From the Evening News, February 6, 1993: THE Bolton Sports and Exhibition Centre should stay where it is, according to out special telephone poll on the controversial issue.

An overwhelming 97.4 per cent of BEN readers who voted say the centre should remain on its present Silverwell Street site. Only 2.6 per cent backed the council's suggestion that it should be moved.

25 YEARS AGO

From the Evening News, February 7, 1978

A WORKMAN was seriously ill in hospital today after being rescued unconscious from a 40-feet high gantry. Demolition worker John Ainsworth, aged 42, was working in the disused Atlas Mill off Mornington Road when he was seriously hurt. He and his workmates were about to winch a boiler. He climbed onto the gantry to operate an old winch. But the winch handle snapped and backlashed into his face, knocking him out.

Workmates tried in vain to reach Mr Ainsworth, and called the fire brigade who used an hydraulic platform for the rescue.

50 YEARS AGO

From the Evening News, February 7, 1953

HE is probably the most sought-after person in Bolton just now. He has received dozens of invitations this week from clubs of all descriptions. He cannot walk along the street without being stopped by the representative of some organization who would like him to speak to them

The deep sun-tan of Ald James Parkes simply radiates good health and vitality. He is back in Bolton again after a seven-month holiday tour in which he and his wife travelled more than 24,000 miles round the world. Back in the grey winter weather of Bolton, he said today: "It's good to be back."

100 YEARS AGO

From the Evening News, February 7, 1903

AN old-age pension scheme is now under the consideration of the principal Friendly Societies of the country. A State or State-aided pension of 5s (25p) a week is contemplated, and the following are amongst the conditions that such aid should be granted:- The applicant (male or female) is not to be under 55 years of age, and is to be a British-born subject, or naturalised subject of not less than 25 years standing. He or she must not have habitually received Poor Law relief, or been convicted of felony within 25 years of 65 years of age, or of any offence of less gravity within ten years of such age, and must not be leading an immoral life.