BILL Naughton -- one of Bolton's most famous literary sons -- is being honoured at an exhibition and seminar next week.

And the occasion gives local people the first chance to see his original manuscripts, letters and personal papers.

His widow, Erna, could have earned a fortune by selling the papers to American universities specialising in English Literature.

But, she felt that Bill would have wanted them to return home.

So, she let Bolton library chiefs have first refusal on the whole collection, and a £81,500 Lottery Heritage Fund grant finally brought them here from the couple's Isle of Man home.

Charismatic

Now, on Monday, an exhibition dedicated to the man who wrote "Alfie" and a clutch of charismatic plays, radio and TV programmes in the 1960s, will open at Bolton Library from 11am to 3pm.

And Erna will be there at the official launch at 7.30pm to help fulfill Bill's wishes. Free tickets are available for the event from the Albert Halls' ticket office.

Next Saturday morning at the Library, from 9am to 1pm, a free seminar will also be held, focusing on his life and work, his writings for children and 1960s British Cinema.

Bill Naughton was brought up in Bolton in the 1920s, and was always proud of his roots. Much of his later work recorded the gritty realism of Northern life, although his best-known work -- "Alfie" -- was inspired by the wised-up Cockneys he met when he moved to London from Lancashire during the war years.

He wrote his original script of "Alfie" for radio, but it was later made into a hit film starring a young Michael Caine, and then a best-selling book.

Earlier this year, the film was re-printed by the British Film Institute as one of four classic British-made films for new generations to enjoy.

Loved

In his later years, Bill and Erna moved to the Isle of Man, where he died in 1992 following a stroke. But Bolton was still the home of his heart.

Now, his original works are back with the people he knew and loved. And, as Erna insisted: "Bill would be happy to know they are going to Bolton."