BOLTON’S Christmas attractions are open – and we’ve been along to try them out!

The town centre has been transformed into a sparkling seasonal attraction, with a giant artificial 55-foot long snow slide in Newport Street, a covered ice rink and a nativity scene in Victoria Square, plus a Santa’s grotto on Oxford Street.

Bolton Council has arranged the Winter Festival, in association with the University of Bolton, in an attempt to attract thousands of visitors to the town centre during the festive period.

Highlights also include a Santa’s Express train, a Christmas Market, and an Alpine Ski Lodge.

The mayor of Bolton, Cllr Roger Hayes, cut the ribbon to open the festival yesterday in a ceremony for sponsors and civic dignitaries.

Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Cliff Morris, said: “There is something for everyone to enjoy in our Christmas programme.

“We had thousands of visitors last year and we are expecting the same this Christmas.”

Aris F Mattheou, director of institutional advancement at the University of Bolton, said:“We are very pleased to support this festival again.

“People need to come to Bolton and having quality events like this on is important. It makes the town attractive to families around Christmas.”

The attractions are open to the public from 9am today until January 7, 2018. Tickets are available online from www.boltonwinterfestival.com and from the on-site box office in Victoria Square.