BOLTON town centre returned to normal today after "gun law" scenes around the Crown Court.

People passing near the Black Horse Street courts have been stunned by the morning and evening arrival and departure of police vehicles manned by officers in bullet-proof jackets and carrying sub-machine guns.

Escorted by motorcycle outriders, they were there to provide protection for "supergrass" Londoner James David Ladd. Ladd spent Thursday, Friday and yesterday in the court witness box, giving evidence in a major drugs trial.

The police cavalcade was part of unprecedented security arrangements brought into force at the court for the trial of five Rossendale people, a Londoner and a Tenerife bar owner, all accused of being involved in a massive drugs supply operation.

Electronic security appliances, closed circuit TV and digital door locks have been installed, backed up by a heavy Tactical Aid Group Police presence, for a trial which is expected to continue until December.

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