BOLTON'S pedal pushing extravaganza which has attracted crowds to the town for the last 18 summers is again under threat.

This year's sponsor for the Mini Le Mans event has pulled out with just weeks to go before the major event.

Organisers Bolton Round Table say the family fun day planned for Moss Bank Park will still go ahead - but they are now struggling for cash to support the big race.

Bolton's Mini Le Mans has brought in thousands of pounds of charity cash since it started in 1980.

The race has suffered a lack of a main sponsors over the last few years.

But this year's race looked secure due to sponsorship from Nynex - who have been forced to pull out at the last minute.

Event chairman and Round Table treasurer, Barnaby Wharton-Jones, said: "It has come as a bitter blow but for no fault of their own Nynex have had to pull out.

"We only have a few weeks to go and we are desperately urging local companies or individuals to be our main sponsor."

The event on June 21 and 22 at Moss Bank Park, Bolton, will also include a wide range of fun activities including clowns, stalls and side shows.

Bolton's out of schools clubs will also be at the park taking part in a record-breaking attempt to build the longest paper clip chain.

But the Le Mans pedal car race, which involves both adults and youngsters, could suffer if the event does not get a £2,000 boost.

Mr Wharton-Jones added: "The Le Mans is a tradition in the town and it will be a shame to jeopardise this.

"We will be going ahead this year but the event does look at risk for the following year.

"We will be providing funding for 24-hour lighting but the amount of money donated to charities which is the whole point of the event will be greatly reduced without the extra funding."

Anyone who can help should contact Barnaby Wharton-Jones immediately on Bolton 595002.

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