1972 - 1973, Lois Healey, Chair of Golborne Urban District Council

In 1972 Lois Healey was not only the first female chair of Golborne Urban District Council she was also the only female member to serve on the council since its formation in 1894.

Originally from Staffordshire, Lois had moved to Lowton when her husband became Divisional Education Officer for Newton Division.

A member of the Labour Party, Lois played an active role in both Staffordshire and Golborne. Lois took this one step further when she stood for the Kenyon Ward in 1963. Lois was defeated but two years later Lois stood for the Kenyon ward again and this time she won becoming Golborne’s first female councillor. The Leigh Journal interviewed Lois just after her election victory and she was quoted as saying ‘women should take an equal part with men in running of a town’.

In May 1972 Lois became the first female chair.

Reference

‘Two “firsts” for lady chairman’ Leigh Journal 01 June 1972 page 10

‘Mrs Healey makes history as the first Golborne woman councillor’ Leigh Journal 20 May 1965