SCOTLAND will reverse its travel ban on Bolton tomorrow, The Bolton News can reveal.

It comes after leader of Bolton Council, Cllr David Greenhalgh sent a letter to Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon urging her to reverse her decision.

On Thursday, Cllr Greenhalgh spoke with MP Michael Gove, cabinet office minster, for support to lift the controversial ban restricting people from Bolton from travelling across the border.

Today Cllr Greenhalgh received a letter from Ms Sturgeon saying the restrictions would be lifted.

It said: "I agree with you about the strength and value of the ties between Scotland and Bolton and other town and areas in the North West England.

"The latest review of your situation conducted by the Scottish Government of the Common Travel Area travel restrictions confirmed that the efforts of your community has been successful in reducing the number of cases.

"I am therefore glad to confirm that the regulations will be amended to remove the restrictions on travel between Scotland and Bolton from midnight on Tuesday effective from Wednesday, June 30.

"The people of Bolton have always been and will continue to be welcome in Scotland and I am pleased that the restrictions on non-essential travel are no longer necessary."

Cllr Greenhalgh told The Bolton News: "I am absolutely delighted that the travel restriction has been lifted.

"I will continue to disagree with the original decision to implement the restriction but am pleased she acknowledged the work done in Bolton to lower our rates and acted swiftly in her response to my letter and delivered exactly what we asked for."

The travel restriction was imposed on the people of the borough back in May.

The travel ban led to many people having to cancel their plans to see family, who some had not seen for a long time.

Earlier this month, that ban was extended to Manchester and Salford sparking a furious war of words between Metro Mayor Andy Burnham and Ms Sturgeon.

But the rules for Blackburn and Darwen are staying in place.

Scotland’s Health Secretary, Humza Yousaf, said: “Nobody wants travel restrictions in place for any longer than is absolutely necessary.

“Placing restrictions on travel between Scotland and parts of north west England was only taken after extremely careful consideration and analysis of data to help prevent the spread of variants of concern.

“Following a careful review of the data we have decided to ease travel arrangements between Scotland and Manchester, Salford and Bolton.

“However, the situation regarding Blackburn and Darwen will need to be closely monitored and will be reviewed again in a week’s time.”