I THOUGHT I'd start off today with a bit of advanced notice.

As my next column will be after the event, I wanted to remind you all to get down to Victoria Square between 5pm and 7pm on Thursday November 15 for the annual Christmas lights switch on. Performances from a host of celebrities, including the cast of both the Albert Halls pantomime and the Octagon's Snow Queen production, Alive and so many others too numerous to mention; not forgetting however Bolton's Premiership team accompanied by Lofty The Lion. As usual, the event will have a spectacular firework finale sponsored by the BEN -- so don't miss the start of Bolton town centre's Christmas celebrations -- see you there!

While We're On The Subject!

I am sure that, unlike me, most of you are already either planning or buying your Christmas gifts. I am going to be more organised this year -- honest! But vital to your attack on those Christmas lists is precise information on shopping hours, so here goes:-

The Market Place is already open on Thursday nights until 9pm and will be joined by Crompton Place on November 15 (currently they are open until 8pm).

From December 3 the Market Place will be open every night until 6pm with the exception of late night Thursday and Sundays when they are open 11am to 5pm.

The majority of town centre stores will trade similar hours to the above centres so if you are at the planning stage of your Christmas shopping expedition bear in mind that your local town centre can cater for all your needs both large and small!

The range of children's toys available in the town centre has received a boost recently with the new concession in Whitakers basement and the broadening of the offer at Marks & Spencer to include toys. These additions to the range of toys, books, clothes, electrical goods and computer games to name but a few will undoubtedly make Christmas shopping easier on your feet and purse in Bolton town centre.

You will also be able to take a break from your shopping and have some fun with our snowtubing slide -- which now has a name -- The Christmas Cube Tube! Thanks to one of our major sponsors Cube3 Media Ltd. The giant slide which will be set amidst fir trees, log cabins and artificial snow will provide a much needed distraction for restless youngsters and help take some of the stress out of the Christmas rush. At £2 for three goes it is a bargain you cannot afford to miss.

Have Your Say!

This week's column has dealt with all that is Christmas. However if there is something you would like to get off your chest, be it relating to Christmas or the town centre generally drop us a line at the address below and we would be happy to answer your question or find a man (or woman) that can!

Karen Wheeldon

Bolton Town Centre Ltd., Market

Hall, Knowsley Street, Bolton

BLI 2AR

Tel: 01204 523762

E-mail:

Karen@boltontowncentre.co.uk