POTENTIAL soldiers have been signing up to join the Army in large numbers in Bolton despite a war with Iraq becoming increasingly inevitable.

Recruiters have been rushed off their feet and, although such an increase in interest is usual early in the New Year, an imminent war is not putting people off. Most of the people visiting the Army Careers Office, on Great Moor Street, have been walking in from the street.

Sgt Dave Kelly, aged 33, said: "We always send letters to potential recruits before Christmas and January is always busy. I wouldn't say it's because there's a chance of war. It hasn't put people off, though."