BOLTON'S biggest ever International Women's Day Festival was launched in the town centre today.

Jane Hampson, Bolton Woman of the Year, was performing the opening ceremony at a marquee in Victoria Square.

A series of social recreational, educational and cultural events will mark the annual week-long event, which aims to promote international understanding and solidarity among women and has been celebrated since 1910.

A variety of activities - from dramatic re-enactments featuring the town's pioneering women to pamper days with massages and facials-- will provide an opportunity for women to meet other women and find out about each other's lives and work.

Co-ordinated by Bolton Council's community development unit, highlights include a week of events at The Anchor Inn, Union Buildings, off Bradshawgate, Bolton, encouraging women to get involved in the live music scene.

There will be a behind-the-scenes look at Bolton Museum, between 2-3pm on Thursday, and a celebration of local community and voluntary groups at Quebec Hall in Deane between10am and 4pm on Saturday, March 13.

Inspirational stories from women in business at the Central Library, will take place, and there will be performances of Trojan Women at the Octagon Theatre, home-made desserts from famous female chefs at the Patagonia Cafe and a wide range of fitness sessions in council leisure centres across the borough.

A marquee in Victoria Square will house various entertainment and displays including information and advice from a range of organisations and services today, female performers tomorrow and textile projects on Monday.

Cllr Laurie Williamson, Bolton's executive member for culture, said: "Our International Women's Day Festival is going from strength to strength. We have had a great response from the public and voluntary groups as a result of the success of last year's programme.

"It means that we are able to hold our biggest ever celebrations with around 60 services, agencies and groups involved."