BOLTON'S top honour is to be presented to couples as well as individuals.

Over the last 24 years, only 13 Civic Medals have been awarded to local people in recognition of long-standing services to the community.

They went to individuals, but the council says it also wants to honour couples in the next round of awards later this year.

The Civic Medal is the highest award Bolton Council can bestow on its citizens. The idea was inaugurated in 1978 by then mayor, Cllr Donald Clarke, who wanted to reward those who had not already been recognised locally or nationally.

It is six years since the last medals were awarded, when they went to Jim Grimshaw and John Rigby to mark their commitment to excellence in sport and young people in the borough.

"The Civic Medals are regarded as a very high honour," said Bolton Council leader Cllr Bob Howarth, "and this is the first time that we have encouraged nominations for couples.

Nominations can be sent to Mr Des Grogan, Assistant Director Central Services, 1st floor, Town Hall, Bolton BL1 1RU or e-mail des.grogan@bolton.gov.uk

The medals will be presented on December 18.