LEIGH’S array of independent businesses, sandy shores and beautiful views have seen it ranked as one of the “coolest” places to live across the UK. 

According to a new survey by health and fitness supplement brand Naturecan, Leigh is the 15th coolest place to live in the UK.

Towns and cities across the UK were ranked according to the number of independent shops per head of population, the range of cultural events, how “Instagrammable” were the best features, and their popularity as a location for films and TV shows.

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Mandy Dunnico, a Leigh resident in her 30s, expressed her love for the town.

She said: “It is great to hear that Leigh is ranked as one of the coolest places to live in the UK.

“I find the community feel is so nice when I am walking around town, and I love the fact it is by the water because it is incredibly relaxing in these times of stress in people’s lives.

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“Old Leigh is a great spot to go to and take in the sights, with many cute places to eat.

“The same with Leigh Broadway, which has shops and cafes. A few have gone which I would love to see come back, as having my four-year-old Bella it is nice if there are places to stop off and have a cuppa and apple juice.

“I also love taking photos of the views, we get some amazing sunsets to take in here.

Even the other day, Bella and I pulled over in the car to watch the sunset.

“It is great to see that many benefit from the same views and enjoyments across Leigh.”

Leigh is well-known for its number of independent businesses, including ice cream shop Lick, sweet store The Candy Station, children’s shoe shop, Other Kids, and restaurants including The Boatyard, The Peterboat, and The Dining Room.

The town also hosts a range of cultural events, including the Leigh Folk Festival which is the UK’s largest free folk festival as well as the Leigh Art Trail.

Fellow resident Donna Edge added: “I just love all the independent bars, restaurants, shops, outdoor spaces, and the woods that Leigh has to offer.

“I quite often go for a coffee and a mooch around the shops.

“Old Leigh is so lovely too, and the area as a whole just has a nice feel to it.

“There could be a bit more for teens potentially, as there isn’t much for them to do really, but that is the same in most places at the moment.”

The survey included views from 5,000 people, who set up panels throughout the UK to find out the coolest location for each country and big city.

John Lamb, councillor for West Leigh ward, said: “That is really good news, it is brilliant.

“Leigh offers so much, we can see that in so many ways. 

“We have the all-round High Street, but also the variety of restaurants too. 

“Then you have still got the old town where again it is a different form and different experience.

“It is so lovely. I just think Leigh is brilliant.”