WITH just days to go before the world’s biggest multi-sport event gets under way in Rio, Bolton’s young stars descended on the town centre to enjoy their own activities in this year’s Sport on the Square spectacular.

The Sport and Active Living Service transformed Victoria Square into an open-air multi-sport arena for three days of kicking, flipping, climbing and boxing.

And once again Sport on the Square was a huge success, with more than 4,600 turning out to try their hand at new activities including boxing, cricket, handball, zorbs, gymnastics, archery, tennis, martial arts, basketball and wrestling. With table tennis, badminton, cycling and a roller skating arena also on offer there was plenty to keep everyone entertained.

Community sports development officer Wahid Khan said: “What a fantastic three days it has been for Sport on the Square, with thousands of children working their way through a variety of activities arranged to coincide with the start of the Olympics.

“As ever we are grateful to the local sports clubs and a host of volunteers who gave up their time so that families all over the North West could come and enjoy what was on offer.”

A spokesman from Bolton Gymnastics Club, who organised the hugely popular gymnastics area, said: “We look forward to this event every year.

“It’s great to see so many people involved in sport at an early age and being part of the event helps us to be part of something special.”

The town’s Decathlon store provided the equipment for keen archers and badminton players, as well as the roller skating arena that proved a massive hit with children and adults.

Decathlon’s Mariana Macias said: “We’re always keen to help out in the community, being part of these events allows us to give something back as we are based in central Bolton and it is always great to see people having fun.”

The summer fun continues in Victoria Square tomorrow, when the Play and Youth Service will turn it into a huge playground as part of National Play Day.