TODAY'S children may be used to playing with Xboxes —but a unique activity in the town centre proved they are just as happy with cardboard boxes.

Little Jamie Taylor, aged three, from Horwich, was just one of the many youngsters to have fun in the sun in a playground filled with cardboard boxes.

Young people could also take part in football, boxing, a sandpit, and singing and dancing.

But by far the most popular pastime in Victoria Square was a simple area populated only by brown boxes of different shapes and sizes.

The aim of the event was to encourage children to develop their own independence and have the freedom to play outdoors where they live. A range of free activities for all ages was on offer in the town centre throughout the day from 11am until 4pm, including a climbing wall; inflatable assault course, street games, arts and crafts and skate park activities.

The council’s mobile boxes were also in the square with one providing sports and dance activities, while the other hosted community radio station Bolton FM providing music and radio entertainment on all day.

Cllr Ebrahim Adia, executive member for children’s services at Bolton Council, said: “Giving young people the opportunity to get outdoors and gain some independence is so important, and it is excellent that this was the key theme of the National Play Day this year. With a great range of activities there was something for everyone, and lots of chances for youngsters to try something new.”

Bolton Youth Council also attended the event, looking to raise awareness and provide more information regarding the kinds of crime that most affect young people.

National Play Day started in 1987 as a celebration of children’s “right to play” and takes place on the first Wednesday in August.