A GROUP set up to stamp racism out of Bolton is presenting a 1,000-name petition to the mayor on Wednesday night.

Bolton Against Racism will present Cllr Cliff Morris with a copy of its mission statement - backed by community groups, religious leaders and celebrities - before Bolton Council meets tonight.

Formed in July, 2003, the group aims to rid the town of the racism and extinguish the threat of far-right parties.

It has formed a partnership with Bolton Wanderers, who launched the FA's Kick Racism Out Of Football campaign in conjunction with the group.

The mission statement states: "There is no place for racism or racist organisations here in Bolton. We are proud to be associated with a town which has a strong history of racial harmony and respect for another.

"We value the contributions that our different communities make to the cultural and economic prosperity of out town."

The petition started at Bolton Town Hall nine months ago when it was signed by Cllr Morris and the three party leaders. It will tonight come full circle, complete with the names of supporters which include former Radio 1 DJ Mark Radliffe, and Phoenix Nights comedian Dave Spikey.

Bolton Against Racism chairman Eileen Murphy said: "We've had a huge response since our launch last year from a range of groups, political parties and individuals and it's a token of our wide support that we've got that there will be a motion moved in the council chamber.

"We thought it was not just enough to think these sentiments individually and we wanted to make a very clear stand against any sort of racist sentiments in Bolton. The level of support is very encouraging and sends out a very positive message."