CHRISTMAS has officially arrived in Little Lever.

The village held its official Christmas lights switch-on and this time the honour fell to Betty Holt, who marked her 90th birthday this week.

Mrs Holt has lived in Little Lever for most of her life. She attends St Matthew's Church in the village and was for many years landlady at the Stopes Tavern.

She said: "I am honoured to be asked to switch on the Christmas lights this year following in the footsteps of previous well known people like May Barlow from the cricket club, Alfred Hales OBE, and Cllr Connell when he was Mayor of Bolton."

Cllr Sean Hornby, ward councillor said: "This has been an annual event for many years now and the churches and the community brave the cold and often wet weather to take part in this fantastic event.

"This year it was hosted by Kings Church, along with Father Anthony from St Matthew's Church, refreshments were had by all afterwards in Kings Church."

Bolton Council funds the lights through the area forum budgets.

Cllr Hornby added: "The event seems to be getting bigger each year and long may this continue."