BOLTON has received the lion's share of a £50 million community grant to boost the town's most deprived areas.

The town has been handed the third biggest slice of the grant -- £126,112. Only Liverpool and Manchester have been given more.

It comes as the Government unlocks its financial chest to benefit dozens of local groups.

Both community and voluntary organisations in the town are being urged to come forward if they want more money.

The scheme intends to give small Bolton groups much-needed money of up to £5,000.

Bolton Wanderers Football in the Community recently benefited from similar funding with a £4,754 grant. This was to provide in-school and after-school coaching for girls from ethnic minorities. Lord Falconer, regeneration minister, said: "Forget multi-million grants from grandiose schemes -- this is designed to give small amounts that can still make a huge difference to local people."

A local voluntary organisation will soon be chosen by the Government to hand out the cash in Bolton.

Cllr Guy Harkin, deputy council leader, said: "It's always good news when the town receives money of this kind and I think it recognises the work the council does in partnership with voluntary groups.

"It will help many community projects in the town to apply for much-needed funds and can only be welcome."

Neighbouring Wigan received £88,230. In all, £2,568,000 was handed to 21 local authority areas in the North-west.

Those wanting further information can contact the Neighbourhood Renewal Unit on 020 7944 8383.