JANE Hampson, who has spent 20 years bringing music to the people of Bolton, is Bolton's Woman of the Year for 2003.

She received the coveted award at a ceremony at Bolton's Reebok Stadium to mark her work in promoting music among young and old throughout the borough.

Jane, who is now joint head of the Bolton Music Service, was presented with the award by Mayoress Christine Walsh.

The guests were told that, through her efforts, Bolton had been put on the map with her involvement in events such as the special Commonwealth Games Songs of Praise programme, which was broadcast from Bolton, and the Biggest Birthday Party concert at the Reebok Stadium.

But aside from the big events, Jane has inspired self esteem and confidence into all those who she helped make music over a career that has spanned three decades.

But in an emotional speech, the town's new Woman of the Year paid tribute to her fellow colleagues in the music service -- and the other nominees in the final.

She added: "I would like to thank all the people who have run with me on my ideas over the past few years.

"Everyone at the Bolton Music Service team works so hard to bring music to the children of this town.

"I'm in absolute awe and wonder of all the other nominees for the awards who have done so much for Bolton."

The five finalists -- from different areas of local life -- all received bouquets and crystalware at a ceremony attended by almost 200 men and women.

The finalists were:

Zonya Marsh, who was hailed as an outstanding champion for older people. The mother of four has worked as a nurse and health visitor in Bolton for 33 years and through her efforts has given the Over Fifties Federation national status.

Rita Liddell, who through her work with the mental health charity MHIST has given the charity a higher profile and helped to reduce the negative preconceptions about mental illness.

Charlotte Fielding, who overcame her own heart problems to help charities in Bolton. She raised for £1,100 for Coronary Care as part of her celebrations for her diamond wedding anniversary.

Anne Bain, who continued to work within the community when she retired as a nurse 10 years ago. The mother of six went on to gain a diploma in counselling and has since become an integral part of Bolton Community Health Council and Age Concern.

Entertainment was provided at the ceremony by comedian Norman Prince.

Also present was Manchester restaurateur Gerry Yeung of the famous Yang Sing restaurant.