ANXIOUS residents fear that a famous memorial will be a target for vandals if it is moved to Farnworth Park.

Councillors plan to move the gravestone of Farnworth benefactor Thomas Barnes from a neglected back alleyway to the park that he created.

But father-of-two Dougie Ainsworth, of Green Street, believes it will be vandalised by youths who have already attacked a bowling hut and war memorial several times.

Mr Ainsworth, aged 39, a baker, said: "Farnworth Park is a hotspot for vandalism and the bowling green and the hut has been set on fire several times.

"The problem is that there is nothing for the kids to do so they just hang around.

"I think it is a lovely idea to move the memorial stone to somewhere everyone can see it but with all the cost and effort it will take, this isn't the right place."

Councillor Noel Spencer is getting behind the plan to move the memorial from Quiet Walk, which runs down the back of Market Street, between Church Street and Chapel Street.

He said: "There is always going to be a risk but I think this is the best option.

"The memorial has already been damaged in the alley and we can't just leave it there.

"The park is the most appropriate place and there might be some way we can protect the stone. Residents I have spoken to think it's a great idea."

The council wants to hear from descendants of Thomas Barnes who would like to be involved with the project. Ring the BEN on Bolton 537275. SUPPORT: Cllr Spencer