Wigan's bid for Heinz beans fame

The Queen visited the Heinz factory in Wigan for the 50th anniversary

The deputy leader of Wigan Council is campaigning to see his town's name emblazoned on the side of Heinz beans.

Councillor David Molyneux wants 'Made in Wigan, England' to feature on the cans in honour of the firm's factory in Kitt Green.

His request is part of the town's Buy Local campaign, to see more Wiganers proud of their roots.

A Heinz spokesman said: "We are considering the move - we know Wigan is the baked bean capital of the world."

Cllr Molyneux said: "The fact the cans say made in Hayes, Middlesex, doesn't go down well, we have also got a major production site.

"We are proud that Heinz is based in Wigan and in May the Queen's visit was a firm seal of approval.

"It is only right that we get some recognition and that the people in the country and world know that Heinz is based in Wigan.

"The company has been here for 50 years and is a big part of the town's heritage.

"We are famous for pies, now our beans - then it can all be washed it all down with our renowned Uncle Joe's mint balls."

The Heinz spokesman added: "In this 50th anniversary of the Kitt Green factory we are considering the opportunity to include 'made in Wigan, England' on every one of the 1.5 million cans of Heinz Beans sold each day."