ANDREW Ratcliff, chief executive of Bolton and Bury Chamber, has welcomed Newsquest's multi-million pound investment in Bolton.

The chamber and many of its 1,300 members work closely with the Bolton Evening News to promote local entrepreneurship.

Mr Ratcliff said: "This massive investment is a clear symbol of Newsquest's commitment to the region and to the quality of its news services.

"It seals the company's ongoing success as a powerful force in North West and national publishing. We are delighted that the group chose to make the investment in Bolton, which is excellent news for the local economy."

Steve Hughes (centre, left), editor in chief of the Bolton Evening News, said: "The Bolton Evening News has been at the forefront of technology many times in its illustrious history and today the BEN and its sister titles take another step forward. Our new press and the latest computer to plate technology at our new print centre mean we will be able to provide an even better service to our readers and advertisers.

"This investment by Newsquest marks the beginning of another exciting era for all our titles across Lancashire, Cheshire and Greater Manchester.

"We have always taken a pride in the role we play in our communites and we take pride today in playing a part in the new spirit of enterprise which is now flourishing in this corner of the North West."

The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Kevan Helsby sent this message: "I am delighted to see that we are maintaining the best of our traditions in continuing to produce a superb local newspaper, whilst using technology as modern as the hour.

"The new investment is welcome, and I am sure that it will be success for many years to come."