HUNDREDS of women have been celebrating International Women's Festival 2004 in Bolton.

Women and their families flocked to a marquee set up in Victoria Square, over the weekend to look around stalls set up to show women how they can broaden their horizons.

Community groups and organisations manned the stalls, providing information on adult education, carers, the environment and health.

Among the groups were Bolton Primary Care Trust, Bolton Racial Equality Council, Bully Free Zone and advisers from Bolton Out Reach.

Saturday heralded the start of a week-long series of activities and it was opened by Bolton Woman of the Year Jane Hampson.

She said: "It's been really interesting going round seeing everybody and the wealth of culture that we have here coming together to celebrate the International Women's Day Festival this year."

Women were able to get their nails manicured, learn more about homeopathy and children could have a go at fun environmental quizzes and games.

Community Development Officer Lory Povah said: "We've worked really hard this year and we have tried to provide things to suit all ages. We're doing lots of sporty projects for the more adventurous women but there's also a serious side as well as we are providing advice and help on things like further education."

International Women's Day has been celebrated around the world since 1910 and commemorates the march of women garment workers in New York on March 8 1905, demanding better working conditions and equal rights.

The festival is an annual event aiming to promote international understanding and solidarity among women through social, recreational, educational and cultural events.

It is also an opportunity to meet other women and find out about each other's lives and work.

Throughout the week a host of events will take place, co-ordinated by Bolton Council's Community Development Unit.

Some of the highlights include events at The Anchor Inn in Eagle Street, showcasing and encouraging women to become involved in the live music scene in Bolton.

A behind the scenes look at Bolton Museum will take place between 2pm and 3pm on Thursday March 11, where the costume collection contains women's clothing dating back to the 1800s.

A celebration of local community and voluntary groups will take place between 10am and 4pm on Saturday March 13, at Quebec Hall, Quebec Street, in Deane.

There will also be inspirational stories from women in business at the Central Library, performances of Trojan Women at the Octagon Theatre, home made desserts from recipes of famous female chefs at Patagonia Cafe, Bradshawgate, and a wide range of health and fitness sessions at the council's leisure centres.