TIME is vital when an ambulance races to an emergency. And when that emergency involves children, anything which allows paramedics to treat them quickly and effectively on the spot can literally save lives.

The Bolton public, fortunately, recognises this, and people are prepared to dip into their own pockets to ensure that the town's 10 ambulances have available the most modern equipment in the country.

They are raising this money through Bolton's newest charity, CHAT - the Children's Hospital Appeal - which aims to upgrade local ambulances by adding a costly Vital Signs' Monitor for children, plus paediatric traction splints, water gel kit for burns and scalds and blood glucometer for diabetes.

The cost per ambulance is £8,500. And so successful has the appeal been since it was launched officially in June that the first upgraded ambulance has already been paid for. And they are well on the way to their second.

Chairman of the Bolton appeal, Mrs Irene Roocroft - herself a mother and grandmother - has no doubts why CHAT has been so successful in such a short time. "Although we all hope that accidents won't happen to children, we all know that this equipment will, sadly, be much in use," she explained.

"I think what has touched us all most is the fact that, at any time, one of our family or friends' children could desperately need this equipment. We want to feel that we have done something towards providing it."

In fairness, the appeal already had an excellent start. Four years ago, hairdresser Barbara Openshaw began fund-raising for CHAT, and enlisted the help and support of staff, customers and friends.

Since then, they have been tireless in organising a variety of individual events - from concerts to a popular Krypton Factor Assault Course next month - raising thousands for the charity.

This ongoing presence provides strong background support for the new Bolton branch which has already held a couple of successful events, and raised the profile of the charity.

Warburtons and Bolton's Marks & Spencers' firms have already pledged their financial support, and Irene Roocroft hopes that other firms will follow this generous lead.

As always, local children themselves are beginning to lead the way to raising cash. At St Michael's CE Primary School, pupils took part in an enjoyable Fitness Challenge for the charity.

In November, international flower arranger Barry Grey will come to Bolton for a Christmas Flower Demonstration, in the Great Hall at Bolton School (Boys' Division.)

And the CHAT Car Challenge is looking for 30 challengers to raise a minimum of £1,000 and take part in a Euro adventure, travelling between the French destination in Bordeaux and the Port of Caens - with suitable refreshments and celebrations promised.

All the local CHAT supporters are keen to ensure the ambulances are given the equipment as soon as possible. As Mrs Roocroft states:"The money for this vital equipment will be raised in Bolton, by the people of Bolton for the children of Bolton. Please help."

Collecting boxes, badges and other promotional items and help are available from the CHAT office on 0161-741-5098. Schools or nurseries who can help with fund-raising ideas can contact voluntary schools' secretary Wendy McManus on Bolton 389378.

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