A FLIGHT of locks at the centre of a multi-million pound canal restoration project is set for a colourful summer.

The Bolton Conservation Volunteers removed brambles and bushes from a nature reserve at the Nob End lock flight on the Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal in Little Lever to reveal hundreds of wild orchids.

Prestolee Chemical Works stood on the site more than 100 years ago and pollution left behind has encouraged five species of orchid to thrive.

Their numbers increase each year due to soil rich in alkaline.

Members of the group now say the area will be awash with colour once the orchids bloom in the summer.

Secretary Kevin Nicholls said: "These orchids do not normally grow in the north-west and it is amazing that such a positive outcome can come out of pollution. The orchids will be visible from the canal and the whole area should look fantastic. I am sure it will add to the appeal of the development."

Bylaws to protect wildlife were put in place after Bolton Council deemed the area a nature reserve four year ago. It is a haven for butterflies, dragonflies and a host of wild grasses.

A £32 million scheme has been drawn up to restore the canal and there are plans to build a visitor centre at the Little Lever flight of locks.

The restoration of this 12-mile canal stretch will create thousands of jobs and boost the region's tourism trade, with work due to start later this year, for completion in 2006. The proposed visitor centre is still awaiting a go-ahead.

The environmental group are looking for volunteers. Contact 01942 817302 for details.