BOLTON’S sporting greats will be championed in a shopping centre pop-up museum.

Crompton’s Champions will be set up at Crompton Place on the weekend of July 5 and 6, from 11am to 3pm, and shopping centre manager Malcolm Angus is looking to the community for help with the displays.

He has launched an appeal for stories, anecdotes, photos, memorabilia and memories which link to Bolton’s impressive achievements in the world of sport.

Mr Angus said: “We are looking for people to come forward with their tales and souvenirs of special moments in Bolton’s sporting history.

“It could be the moment you met your sporting hero such as Amir Khan or Nat Lofthouse. It could be a ticket stub from a crucial Bolton Wanderers match. Or a lucky mascot which your community sports team travels to every match with to ensure luck is in on your side.

“Whatever it is or whatever story you have, we are keen to hear from you.

“With the feedback we have from our loyal shoppers we are hoping to fill the walls of the pop-up museum with stories, anecdotes, photos and memorabilia which reflect the wonderful sporting legends and magical moments which this town has been home to.

“If the particular sporting item you have in mind is valuable sentimentally or financially then we are happy for you to take pictures and send those in instead. They can all be collated and form their part of our display.”

The two-day event will host a range of fun and interactive activities and performances for the family to enjoy including wrestling contests with Billy Bruiser, a football table and a chance to ride a bicycle fast enough to power a light bulb.

All of this will be talked about by comic performer Connie the Constant Commentator.

There will also be treasure hunts around the centre and displays and information based around more than 20 of Bolton’s sporting greats including wrestler Vic Faulkner, boxer Amir Khan, footballer Nat Lofthouse and cricketer William Farrimond.

Visitors will also be invited to take part in a public vote for their favourite Bolton sporting legend from the Crompton Champions listed and be in with a chance of winning some great prizes.

To contact Crompton Place Shopping Centre about the event call 01244 680385 or email claire@ceidiog.com or go to crompton-place.co.uk