But there have been heroes and smiles as well as misfortune and sadness locally.
We look back on some of the stories that were drawing some of the biggest online audiences to Wigan Today over the past 12 months.
1. January
A fed-up Wigan resident had to change her working hours because of selfish parents blocking the road where she lives as they drop off and pick up their children at a primary school Photo: submit
2. January
MUA, Yvette Geary launched her own activewear and lingerie Photo: Photo credit Lisa Gregory West LGW Photography
3. February
Family, friends and members of the community lined the streets, some wearing superhero costumes or photos of Theo Wood printed on their tops, for his funeral at St Nathaniel's Church, Platt Bridge. Photo: Photographer Michelle Adamson
4. February
The Tudor House pub went up for sale after the death of landlord Russ Miller in January 2022 Photo: MA