BUSINESSES in Bolton are being urged to jump on the Commonwealth Games bandwagon when it rides into town next summer.

A range of sponsorship packages have been put together by Bolton Council to encourage firms to reap the benefits of the multi-sport event.

Cllr John Byrne, executive member for culture, said the town "had a responsibility to maximise the business potential brought by the Games."

Companies gathered at Bolton Arena last night for an hour-long presentation.

The sponsorship packages range from £500 to more than £75,000 and it is hoped firms will emblazon their support of the event on billboards, bus shelters and lamp posts across the borough.

A series of events are also planned from March to August next year and firms are being asked to sponsor them.

Cllr Byrne said: "Never before has an opportunity like this been given to the business community of this town."

Business men and women were treated to entertainment from martial art expert Tiger Song Chunyu, the North West Asian Arts Group and the Ullaloom Theatre Company. They also heard speeches from mayor Cllr Kevan Helsby, MBE, and Steve Hughes, editor-in-chief of the Bolton Evening News.

The town will host cycling in Rivington and badminton at Bolton Arena.

The Games coincide with the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Nicola Brown on 334072 or Ged Kelly on 334156.