IT'S a historic party weekend in Bolton -- and everyone is invited.

The spectacular centrepiece is a mediaeval market in Churchgate, street entertainment and a vintage vehicle display in Victoria Square. Leading the celebrations was the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr John Walsh who urged everybody to come and join in. Cllr Walsh said: "It is a chance for the whole of Bolton to come and celebrate Bolton's birthday. It will be the biggest event in the North West this weekend. There will be something for all the family." The 750th celebrations mark the signing of Bolton's Charter in 1253 which made the town into a free borough and market town.

Today and tomorrow Churchgate will be filled with scores of stalls selling commercial and charity goods. Visitors will be able to try their hands at traditional crafts and traditional food will be on sale, including hot chestnuts and baked potatoes.

Musicians, strolling players, street performers and old fashioned peelers will also line the street. Stalls selling antique and collectors items will be inside Bolton Parish Church. On Victoria Square there will be a selection of classic vehicles including old police vehicles, fire engines and vintage taxis.

For today only a floral arts display will be on view at the Lion of Vienna Suite in the Reebok Stadium. There will be an entrance fee of £1.50. There is a park and ride service between Victoria Square and the Stadium.

Cllr Walsh had the brainwave of celebrating the charter anniversary as he was writing his mayoral inaugural speech. He glanced up at a copy of the charter hanging in his study wall and inspiration struck that it would be a great anniversary to celebrate.

He said: "The charter made Bolton into a free borough. It really made Bolton the centre of commerce and trade and it was the start of Bolton's development."