The Lottery Winners, two of whose members are from Lowton, are set to receive one of Wigan Borough’s highest honours later this year, when they are awarded a Believe Star.
The chart-topping band will join fellow Wigan Borough act The Lathums and charity fundraiser Mike Sharkey of Team Wigan and Leigh in receiving the recognition, which is the highest accolade Wigan Council can bestow on residents.
The Lottery Winners have had a remarkable few years. Singer/bassist Katie Lloyd and drummer Joe Singleton, both from Lowton, along with Thom Rylance and Rob Lally, have scored two number one albums, with their most recent release KOKO Keep On Keeping On going straight to the top of the charts in March 2025. They are also gearing up for what promises to be a landmark homecoming — headlining Leigh Sports Village Stadium on Saturday, 30 May 2026, making them only the third act ever to top the bill there, following Elton John in 2014 and Lionel Richie in 2018.
Launched in 2012, the Believe Star scheme recognises residents who have made outstanding contributions to the borough. Previous recipients include actor Sir Ian McKellen, Lioness Ella Toone and Olympic gold medallist Keely Hodgkinson. The stars are on display at Believe Square in Wigan town centre and at Civic Square in Leigh, with unveiling ceremonies for this year’s recipients to take place later in the year.
Leader of Wigan Council, Cllr David Molyneux MBE, said: “The two bands showcase the amazing musical talent that comes from our borough. They are proud of their hometowns and the authenticity and passion they display in their music is an inspiration.”