TWO leading town hall figures have been put forward to receive awards for promoting the arts.

Former leader, Cllr Cliff Morris and Stephen Young, the authority’s director of place, are both shortlisted for the Heats for the Arts Awards 2018.

The awards celebrate the work of councils, councillors and council officers who have overcome financial challenges to endure the arts stay at the top of the centre of community life.

Cllr Morris have been nominated for Best Local Authority Arts Champion —Councillor, while Mr Young is up for Best Local Authority Arts Champion — Officer.

Cassie Chadderton of UK Theatre said: “Councillor Cliff Morris knows that art and culture have a place in every part of civic life. He’s using his influence to improve the offer for everyone who lives in Bolton, and to make sure that arts and culture are contributing to its growth of the borough’s growth.”

A spokesman for arts and culture organisation What Next? added: “Stephen has gone above and beyond to support culture in Bolton as part of his role and demonstrates a huge commitment to putting culture at the heart of the place. It is excellent to see such commitment at a senior level.”

The winners will be announced on Wednesday, February 14.

For more information on the shortlisted nominees visit forthearts.org.uk/campaigns/hearts-for-the-arts/