BOLTON Arena has adopted Bolton Busting Breast Cancer Appeal as its first ever Charity of the Year -- and already big fund-raising events are planned.

With Bolton Wanderers also getting involved with the BBBC appeal recently, the Bolton Arena link-up was described as yet another "huge and exciting boost" by Christine Blease, appeal organiser.

She said: "This shows that the whole town is becoming aware of the appeal and what it is trying to achieve and is getting behind us."

Mike Barlow, Bolton Arena Chief Executive, said: "I am absolutely delighted that the Arena can play an active part in helping to raise awareness about this killer disease and if our small contribution helps to save just one life then it will all have been worthwhile."

The Arena has already become an focus point for sports in Bolton and surrounding area and is playing host to badminton events in the Commonwealth Games next year.

It hopes to start its appeal involvement with a Casino Night during December or early January.

The Cancer Research Campaign, which is running Bolton Busting Breast Cancer Appeal with its partner The Bolton Evening News, will organise an indoor Relay for Life at the Arena on Saturday February 16.

Relay for Life is normally held during the summer at venues in cities and towns across the country -- but this will be the first indoors in the UK during the winter.

Teams from all organisations in Bolton are now being sought to take part in the event.

Teams of 10 individuals will tackle -- in relay -- a 12-hour sponsored walk or run around a carpeted track laid on the Arena's indoor tennis courts. While team members go round the track, others can enjoy a disco and karaoke and games and competitions throughout the night.

Christine said: "People can take sleeping bags along and get a few hours sleep in special 'chill-out' rooms. It will be a fun event."

The event begins with an inspirational lap of honour for those cured or currently being treated for cancer.

It will also be an opportunity for people who have lost loved ones to cancer, to pay their own personal tribute.

The emotional climax of the event is a candle-lit vigil when participants are invited to light a candle to remember friends and loved ones who had cancer or are fighting it now.

Appealing for teams, Christine added: "The appeal was launched in Bolton because the survival rate for breast cancer is just 70 per cent -- compared to 74 per cent in the UK.

"The appeal can make a difference by raising money for research into new treatments and to raise awareness of breast cancer among women in Bolton."

Teams wanting to take part in Relay for Life should call Christine on 0161 772 5563. BOLTON ARENA: BBBC is charity of the year