RESIDENTS are being given the chance to star in one of several short films as part of a project to turn a Bolton church into a thriving community centre.

The opportunity is being offered by the community group All Souls Bolton, off Astley Street, where themes for the films will include war, childhood, leisure and play, food and work.

The results will be placed on an audio-visual display integrated into the “history wall” which will run along the north wall of the interior of the church.

Organisers say it is part of the interpretation of All Souls Church, which has been rescued by the Church Conservation Trust (CCT) and is being converted into a business and community hub thanks to a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

All Souls Bolton want the church to house a portion of the town’s past as it moves forward into the future.

“If people have got a good story to tell, we’re looking for volunteers to potentially star in one of our short films,” said the project’s officer Amy Llewellyn.

“We’re also looking for volunteers of any age or background to help out in the production process.

“No experience is necessary, so it might be useful for someone who wants to get a behind-the-scenes look into the media industry.

“It might not be the silver screen but it’s a chance to leave a legacy in what we hope will turn out to be an important public building for Bolton.”

The charity has commissioned Manchester-based film and media company Belle Vue to produce the films.

Producer Andrew Hardman said: “We'd love to hear from members of the local community who can tell us about a place in Bolton that means something to them.

“We want to know how this place has changed in people's lifetimes and memories are a brilliant way to tell the story of the area.

“If anyone wants to be in the film, or knows someone who might, they should contact us if possible and get in touch for a chat.”

Filming will take place during July and August.

More information on the venture is available by e-mailing amy.llewellyn@allsoulsbolton.org.uk or calling 07908 150210, or by contacting Andrew at hello@abellevueproduction.com, or ringing him on 07805 788880.