TWELVE young people from East Bolton have just completed a free 12-week DJ course .

The youngsters learnt all the first stages of becoming a DJ -- from understanding the equipment to mixing tracks and sounds.

Each was presented with a certificate for completing the course and the young people created CDs of their music.

The course was provided through a combined venture by the Catalyst Community Development Team, East Bolton Regeneration and DBBC - Bolton Market Radio.

Daniel Keigher, of Darcy Lever, said: "I hadn't done DJ skills before, so I felt nervous because I didn't know how to use the decks. But with the lessons, I began to get confident."

Tutor Nelson Santos has had a great time tutoring the students: "It's really been fun. A number of the students picked up the skills so easily and it offers a real opportunity for them in the future."

A number of the young people will be carrying on with a second stage programme and other young people from the East Bolton Regeneration area will be starting the course soon.

Young people in East Bolton who may be interested in future courses should contact Patrick at Catalyst on 01204 334 338 or e-mail patrick.hanfling@bolton.gov.uk.

The East Bolton Regenerationarea covers Breightmet, Tong Fold, Tonge Moor, Hall i'th' Wood, Darcy Lever, The Haulgh and parts of Burnden.