AROUND 1,000 pupils from across the North-west will welcome the 72 competing nations at the Commonwealth Games.

One primary school from each of the 22 Local Education Authorities in the region, including Bolton, has been invited to perform along with school groups from Manchester. The pupils, from schools to be announced soon, will perform an official song written for the Games at the welcoming ceremonies. Sue Woodward, Creative Director, said: "We hope the children will have a wonderful experience."