THE tallest church tower in Lancashire will open its doors to visitors today as part of a Midsummer Festival.

If the weather forecast is to be believed glorious panoramic views await those who climb the 189 steps in Bolton Parish Church.

And there is a chance to ring the historic church bells.

Throughout the day there will be special tours of the tower tours, musical interludes,hand bell ringing, flower arranging and talks on the history of the church.

Church warden and a Bolton councillor John Walsh said: "Tower tours include

bell ringing and you can even have a go.

" See a bell as it is being rung then see one of the best views across Bolton from the top of the tallest Church Tower in Lancashire."

Tours are free of charge and take place at 11am, 12.30 and 1.30pm.

Cllr Walsh said: "Please come along and encourage as many others as possible to support the day. Every year we have visits from people who say, 'I have lived in Bolton all my life but have never been inside side Bolton Parish Church'."

The festival opens at 10am and goes on until 3pm.

It is one of a number of events staged by the church to celebrate its rich heritage and give visitors an opportunity to find out more about the town centre church.

The Grade II* listed building is one of the finest examples of the Victorian Gothic Revival style and replaced the previous 15th century church which had fallen into disrepair.

The tower is 180ft high.