A MAGICAL lantern procession will light up Bolton when it visits the borough later this year.

The two year Luminocity festival -- which has been visiting towns across Greater Manchester -- will see a parade travel between Withins Leisure Centre and Breightmet Labour Club.

Lanterns made by artists and community groups from all over the region will take part in the event on Wednesday, December 15.

Bolton's contribution is a huge turtle made by three Bolton artists, Nitin Patel, Tracey Cree and Razia Mohamed.

It will be fixed to a recycled Indian rickshaw and fitted with an impressive light and sound system.

The three artists took part in a lantern making masterclass, held by festival organisers, before coming up with the 16ft long turtle made out of willow stem.

The creature was unveiled at the Rochdale parade last weekend.

Visits to venues in Salford and Stockport are also planned for next year.

Cllr Martyn Cox, executive member for culture at Bolton Council, said: "It's great for Bolton to take part in county wide projects and gives communities a real feeling of being part of something special on a regional level.

"This project has provided training and experience for local artists and will also provide great fun for everyone who takes part in the events all over Greater Manchester."

The whole project has been funded by the Arts Council England North-west, the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities and the ten Greater Manchester local authorities.