A Legacy of Journalism and Adventure
For 40 years, Allan Rimmer was a cornerstone of the Wigan Observer, serving in various roles including reporter, news editor, deputy editor, and the go-to voice for Wigan Athletic’s story. His dedication to his craft and passion for the community left an indelible mark on the town and its people.
Allan began his career at just 15 years old with the Wigan Examiner. When the paper was acquired by the Wigan Observer in 1961, he joined their team as a reporter. Known for his exceptional ability to gather facts and craft compelling stories, he quickly became a trusted figure in the local media landscape.
His expertise extended beyond traditional journalism. Allan had a deep understanding of local education and wildlife, which earned him respect from both colleagues and the public. He played a key role in establishing a newspaper trail around the Observer’s former headquarters in Martland Mill and even collected a national award on behalf of the newspaper’s resource centre.
A Passion for the Outdoors
Allan’s love for the outdoors was evident in his personal life. He was an avid rambler, exploring The Lake District and North Wales. He was also actively involved with the Wigan Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and shared his experiences through slideshow evenings that captivated many in the borough.
His adventurous spirit took him to far-flung locations such as Kenya, Nepal, New Zealand, South Africa, Arizona, the Amazon, and Peru. These journeys not only enriched his own life but also provided inspiration for others.
As a member of the Wigan Mountaineering Association, Allan helped establish the Mick Burke Memorial Trust after the tragic death of climber and BBC cameraman Mick Burke during an ascent of Mount Everest. This charity supported hundreds of young people from the Wigan area, offering them unique outdoor experiences like cycling across the Netherlands, climbing in Scotland, and a Norwegian expedition.
A Journalist with a Heart
One of Allan’s most notable stories was uncovering the tale of a man who had lived under the floorboards of his home for seven years. This scoop gained international attention and remains one of the most memorable in the town’s history.
Allan’s work with Wigan Athletic was equally significant. He spent countless weekends and rainy mid-week nights at Springfield Park, following the club’s journey into the Football League. His relationships with players and managers, such as Harry Lyon, Bert Llewellyn, Ian Gillibrand, and Billy Sutherland, were built on mutual trust and respect.
He also appeared on Granada TV’s “Nice Time” programme in 1968 alongside comedian Kenny Everett, where he competed in a contest for the hairiest chest in the North West. Although he came in second, the event highlighted his engaging personality and willingness to embrace humor.
Tributes from Colleagues
Ex-colleagues have shared heartfelt tributes to Allan, highlighting his mentorship and impact on their careers. Harold Ashurst, who later took over reporting on Wigan Athletic, described Allan as his mentor and the reason he became a reporter. He praised Allan’s generosity, knowledge, and guidance, which helped shape his own career.
Wendy Moss, a former news editor, remembered Allan as a patient and encouraging teacher who inspired trust and respect. Paul Finch, a best-selling author and former colleague, recalled how Allan remained calm and composed during chaotic newsroom moments, providing solutions and support.
Janet Wilson, a former editor, simply said, “He was a lovely man and a great journalist.”
A Life Well-Lived
Allan, who grew up on Charles Street in Wigan, leaves behind a wife, Jean, two sons—Stephen and Anthony—and a sister, Eileen. He passed away three days before his 88th birthday, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
