Bolton will be hosting the final leg of the Queen's Baton Relay next Saturday in the run up to the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Residents are urged to head to Victoria Square on July 16, to help give a big Bolton welcome to the relay runners as they arrive in the town centre - as well as enjoy a family day out.

Some of the local Batonbearers, nominated by members of the public for their work and achievements within their communities, have been sharing their stories.

Richa Gautam-Patel is originally from Belfast but lives in Bolton. 

She said: “In 2008, I created a national sports programme which was nominated by the Department of Health and Sport England as best practice and as such, was nominated to run with the torch in 2012 as part of the London 2012 Olympics.

“Since then, I have raised almost £1m for various causes through my work with charities. 

“I'm so proud to be involved again with the relay almost 10 years to the day since I ran with the 2012 Olympic Torch and that my children will now see this.

“I'm looking forward to reliving this moment once again and hope this leaves a lasting legacy for my family and friends throughout my hometown of Bolton.”

Helen Warwick moved to Bolton from the Midlands nine years ago.

She said: “I became involved in sport in Bolton through joining Tri Rivington and the Bolton IRONMAN, later qualifying as a triathlon coach. 

“I have met some wonderful and inspiring people from all walks of life and my own fitness and health journey has blossomed.

“I hope to encourage women of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy the benefits of sports. 

“I will carry the Baton with great pride, with a smile on my face and a sense of hope as I work towards my own fitness goal of completing a full IRONMAN event in August in Copenhagen.”

With music, live performances and arts and crafts from 5pm, it promises to be a great family event.

Bolton FM will host music and entertainment on stage from 5pm until 7pm.

Not only will there be great performances, carnival games will be on offer at the former Specsavers store as well as arcade style games at the former Hays Travel.

The Bolton leg will leave Queens Park at 6.20pm and arrive at approximately 6.50pm into Victoria Square for the finale, where a VIP will take the final leg of the relay.

Bolton Council leader Cllr Martyn Cox said: “The Queen’s Baton Relay promises to be a fantastic event for Bolton.

“We hope residents come into the town centre to soak up the party atmosphere and cheer on the local Batonbearers.”