1941-1942, Peter Gibson, Mayor of Leigh

1941-1942, Peter Gibson, Mayor of Leigh

Alderman Peter Gibson was Mayor of Leigh in 1941. Born in Fairhurst Street, he was a native of Leigh. Peter started working at the very young age of ten at Victoria Mills for J.J. Hayes Ltd. He worked there continuously for 55 years. Always an active trade unionist, he became President and Treasurer of his local branch, and was also a member of the Provincial Association of the Leigh Branch of Cotton Operatives.

Peter was first appointed to the Town Council at a by-election in 1927 representing St. Josephs Ward. He served on several committees and was Chair of the Market and Bath Committee.

He was elevated to the Aldermanic Bench in January 1950 and his long service to the Leigh Borough was recognised in 1941 when he was unanimously elected Mayor.

Peter had a wife, two sons and two daughters. He died at his home in August 1952 aged 77. One of his sons, Francis, was also a councillor. Francis represented St. Josephs Ward like his father before him. His other son was the Rev. Father Francis Gibson who served in East Africa.

A Requiem Mass was said at his funeral followed by internment at Leigh Cemetery 

Written by Evelyn Walls

References

Biographical cuttings – Peter Gibson – Leigh Local Studies.