A COMMUNITY champion who helped to cut drug problems and prostitution in The Haulgh is to be honoured with a lasting tribute in a park.

A giant rock is to be placed in Bridgeman Park in memory of Walter Scott, who died in January aged 68.

The monument was chosen because he was often described as the “rock” of his local community, working tirelessly in his role as chairman of the former Haulgh Community Partnership.

Community campaigner William Gallagher is behind the tribute and has organised a charity night next month to pay for the rock and a plaque to be installed.

The line-up is being finalised, but Mr Scott’s friend, Cllr Noel Spencer, will be performing classic Frank Sinatra songs and the UCAN Shakers will show off their belly dancing skills.

Mr Gallagher said: “Walter was a great man and a real rock, so we thought it would be very nice to have something people could remember him by. He was an inspiration to so many people. It is amazing to think he came down here to retire and ended up making such a massive difference to the lives of everyone in The Haulgh.

“We are hoping to raise about £500 to pay for the stone and plaque, but any money over that will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Society.”

Originally from Middlesbrough, Mr Scott and his wife, Madeleine, moved to Bolton in 2001 after retiring to be closer to their daughter, Robin, and grandchildren, Daniel and Sophie.

Mrs Scott said she was proud her late husband’s contribution was being recognised.

“He was a remarkable man,” she said. “He spent so many hours working with police and members of the community to tidy up the area and we are very proud of this stone.”

The charity night is at Darcy Lever Cricket Club, Hacken Lane, on December 19, starting at 7.30pm.