THE Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Peter Birch is expected to return to work this week, after spending five days in hospital.

Cllr Birch, who was forced to withdraw from his public engagements last Thursday after complaining he was feeling ill, is recovering in the Royal Bolton Hospital where his condition is described as "comfortable".

He is expected to return to work later this week.

The Deputy Mayor, Cllr Eric Johnson, will continue to carry out the mayoral duties until Cllr Birch returns.

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