ARCHAEOLOGISTS uncovering the hidden ruins of Rome found elaborately designed mosaics capturing scenes from history and everyday life.

So when Bolton Town Council decided to commission a mosaic for Farnworth town centre to reflect the town's heritage and iconic landmarks there was much debate on what images would be used.

What would be Farnworth's lasting legacy?

When a time team of the future digs up Farnworth what will they find out about the town and its people?

Apparently, that they all used to shop at Asda.

The town's superstore will be one of the focal points of the £7,500 mosaic due to be unveiled in Brackley Street precinct at the start of next year.

Bolton Council project officer Louise Woods explains: "At the moment there is just a large tree planter there, which people throw rubbish and litter into.

"We commissioned Penny Butterworth, a Farnworth artist, to design eight mosaics which will be placed around the tree. Each mosaic represents a key aspect of Farnworth life such as the Farnworth coat-of-arms; the library; the town hall; the market; the park; the war memorial; the precinct and Asda.

"Asda might be a surprising choice to some people but Penny carried out some local consultation and Asda is seen as an important aspect of life in Farnworth."

Work will start on installing the mosaic in December and the deadline for completion is next March. The project is being paid for by the District Centre Improvement Fund.

Farnworth councillor James Lord said: "The mosaic will be at the bottom of Brackley Street and there will be plants and benches around the inside. I think it is going to be a very nice feature and focal point in the town."

An Asda spokesman said: "All our stores always try to play a big part in the local community and our stores in Bolton have always led the way in raisingmoney for charities. We are delighted and honoured to be part of the mosaic."