TODAY the Bolton Evening News gives its backing to the town's ambitious bid to become a city.

Council leaders are putting the finishing touches to the bid to rise in status from one of the country's biggest and best towns to a city.

It could be a case of third time lucky for Bolton. Two previous bids have failed but civic leaders believe they have a winning formula this time by emphasising the town's best asset -- its people.

Although gaining city status is unlikely to bring direct financial benefits to the area, town hall bosses believe it will boost civic pride and increase the borough's attractiveness to businesses which may be thinking of relocating.

"Although 'city' is only a courtesy title it would carry some weight when we come to publicising the area," said Bolton Council leader Bob Howarth.

"This is an established borough which deserves greater prestige."

Organisers of Bolton's bid will now concentrate on lobbying the decision makers in the hope that Bolton will not be passed over once again.

We support them and we hope you will too. Bolton is a proud town and it can become a great city. The winner will be announced by the Queen next year, possibly to coincide with her Golden Jubilee celebrations.