EASTER is fast approaching and with it the school holidays. So why not bring the children into the town centre where you will find lots of activities.

From April 21-25, the Market Place will be doing FREE face painting every day from 11am-4pm. And on Easter Monday, for jazz enthusiasts there will be a live jazz band.

Don't miss the Crompton Place free creative workshop for children in the centre on Thursday, April 17. To celebrate Easter the workshop theme will be bunny masks and decorating Easter eggs! Kids can go along and use the free materials provided, as well as the expert help and advice from two designers. The fun starts at 10am, with sessions available throughout the day and, most important of all, don't forget your Easter Eggs!

Also, just a quick reminder that the shops will all be closed on Easter Sunday.

Tickets are now available for the Bolton Live Alliance Music Festival, part of the 750th anniversary Charter celebrations in Bolton. This fantastic concert will take place at the Victoria Halls on Friday, May 2, from 7p-10pm. Afterwards, there is the chance to mingle with the stars of the show at the Man & Scythe pub in Churchgate. The concert will feature the best of Bolton's local talent and should appeal to all ages. Tickets can be obtained from our office Tel 01204 523762 or at the Man &Scythe.

To continue this theme, on Saturday, May 3, there will be fun for all the family with a "Busking Bolton" Competition sponsored by Crompton Place.

This will take place around the town centre, including Victoria Square, Nelson Square and between Crompton Place and Marks & Spencer, culminating with the best busker being announced at 4pm in Crompton Place. If you would like a chance to be one of the judges, please contact me at the number below.

DBBC/Bolton Market Radio is also joining in the day with their popular Music Road Show on Victoria Square, so come along and enjoy the entertainment.

Are you a budding fashion model? On June 6 and 7 we will be hosting the annual Fashion, Health & Beauty Exhibition in a large marquee on Victoria Square. This year we are offering a lucky member of the public the opportunity to be in the fashion show, so if you think you can work with the professional models on the day, please write to me, including a recent photograph, and tell me why we should pick you. You never know, you may also win a fabulous prize! (Closing date for entries Friday, May 9).

So, until next time, have a great Easter and don't eat too much chocolate!

Cathy Savage,

Bolton Town Centre Ltd,

Market Hall, Knowsley Street, Bolton

Tel 01204 523762

Fax 01204 523659

Email:catsava@aol.com