COME on down..the Navy's in town!

That's the invitation from Bolton's Ritzy Nightclub which is hosting the Ship's Company Dance for HMS Beaver, Bolton's adopted Royal Navy ship.

Ben Embley, Ritzy manager said: "We are looking for dance partners for officers and crew of HMS Beaver who will be dancing the night away from 9pm.

"It's always a pleasure to welcome HMS Beaver to Bolton. The Ship's Company Dance is open to everyone who is looking for a fabulous night out," he added.

To ensure the crew have dance partners, Ritzy is opening at 9pm and has complimentary tickets for free admission before 10pm on the big night, on Friday October 18. To obtain a ticket, call in to the first floor reception at Bolton Town Hall to make sure you don't miss the boat.

HMS Beaver is making a three-day visit to the town from October 18 to 21.

On Saturday October 19, the crew will muster on the Town Hall Square at 10.30am when the Deputy Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Alan Rushton will inspect the ship's company. There will also be a Tug o' War competition and the public will be able to join in.

Also on Saturday October19 HMS Beaver will be open to visitors and buses will leave Moor Lane Bus Station Stand Z, for the ship at Liverpool from 10.45am on the hour until 2.45pm. Tickets are available from the Bus Station Travel Shop. the costs are adult return £4.50; family ticket (two adults, two children under 14) £10, children (under 14) £3 and senior citizens £3.

On the Sunday afternoon there will be a sports tournament at Horwich Leisure Centre, when Beaver will take on teams including the Police, Royal Mail, Fire Brigade, Bolton College, Bolton Hospitals and Sea Cadets. Spectators can watch free of charge to cheer on their team.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.