RUNDOWN parts of Bolton are set to be transformed with a £4.1 million boost from the Government.

The money will be used to beat crime and improve health, housing, employment and education in some of the most deprived areas of the town.

Bolton will receive the money over the coming financial year to begin tackling problems in its troubled areas. A total of £12.2 million will have been awarded from 2001 to 2004. It is an increase of £2 million on last year.

Dr Brian Iddon, MP for Bolton South, said: "This new announcement is wonderful news for Bolton and I hope that the money will be spent wisely in order to benefit the greatest number of people."

Bolton is one of 88 areas receiving the neighbourhood renewal funding, given as a result of a successful bid by the council.

The hand out will go to the Vision for the Future group which will now consult with Bolton people to see how they would like the money spent.

Bolton West MP Ruth Kelly added: "This funding will significantly improve the quality of life for many people in Bolton and transform those areas that, in the past, have been neglected by decision makers."

In a separate award, the town has just found out it will receive a lottery funding grant, possibly around £1 million, to further help communities.

The cash has been awarded after organisers admitted they had not given Bolton as much cash as they should.

Organisers say the money has been awarded to towns which have traditionally had a lot of game players.