Stephensons Solicitors LLP represented Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust recently in a High Court case centred on a £2 million bequest left in a Will.
Wigan businessman, William Higham, who served as a pilot in the RAF during World War II, made a homemade Will in 2008, including a provision for military bands to play in Mesnes Park in Wigan. Mr Higham’s Executors brought proceedings to seek a declaration from the Court to get legal clarification about the terms of the will including the gift to Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust over how the arrangement would work.
Wigan Leisure & Culture Trust put forward a ten point plan as to how the money will be used to fund the bands that will play in Mesnes Park. The bandstand at Mesnes Park has undergone a major multi-million pound renovation project and will host the bands.
Jonathan Chadwick, a Commercial Litigation partner at Stephensons, said: “I was delighted to have acted for Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust in relation to this generous gift from Mr Higham and I am looking forward to seeing the bands play in the Park.”
Stuart Murray, chief executive of Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, who manage the park on behalf of Wigan Council, said: "We're delighted with this generous bequest.
"Mesnes Park is an extremely popular spot at the very heart of Wigan.
"April 2012 will mark the end of Phase One of a multi-million pound restoration scheme and the newly refurbished bandstand will serve as a perfect backdrop for Military Bands performing in-line with Mr Higham's wishes. His legacy will ensure that many thousands of people will be able to enjoy live music in this wonderful park."
ENDS
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Media information: Lianne Tracey
Stephensons Solicitors LLP
T: 01616 966 229
E: lianne.tracey@stephensons.co.uk