Here is our tribute to 10 well-known names linked to the town, which date all the way back to a sugar magnate, nod towards the birth of reality TV in Britain and even include some comedy legends behind cult classics.
9. Steve Pemberton
From St Michael’s High School student to creator of a cult hit, Steve Pemberton co-founded the surreal comedy group the League of Gentlemen. The fan favourite began as a stage show before being transferred to Radio 4 and then to BBC 2 television.
Steve is a big supporter of Derian House, using his fame to help raise money for the charity. Photo: Google
10. Anna Hopkin
Gold medal-winner Anna Hopkin is a Chorley swimmer who was part of the Team GB quartet that set a world record time in the final of the Tokyo Olympics' inaugural mixed 4x100 metres medley relay.
The ex-Chorley Marlins’ prodigy went into the Tokyo Games as a Commonwealth bronze medallist in the 4x100m freestyle while, in 2019, she became a European silver medallist thanks to her short course efforts in Glasgow. Photo: Google