WHEN it comes to thriving local communities and villages that are held dear by their residents you do not get much more thriving than Little Lever.

Folk in this vibrant little village are fiercely proud of their heritage and proud to be not only part of Bolton but part of the community spirit that is in evidence here.

So former resident Elliot Brown decided to produce a charity fund-raising calendar based on memories of Little Lever local people took it to their hearts and ensured it was a success.

In the New Year almost 200 of these fantastic calenders will be gracing homes throughout the village with photographs and quotations from local people included on the pages.

All money raised from the sale of the calendar will benefit three charities — including the Jessica Green Fund which was set up in memory of Little Lever youngster Jessica who lost her battle with a brain tumour earlier this year, Bolton Hospice and Children with Cancer.

The target of 189 copies was reached explains Elliot, who grew up in Little Lever but now lives in Rawtenstall. "Those who had pre ordered the calendar have received it and are delighted with it. There are some lovely comments on the Facebook page from those who have received their copy," he says.

Little Lever Tesco, Ohana Coffee House and Tom's Toys in Little Lever are selling the calendar and the three charities, chosen by members of the Facebook page, will receive 100 per cent of the sales.

When Elliot set up the Growing Up in Little Lever Facebook page he never expected such an incredible response.

There are 1780 member of the page now.

'The calendar shows many images of village life through the decades. There are many smiling happy faces of days gone by.

"It wouldn't have been possible without the support of the great folk of the village and shows that Little Lever is still the welcoming and friendly supportive village it has always been and a great place to be a part of," says Elliot.