SPORTING groups are being urged to make sure they are represented on the borough's tribute to sport - there are just days left to make nominations.

The 85ft Spirit of Sport sculpture, which will go up on the De Havilland Roundabout outside the Reebok Stadium, will feature the images of nearly 1,000 people who have taken part in sport across the borough. Around 400 groups have been contacted to ask who they would like to represent them on the statute, but organisers fear that many groups may miss out because they believe they have no-one famous enough to put forward.

Terry Eaton, of Eaton Waygood Associates, the organisation behind the Spirit of Sport, urged people to submit entries. He said it was not just the superstars who would be featured.

"We want as many people and groups represented on this wonderful statue as possible." he said.

"We do not just want the well-known faces, but anyone who takes part in sport for the love of it. If groups cannot decide who to nominate, we would suggest they draw names from a hat.

"The Spirit of Sport is for the people of the borough and we want them to be part of it.

"Anyone who enjoys participating can be nominated, along with such unsung heroes as officials, fans and ball boys ."

The deadline for members of the public to have their say by nominating sportsmen and women who have made the biggest contribution to sport in the borough has passed.

But council bosses say they will continue to accept entries from schools, clubs and teams until this Friday. To make an entry, call Nicky Robinson at Bolton Council on 01204 336261 as soon as possible.