DEFIANT shopkeepers have vowed to re-establish their businesses after the £1 million Boulevard blaze.

And town centre management bosses have pleged speedy help in relocating businesses devasted by the Leigh town centre inferno.

Already TCM chairman Cllr Brian Jarvis and town manager Laurie Barton have held a meeting with 18 traders from The Boulevard.

Together with TCM member Cllr Anne Turnock they have mobilised Wigan Council property departments in a bid to find suitable sites in the town.

And Spinning Gate Centre manager Ray Clarke was also approached for help.

"We all want you back in business - up and running as soon as possible," said Cllr Jarvis told traders. "We want to maintain continuity for you and your customers."

Among those determined to be back in business is June McManus from The Card Rack.

June has specialised in balloon decoration, particularly for parties and weddings, for the last four years.

"But I've lost everything, including all my records of bookings.

"I will honour all the bookings but I need customers to contact me as soon as possible."

Phone June on 01942-516616.

The early-morning blaze shattered Sue Watkinson's dream of running her own business after a series of dead-end jobs.

But now the 32-years-old mother has bounced back with her make-up stall on Leigh's outside market on Fridays and Saturdays.

'It's been a shattering time but I want to thank all my customers for their support at this time," said Sue who is still offering discounts for dance groups.