PLANS for Horwich market were outlined by Rafaelle Tuccillo, Bolton Council's markets manager, at a meeting of Horwich town council.

He said it was intended to reduce the size of the building and refurbish the remainder to creating an attractive market area. It was also hoped the two days of operation could be extended so that craft fairs and farmers' markets could be held.

From March 2, Bolton Council will be the sole operators of the Sunday market which will help to provide funds for improvements.

The leader of Horwich council, Cllr Michael Kilcoyne, said: "When I was chair of markets at Bolton Council, I was determined to make sure that the positive impact that local markets, such as Horwich and Westhoughton, have on the local economy was recognised.

"This has been done and previous threats to the markets' future have now been removed."