CAMPAIGNING charities across Bolton are battling to protect a "vital" grants scheme.

A 35-page petition was presented to the leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Bob Howarth, opposing the authority's plan to abolish the small grants scheme.

If the council goes ahead it will end what charities throughout the borough describe as "a vital source of funding".

They say it would hit both the charities and the people they are designed to serve. Accepting the petition and noting the concerns of the charities, Cllr Howarth reiterated the council's support and recognition of the important work done by local charities.

Andy Hazeldine, chairman of Bolton Council for Voluntary Service which organised the petition, said: "We hope the council understands the strength of feeling this proposal has aroused and we are optimistic that the council will take local charities' concerns on board when they make their final decision.

"I would like to thank everyone who signed the petition and the charities which worked hard to collect signatures."

A final decision regarding the future of the grants scheme is expected in February.

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