Wigan Group was formed as a sub-group of Bolton in March 1978.  It was launched as a full group at an inaugural meeting in January 1979, when the Guest of Honour was the then Chief Examiner, Alec Jones.

During the years since our inception, Wigan Group has helped about 1,000 drivers to pass the Institute's Test.  Of these, many have remained as Members of the group, and are active as Observers, helping others reach test standard or attending some of our varied social events.  Two of the founder Members, Joe Thomas MBE and John Harman MBE, went on to become involved with the IAM at a higher level.  Both served on the IAM Council. John Harman was awarded the MBE in January 1996 for his 30 years service to Road Safety and Joe Thomas was awarded his MBE in 1998 for his service to Road Safety.

Always eager to take Advanced motoring into other areas, Wigan successfully formed groups in neighbouring Warrington and Chorley and assisted in setting up groups in Blackpool and St. Helens. 

Ever interested in new and innovative ideas, Wigan Group soon adopted the 'fixed length course' format which has proved a very successful way of helping many drivers to attain advanced driver standard.  We were also the first group to run motorway driving demonstrations to the public.  As well as the standard car courses Wigan also offers minibus driver training and motorcycle rider training.

Within the Wigan Metropolitan Borough, we meet at the Plough & Harrow, Shevington.  The course includes 2 classroom sessions, held on Tuesday evenings; and around eight practical on-road sessions mainly conducted on Sunday mornings.

With the help of Greater Manchester Police and Road Safety and the Highways Authority, the Wigan Group produced a booklet - Motorway Driving Explained - which is widely used by other Advanced Motorists groups.

On the social side, still looking to promote the group as well as enjoy ourselves, we have organised a variety of events including Disabled Children's outings, Manoeuvrability Days, Treasure hunts.  Other social events have included meetings addressed by speakers on motoring and non-motoring subjects; visits to places of interest and country walks; brewery trips and meals out.