IRONMAN is set to attract thousands of visitors and deliver a boost of more than £3 million to the town's economy, say council chiefs.

More than 10,000 people are set to travel to Bolton for the Ironkids event and Sunday's Ironman, and shops, restaurants and cafes are expected to benefit from a bumper boost to the economy.

Cllr Cliff Morris, leader of Bolton Council, said the action-packed weekend will showcase Bolton at its best.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming over 2,000 athletes from all around the world to compete in Bolton this weekend, as well as their families, friends and supporters. On Saturday, we will also have 2,500 children taking part in the Ironkids race, making it the largest Ironkids race in the world.

"The Ironman UK Triathlon brings in millions of pounds to the local economy helping our businesses. Visitors boost the trade of our hotels, restaurants and shops. It showcases Bolton — the countryside, the people, the town — at its best.

"We hope that residents will come to cheer on the amazing athletes and enjoy the brilliant atmosphere of the town centre this weekend."

This year's event is the seventh annual Ironman UK triathlon which has been held in Bolton, with 2.650 athletes taking part in a gruelling 140.6-mile event including a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run.

Nikki Wilson-Cooke, the manager of the Market Place Shopping Centre, where entrants for the Ironkids event have been registering this year, said the event will provide a welcome boost for businesses.

She said: "We have had 2,500 children though our doors entering the event, which has been great.

"It is great that the town manages to keep getting Ironman and Ironkids, it brings people into the town centre creates a buzz around the place.

"It definitely increases footfall in the town, which will be a boost for businesses, and it has always had a positive effect in previous years and I am sure this year will be no different."

Laura Thompson, national business development manager at Bolton Whites Hotel, said their hotel is full for the weekend.

She said: “From a hotel point of view we’re more than happy to contribute to community events and business always picks up; our bedrooms are all full and we see an increase in sales in our restaurants and bars.”

A number of road closures will be in place all weekend throughout Bolton. For full details, visit: bolton.gov.uk/trafficorders