1926-1927, William Hilton, Mayor of Leigh

William was born in Platt Bridge, Wigan in 1888 and went to Platt Bridge Wesleyan School. At the age of 12 he went into the coal pits starting at Moss Hall then Abram Collieries.

From this he worked for the London and North Western Railway Company as a shunter, he was promoted to head shunter and then foreman at Springs Branch. William retired in 1933 after 33 years service.

William represented St Peter’s Ward from 1912 to 1930 becoming the Mayor of Leigh in 1926. During his year as mayor, William tried very hard to bring about an amalgamation of Leigh and the townships of the Leigh Union but Atherton were not in agreement so this fell through.

He was appointed a magistrate in 1930. William was also a member of the Winward Lodge of Buffaloes, a member of Leigh Labour Club and was connected to Wigan Road Methodist Church. 

His funeral took place at Wigan Road Methodist Church prior to interment at Leigh Cemetery.

By Peter Spencer

Reference

Biographical cuttings – William Hilton, Leigh Local Studies