor for Bedford/Astley, has the full backing of all his local colleagues for the Brighter Borough initiative.

"I am grateful for all their encouragement and support," said John, who pointed out that the rugby players were meant to be international stars John Woods and Tommy Martyn Snr.

Deputy Leader of the Council, Tom Sherratt, said: "I fully support it. The signs will give a bright welcome to Leigh.

"It is also a fitting thing to do with the Leigh Borough Charter Centenary coming up."

And Deputy Mayor Bill Smith fully supports John's scheme.

"These sorts of signs are all over Europe and I think this is an excellent idea."

Cllr Lea said: "This is terrific news. Now let's get a move on and do it."

Highways chiefs are now working on the technical details and finalising the design.

Before they do Diane Jones, of Astley, would like to point out the proposed sign does nothing to represent women and children in the borough.

She said: "I wonder what they will think? It's no wonder our children feel fobbed off. It's supposed to represent Leigh past and future, but it all seems to be in the past to me.

"What about the good work women have done over the years. And children could be portrayed clearing ponds and rivers, which they have been doing. At least one half of it could be up to date."

And Dennis Leck welcomes the "brilliant idea" but says the canal barges, mills, coalminers and pitheads helped create the town of today but do not represent the modern image of Leigh.

Mr Leck from Sydney Avenue, Leigh added: "Canal leisure craft, Pennington bird sanctuary and golf course, public houses full of character and crown green bowling are more accurate and positive pictures to portray of Leigh today.

"Our predecessors worked in horrible and depressive conditions to help improve the lot of the townsfolk of Leigh; let's honour them by presenting an accurate image of our green and healthy town."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.