A PACKED programme of events is underway in and around Bolton town centre to celebrate International Women's Week.

International Women's Day on Saturday recognises the efforts of women through the ages who have contributed to the development of women's history.

Last year Bolton Council marked the day with a Women's Health and Well Being Day and a few small events.

This year, working with a £3,000 budget topped up by £1,000 from GSOCS (Gender, Sexual Orientation and Caring Status group), the council's Education and Culture Community Development Team, lead by Lory Povah, has organised an action-packed programme of activities, which began last weekend and runs until next Wednesday.

Bolton College, Bolton Institute, East Bolton Regeneration, leisure centres, museums, libraries and local community groups are holding free activities ranging from sport and fitness to internet taster sessions and cooking tips.

The centre point is a temporary shop, on Deansgate, which is also a venue for workshops, talks and information. The shop is open between 10am-2pm until Saturday March 8.

The main celebration will be a one-day extravaganza at Quebec Hall between 10am-3pm on Saturday, where there will be an array of activities including arts and crafts, cooking, dancing, henna painting and IT.

Also on Saturday, between 11am-4pm, Withins Leisure Centre is hosting a day of health, activity and well being for mums and girls.

Full activity programmes are available from Bolton Town Hall, libraries, leisure centres and the Deansgate shop. Alternatively contact Lory Povah on 01204 334066.