A CAMPAIGN to create a town council in Atherton has gained the backing of a parliamentary candidate.

Chris Green, the conservative candidate for Bolton West, is supporting Wigan Independent Network’s campaign to have their own council.

They believe it will help them represent the needs and interests of the people of Atherton.

WIN recently held an event in Atherton to highlight their cause, which was supported by the National Association of Local Councils.

Chris Green said: “This is not party political – it is about democratic representation. In the Bolton West constituency Westhoughton, Blackrod and Horwich each have their own town council so why can’t Atherton?

“I’m calling on our MP, Julie Hilling to either support an Atherton referendum or call for a closure of the other three town councils as we shouldn’t have a rule for one and a different rule for others.”