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In the early hours of a September morning in 1973, a huge World War 1 building tentatively opened its doors to the cult followers of an underground dance scene. The unfashionable Casino Club was open for business for its first-ever Northern Soul All-Nighter. Little could the promoters have realised the phenomenon they were creating – a phenomenon that would put Wigan and the Casino on the map, not only across the length and breadth of Britain but also in Europe and America. For eight years, the Wigan Casino all-night Northern Soul sessions achieved fame, notoriety and, eventually, legendary status among youngsters all over Britain. It was loved by each of its 100,000 members, voted the world’s best disco by the American-based magazine Billboard and started its own record label and magazine. Its DJs unearthed rare 1960s American soul recordings and launched them into the national pop charts, reviving the careers of many black artists. Now, as we approach the club’s 45th anniversary, the timeless music and nocturnal lifestyle created by Wigan Casino is enjoying a massive revival as former Casino-goers and many new soul fans are once again filling all-night clubs and Northern Soul Weekenders.

The perfect prelude to Wigan Casino’s 45th Anniversary • 16 Casino Anthems • Artwork featuring original Wigan Casino patches • Selected by “Mr Northern Soul” himself… RUSS WINSTANLEY