AMIR Khan has been hailed an "inspiration to the youngsters of Bolton" by council bosses - and a victory celebration is likely if he wins a medal.

Leader of Bolton Council Barbara Ronson said the teenager had set a "fantastic example" to others, and people of the town should be proud of his achievement.

Cllr Ronson said with Amir's Olympic success so far, the council would have to think about plans to acknowledge his achievements.

She said that his victory over Dimitar Stilianov had been "very exciting".

Cllr Ronson added: "However well he does in the Olympics, he has been a great inspiration to everyone in Bolton.

"Young people in Bolton can look at Amir, and realise just what can be achieved through sheer hard work and dedication.

"We are all excited with his progress, and if he brings back a medal, his achievements must certainly be acknowledged."

Cllr Ronson said the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Prentice Howarth, had been keeping up to date with Amir's progress.

She added: "I know that the mayor would very much like to be involved in anything we do to recognise Amir's success, and I would certainly support any initiative towards this.

"He is extremely talented, and we all wish him the best of luck."