RESIDENTS' pleas for a skateboarding park have received the backing of MP Ruth Kelly.

Ms Kelly was recently presented with a petition signed by more than 100 households in the Johnson Fold area of Bolton calling for the skateboard park to be installed and for an improvement in facilities for young people.

"Children should have somewhere to play and meet," said Ms Kelly.

"The idea of a skateboarding park is a good one and, based on the petition, has a lot of local support.

"I have asked the Council to consider this proposal and also the general issue of facilities available to young people in the area."

The Bolton West MP has also carried out a survey of residents in Johnson Fold, asking them to list concerns about the area.

More than 150 households replied, with people's main worries being litter and vandalism, drug taking and loutish behaviour.

"The number of replies I have received from Johnson Fold residents, stating their disgruntlement with the general condition of the area, indicates the severity of this problem," said Ms Kelly.

"I have written to the Council enclosing copies of the resident responses and have asked them to investigate their complaints and see what action can be taken to tackle their concerns."