AT last.

Charities in Bolton have been plugging away for longer than any of us knows to address the growing issue of homelessness.

And it's likely that behind the scenes each group is aware what others are doing and tailors its own work accordingly.

But now, at last, the groups are officially joining forces. They will be known as the Bolton Homeless Alliance.

Together they will work officially to tackle the issue of rough sleeping in Bolton.

The move has been made thanks to the encouragement and drive of Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham and his A Bed Every Night campaign.

The campaign has charged local authorities with the responsibility of dealing with homelessness in their own boroughs.

In neighbouring Bury the Freedom Church has joined with the council to offer accommodation to rough sleepers. In Bolton it has taken a few weeks to iron out the creases. But this is it, the Bolton Homeless Alliance.

But, and it's a big but, the alliance can only succeed with the help of volunteers to run the overnight shelters which will be put in place.

So this is the question, how many of the people who say something should be done about homelessness on the streets of Bolton will step forward to get involved? Many will be only too glad of the opportunity to help. Will you be among them?