AN historic American-style citizenship ceremony was held in Bolton on Wednesday.

Thirteen immigrants were swearing their allegiance to Britain in the first event of its kind to be held in the borough.

People from countries as far afield as Russia and South Africa were becoming British subjects.

More than 600 people are waiting to take part in future ceremonies which will be held at Bolton Town Hall every four weeks.

Today's ceremony, attended by the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Cliff Morris, was being conducted by the superintendent registrar Andrea Fitton.

Those taking part in the ceremony -- which was being held in front of a Union flag and a picture of the Queen -- will recite both an oath and a pledge to their new country and monarch.

They will then sing the national anthem.

Deputy leader of the council, Cllr Guy Harkin, executive member for environment, said it was a historic day for a town.

Cllr Harkin said: "Bolton is very much a multi-cultural town and if our DNA was checked we would find that we are all the descendents of immigrants whether they are Welsh, French or Ukrainian.

"These ceremonies can only enhance the way that immigrants view themselves as British and as Boltonians."

Until now, oaths of citizenship have been performed in private in front of a Home Office Commissioner. The changes follow the implementation of David Blunkett's Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Bill.

Those taking the oaths could instead choose to stage their own ceremonies at venues such as the Reebok Stadium or Smithills Hall, but the sites have to be public and a registrar must be present.

The bill will be picked up by the Home Office.

Foreign nationals are able to apply to become British citizens after legally living in the country for more than five years if they have a sufficient knowledge of English, Welsh or Sottish Gaelic.