JOYCE Foulkes came face to face with her family history when she saw a portrait of the first Mayor of Bolton - painted by her ancestor more than 150 years ago.

Charles Darbishire became mayor on December 1, 1838. His picture was painted and framed by David Winder and his son, also called David, who were popular artists at the time.

The painting now hangs outside the Mayors Parlour in Bolton Town Hall. Joyce, a 67-year-old volunteer at Victoria Hall, was shown it by the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Frank White, and his wife Eileen.

Joyce said: "David Winder is my great-great aunts great uncle. He moved from Yorkshire in the early 1800s to open a painting and framing shop on Great Moor Street with his son.

"The shop became very popular. They also painted a second picture of a later mayor, which also hangs in the Town Hall.

"It was a real privilege to see a beautiful piece of my family history and the history of Bolton."

The Mayor said: "I am really pleased that I could offer Joyce the opportunity to see the painting and take her on a tour of the Mayor's Parlour.

"The painting and framing shop established by the Winders was still going strong about 100 years after opening, and they painted some important paintings.

"Charles Darbishire was a considerable figure because he was in office when Little Bolton and Great Bolton were joined together in the 1800s."