LEIGH has launched a unique "beat us if you can" challenge to big brother rivals, Wigan.

Leigh Centurions promotion into Super League has boosted the strong inter-town rivalry that exists between the two towns and has prompted the first Wigleigh Challenge in aid of Wigan and Leigh Hospice.

In the true spirit of one-upmanship stars of Leigh's new super league squad were at the hospice this week to lay down the gauntlet while the Wigan players are training in Florida. They are expected to accept on behalf of the Pie Eaters when they return.

The challenge is the brainchild of hospice communications and PR officer, Edwin Matthews, who wants to see friendly feuds arranged between corresponding groups to raise thousands of pounds for the Hindley-based haven for terminally ill patients.

The event is backed by Leigh MP Andy Burnham who said: "It sounds like a fantastic idea. I could have a boxing match with the Wigan MP - but then I wouldn't fancy my chances. I wish it every success."

Edwin is amazed at the response his idea has received from the two professional RL clubs and Wigan Athletic and wants the battle call to pull in support from businesses, organisations, schools, pubs and clubs in both towns.

The pro clubs will lead the way in fund raising when they meet on the pitch for the first time in a decade at Wigan on March 18 and at Leigh on July 1 which it is planned could be the climax of the challenge.

Meanwhile he wants to see groups get their heads together to set up and organise unusual contests for their oppos on the other side of the borough.

He said, "I know of the intense friendly rivalry that is strong between the people of the two towns, and I thought that Leigh's promotion would be an ideal fun-raising opportunity upon which to capitalise. The plan is to invite all sections of each community, as well as the clubs, to run challenges at anything from tiddley winks to sporting activities."

"Groups, clubs, businesses, organisations, companies, shops, pubs, fans, supporter clubs - anybody will be invited to devise and run their own challenges, as well as take part in organised events such as inter-town schools and club and pub activities. The only stipulation will be that each entrant must be sponsored in aid of the Hospice. We are also seeking main event sponsors."

The first challenge is for local secondary school children to design "wigleigh" (wiggly the worm?) - which will then be used as the challenge emblem and mascot.