GLORIOUS seafront views, lively restaurants and bars and a host of successful independent businesses have seen Leigh ranked as one of the top places to live in the East of England.
The annual Sunday Times Best Places To Live poll put Leigh fourth out of 70 places across the region.
The announcement was welcomed by businesses and residents, who cited the Old Town and Leigh Broadway, alongside a thriving nightlife as key reasons why the area continues to thrive.
Ron Price, former president of the Leigh Rotary Club, said: “It has a fascination about it that people really enjoy. There are plenty of smaller and independent businesses and shops.
“It has pretty much all anyone needs or wants, from good cafes to restaurants and so much more. As a club we do most of our work in the town such as fundraising and community support.
“Leigh doesn’t rely on the big chains and companies and has it’s own style of firms and companies.”
He said the town had good facilities such as the popular seafront area which is “brilliant” and good for walks.
Families also love the Old Town, the seafront, and parks.
Mother-of-seven Carolyne Goodall said: “We love where we live and are quite near to Belfairs Woods.
“We have all the amenities that we need nearby, which we like. We have such great parks, and we like the seafront area too.
“The Old Town is lovely, and we visit quite a lot. It’s so untouched and not changed, which I really like. Also, it’s so different from everywhere else around our area.
“It feels like going back in time when you visit, and the Old Town has great pubs too.”
The Sunday Times judging panel included a mix of contributors and writers with local expertis.
They considered factors for each town including schools, transport, culture, green spaces, and shopping areas or high street.
Leigh did not even make it onto last year’s list, but the 2022 review said: “The best bit of Southend, Britain’s newest city, earns its place due to its winning combination of lively bars, coffee shops and brunch spots, and attractive seaside surroundings.
“It’s funky and friendly, the schools are excellent, and the fast trains to London are a bonus.”
Peter Wexham, Lib Dem councillor for Leigh, described the town as “unique”.
He added: “We have been recognised in these studies before.
“It’s a good place to be with a nice mix of businesses and cafes that are independently run. There are lots of places to meet for shopping or go for a drink.
“We also have a good night-time economy, but I think the Old Town is the biggest attraction. Lots of people come to see the working town.”
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