THE choice of TV presenter Vernon Kay to switch on the Bolton town centre lights next month is spot on.

Vernon -- unlike some other media personalities who simply exploit their Northern roots and never set foot in the place or support local projects -- is Bolton through and through.

The highly successful lad is now presenter of choice on a variety of telly programmes, and has changed neither his accent nor his local allegiances since national success came his way.

His understandably proud family live in the town, and he visits them whenever he can.

Vernon is a conspicuous and genuine supporter of Bolton Wanderers and is happy to say so.

Personally, I can think of no nicer person to be the figurehead to perform the lights ceremony alongside the mayor.

And I hope that thousands of you go along to the town centre on Thursday, November 21, to join in the fun.