BOLTON has been playing host to 13 German students.

The students, aged 17 and 18, came from Bolton's twin town Paderborn to take part in work experience at different places including the Bolton Evening News, schools and Bolton Council in a visit trip organised by North Bolton Sixth Form College.

The two weeks enabled the teenagers to enhance their language skills, learn about British culture and increase their knowledge about their chosen profession.

Viktoria Bartsch spent her two weeks at the Bolton Evening News, shadowing reporters, going to court and inquests and finding out about the British newspaper industry.

But she admits her first day in the job was a nervous one.

She said: "As we started our trip we were all very curious about the placements and the people that we would work with. But after the first day we felt much better -- and had a lot to talk about.

"Everyone was satisfied with their placement and had only a few language problems!

"After the first few days we really began to enjoy our stay in Bolton and quickly felt at home.

"I got a first-hand view of a journalist's work and think it is a job which offers a lot of variety and excitement."

Fabian Wilhelm, aged 17, was thrilled at being placed at BMW on Bradshawgate.

He said: "I spent most of my time checking everything was all right on the cars and I enjoyed testing the cars the most.

"Everybody should do a work experience abroad. You could never otherwise learn so much in such a short time about the language, country and culture."

Martin Holzweissig, aged 18, accompanied Lib Dem group leader Barbara Ronson throughout his stay and got to know what a Bolton councillor's work involves.

Cllr Ronson said: "Working abroad is an excellent way to gain more independence. Martin is interested in politics and has enjoyed his stay in England, like the others in the group."

Viktoria spoke on behalf of all the students when she said: "We are all very grateful to the employers in Bolton who have been willing to accept us.

"We never expected them to be so helpful and so patient even when we had some language difficulties. This has been an experience of a lifetime."