It’s a rivalry that stretches as far back as the English Civil War, more than 400 years ago, although the battle between Wigan and neighbouring town Leigh is now mainly confined to the rugby league field.

In the conflict, also known as the Great Rebellion, the people of Leigh reputedly supported Oliver Cromwell’s Roundheads - or Parliamentarians - while Wigan backed the attempts by King Charles 1st to hold onto absolute power.

Rising country singer Zoe Unsworth recently wowed the crowds at an outdoor event in Parbold - just over the Wigan border - and took time out from her barnstorming set to apologise for being from Leigh.

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That prompted the Local Democr

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