BOLTON Festival is making a big noise this year -- and it is mainly thanks to a group of talented volunteers.

DBBC -- Diversity in Barrier Communications -- alias Bolton Market Radio is a volunteer training agency which specialises in building self-confidence through radio broadcasting.

But, in addition to training people in the studios, the station has been hosting a series of open-air events around the borough.

Its latest contribution has been a series of high profile roadshows in Victoria Square, celebrating Bolton Festival.

The station's own professional presenters give their time freely to help, while the roadshows also give volunteers or work experience students the chance to work in front of large crowds.

The roadshows also provide a wealth of young local talent the chance to perform.

DBBC's next event is the Festival roadshow on Saturday when youngsters from the Farnworth Academy of Performing Arts will be among those taking to the stage.

Hannah Morris, one of the station's patrons, will also be making an appearance.

Other roadshows this year have included Bolton Show as well as a variety of smaller community fairs.

The final event of the year will be when the station hosts the Passport 2002 event on September 8 at the Reebok Stadium.

Dorothy Martland, project manager, said: "Next year promises to be even better for the people of Bolton as Leisure Services and DBBC are formulating ways in which they can create an even better community spirit."

Staff at DBBC are "tickled pink" by a donation of £200 made by funnyman, Ken Dodd.

Ken, who appeared on Saturday night as part of the Bolton Festival, met representatives from the station at a previous performance in the town earlier this year.

The comic runs his own charitable organisation, splitting the funds raised from concerts between worthy causes -- particularly favouring those in the entertainment industry.

Dorothy said: "The cheque signed by Ken arrived out of the blue in the post. We are obviously delighted." Variety