A funding pot is set to empower 22 young people to produce a feature-length documentary about Manchester-based band The Lottery Winners, tying the project to their upcoming homecoming show. In addition, Wigan Council and its cultural partners will invite 10 other young participants to engage with industry professionals and craft a short film about growing up in Leigh. Any filming fees generated will be reinvested back into the local community, the council confirms.
Councillor Keith Cunliffe, deputy leader of Wigan Council, described Leigh as a vibrant hub with plenty of talent and potential among its youth.
The Lottery Winners are scheduled to headline Leigh Sports Village on 30 May, marking the first time the band has headlined a stadium show.
The documentary aims to document the band’s journey—capturing the exhilarating highs and challenging lows of touring as they refine their route to the big gig.
Formed in 2008, The Lottery Winners have achieved two chart-topping albums and have supported Robbie Williams during his UK and EU stadium tours this summer.
Natasha Hawthornthwaite, co-founder of Northern Heart Films, which is assisting with the project, called the collaboration a seamless blend of screen, music, and storytelling. She noted that while entry points for aspiring talent remain limited, the music and film industries together contribute substantial economic value (roughly £125 billion). She praised Wigan Council’s decision to reinvest all profits back into local filmmaking and encouraged other regions to follow suit.
Beyond the documentary, the council has also pledged support to Curious Minds, a local arts group, providing ring-fenced grants of up to £500 to young people aged 11 to 18.
The documentary is expected to premiere at international film festivals in the near future.
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