LEIGH'S first citizen Cllr Brian Jarvis led 20 brave soles in a history making, fire-walking feat.

Then the Mayor, apprehensive about taking up the challenge for his chosen charity of the year Wigan and Leigh Hospice, declared: "It was the most incredible experience, a marvellous day. I had visions of all kinds of possible mishaps, but everything went well. All the walkers formed a strong bond and supported each other."

It is believed to be the first time anywhere that a serving Mayor has undertaken such a hot task.

Before then they had been locked in a room in a pub for a two hour preparation session with Hindley-based fire-walk instructor Thomas Wolf.

Little did they know, that just before the walk they would be asked to break an arrow against their throat!

Thomas said: "Arrow-breaking in this manner is designed to build confidence. Every one of the participants succeeded in this incredible challenge, which many of them felt was harder than the fire-walk itself.

The procession of brave walkers made its way to the burning embers to recordings of "It's Time to Burn", "Hot Hot Hot" and "The Final Countdown."

Leading from the front, Cllr Jarvis was first to brave the 1200 degree heat and was followed without hesitation by the others, hospice staff including nurses, a counsellor, therapist and hospice service co-ordinator, the regional director of H & T Pawnbrokers and the general manager of Asda Distribution accompanying their events-co-ordinator and a group of Vikings!

It is not yet known how much has been raised.