A MESSAGE was sent out to the far right that they are not welcome in Bolton when a 1,000 name petition was presented to the mayor.

Bolton Against Racism handed Cllr Cliff Morris the petition with a copy of its mission statement - backed by community groups, religious leaders and celebrities - at Wednesday's council meeting.

It comes after the British National Party said it intend to put up candidates in the town at June's local and European elections.

The petition has come full circle since Cllr Morris and the council's three party leaders signed it nine-months-ago.

Radio Two DJ Mark Radcliffe and Phoenix Nights comedian Dave Spikey have also added their names. It reads: "There is no place for racism or racist organisations here in Bolton."

The group was formed in July 2003 and aims to rid the town of racism and the threat of right wing groups.

Chairman Eileen Murphy said: "The level of support has been very encouraging and sends out a very positive message."