NOW that I have settled into my role as Mayor of Bolton, I wanted to write and say how proud I feel to be the first citizen of such a magnificent town.

The Mayoress and I have already attended quite a number of events, and we would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all the organisers of those events for their welcoming and kind hospitality.

One of our first duties was to host my Civic Sunday Procession and Service at the Parish Church. It was a wonderful afternoon but one of the things that was against us was the weather, it really poured down, but it didn't stop the organisations and bands joining in the march to the church.

So I would like to extend a very special thank you to all those who joined us, or came along on the day to watch, for their extra special efforts in braving the rain that at times reached monsoon proportions.

It really did mean a great deal to the Mayoress and myself that so many of you expressed your support for the mayoral traditions.

In return we would like to emphasise our willingness to support you, the people of Bolton and the surrounding townships in many of the different activities and events you organise throughout the year.

Please don't hesitate to contact the Mayor's Office on 01204 331057 and if we are available the Mayoress and I will take great pleasure in accepting your invitation.

Together let us make this year one in which the partnership between the mayoralty and the people takes a greater step forward.

Cllr Frank White JP

Mayor of Bolton