This article was originally published in the winter 2023 edition of Borough Life magazine.
Earlier this year a memorial bench marking the remarkable military service of a Wigan Borough family was unveiled in their hometown.
If you take a stroll through Mesnes Park it won’t take you long to spot this tribute to the Higham Brothers and be introduced to their story.
It’s one of bravery, generosity and brotherhood. And with crash-landings, rescue missions and behind-enemy-lines operations, it could be the inspiration for a Hollywood blockbuster.
“It truly is remarkable,” says Gill Burchall, keyworker for Armed Forces at Wigan Council.
“I have heard many stories of courage and bravery in WWII, but few compare to the Higham Brothers.”
Following in the footsteps of their father, James Henry Higham, who fought in WWI, siblings Dougie, Joe, Harry, Jimmy, Gerry and William all served their country during WWII.
All born in Darlington Street, each one survived the war and between them saw active service during their careers in Northern Ireland, France, Belgium, North Africa, Japan, India, Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and locations across the Middle East.
This band of brothers was involved in some of the most dangerous operations, creating a unique legacy of bravery and heroism.
Back home they worked alongside their two sisters in the fruit, vegetable and flowers wholesale business.
The Highams were all quiet individuals who enjoyed a pint and horseracing, but otherwise did not mention the war much.
Through a desire to show his fondness for the town, William Higham bequeathed a significant sum of money so that military bands would perform every summer in Mesnes Park.
This led to the formation of the Higham Foundation, with the concerts continuing to the present day.
William’s request was for the concerts to be free and provide an opportunity for local ex-servicemen’s associations and service charities to collect for their respective funds.
“My father and his brothers showed amazing bravery in the war,” says Virginia Higham, daughter of Gerry Higham.
“Between them, they took part in some of the most dangerous missions of WWII and made such a big contribution to the war effort all around the world.
“It was miraculous they each survived and were able to return to the town they loved so much.
“Their story deserves to be told, it is one of hope and optimism against insurmountable odds.
“It means so much that we now have a bench installed in Mesnes Park which not only tells their story but also pays tribute to the lasting legacy my father and uncles left behind.”
The memorial bench will therefore serve as a permanent reminder of the Higham’s bravery and generosity.
“I couldn’t have been prouder to see the bench installed,” says Gill.
“We want to make sure this remarkable family is forever remembered.”
