RESEARCH into Bolton's economic success may be funded by a charitable trust.

The Leverhulme Foundation is considering a request by Bolton MP Peter Thurnham for the in-depth study.

Mr Thurnham, Tory MP for Bolton North East, believes an understanding of Bolton's prosperity compared to other areas is essential for planning the town's economic future.

"I am confident that 1996 will see continued economic growth in Bolton," he said. "The economic recovery here is significantly stronger than in other parts of the country and this is showing itself in the dramatic reduction in unemployment figures."

In 1983, Bolton's unemployment rate was 15pc, compared to a national average of 12.2pc.

"Those positions have now been reversed and Bolton's unemployment rate is 6.8pc as against the average across the country of 7.7pc," said Mr Thurnham.

His request for Leverhulme Foundation funds followed talks with Bolton Council chief executive Brian Collinge. "Mr Collinge told me he thought the past success was mainly to do with shopping developments," said Mr Thurnham.

"I believe the reasons for the improvement lie in the many and diverse businesses which are being created and the willingness of Bolton people to to adapt to new demands.

"However, if we are to continue building on that success, we need some proper research into this issue.

"I am hopeful that a local institution like Bolton Institute or Salford University will put forward a successful proposal for the work."

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