BOLTON Lions have celebrated 25 years of being in a spin.

Patients in Bolton have reason to be grateful to the charitable organisation. They set up a Hospital Radio service in what is now the Royal Bolton Hospital in 1977.

Since then patients have been boosted on their way to recovery with the help of a team led by 68-year-old studio manager Jim Wells. He joined the Lions in 1985 and set up his own Wednesday morning show after retiring in 1990.

Other Lions asked if they could get involved, and now there is a dedicated team of programmes presenters bringing music to cheer up patients and help them get well.

Mr Wells said: "We only had two shows a week on Thursdays and Sundays when we began, but now we broadcast six days a week with help from Bolton Lions' volunteers."

They play a wide range of music from a 40,000 strong collection, many of which have been donated by the public.

"We play our own choice of music and anything people request," he added.

"We won't play head-banging music unless someone asks for it!"

Sunday Spin is dedicated to patients' requests and is the station's most popular show. Mr Wells said: "We get a lot of feedback from the patients and they love it because the music helps them to relax."

Bolton Lions are always glad to hear from new volunteers. And they regularly need new and different music to swell their collection. Anyone who can help can contact Mr Wells on 01204-307949.

Caption: CHAIN REACTION: The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Kevan Helsby tries his hand at spinning discs at the opening of new studio in honour of Lion Bob Brooks earlier this year while Lions and guests look on (J2314/35)