THREE neighbourhoods in Bolton have been recognised for being "age-friendly".

Crompton, Halliwell and Tonge with the Haulgh have all been named winners of the Age-friendly Challenge being run by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.

Mr Burnham announced the honour at the Doing Things Differently conference this week, he said: “I launched this challenge last year to unearth the positive work I know is going on in Greater Manchester, to find practical examples of what age-friendly really means, and to share best practice across the city-region.

"The response to this challenge has been fantastic.

"The variety of age-friendly work displayed from all our winners clearly shows the commitment from our local communities to make sure that people in Greater Manchester are living not just longer, but happier and healthier too.”

The Bolton neighbourhoods were three of 32 in Greater Manchester praised for their positive approach to getting older and being a good place to live as you age.

Bolton CVS applied for the three areas on behalf of the Bolton's Ambition for Ageing Partnership with Age UK Bolton and Bolton at Home.

Louise McDade, policy and engagement manager from Bolton CVS said: "We are delighted to be working with excellent partners, local groups and older people in Halliwell, Crompton and Tonge with the Haulgh to create age friendly neighbourhoods.

"Connecting and supporting people to build on the amazing strengths within Bolton."

Those applying for the recognition had to show their area was a place where residents looked out for one another, older people feel they have a say and there are places to meet up.

Bolton CVS also highlighted the three neighbourhood's commitment to helping older people feel independent, safe and secure as well as informed about the goings in their area.

Submissions to Mayor’s Age-Friendly Challenge were reviewed by an expert panel chaired by Prof. Chris Phillipson from The University of Manchester and representatives from Greater Manchester Older People’s Network, Ambition for Ageing, and the Centre for Ageing Better.