THE hunt is on for Bolton's female kindhearts -- to take a top title and boost the town's Coronary Care Appeal.

The Mayoress of Bolton, Mrs Christine Walsh, is appealing for nominations for the Bolton Woman of the Year Awards for 2003.

And this year, the awards will continue the theme of the town's 750th Charter celebrations by marking the important place of local women in Bolton's history.

"So I'd like to hear about women from all areas of local life who have made a real contribution," explained the Mayoress.

At stake for the winner is the prestigious top title, plus a beautiful crystal award. There will also be three runners-up who will each receive a crystal award.

All the awards will be made at the Awards Luncheon at the Reebok's Platinum Suite on April 25, when the proceeds will go towards the Coronary Care Appeal. This aims to raise £1 million to create a new coronary care unit at the Royal Bolton Hospital and is the Mayor's Charity for the Year.

The Woman of the Year Awards are given annually by the Mayoress to honour unsung local heroines.

She wants to hear about women who may care for others as charity volunteers or in a school, or who have shown remarkable acts of kindness to others. Or who have simply adopted caring for others and helping the community as a way of life.

Official nomination forms can be obtained from the Mayor's Office, Bolton Town Hall, Bolton BL1 1IU, email Sally.Heyes@bolton.gov.uk or ring 01204-331090.

The Mayoress said: "This is a unique opportunity to ensure that some of the many very special women locally who selflessly work for others can be given some recognition."