BOLTON Euro MP Gary Titley has thrown his weight behind the bid to bring the Imperial War Museum's northern home to Farnworth.

The town is one of six possible locations which have been included on a final shortlist of sites.

In a letter to Roger Tym and Partners, who have been appointed by the Imperial War Museum to act as advisers, Mr Titley set out the many benefits of locating the project in Farnworth.

He said it would create at least 400 jobs and serve as a "vital component" in the economic regeneration of the town. The MEP for Greater Manchester West also emphasised the town's "excellent communication links."

One third of the population of England and Wales live no more than two hours drive away from the Farnworth site because of its close proximity to the M61, he explained.

He also highlighted the rail links to Manchester Airport, the West Coast Mainline and the Trans Pennine services offered by Kearsley Station.

Mr Titley added: "A decision to site the Museum in Bolton would be a fitting tribute to the countless men and women of this area who down the generations have such a proud record of service in Britain's armed forces."

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