UMBREAKING: Wigan Unleashes Olympic Bid - A Shockwave Hits the Stadium

‘That’s why we’re throwing our full support behind bringing the games back home, which will boost our Northern Growth Corridor.

‘It’s also why we’re backing stadium regeneration plans, like at Elland Road, to deliver new homes, business opportunities and public spaces in Leeds and beyond.’

However, London Mayor Sadiq Khan, wants the games to be held in London, which hosted them in 1908, 1948 and 2012. No other place in the UK has had the privilege.

A spokesman said: ‘Not including the capital in an Olympics bid would be a missed opportunity.

‘Using London’s existing world-class infratstructure would help deliver the greenest and most sustainable Games, as well as unlocking huge economic growth both here in London and around the country.’

What makes Wigan and Leeds suitable as joint hosts for the Olympic Games?

It might seem a little far-fetched on the surface, but there’s a lot going for these two glorious northern destinations.

Wigan has more than just a landlocked pier – it’s got The Brick Community Stadium, home to Wigan Warriors and Wigan Athletic, and Leigh Sports village, which has hosted international rugby league and UEFA women’s matches.

There’s also Scotman’s Flash Activity Centre, which has a large lake and is just 10 minutes out of Wigan town centre.

Meanwhile over in Leeds there’s Elland Road, home to Leeds United, Headingley Stadium and Headingley Cricket Ground, well-practised at hosting high profile sporting events, and First Direct Arena, which hosted Elton John in 2013.

Leeds also has a couple of large university campuses that could easily double up as athlete villages and media hubs.

There are also great transport links across the north, not just with the motorway networks that run close to both places, but also with links to Manchester and Leeds Bradford Airports, and train links to larger cities.

The case for Trans-Pennine Olympics 2040 could be further bolstered if they invited Manchester, where there are two fairly well known stadiums (Man Utd and Man City) along with athletics facilities and plenty of accommodation.

Most importantly for the people of the Northern M62 belt is the long-term impact the Olympics might have.

It would prompt a much-needed cash injection for transport upgrades, urban regeneration, new sport facilities and a huge boost for tourism.

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