A MASS of coloured balloons rose into the sky above Bolton to mark the official re-opening of the town's Ashburner Street Market after a £4 million revamp.

Exactly 1,251 balloons were released to symbolise the fact that the Market Charter was granted to Bolton in that year.

Other attractions yesterday included a 50 foot inflatable elephant, jugglers and other entertainment.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton Cllr and Mrs Peter Birch unveiled a plaque and toured the market with other guests.

Refurbishment has been phased over several years and all the improvements are now completed. It is now open four days a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays selling food, fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, poultry, and frozen foods as well as clothing, health foods, flowers, hardware and fancy goods.

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