A BOLTON charity will fill the sky with balloons in a bid to raise as much money as possible for its move to new premises.

The town's only national charity, Vision Aid, is busy organising what could become Europe's biggest balloon race.

Supporters of the charity, which offers help and advice to blind or partially sighted babies and children and their families, can buy balloons for £1 each and every balloon will then be entered into the "Great Whites for Sight Balloon Race", which is planned to take place at Bolton Wanderers final home game of the season next May.

All the balloons will be released in front of a packed Reebok crowd for the fixture against Sheffield United.

Wanderers are supporting Vision Aid this season and will be holding fund-raising events to help raise the charity's profile.

The Vision Aid team hopes to move into their new home before the end of this year, but it may take another three years before the full refurbishment is completed.

They face the mammoth task of raising £500,000 to buy and convert the detached house, which is in Ladybridge.

Vision Aid has to leave its present home in Chorley New Road by December 22 and the team is likely to be wearing hard hats and wellies for the first few months following the move into the new house.

Lesley Green, Director General of Vision Aid, said: "Securing the premises for our new Family Centre is very exciting, but a lot of hard work and expenditure now begins before we can move in.

"The continuing involvement of Bolton Wanderers gives us tremendous support and encouragement as we embark on this major project."

Gareth Moores, Commercial Director at Bolton Wanderers Football Club, said: "The club is delighted that Vision Aid has secured new premises for their Family Centre locally, but this is only the start.

"It will cost over £500,000 to buy and refurbish but they will also have the day-to-day running costs to pay, so it is vital that as many of our fans as possible join the people of Bolton to contribute to the 'Great Whites for Sight Balloon Race'."

The grand prize for the person whose balloon travels the farthest from the Reebok Stadium will win a VIP football weekend break for two at one of Wanderers' home matches during the 2001/2002 season, including a two night stay at the luxurious De Vere Whites Hotel and a Platinum Suite match-day hospitality package.

If you want to take part in the balloon race, fill in the coupon below and send it off.