A SMITTEN student has declared true love for his new girlfriend -- by buying her a year's subscription to the Bolton Evening News.

Some romantics say it with flowers and others take a trip to the jewellers.

But Michael Lenghan decided that Catherine Lumley would benefit from the power of the press.

And for BEN-mad Catherine, his surprise gift did the trick.

The 23-year-old Bolton Institute graduate, from Astley Bridge, said: "It's a lovely gift. I've been reading the paper for years and I love it to bits.

"It really is a nice present -- much better than a bunch of flowers."

The pair met at the Octagon Theatre where they both work in the ticket office and they have been together for three months.

Michael, a 22-year-old film studies student from Breightmet, said: "Her mum told me she loved the BEN. We're both Bolton through-and-through and always like to keep up with what's going on in the town. I couldn't see a better way to show my love to Catherine."

SUBSCRIBE to the BEN for six months and enjoy an overnight stay and a meal for two at the Bolton Post House Hotel. Contact Dee Larkin on 01204 361 256.

Are you planning an unusual gift for your loved one this Christmas? Or perhaps you have received something out of the ordinary in the past. Call our newsdesk on 01204 361270/1.

PICTURED: Michael Lenghan and Catherine Lumley -- he bought her a year's subscription to the BEN to show her how much he loves her. REf: H4785/18