I WAS very proud to be inaugurated as Bolton's new mayor for 2002-2003, and during my year I will be working to promote the borough and its citizens. I am keen to promote regeneration and economic development.

I was very honoured to host the Civic Sunday Parade and Service at the Parish Church on Sunday, May 19.

I am writing to say a special thank you to all the organisations and individuals who were kind enough to show their support for these two events. I am sincerely grateful to you all.

I have chosen the Bolton Coronary Care Appeal as my main charity, and will be working hard to raise monies for them during my mayoral year. I am particularly keen to help local charities, and if there is a way I can help charities in the borough either by attending an event or sending a letter of support, I would be very happy to do this.

I am also keen to work with the Bolton Evening News to support their efforts to raise civic pride within the borough, and I hope to visit many of Bolton's schools to talk about this to the children.

Anyone wishing to know more about my charity appeal or perhaps find out more about civic life in the borough should contact the Mayor's Office on 01204 331090.

Cllr John Walsh OBE

Mayor of Bolton