AS regular readers of this column will know, one of my pet hates is the issue of street traders who are over populating the town centre and causing hassle to shoppers and visitors.

Last Friday lunchtime, in a space of just 50 yards between the Market Hall and Deansgate, I was approached on no less than four occasions by people trying to either sell me goods, or wanting me to fill in questionnaires.

By the time the fourth person approached me, and I had yet again replied "no thank you", I received a sarcastic reply. I felt it was then appropriate to warn the person concerned to stop harassing visitors, but, aside from that, at present, there is little else I can do. I know that I am not alone in finding this behaviour totally unacceptable and, believe me, I will be doing everything within my power to discourage this and to make your visit a pleasant and hassle-free experience.

I am currently in discussions with the council to see if we can expedite a change in the law. Meanwhile, during your visit to your fantastic town centre you may see a new addition to the Town Centre Team of Ambassadors. Graham O'Brien brings a wealth of experience to the centre, along with his interpersonal skills, which will stand him in good stead with helping members of the public.

The Ambassadors' team is made up of six people who walk around the centre wearing a navy blue uniform, including storm jackets, which have Town Centre Ambassador emblazoned on the back. On this subject, there has been some debate over whether the Ambassadors need to be more high profile for visitors and the opinion seems to be that they need to stand out more. To that end, we are looking to purchase new outfits for them. If you have any suggestions please feel free to comment.

A note for your diary is the Bolton Live Alliance Music Festival as part of the 750th celebration of Bolton. This fantastic concert will take place at the Victoria Halls on Friday, May 2, from 7pm-10pm. After the concert you will have a chance to mingle with the stars of the show at the Man & Scythe pub in Churchgate. This varied and unique concert will feature local talent and should appeal to all ages. Tickets will be on sale shortly at only £5 and can be obtained from our office, tel: 01204 523762, or at the Man & Scythe.

Also, although the tickets sold out an age ago, it's brilliant to see Bolton comedian, Peter Kay, playing in his home town all next week. He'll be on at the Albert Halls and, having already seen his hilarious show, I can tell all those lucky enough to have tickets that you will be in for a real treat.

Finally, don't forget your mum this Sunday! There are many great ideas for the perfect Mother's Day gift in many of the town centre shops. Crompton Place is running a "Mum in a Million" Mother's Day competition which you still have time to enter, and the closing date is this Saturday. Look out for the entry form in tonight's and tomorrow's Bolton Evening News. The competition couldn't be easier -- if you are under 12, just write to the Bolton Evening News and tell them in no more than 20 words why your mum deserves the title "Mum in a Million" and you could win her £300 in holiday vouchers, plus £150 in vouchers to be spent in BHS, New Look and Boots in Crompton Place and the Gates, or why not take your mum on a visit to The Market Place today, tomorrow or on Friday where you can be entertained by world famous Harpist Mr Faustro Franco who's beautiful sounds appeal to all age groups -- a real treat for mum.

Cathy Savage

Bolton Town Centre Ltd

Market Hall

Knowsley Street, Bolton