THE Mayor of Wigan defied temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees fahrenheit when he stepped out in support of his chosen charity.

Cllr Brian Jarvis joined other brave volunteers when they took part in a fire-walking event on Saturday in aid of Wigan and Leigh Hospice.

Fire-walking involves walking on hot ashes and Wigan's Mayor was determined to put his best foot forward for his chosen charity. He said: "It was a daunting prospect, but it's the cause that counts and I managed to come through unscathed.

"There can be few organisations that carry out such worthwhile and meaningful work as hospices. The dedication and care they provide is awe-inspiring." Instructor Thomas Wolf added: "I've been involved in hundreds of fire walks and no one has ever been injured. All volunteers are properly trained on the day."

The event was sponsored by the Galleries Shopping Centre in Wigan. People were invited to sponsor the Mayor or even enrol to do the walk themselves.