A TRADITIONAL-looking medieval archway will welcome people to an era from bygone times next weekend.

The gateway will form an eye-catching centrepiece to the medieval experience taking place in Churchgate, Bolton, on Saturday and Sunday, July 17 and 18.

The impressive structure will be located near the Market Cross and, with a carpet of wood chippings underneath, will lead people to a scene from years gone by with period costumes, traditional entertainment and various stalls.

Final touches are currently being added to the archway, which is being painted by local artists Tabitha Sims, Mark Aspin and Josh Clare.

They received a welcome boost from the town's B&Q store, in Bolton Gate Retail Park, which donated 20 litres of paint to the project.

Thousands of people are expected to enjoy the medieval experience next weekend.

It follows on from a successful event last year which saw a fun-filled market take place in Churchgate to celebrate the borough's 1253 charter.

This year's event will coincide with the anniversary of the 1251 Charter, which granted permission to hold a market in July every year.