ITHOUGHT it would be appropriate to start this column with an update on the position of the Bolton Town Centre Company.

As reported in the Bolton Evening News, we found out at the end of last year that from December 31, 2003, our company was no longer eligible for European funding.

Although this was not a guaranteed income, to lose it was something of a shock.

Bolton Town Centre Company is predominantly paid for through a very successful membership scheme where businesses pay for a variety of benefits.

The wages of our Ambassadors, however, were paid for through external grant funding, not from membership fees. Due to the loss of this funding, I have had to take the difficult decision of making two of our six Ambassadors' positions redundant. We wish them all the very best for the future, their friendly, helpful, faces will be missed.

Although this has been a blow to the company, I would like to assure you that we do not intend to let our high standards slip and will endeavour to continue to offer a professional service.

I must also stress that Bolton Town Centre Company is a Limited by Guarantee and non-profit-making company. Any money we have made in the past is put back to improve the vitality and viability of our town centre.

We currently represent more than 200 businesses in Bolton Town Centre -- approximately one-third of all businesses -- but we are continually striving to encourage more businesses to join. They receive many benefits, including cleansing and maintenance, safety, marketing of the town centre, and much more.

A note for your diary is our first event for 2004 -- a Careers & Training Exhibition on March 4 and 5 in Victoria Square, which we held twice last year and it was a huge success.

This exhibition will offer opportunities to seek professional advice and guidance, one-to-one advice for school leavers and students of all ages, or people who are looking to move or improve their career.

Exhibition stands are still available for any businesses looking for staff or colleges wishing to promote their courses.

Cathy Savage

Bolton Town Centre Ltd

Market Hall

Knowsley Street

Bolton

Tel 01204 523762

Fax 01204 523659