BOLTON is facing a “demographic timebomb” because of its ageing population, according to a lobbying group.

The number of people in their 60s in the North West is set to rise by 40 per cent over the next two decades, a new report by ageing forum 5050vision concludes.

The forum, which is a partnership between a number of public, private and voluntary organisations, aims to improve life for the over 50s by putting pressure on decision makers.

In Bolton and across Greater Manchester, 5050vision’s research shows that there are currently 0.27 over 60s for every person aged 15 to 60 in the county.

This is forecast to rise to 0.38 over the next twenty years — a product of the “baby boomer” generation growing old.

The forum says the changing demographic will have a massive impact on jobs, transport, health, housing and the economy.

A plan to tackle the problem, created by 5050vision and the North West Development Agency, was officially launched at the Reebok Stadium on Friday.

NWDA chief executive Steven Broomhead said: “The North West is entering a period of profound demographic change as the baby boomer generation comes of age.

“In response, the region’s key agencies have come together to develop a joined-up approach to the challenges and opportunities we face.”