ELDERLY residents in Bolton have praised young people in the area and requested better facilities and education for teenagers living nearby.

At a one-day forum aimed at bridging generation gaps between elderly and young people in the Halliwell area, pensioners from the St Matthew's Grange sheltered housing complex were keen to point out that most youngsters today are well behaved and respectful.

They said teenagers need activities to keep them out of trouble and discussed ideas such as alcohol-free pubs as a way of preventing drinking on the streets.

Other suggestions included introducing a graffiti wall to allow budding artists to display their artwork in a more appropriate place.

They are keen to see parents and children educated against the perils of teenage drinking and drug abuse and also think young people should have a suitable football facility.

Around 12 residents met with representatives from Greater Manchester Police and the community development officer from Bolton Mobile Unit at the forum, held at the complex.