AN international Christian artist will be visiting Horwich on Friday to launch a charity appeal and perform three concerts.

The Welsh singer Nia, who is honorary vice-president of Operation Christmas Child UK, will be performing at Rivington and Blackrod High School in the afternoon and at St Catherine's Church, Richmond Street, in the evening.

The Operation Christmas Child appeal is run by the Samaritan's Purse organisation.

Dozens of Bolton schools support the charity each year by filling shoe boxes full of goodies to help youngsters in countries like Serbia, Kosovo and Armenia.

Tickets for the church, which starts at 7.30pm, are £3 on the door or from Wesley Owen Books and Music, Deansgate.